The F 500 Mind marked an important step in Mercedes-Benz future direction concerning hybrid drive technology.

Featuring a powerful, yet economical diesel hybrid system, the F 500 Mind consumed up to 20 percent less fuel (in the New European Driving Cycle) than with a comparable CDI engine. The V8 diesel engine was combined with a powerful electric motor, switched on and off by an electronic controller in response to traffic conditions and driving style – used when moving off, for example, or in stop-and-go traffic where the inherent operating principle of the diesel engine prevents it from running at optimum efficiency. The 300 V lithium-ion battery, located under the passenger compartment, recharged during braking. However, analysis of the results of the testing carried out by the F 500 Mind revealed that longer distance running actually return poorer fuel economy than with a conventional diesel engine. This would lead to the development of the “Dual-mode” hybrid.

The design brief of the F 500 Mind had two principal objectives, provide a significant improvement in interior space and integrate the central pillar as a key structural and safety element instead of full-size B-pillars. The interior, with its contrasting seating zones reflects the fact that this was a research vehicle, the right-hand section serving as the work area for a member of the research team.

The doors opened in two different ways: either conventionally (the doors open forwards) or from the centre (the "butterfly principle"). In the latter mode, the shortened B-pillar moved backwards with the rear door to provide a wide opening for occupant entry and exit.

Full-size B-pillars which would normally extend right up to the roof in order to provide the vehicle body with the necessary strength and side-impact protection, were replaced by a central pillar, whose characteristics were calculated using the finite element method. Situated centrally in the rear area, it linked the reinforced floor assembly with the y-shaped roof structure. The central column also housed the air ducts for the rear air conditioning system as well as special indirect lighting elements.

Instead of a steering column, a data line was used to transmit steering commands from the multi-segment steering wheel to two electric motors. These controlled the "electric rack-and-pinion" system by means of toothed belts without compromising the characteristic steering feel. The use of electrically powered rack-and-pinion steering gear meant that the system did not rely on the combustion engine to deliver hydraulic power.

Pressure-sensitive surfaces on the electronic accelerator and brake pedals were used to transmit the driver´s inputs to the engine and braking system in the form of electrical signals. This flat pedal design also enhanced rear passenger comfort by freeing up 120 mm of front footwell space.

In the cockpit, an innovative multivision display formed the heart of the control and display concept, with high-resolution TFT screens and analogue dial-type instruments. The screens formed a virtual display area which can show as much information as the driver requires. A semi-transparent display, which extended right across the instrument cluster, allowed the dial-type instruments and the images on the displays to be optically superimposed or shown separately.