The German company took wraps off the updated 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid, which has now an all-electric range of 31 miles. The redesigned S-Class plug-in hybrid, which premiered at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show this week, conveys impeccable innovations and a series of technologies in the drivetrain. It becomes one of the highly efficient models in the lineup.
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid – Updates and Changes
The 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid pretty much resembles the outgoing S-Class. Changes are scarce, and you can only notice them upon closer inspection. The highlights include a reworked grille and a reshaped front bumper with bigger air intakes.
At the rear end, we can see new LED taillight clusters comprising crystal jewel-like appearance. The restructured lower bumper has an in-built tailpipe trim. And, the exterior update is rounded by new 20-inch alloy wheels.
Futuristic Interior
The engineers put a lot of attention on the inside of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid. The interior update includes all-new tech features reminiscence of the recently debuted E-Class. A new steering wheel with touch-sensitive buttons graces the 560e sedan.
Worth noting, the inbound 560e sedan receives an advanced infotainment system with restyled functions and menus. In addition to the 12.3-inch infotainment screen, the 560e now comprises an equally large display as an instrument cluster. The energy-saving LED comes in 64 colors.
The S 560e posh plug-in will also get an Eco Assist function as standard. This feature helps drivers have the most out of their ride. The system proves handy in notifying them via the head-up display. When it is optimal, the system alerts the driver to release the accelerator. It can also notify when to tap the brakes for energy recuperation.
Finally, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid features an optional Drive Pilot function. This enables the sedan to follow the car in front at a speed of about 130 mph. The system incorporates automatic braking and acceleration along with the Steering Pilot in handling moderate bends.
Twin-Turbo V6 Hybrid System in the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid
The new S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid Luxury Sedan uses a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 hybrid system that combines 367 hp with a 121-hp electric output. The total combined output comes to about 488 horsepower, enough to push this sleek sedan to 62 mph in just under 5 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz’s third-gen hybrid integrates a nine-speed automatic gearbox. The manufacturer says the new battery has the same size as the previous one but packs 13.5 kWh of capacity where the old version had just 8.7 kWh. However, the 560e Plug-in Hybrid Luxury Sedan now travels up to 31 miles on electricity alone before the engine is sought for help.
This battery pack is borrowed from the Daimler subsidiary Deutsche Accumotive that also supplies batteries for Smart EVs. The Mercedes-Benz also supplied the 560e Plug-in hybrid sedan with an onboard 7.2 kW charger that allows for faster charging of the battery. The charging times for the battery, however, remain a mystery as of this writing.
2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid – MSRP and Debut Date
The company didn’t reveal the pricing and release date of the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S-Class 560e Plug-in Hybrid. But, the rumor predicts it to cost around $98,000. Finally, the car’s estimated delivery date will happen in the late fall or early spring. Stay tuned for more details as they become available.
