Paris Hybrids: From Mild to Wild
It's a little known fact that one of the first cars built by Ferdinand Porsche was a hybrid. In fact, it was shown at the Paris show way back in 1902. And now, 106 years later, the major players in the auto industry are showing a dazzling array of hybrid vehicles that range from ready-to-go production models to wild-looking future concepts.
Honda Insight Concept
Toyota learned that one way to sell hybrids was to make them look different than their regular product offerings. Honda has taken a page from its rival's playbook with the new Honda Insight Concept, which is a thinly disguised version of the production car slated for a spring 2009 launch. Using Honda's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) technology, the Insight relies on the electric motor to assist the gas engine, so it's a mild hybrid. It's not a parallel system with a full electric mode. The IMA system is less expensive, which will be reflected in the car's sub-$20,000 sticker.
2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid
Some hybrids are subtle. Take the case of the Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid, that company's first vehicle of this type. Other than badging, there is little on the exterior to distinguish it from other large, executive-class sedans. Based on the Mercedes' S-Class, the BlueHybrid is powered by a modified 279-bhp 3.5-liter V-6 coupled to an electric motor and a battery pack, which adds another 20 horses to the car's total output. Mercedes says the S400 BlueHybrid hits 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.2 seconds and has a top speed of 155 mph.
2009 BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid
With an all-new 7-Series bowing at Paris, BMW has taken the wraps off its flagship sedan with a hybrid powertrain. The BMW Concept 7 Series ActiveHybrid is technically a show car, but it's just months away from production. Using the same two-mode hybrid transmission developed in conjunction with General Motors, Daimler and Chrysler, the ActiveHybrid mates this drivetrain unit to a 407-bhp twin-turbo V-8. Like the Mercedes, the hybrid system adds another 20 horses, giving it muscular performance without a huge fuel economy penalty.
