Mercedes-Benz launched the S-Class Hybrid in Japan

Mercedes-Benz launched the S-Class Hybrid, S400, in Japan (Source: Mercedes-Benz launches 1st luxury hybrid model in Japan). That makes them the first foreign company to compete in the red-hot hybrid market of Japan.

The S-Class Hybrid gets 30% better fuel efficiency than the conventional model, and costs about 14.05 million yen (upwards of $150,000 in US). It is eligible for the tax-breaks that make the Insight and Prius so popular in Japan.

The V6 3.5 liter gas engine is mated to a 15kW electric motor.  Combined, the engines produce 299 hp and a maximum torque of 385 Nm (284 lb-ft).  The fuel economy is about 7.9L/100 km (30 mpg).