2010 mercedes-benz ml450

2010 mercedes-benz ml450

2010 mercedes-benz ml450

2010 mercedes-benz ml450

2010 mercedes-benz ml450

2010 mercedes-benz ml450

 2010 mercedes-benz ml450

Mercedes-Benz is ramping up its BlueTEC-laden 'responsibility' platform with its new 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid model that's said to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by 60% compared to its own ML550. Key to its efficiency is a two-mode hybrid system powered by a 3.5L Atkinson-type V-6 and a pair of twin electric motors. The motors are charged thanks to a 288 volt high-capacity nickel metal hydride battery system. Depending on driving conditions and speed, the ML450's complex computer control unit utilizes "system matching" to determine which mode to use to best enhance fuel economy. The SUV has the ability to run solely on its electric power, combustion engine, or a combination of both.

Together, the powertrain develops a healthy 335-hp and 381 lb-ft of torque and distributes its power to the 4MATIC all-wheel drive setup via an electric continuously variable transmission. The gearbox comes complete with three planetary gear sets and four clutches and allows for the near seamless transition between hybrid, electric, and gasoline drive modes. Mercedes-Benz officials claim their newest hybrid can get 21 mpg while perusing the city and 24 mpg while cruising on the highway. It can travel up to 520 miles on a single tank of fuel too. For comparison's sake, the new ML's combined 22 mpg fuel economy is 47% lower than the V-8 powered ML550.

In true Mercedes-Benz fashion, the ML450 Hybrid is replete with luxurious accommodations. Identical leather trimmings, COMAND infotainment, and other appointments found in the ML-Class range can be had in the hybrid version. Active and passive safety measures are also standard. As the new powertrain needs no extra room, all cargo and passenger space is maintained. No word on pricing, but don't expect it to come cheaper than the ML320 BlueTEC's current $48,600 price tag.

Ferrari 458 Italia Loud Sound!! Start + Rev

Ferrari 458 Italia Loud Sound!! Start + Rev

I have filmed Alberto's brand new Ferrari 458 Italia making a series of start ups and revs, sounds delicious!!

2012 Buick Regal eAssist Hybrid

2012 Buick Regal eAssist Hybrid

2012 Buick Regal eAssist Hybrid

Buick is doubling the number of cars it offers with a hybrid powertrain with the introduction of the 2012 Buick Regal eAssist hybrid. The more efficient Regal is expected to be rated 26/37 mpg city/highway pending EPA certification. The eAssist Regal is debuting at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show.
For those of you keeping track, that's one mile per gallon more in the city for the Regal eAssist hybrid than Buick predicts the LaCrosse eAssist hybrid will achieve in the EPA's hands. Both cars feature a 115V lithium-ion battery and a 15-kilowatt motor/generator. The engine at the heart of the cars is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower on its own, and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The same 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels (and low rolling resistance tires) are used on both Buicks. Thanks to the Regal's smaller size, however, the wheels don't appear as undersized as they do on the LaCrosse. If the driver is in an especially green mood, the car can be put into a fuel economy optimizing mode with the AC unit that allows for more frequent and longer engine stop periods.
Regenerative braking is, of course, part of the package. Unfortunately, so is reduced cargo capacity. Trunk space on the hybrid Regal is 11.1 cubic-feet (down from just about 14 cubic-feet on the regular Regal), still a smidge bigger than the LaCrosse eAssist's 10.9 cubic feet.
The Regal with the eAssist technology goes on sale this fall, but it's unclear where Buick will price it, given the LaCrosse is expected to start around $30,000. We'll have more details soon, live from the Chicago show floor.