The first details have emerged today of a vehicle that's being called the Mercedes ESF 2009 Concept – a model that will reportedly be unveiled next week and one that demonstrates Mercedes' ongoing commitment to develop the safest vehicles in existence.  It's based on the new Mercedes S400 Hybrid, and it features a number of innovative safety enhancements, starting with an inflatable brake under the vehicle that in the event of an accident, helps create friction and thus, slow the vehicle down more quickly.

Also present are additional airbags, both up front and on the rear seatbelts; but aside from these additions, little else is know about the 2009 Mercedes ESF Concept at present.

We will of course keep you posted as new details are released (as noted above, more info should be coming by next week); in the meantime, keep scrolling for the full 2009 Mercedes-Benz ESF Concept photo gallery.

Enjoy ladies and gentlemen.