ML450 Mercedes Benz, a Two Mode Hybrid

DaimlerChrysler, BMW and GM partnered to produce their version of a hybrid and emerged with the two mode hybrid engine. GM is releasing the Tahoe and GMC Hybrid using the new technology this year, and now Mercedes-Benz is taking advantage of the dual mode hybrid system with its introduction of the ML 450 Hybrid.

The new luxury SUV Hybrid is being rated at 7.7 litres per 100 km (CO2 emissions of 185 g/km), which isn't bad considering the Lexus RX 400h is rated at 31 / 27 MPG 7.59 / 8.71 L/100km. The ML 450 Hybrid is capable of 340 hp and a maximum torque of 480 Nm.

The ML 450 Hybrid is being introduced at the 62nd International Motor Show in Frankfurt, but won't be available until at least 2009.