http://biz.yahoo.com/cnw/050913/merc...brid.html?.v=1

 

These are both performance hybrids, by the way, not economy hybrids. The most fuel-efficient one, the diesel hybrid, gets only 30 mpg, which is worse than most regular diesel cars. But it accelerates from 0-60 in 7 seconds apparently. So it's in the same class as the Accord Hybrid.

 

I wouldn't expect Mercedes-Benz to make anything BUT performance hybrids, it's just not their style to put out something small, light, fuel efficient... It's better than nothing and will add the to the total hybrid experience and technology, but they probably won't sell (or try to sell) very many.

 

Well I don't view hybrids as a niche technology; they can benefit all cars with no drawbacks except a higher initial cost. It would seem foolish to me for MB to limit the use of the technology, at least in the long term. I think that's why so many car companies are suddenly announcing plans for upcoming hybrids... pure electrics have many disadvantages, as do alternative-fuel cars, but hybrids have none. A minimal cheap hybrid can at least recapture energy from braking to sometimes aid acceleration, and allow the engine to turn off when the car is stopped or barely moving.