German automobile giant, Mercedes-Benz recently unveiled the new gull-wing F125 at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. The Mercedes-Benz F125 Hydrogen Concept features a full hydrogen powertrain that churns out full throttle power of around 172 kW. The 125 in the name of the new vehicle acknowledges the 125th anniversary of the manufacturer. With the launch of this car, the German manufacturer has demonstrated its commitment of developing the new technology.
Explaining the thought behind the development of this new technology, Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, said "With the F 125 we want to show that large, comfortable and safe saloon cars have an excellent future, partly because they are able to operate with no emissions. The legend that is the S-Class will continue into the future thanks to intelligent solutions that always have the customer's needs in mind. "
He further added “The new research vehicle illustrates and underlines this claim to leadership with innovative ideas and traditional Mercedes strengths in the areas of design, safety, comfort and performance.” Four electric motors that are driven by a hydrogen fuel cell power the engine that is capable of propelling the F125 Concept from 0 to 100 kmph in just 4.9 seconds. As a back-up, lithium-ion electric battery system that provides an emergency range of around 50 km has been equipped in the car.
The F-Cell in Mercedes is supplemented by the plug-in hybrid system that enables the car to capitalise on technologies like brake regeneration and engine start-stop. The combination of its fuel cell drive system with the lithium sulphur battery enables the vehicle to cover up to 1000 km per charge. All the four wheels of the F125 will have their own electric motors that will be powered by the hydrogen and electric power system of the vehicle. As for performance, the car will generate an average power of 231 hp with peak output of 313 hp. Mercedes claims that the top speed of F125 will be 218.72 kmph.
The styling of the F125 has been kept superb and it also gives a hint about the styling for the next-generation Mercedes models. As per the company reports, Mercedes Benz is going to repeat the exteriors of F125 including the grille and side feature lines in the 2013 S-class and in the S-class coupe which is being termed as the successor of today's CL. In spite of the gullwing door configuration, the rear seats of the car can easily accommodate four passengers. Instead of the clumsy tanks, the hydrogen tanks of this car are structurally integrated into the floor assembly, which in turn increases the interior space.
Mercedes-Benz F125 Concept uses lightweight CFRP, a conceptual technology, in the doors. Integrated with this networked infotainment system with multiple displays, the doors can be opened and closed by hand gestures. The lightweight but rigid chassis has been constructed using high-strength steel, aluminium and carbon fibre. Though only a concept at the moment, the Mercedes-Benz F125 shows off the possible future design of the S-Class.
