The award is based on a comprehensive life-cycle assessment of the S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID, documenting every detail of relevance for the environment.
This means that all three hybrid S-Class models now have environmental certificates. These document the models' environmental performance from development through to recycling, across the entire life-cycle, and the performance is certified to internationally recognised standards by independent experts.
Regarding CO2 emissions, the certificate states: "Over the entire life-cycle, comprising manufacture, use over 300,000km and recycling, clear advantages result compared with the S 500. External charging with the European electricity mix can cut CO2 emissions by some 43% (35 tons). Through the use of renewably generated hydroelectricity a 56% reduction (46 tons) is possible."
"Plug-in hybrids offer our customers the best of both worlds; in the city they can drive in all-electric mode, while on long journeys they benefit from the combustion engine's range. In addition, hybridisation not only makes the combustion engine lighter, it also brings with it a special type of dynamic performance - making driving an absolute pleasure," explains Dr Herbert Kohler, chief environmental officer at Daimler AG.
"The new S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID is the spearhead of our hybrid strategy. It offers the power and performance of a V8, but runs on as little fuel as a compact model - and it is able to cover more than 30km with zero emissions. The upshot is a unique combination of luxury, driving pleasure and environmental compatibility."
Mercedes-Benz analyses the environmental compatibility of its models throughout their entire life-cycle - from production, through their long years of service, to recycling at the end of their lives. This analysis goes far beyond the legal requirements.
