2005 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Hybrid Concept

With all the flashing lights, booming music and bold sales projections that make up one of the world's major auto shows, it's often easy to overlook some items on display that may be subtle in presentation, but nevertheless more dramatic in overall significance to the automotive market and the world in general. Take, for instance, the unique 4x4 transmission joined to a pair of integrated electric motors on the floor at Mercedes' display during this year's Detroit auto show. While journalists