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The new S560e variant in Mercedes-Benz's S-Class lineup is the first to feature the automaker's third-generation plug-in hybrid system, which has not only been tuned for efficiency but also improved power and electric range compared to the second-generation system found in the outgoing S550e.
The third-gen system consists of a 3.0-liter V-6 which works together with a single electric motor integrated with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The combined output is 476 horsepower but the electric motor, which has an output of 120 hp, has the ability to drive the wheels on its own.
In electric mode, the system can carry the S560e approximately 30 miles thanks to a 13.5-kilowatt-hour battery. The top speed in this mode is only 80 mph but with the V-6 kicking in the top speed rises to 155 mph.
Because of the modular nature of Mercedes' third-gen plug-in hybrid system, it can be used in a variety of models. Mercedes confirmed Wednesday that the system will feature in the C-Class up, though at the C-Class level we could see the V-6 swapped for an inline-4. In some markets the system will also integrate a diesel inline-4 for an additional efficiency boost.