Photos: Mercedes-Benz F700 research vehicle

As evidenced by the F700, launched at the 2007 Frankfurt auto show, Mercedes-Benz expects to be building large luxury sedans long into the future. But also recognizing the need to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions, the company includes some miraculous-sounding technologies in the F700. It's also using the vehicle to explore advances in passenger comfort and infotainment.

2007 Frankfurt auto show coverage

Mercedes-Benz F700

Although the F700 weighs 3,740 pounds, its 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine gets it to 62 mph in 7.5 seconds, and it has a governed top speed of 124 mph. And it does all this while achieving 44.3 mpg. The F700 uses the Diesotto engine, which burns gasoline but performs its combustion through compression, like a diesel engine. In the F700, the Diesotto is aided by twin turbochargers and a small hybrid system. Its overall output is 258 horsepower and 295 ft-lbs. of torque.

Photo Credit: CNET Networks

Text By: Wayne Cunningham