Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID: The CO2 Champion in the Luxury Class
STUTTGART – September 18, 2008: Mercedes-Benz is launching its first passenger car model equipped with a hybrid drive system in summer 2009 - the S 400 BlueHYBRID. The combination of a modified V6 petrol engine and a compact hybrid module makes the S 400 BlueHYBRID the world's most economical luxury saloon with a spark-ignition engine. The NEDC combined fuel consumption is a mere 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres. This makes for the world's lowest CO2 emissions in this vehicle and performance class - just 190 grams per kilometre. These exemplary figures go hand in hand with assured performance. The 3.5-litre petrol engine develops an output of 205 kW/279 hp, the electric motor generates 15 kW/20 hp and a starting torque of 160 Nm. The result is a combined output of 220 kW/299 hp and a combined maximum torque of 385 newton metres. Moreover, the new S 400 BlueHYBRID is the first series-production model to be equipped with a particularly efficient lithium-ion battery specially developed for automotive use. This is another major contribution by Mercedes-Benz to the electrification of the car.
The new Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID is based on the S 350, and features an extensively modified drive train. This encompasses a further development of the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, an additional magneto-electric motor, the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission specially configured for the hybrid module, the necessary operating and control electronics, the transformer and a high-voltage lithium-ion battery. The compact hybrid module is a disc-shaped electric motor that also acts as a starter and generator. The system offers a double benefit, as it both helps to save fuel and increases driving enjoyment. This is partly due to the booster effect of the electric motor, as it powerfully backs up the petrol engine with a maximum additional torque of 160 newton metres during the high-consumption acceleration phase. The driver benefits from the combined action of these two units in the form of even more impressive torque characteristics and smooth, effortlessly superior acceleration. The hybrid module also has a comfortable start/stop function, which switches the engine off when the vehicle is at a standstill - for example at traffic lights. When it's time to move off again, the electric motor almost imperceptibly restarts the main power unit. This likewise makes a contribution to fuel economy and environmental protection: because the engine restarts first time, and practically instantly, emissions are also minimised during the starting phase.
When the vehicle is braked the electric motor acts as a generator, and is able to recover braking energy by a process known as recuperation. Working in finely tuned partnership, the electric motor supplements the braking effect of the petrol engine and the wheel brakes to deliver a smoothly progressive braking action. The recuperated energy is stored in a compact yet highly efficient lithium-ion battery in the engine compartment, and made available when required. This complex system is managed by a high-performance control unit, which is likewise located in the engine compartment.
A milestone on the road to electrification
The centrepiece of
the modular, very compact and highly efficient hybrid drive system is the
new high-voltage lithium-ion battery, which was specially developed for
automotive use and is the first such unit worldwide to be introduced in a
series-production vehicle. In this way Mercedes-Benz is making a
trailblazing contribution to the electrification of the car, with the
S-Class once again playing the role of the technological trendsetter.
Major advantages over conventional nickel/metal hydride batteries include a higher energy density and better electrical efficiency, together with more compact dimensions and a lower weight. Thanks to space-saving installation in the engine compartment, where it replaces the conventional starter battery, the generous interior space and boot capacity of the S 400 remain unchanged. The lithium-ion battery not only stores energy for the electric motor, but is also connected to the 12-Volt onboard network via the transformer to supply power to other standard consumers such as the headlamps and comfort features. The completely newly designed battery system consists of the cell block with its lithium-ion cells and the cell monitoring system, the battery management function, the high-strength housing, the cooling gel, the cooling plate, the coolant feed and the high-voltage connector.
Optimised thermal efficiency lowers the engine's fuel
consumption
The 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with variable valve
control has been throughly re-engineered and improved. In the process the
development engineers made use of the advantages offered by the Atkinson
principle,where the expansion phase is longer than the compression phase.
The intake valve is kept open slightly longer between the intake and
compression phases, which improves the engine's thermal efficiency while
reducing the specific fuel consumption and untreated emissions. A new
cylinder head, different pistons and a modified camshaft with different
camshaft control increase the output by 5 kW/7 hp to 205 kW/279 hp - while
reducing fuel consumption at the same time. Especially on rural journeys
and on motorways, the S 400 BlueHYBRID achieves a further efficiency
improvement by moving the so-called operating point of the petrol engine to
produce a lower specific fuel consumption. The extremely high start-off
torque made possible by the boost effect of the electric motor gives the
driver a particularly exhilarating feeling of powerful acceleration, while
fuel consumption and emissions are reduced.
The electric motor improves efficiency
The compact,
disc-shaped electric motor, which is space-savingly installed in the torque
converter housing between the engine and the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed
automatic transmission, improves efficiency even further. This is a 3-phase
AC external rotor magneto motor, which develops a peak output of 15 kW/20
hp and a starting torque of 160 newton metres with an operating voltage of
120 Volts. This compact motor also acts as a starter and generator,
adopting the functions of both these conventional ancillary units.
Sophisticated interaction with the internal combustion engine makes
numerous additional functions possible that positively influence the
emissions and agility of the S 400 BlueHYBRID in equal measure. Moreover,
this disc-shaped motor effectively dampens torsional vibrations in the
drive train, thereby further reducing noise and vibrations in the interior.
The result is even more ride comfort for both driver and passengers.
"Boost" effect for even more driving pleasure
The overall
system offers extensive benefits: firstly by helping to save fuel, and
secondly by increasing driving pleasure with the help of the "boost"
effect, where the electric motor gives powerful assistance to the petrol
engine with its maximum torque of 160 newton metres right from the
beginning of the fuel-intensive acceleration phase. This means that the
hybrid drive system of the S 400 BlueHYBRID moves off powerfully even from
very low engine speeds, as the torque curve impressively confirms. The
additional torque of the hybrid module also has a consistently positive
effect during subsequent acceleration phases. In all driving situations,
the driver therefore benefits from the interaction between the two units in
the form of powerful responsiveness and muscular torque - but without an
increased fuel consumption. The S 400 BlueHYBRID accelerates from zero to
100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, and reaches an electronically governed top speed
of 250 km/h. The S 400 BlueHYBRID betters the already very favourable NEDC
fuel consumption of the conventionally powered S 350 by up to 2.2 litres
per 100 kilometres. CO2 emissions are reduced by 21 percent.
The start/stop function already saves fuel when rolling to a
stop
In addition the hybrid module features an extremely
comfortable and efficient start/stop function, which already switches the
engine off when the vehicle is rolling to a stop at less than 15 km/h, for
example before stopping at traffic lights. When it's time to move off
again, the electric motor immediately and imperceptibly restarts the main
engine as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal or operates the
accelerator. This likewise contributes to fuel economy and environmental
conservation: as the engine restarts practically instantly, emissions are
also minimised during the starting phase. The vibrations and jolts that are
unavoidable when starting with a conventional starter are also reduced to a
minimum.
Steering and climatic comfort remain unchanged, as both the steering servo pump and the refrigerant compressor are electrically powered. Both systems therefore continue to operate even when the vehicle is at a standstill with the engine automatically switched off. The intelligent control logic is able to detect whether the driver is executing a turning or parking manoeuvre. In this case the automatic start/stop function is temporarily deactivated, so that these manoeuvres can be carried out in comfort.
Every braking action generates electric power for the battery
When the vehicle is braked, the electric motor acts as a generator and uses
a process known as recuperation to convert the kinetic energy into
electrical energy. This energy is stored in the compact yet highly
efficient lithium-ion battery, and made available when required. In the
process the electric motor assists the engine braking effect of the
internal combustion engine in two smooth, seamless stages: In stage one, on
the overrun with no braking action, the electric motor acts as a generator
and begins to recuperate energy. Stage two commences as soon as the driver
lightly operates the brake pedal: the generator output is then increased
proportionally, and perceived as heavier deceleration by the driver. Only
when more brake pedal pressure is applied are the wheel brakes activated in
addition to recuperation. In this way more electrical energy can be
generated, while saving wear and tear on the hydraulic braking system at
the same time. To make the best possible use of this double benefit,
Mercedes engineers also developed a new braking system with a new brake
pedal module for the S 400 BlueHYBRID.
Cleverly located control electronics
Dedicated control
electronics are required to operate the 3-phase AC electric motor in the
120-Volt high-voltage DC network. The current converter is accommodated in
the space formerly occupied by the starter. As the control electronics heat
up as a result of electric currents measuring up to 150 amps, the system is
equipped with its own, additional low-temperature cooling circuit.
Mercedes-Benz engineers have accommodated the transformer in the right front wheel arch, where it facilitates the exchange of energy between the 120-Volt high-voltage network and the 12-Volt onboard network - and also allows the option of emergency starting with jump leads if the standard battery should lose its charge. To ensure a consistently high level of electrical efficiency, the transformer is likewise cooled by a low-temperature circuit. The 12-Volt lead/acid battery is installed in the boot, and not only supplies the standard consumers but also the monitoring system for the high-voltage components with energy. Thanks to its interaction with the lithium-ion battery, it is considerably smaller in size and lighter than usual.
Tried-and-tested automatic transmission with a new
configuration
Mercedes-Benz developers also adapted the well-proven
7G-TRONIC automatic transmission to suit the hybrid drive, with newly
programmed software for the transmission management system. A newly
developed auxiliary oil pump ensures reliable lubrication of the
transmission even during phases when the internal combustion engine is
switched off. This complex system is managed by the modified
high-performance engine control unit. This incorporates extensive
functions, and distinguishes between operating conditions such as city
traffic, rural journeys, motorway driving or slow manoeuvring.
Hybrid status is shown in the instrument cluster
The driver
is also able to monitor the status of the hybrid drive system visually. The
instrument cluster has a separate, centrally positioned, display showing
the energy flow during boost and recuperation phases, as well as the
battery charge status.
Seven-stage safety concept in addition to the Mercedes-Benz
standard
As is usual at Mercedes-Benz, the development engineers
gave safety aspects their very special attention. Know-how incorporated
into the series-production car included long years of Daimler research
experience with fuel-cell technology. The challenge lay in not only
complying with all the worldwide and in-house legal crash test
requirements, but also in ensuring the greatest possible safety for the
electrical components. This safety system already applies in production,
includes workshop personnel during servicing and maintenance, and also
takes the emergency services into account when passengers need to be
recovered following an accident.
Accordingly the hybrid technology of the S 400 BlueHYBRID is equipped with an extensive 7-stage safety concept. 1. In the first stage all the wiring is colour-coded to eliminate confusion, and marked with safety instructions. This prevents assembly errors in production, and makes the regular quality checks easier to carry out. 2. The second stage comprises comprehensive contact protection for the entire system by means of generous insulation and newly developed, dedicated connectors. 3. As part of the third stage, the world's first lithium-ion battery to be used in a series-production model has been given a whole package of carefully coordinated safety measures. This innovative battery is accommodated in a high-strength steel housing, and also secured in place. Bedding the battery cells in a special gel effectively dampens any jolts and knocks. There is also a blow-off vent with a rupture disc and a separate cooling circuit. An internal electronic controller continuously monitors the safety requirements and immediately signals any malfunctions. 4. The fourth stage of the safety concept includes separation of the battery terminals, individual safety-wiring for all high-voltage components and continuous monitoring by multiple interlock switches. This means that all high-voltage components are connected by an electric loop. In the event of a malfunction the high-voltage system is automatically switched off. 5. Active discharging of the high-voltage system as soon as the ignition is switched to "Off", or in the event of a malfunction, is part of the fifth stage. 6. During an accident, the high-voltage system is completely switched off within fractions of a second (stage six). 7. As the seventh and last stage, the system is continuously monitored for short circuits. Thanks to its compact dimensions and modular design, the additional weight of the overall system is only 75 kilograms - including the comprehensive safety systems. The superior driving experience for which a Mercedes is known is therefore ensured by this trailblazing and very versatile technology, which can be used for practically all Mercedes-Benz model series. Moreover, the payload remains unchanged at 595 kilograms.
The intelligent high-performance engine management system responds very sensitively to different driving conditions, and optimally configures the drive system for the relevant application, ensuring that both fuel consumption and emissions are kept to the lowest possible level.
The hybrid effect is inherently less important on motorways, however thanks to specific modifications to the V6 petrol engine and the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the driver is also able to achieve significant fuel savings and correspondingly lower emissions on fast road stretches like these. The S 400 BlueHYBRID is produced at the Sindelfingenplant, together with the other S-Class models. The petrol engine, 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission and electric motor are first put together to form a hybrid module, then delivered to the production line as a unit. The market launch in western Europe is planned for June 2009; China is expected to follow in August 2009 and the USAin September 2009.
Modular technologies for the environmentally friendly future of the
premium car
The new S 400 BlueHYBRID exemplifies the strategy of
Mercedes-Benz, whose declared aim is to offer the brand's customers
economical and environmentally compatible premium cars - without
compromising in terms of typical brand attributes such as safety, comfort
and a superior driving experience. Major areas of development focus include
modular drive technologies, which are used on a stand-alone basis or in
combination depending on the vehicle class, operating profile and customer
requirements - Mercedes-Benz has already described how this applies to the
product portfolio in its "Road to the Future". In this context
Mercedes-Benz also provides an outlook on the future of the internal
combustion engine, with the innovative DIESOTTO engine in the F 700
research car.
Dedicated solutions for different requirements
The
requirements for the cars of the future are complex and multi-facetted.
This is because the world population, and therefore the demand for
mobility, are set to increase drastically over the next few decades. At the
same time the world's natural resources are becoming increasingly scarce,
and therefore more and more expensive for both consumers and car
manufacturers. Depending on the world region, there are also sometimes very
different legal requirements with respect to the environmental
compatibility of vehicles. Examples include the environmental zones already
established in many European cities, or the legally prescibed quotas for
emission-free vehicles in California.
These developments are already having a noticeable effect on customer behaviour. In addition to economic factors - above all increasing fuel prices - the environmental compatibility of a car is becoming increasingly important as a buying criterion. What is more, the day-to-day driving requirements of customers are becoming more and more individual and distinctive: drivers covering long rural distances have different requirements from those who mainly or even exclusively drive in densely populated urban areas.
In the view of Mercedes-Benz, there is therefore no single technology that will provide the ideal solution for sustainable mobility in the future. Instead the company offers versatile, tailor-made solutions to meet these very varied requirements. The individual technologies deliver their benefits in terms of optimal fuel consumption and emissions in the specific areas of application concerned. The approach taken by Mercedes-Benz envisages vehicle concepts with modular drive technologies, which ensure that customer benefits and environmental compatibility are always jointly emphasised.
Roadmap for sustainable mobility
The corporate development
strategy is aimed at safeguarding the leading position in the premium
segment on a lasting basis. To this end three areas of emphasis were
defined in the roadmap for sustained mobility:
An intelligent mix of drive systems as a solution for the mobility of
the future
Mercedes-Benz has already brought numerous answers to
the challenges of tomorrow to market. The most recent examples are the
BlueEFFICIENCY models in the A-Class, B-Class and C-Class, the
natural-gas-powered B 170 NGT and the powerful yet economical and clean
BlueTEC SUVs, which were first introduced into the US market this year. A
mix of modular drive systems, from the latest internal combustion engines
with BlueTEC or direct injection, with or without hybridisation, right up
to locally emission-free battery and fuel-cell-powered vehicles, provides
all the conditions that will enable Mercedes-Benz to offer its customers
need-related mobility to the brand's customary high standard into the
long-term future.