Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its latest research car – elements of which could power its company cars of the future.

The F 600 HYgenius is powered by a zero-emission fuel-cell drive and achieves the equivalent of 97mpg. It has a range of more than 250 miles.

Mercedes Car Group head of development Dr Thomas Weber said: ‘This represents a major step towards bringing the fuel-cell drive up to full production maturity, a goal that we aim to achieve some time between 2012 and 2015.

‘By developing the fuel-cell, we are creating a new basis for supplying energy in tomorrow’s vehicles which will make a further lasting improvement to their environmental capability.’

The vehicle also showcases other concepts such as new-style seats and technologies designed to improve safety and passenger comfort.

Features include video cameras which warn drivers about to change lane if a vehicle is approaching from behind, headlamps with high-power LEDs which aim to enhance drivers’ night-time vision and passenger and rear seats that can either be forward or reverse facing.