Hypermileing is a growing trend these days as folks try to conserve as much fuel and money as possible. But even the best efforts are vain attempts when compared to a driver with a good tool. Turns out, the best tool (most efficient) is the upcoming Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid. Fitted with a diesel engine, an electric hybrid drive system, and the factory-optional large-capacity fuel tank, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid can drive an amazing 1,223 miles on one tank of fuel.

The feat was accomplished by British automotive journalist Andrew Frankel in a massive undertaking of driving from Tangier in Northern Africa to the United Kingdom. The journey trekked through two continents, four countries, and three time zones in a total of 27 hours of drive time.

Frankel and the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid’s final destination was the Goodwood Festival of Speed, slotted to show off the car’s amazing fuel efficiency and range at the ‘First Glance’ paddock. Even with hitting heavy rain and thick traffic, the car still averaged 73.6 mpg. The larger, 21-gallon fuel tank used is a regular factory option, costing £100, or roughly $170 U.S. dollars as of 7/1/2014, helped ensure the trip would be completed without a single fuel stop.

When Frankel arrived at Goodwood, the fuel readout still showed another 100 miles worth of driving range. If he’d kept driving, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid could have potentially covered 1,323 miles of road without a single stop.

Click past the jump to read more about the Mercedes-Benz E-Class->ke373.

Why It Matters

Exceptional ranges with cars is something to be proud of, especially for large sedans like the Mercedes E-Class. But what’s more important is the car’s overall average of 73.6 mpg. Combining a diesel engine with a hybrid power system makes for a solid choice of powertrain for those looking for a long-haul highway cruiser. This test put on by Mercedes->ke187 is a testament to that. Perhaps its diesel-hybrid powertrains like this that will finally break the bad stereotype diesels have endured within the United States. Folks would likely be happy to achieve 70+ mpg in their large sedan. Just imagine what such a drivetrain could do in a smaller C-Class->ke187.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The E-Class is one of Mercedes most luxurious vehicles on the road, with only the S-Class topping it in size and refinement. The car is available in both the standard sedan and optional wagon configurations and has a bevy of engine options to chose from.

The standard mill is the twin-turbo, 2.1-liter, diesel four-cylinder. The 3.5-liter, gasoline V-6 is the volume engine, while a hybrid system can come connected to it for added fuel efficiency. The 4.6-liter, biturbo V-8; 5.5-liter; biturbo V-8; and the 5.5-liter AMG biturbo V-8 are also offered.

Starting price for the E-Class starts at $51,400 for the E 250 BlueTEC sedan and rises to $99,770 for the E 63 AMG S-Model. Unfortunately, the E 300 BlueTec Hybrid won’t make its way into the U.S. Our European friends will get to enjoy it for a starting price of £39,880, or roughly $67,863 U.S. dollars as of 7/1/2014.