The 2012 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be bringing in something new for the car maker. It is the plug-in hybrid platform that will come with the next generation S-Class.

According to the Mercedes head of research and development Thomas Weber, the hybrid model could achieve over 80 mpg. C02 emissions could also be lower than 100 grams per kilometer. The only disadvantage would be the price, as the platform would indeed be pricey, making the new S-Class cost significantly higher than the base model.

The S400 BlueHybrid, which is already out in the market, uses a 279-horsepower 3.5 liter V6 engine with a 15-kiloWatt electric motor, for just under 30 mpg. On the other hand, the Vision S500 plug-in concept which debuted in Frankfurt last year brags 73.5 mpg, and a 0-100km/h time of 5.5 seconds.

The new S-Class range will be fitted with Mercedes’ new versions of petrol, direct injection V6 and V8 engines. These engines will be up to 10 % more powerful and 25 % more efficient, while delivering more torque.