What does the ECO Assist System do in the new S-Class Sedan Hybrid?
The latest addition to the reimagined Mercedes-Benz S-Class lineup is a new-generation plug-in hybrid. The new plug-in hybrid sedan will be available in the United States sometime mid-2019, as more drivers continue to choose hybrid and electric cars over traditional gas models. The hybrid will be equipped with a new Intelligent Operating Strategy, ECO Assist, to promote efficient driving. What does the ECO Assist System do in the new S-Class Sedan Hybrid? Continue reading to find out.
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ECO Assist Features
ECO Assist is an intelligent operating strategy that provides comprehensive support to drivers to encourage and reinforce economical driving. For example, the driver is prompted when it is appropriate to release the accelerator when approaching a reduced-speed limit zone, and is assisted by innovative functions like gliding and recuperation.
ECO Assist also communicates when the hybrid is switching from all-electric power to gas power via a variable point of resistance in the pedal. The resistance point indicates to the driver that maximum electric output is being delivered, and if the driver continues to press the pedal beyond this point, the combustion engine kicks in.
ECO Assist also works to promote anticipatory driving by networking and processing information from the sedan’s intelligent safety sensors, navigation data, and traffic sign recognition. ECO Assist takes the following traffic situations and information into account in its driving recommendations and efficiency strategy:
- Route profile (bends, junctions, roundabouts)
- Speed limits
- Distance from vehicles ahead
To encourage drivers to follow the recommendations of ECO Assist, the on-board computer records how many miles/how much time during a trip the car has been driven with the engine switched off, and shows this in the central display. The reward takes the form of reduced fuel consumption and an increased electric range.
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