Mercedes-Benz is in the process of designing a hybrid Popemobile for Pope Benedict XVI. The pontiff’s move towards an energy conserving vehicle is in line with his strong views on ecological care.
Ever since his election as Pope, Benedict has promoted the importance of being a good steward of the earth. In his very first sermon as Pope, he said that: “the earth's treasures have been made to serve the powers of exploitation and destruction” and he urged all Catholics to be better stewards of “God's creation.”
A few years ago, the Vatican installed solar panels on its roof along with a solar cooling unit in its main cafeteria.
The new Popemobile will employ a hybrid electric-gas motor and a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that will enable the car to travel for 16 miles without producing any polluting emissions when driven at slower speeds. The gas-powered engine will only kick in at higher speeds.
Benedict really wanted an all-electric mobile, but safety concerns prevented this because an all-electric would not give the 5 ton vehicle enough power to accelerate in emergency situations for his safety.
The new Popemobile will be unveiled before the end of the year.