Mercedes developed its F500 Mind vehicle as a "mobile research lab" to test several nacient automotive technologies, including a V8 diesel-electric hybrid engine and an infrared night-vision system.
While the nightvision system has shown promise for use in other Mercedes models, the motor, touted as one of the most powerful hybrid-drive systems around, was proven to be less fuel efficient for long-distance driving than the comparable Mercedes V8 diesel engine. "We are looking to fine tune the hybrid drive and deploy it in such a way that its benefits outweigh the tremendous technical effort involved," one expert noted. In other news, "oops."
Update on the Mercedes F 500 MIND Diesel Hybrid: Surprise! [Green Car Congress]
Related:
DaimlerChrysler Board Member Dr. Thomas Weber: "Around 15 million spent on research and development every day" [DaimlerChrysler Media Services]