Hybrid News

Filed under: Diesel, EV/Plug-in, Hybrid, SMART, AutoblogGreen Q & A, AutoblogGreen Exclusive

One of the newest cars to drop into the US market is the Smart ForTwo. A decade after its European debut, the two-seat city car finally arrived stateside after several abortive attempts by both its parent company Daimler and independent distributors. This time around Daimler worked with a US distributor set up by serial entrepreneur and race team owner Roger Penske to create SmartUSA. At the LA Auto Show last week we sat down with SmartUSA president David Schembri to discuss the company’s first year in the American market and where they are going.

When it launched, SmartUSA set a target of 20,000 annual sales in this country. Given that this car is definitely a niche product, that relatively modest goal was probably wise. As it turned out, it was actually fairly conservative. Smart delivered the first US-spec ForTwo to a customer in Manhattan on January 16 of this year and the 20,000th example earlier in November “to a couple in their mid-fifties, empty-nesters,” as Schembri described them, in Dallas TX. Not bad for a car that has received decidedly mixed reviews from both media and prospective buyers in this country. Read on past the jump for more of what Schembri talked about.

Continue reading ABG chats with SmartUSA president David Schembri about EVs, diesel, micro-hybrids and more

ABG chats with SmartUSA president David Schembri about EVs, diesel, micro-hybrids and more originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 11:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Sam Abuelsamid

Filed under: MPG, SMART, LA Auto Show, Green Daily

One reason there are so many versions of the smart fortwo (see: Batsmart, the smart ed, the edit10n) is that the tiny cars were designed to be modular. SoCal’s Smart Madness takes this to the reasonable limit and offers new body panels, rims, accessories, and upgrade parts galore. In fact, Smart Madness’ Rachel Mills (business development and marketing) told AutoblogGreen that Smart Madness that the company has the larest collection of rims available for the fortwo and are the largest smart parts and accessory dealer in the US. Smart Madness brought a pair of tricked out fortwos to the LA Auto Show and we’ve got the picture to prove it. Pretty amazing considering smarts have only been sold in America for a year.

Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sebastian Blanco / Weblogs, Inc.

LA 2008: smart madness bring you butterfly door fortwos originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Fri, 21 Nov 2008 19:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Hybrid, SMART, UK

The micro hybrid drive (mhd) smart fortwo (see previous post) has been upgraded. Oh, it’s still micro, don’t worry, but now the start-stop system will come standard on the 61hp and 71hp versions of the fortwo in the UK. Why is this a good thing? Well, the mhd models use up to 24 percent less fuel than previous versions and emit just 103 grams of CO₂ per kilometer. When activated (it’s optional, but why you wouldn’t want it operating is beyond me), the mhd system shuts off the engine not just when the fortwo is halted, but when the car is going slower than 5 mph and brake pressure is applied. Push on the gas and the engine automatically restarts. Inside, the new fortwo mhd gets a refreshed instrument cluster with not one but two eco lights. How’s that for progress? Prices for the mhd start at £7,060 OTR.

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Micro hybrid drive (mhd) smart fortwo gets upgraded

Micro hybrid drive (mhd) smart fortwo gets upgraded originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Etc., SMART, Green Daily

What you see above is part of Daimler’s new smart-branded gifts for the holiday season. Specifically, it’s the “smart ‘winter magic′ diorama” that brings us 75 percent of the way to the full collection of the “four seasons” series. You know, the one that also includes “Summer idyll” and “Autumn impressions” (we’re still waiting on “Spring awakening” coming early next year). The two active Nordic types in the diorama, who apparently can’t get enough of skiing and snowboarding on flat ground, are seen next to a 1:87 scale model of a smart fortwo coupé. There’s also a snowman and some coneys, but you’ll have to click on the large version of the picture to see it all. There will be plenty of good pictures or real cars coming from the LA Auto Show this week, but do yourself a favor and click on this one now, just to get into the habit. Other items in the smart holiday collection include an old-school digital watch and, wow, a pen. Who said the economy’s in trouble?

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading These Smart accessories cross some sort of line, I’m sure

These Smart accessories cross some sort of line, I’m sure originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Tue, 18 Nov 2008 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: SMART, Green Daily

I think there are now more smart fortwo versions than there are types of iPods. I mean, c′mon, there’s the Batsmart, the smart ed, the edit10n; and those are all from the last two months. But, a glut does not stop the flow, and Carlsson Tuning would like to present us with their special version of the fortwo. Carlsson will “personalize” a fortwo with some 16- or 17-inch 1/11 Evo BE alloy wheels, aerodynamic styling additions through a new front spoiler and sport springs that lower the ride height by 25mm. On a petrol-powered fortwo, Carlsson will also upgrade (?) your exhaust to deliver a “deeper, more prominent note.” On the inside, there are options galore, including “special leathers and fabrics” and an aluminum pedal set. Pricing was not announced.

[Source: Carlsson]

Continue reading Carlsson tunes the smart fortwo for more “oomph″

Carlsson tunes the smart fortwo for more “oomph″ originally appeared on AutoblogGreen on Sun, 16 Nov 2008 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Hydrogen

Is it just me or has there been a lot less hydrogen news coming out recently than usual? Finally, though, the drought has ended and we have ExxonMobil Refining and Supply Company to thank for bringing it up again. The news is that ExxonMobil will be getting a supply of hydrogen from Air Products (they of the mobile hydrogen refueling station) via a hydrogen pipeline network in the West Gulf Coast. ExxonMobil refineries in Baytown, Texas and Baton Rouge, Louisiana will get the hydrogen product starting in April 2010. The two companies also have a hydrogen deal in Joliet, Illinois. More details after the jump.

[Source: Air Products]

Continue reading ExxonMobil will get hydrogen from Air Products in Gulf area

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Hybrid, Ford, USA

Let’s get one fact straight right off the bat: no current vehicles on American roadways were designed from the start to serve as taxis. Sure, the Crown Victoria from Ford may be the most often used vehicle for taxi service around the country, but it and its Fox platform were not specifically designed to be used as a taxi. We’re not suggesting that the Crown Vic doesn’t make a good people-mover, but its origins are as a vehicle for public consumption, a family car if you will. Why do we care? The Metropolitan Taxicab Board of Trade (MTBOT) has made claims that hybrid taxis are unsafe and has asked manufacturers to certify their vehicles for taxi use. For obvious reasons, the OEMs are a bit hesitant to do so.

Honda has flat out denied the request, stating that it never designed the cars to serve as taxis and Toyota has so far chosen not to respond. Automakers like Nissan, Volkswagen, Ford and General Motors have suggested that it’s not their responsibility to ensure the safety of a modified vehicle. Because the city of New York requires a partition between the passengers and the driver, the car’s inherent safety and safety features may be compromised. Note, this has nothing to do with the hybrid drivetrain of any specific vehicle. Perhaps a dedicated vehicle would be best. It will definitely be interesting to watch how this plays out, as New York Mayor Bloomberg announced that the entire fleet would become hybridized by 2012. We’ll see.

[Source: Huffington Post]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: Green Culture, Hybrid, Lexus, Legislation and Policy, Green Daily, UK

Lexus doesn’t have a good history with the ads for its hybrid SUVs in Europe. Not too long ago, Toyota got into trouble for running the slogan “HIGH PERFORMANCE. LOW EMISSIONS. ZERO GUILT″ in reference to its Lexus RX 400h hybrid SUV. The marque is back in the Advertising Standards Authority’s doghouse for another ad for the same vehicle. Here’s the wording that got banned: “THE LEXUS RX 400h. PERFECT FOR TODAY’S CLIMATE, (AND TOMORROW’S)” Under that text, it says, “Driving the world’s first luxury hybrid SUV makes environmental, and economic, sense.”

Four complaints brought the ad to the ASA’s attention, and the body deemed that Lexus was misleading customers into thinking that the vehicle has low emissions in comparison to all other vehicles. Toyota claims, though, that it was only comparing the SUV with other vehicles in its class. No dice. Because the RX 400h sports 192g/km of carbon emissions, it ain’t helping the climate any. The ad was banned and subsequently revised, as you can see in the picture above.

[Source: The Guardian]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: Etc., UK

Nobody wants to pay more for fuel than they need to. This may especially be true in the UK where, due in large part to heavy taxes, both gas and diesel are much more expensive than they are in the States. Regardless of how much it’s taxed, though, as the price for a barrel of crude goes down, so should the cost of fuel for the end consumer, at least in theory. It seems that this isn’t entirely the case across the pond, where an investigation is currently underway into current fuel prices. When compared to the last time the bulk price of crude was comparable to what it is now, the price at the pump is notably higher. Sure, there’s more to the price of a gallon of petrol than how much the refiner paid for its stock, but even after allowing for these adjustments, many believe that the UK population is being overcharged. Sounds like a common sentiment the world over.

[Source: What Car?]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: Green Culture, HUMMER, SMART, Green Daily, USA

Despite the fact that Hummers are really no worse on gas than many other full-size, off-road oriented SUV, there is no arguing that the brand has come to represent all that is wrong in the state of the auto scene. As gas prices began rising, Hummer sales began sinking. In contrast, sales of hybrids, MINIs and smarts have gone through the roof. For its part, Penske, the American importer of the smart brand, has raised its sales outlook for the year. It’s telling that one of the nation’s largest Hummer dealers - located in Sin City no less - is closing its doors, despite the fact that the owner drives a Hummer and is still fond of the brand. Sales are just too slow, even in a city where people sometimes have more money than they know what to do with. In a rather unique twist, the ex-Hummer dealer’s owner will soon be opening a smart dealership. How’s that for irony?

[Source: Wall Street Journal / Photo: debcll, CC 2.0]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: Diesel, MPG, Ford, USA

Many people in the States still make their living using good ‘ole fashioned pickup trucks as their main method of transportation. For those people, the sky-high price of fuel is putting a serious dent in their profit margins, especially when that truck is used day-in and day-out to move heavy objects from one place to another. It’s dirty work, but somebody’s got to do it, as they say. For these gasoline-weary individuals, Ford, makers of the best-selling pickup truck in the world, is diligently working on its upcoming 4.4L diesel V8 powerplant, which should improve on the bread-and-butter 5.4L Triton gasoline engine’s mpg figure by 20-percent while delivering an extra shot of torque.

While we’ve seen the engine sitting by itself earlier this year at Ford′s national dealer conference in Vegas, PickupTrucks.com has managed to get its hands on a few shots of the engine under hood of a new F-150 mule. We can clearly see that it’s a tight fit in there with all the associated emissions plumbing, turbocharger and intercooler. Take note too that the engine wears the Power Stroke moniker, though the mill is not made by Ford’s traditional diesel supplier, Navistar. Instead, this engine is derived from a diesel engine used by Land Rover in Europe and will be manufactured in Mexico. Those looking to save a few bucks on a fill-up can look forward to a hopeful debut at the ‘09 Chicago Auto Show with a production release sometime later that year.
[Source: PickupTrucks.com]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments

Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: Volkswagen, Geneva Motor Show, Natural Gas

Click the Passat for a high res gallery

At the Geneva Motor Show next week, Volkswagen will be premiering a new natural gas-fueled version of the Passat that they are calling the EcoFuel. Unlike most natural gas-fueled cars, which tend to be down on power compared to their gasoline equivalents, the Passat EcoFuel uses one of Volkswagen’s turbocharged direct injected TSI engines. The TSI engine has been optimized for running on CNG and has an output of 150hp and fuel consumption of 5.2l/100km (45 mpg U.S.). The EcoFuel Passat goes on sale in Europe around the end of the year.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

BOLD MOVES: THE FUTURE OF FORD Step behind the curtain at Ford Motor. Experience the documentary first-hand.

Original post by Sam Abuelsamid

Filed under: Diesel, Hybrid, Volkswagen, European Union, UK, Germany, USA

We are extremely pleased that Volkswagen was able to achieve such phenomenal fuel mileage and emissions numbers from their Golf TDI Hybrid. As a refresher, the machine uses a 1.2 liter three-cylinder diesel engine paired with a 26 horsepower electric motor and returns 69 U.S. mpg and 89 g/km of CO₂ emissions in the EU combined cycle. As we′ve reported, the car is slated for production in Europe, but what about the U.S.? Don’t we need cars that deliver high mileage and low emissions here too? Of course we do, but the question that needs to be asked is whether American drivers are ready to pay for the technology required to make these numbers a reality.

The Toyota Prius has set the standard for what consumers expect from green cars, and it is priced rather well - less than $25 grand, well equipped. Diesel vehicles have never sold as well in the States as they do in Europe, despite their fuel mileage increases. This is due, partly, to the added cost that comes with a diesel vehicle in order to meet emissions requirements. Keith Price, a spokesman for VW USA says,”From a consumer standpoint, it comes down to ‘What kind of compromise do I need to live with to enjoy all this wonderfulness?’” Price is one compromise that is hard to get around, as VW′s diesels already cost about $2,000 more than gasoline models. Add in what the hybrid system will cost on top of that and the Golf… um, I mean Rabbit TDI Hybrid may price itself out of the market. We sincerely hope not.

[Source: CNN Money]

Read | Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Original post by Jeremy Korzeniewski

Filed under: Mercedes Benz, Natural Gas, Green Daily

click to enlarge

Mercedes-Benz premiered two new models - updated A and B Class vehicles - at the Auto Mobil International exhibition in Leipzig. When the B Class was previewed last month, we learned it would get a start-stop “mini hybrid” system as well as a BlueEFFICIENCY option. The A Class 150 and 170 now also gain the start-stop system (no surprises there). The new A 160 CDI with BlueEFFICIENCY can now go 52 miles on a U.S.-sized gallon of gas (4.5 litres per 100 kilometres) and the 60 kW/82 hp Coupé emits just 119 grams of CO₂ per km. Overall, the eco-additions to the three A and B class models that have the BlueEFFICIENCY packages reduce fuel use in the city by up to nine percent. The new B 170 NGT (that stands for “Natural Gas Technology”) can also burn either petrol or natural gas, something that will appeal to emissions-minded European drivers. The NGT has a tank for gasoline and five natural gas reservoirs and will able to drive over 1,000 km (620 miles) if all available fuel space is filled to start. These updated models will be available starting this fall. Full details after the break.

Press Release:

Mercedes-Benz at “Auto Mobil International”

A and B-Class: World premiere of the new model generations in Leipzig

Leipzig - The focus of attention at “Auto Mobil International” (AMI) in Leipzig will be on the new generations of the A and B-Class. Both models are now more youthful, attractive and environmentally compatible than ever before. This is ensured by an all-round design makeover, an even more attractive equipment package and new technical developments which further improve safety, comfort and economy. A comfortable ECO start/stop function is now available for the high-volume models A 150/170 and B 150/170 which reduces petrol consumption in city traffic by up to nine percent. For the three-door A 160 CDI, Mercedes-Benz has developed a BlueEFFICIENCY package to lower the fuel consumption of the coupé to just
4.5 litres per 100 kilometres. Other new development include the bivalent petrol/natural gas drive of the B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY and active parking assist, which helps the driver of the A and B-Class when finding and reversing into a parking space.

Since its world premiere in 1997, the A-Class has made a name for itself as a trendsetter and innovative leader in the compact car segment. Outstanding safety, great day-to-day flexibility and typical Mercedes reliability have always been among the strengths of the A-Class, which has so far captured the enthusiasm of about 1.7 million male and female drivers with its distinctive and versatile vehicle concept.

The new-generation A-Class builds on these strengths: in spring 2008 Mercedes-Benz is presenting the five-door saloon and the three-door coup&eacute in completely upgraded versions. Viewed from the front, this compact Mercedes-Benz now appears even more youthful and self-confident than before. The sweeping lines of the newly designed headlamps harmoniously combine the front end and flanks, which literally appear to be cast from a single mould. The likewise redesigned front bumper reinforces this impression; its lower air intake is now much larger, emphasising the width of the body. The radiator grille is also in a new design which underlines the progressive aura of the A-Class. Design features at the front end provide even more clear distinctions between the design and equipment lines of the A-Class than before. In the AVANTGARDE line the front bumper has been given a distinctive design which emphasises the arrow-shape of the front end and suggests even greater agility. When viewed from the side the different lines in the A-Class are distinguished by individual wheel designs. While the basic model is equipped with 15-inch wheels and seven- spoke hubcaps as standard, ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE are fitted with individually designed 16-inch light-alloy wheels. The new, larger exterior mirror housings and door handles are now painted in the vehicle colour for all model variants.

Interior: upgraded with larger stowage compartments and new fabrics

Mercedes designers also paid particular attention to enhanced value when redesigning the interior, choosing new, high-grade upholstery fabrics and door linings. In addition new decorative trim of smoke-grey, diagonally brushed aluminium enhances the interior of the AVANTGARDE line, while the dignified aura of the ELEGANCE models is heightened by wood trim. All variants of the A-Class share a larger stowage compartment in the centre console and a newly designed cupholder between the front seats.

B-Class: The Sports Tourer in better shape than ever

Mercedes-Benz has also developed the B-Class further in design and technical terms. The restyled front end injects the B-Class with even more poise and assurance than before. This is primarily down to the radiator grille with its three chromed cross fins painted in metallic grey and the Mercedes star integrated into its centre. However, the more imposing appearance of the B-Class also stems from the new-look bumper - whose design emphasises the large air intake at the bottom - as well as the modified bonnet.

Typical distinguishing features of the current Mercedes style are also very much in evidence in the side profile of the B-Class, which presents a thrilling interplay between taut forms and crisp lines. Of particular note is the character line, which rises progressively from the front wing to the rear tail light, thereby marking an intriguing divide between the concave and convex-formed surfaces along the body’s flanks. This line furthermore underscores the body’s wedge-shaped form, and thereby gives added impact to the Sports Tourer’s athletic, powerful nature.

In the Model Year 2008 B-Class, the design at the sides seems even more harmonious and elegant than before because the exterior mirror housings, door handles and skirt panels are now painted to match the body colour on all model variants. The restyled hubcaps and light-alloy wheels add further touches of class to the exterior looks.

The Mercedes design team has further upgraded the interior with a new upholstery fabric, plus a new fabric pattern for the seat cushions. If the B-Class is ordered with the sports package, the side seat bolsters are trimmed in ARTICO man-made leather and the centre panels in fabric. The interior door linings likewise feature a new fabric trim.

Technology: fuel consumption reduced by up to eight percent

BlueEFFICIENCY is the new designation for the Mercedes commitment to further reductions in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Three models in the A and B-Class will bear the BlueEFFICIENCY emblem in future: the A 160 CDI, the high- volume four-cylinder models A 150/B 150 and A 170/ B 170 with the ECO start- stop function, and the new B 170 NGT with bivalent petrol/natural gas drive. The fuel consumption of the models in the A and B-Class has been reduced by up to eight percent thanks to a package of intelligently combined measures.

From autumn 2008 Mercedes-Benz will introduce a standard BlueEFFICIENCY package for the three-door A 160 CDI with a manual transmission, with further improvements in engine efficiency, aerodynamics, rolling resistance, energy management and weight. The sum of these measures achieves a fuel saving of
0.4 litres, which means that the A 160 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY has an NEDC Page 4

consumption of only 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres. As a result the CO 2 emissions of the 60 kW/82 hp Coup&eacute are only 119 grams per kilometre.

The BlueEFFICIENCY package also includes an aerodynamically optimised radiator grille. This has a closed-off interior face to reduce the airflow to the engine, though the CDI engine is still cooled effectively at all times. The suspension has also been lowered by ten millimetres to reduce the drag coefficient even further. Mercedes engineers have exploited an additional fuel-saving potential by controlling the onboard power supply of the A 160 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY according to demand, and therefore on an energy-saving basis. To recharge the battery with optimum energy efficiency, the generator management system utilises the engine’s overrun phases to produce electrical energy.

Start/stop function: the engine switches off automatically when idling

In the case of the petrol-engined models A 150/B 150 and A 170/B 170, Mercedes engineers have achieved NEDC fuel savings of up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres with a newly developed ECO start/stop function. This system will become available from autumn 2008. It automatically switches off the engine when the driver shifts the manual transmission to neutral at a low speed while applying the brakes. If the conditions for engine switch-off are met, the driver is informed by a special display in the instrument cluster.

Within fractions of a second, and almost noiselessly, the engine is restarted as soon as the clutch is operated or the brake released. This rapid and comfortable engine start is a major advantage of the ECO start/stop function versus other systems of this kind.

With the ECO start/stop function the NEDC fuel consumption is reduced by a further 6.5 percent or so. The A 150 BlueEFFICIENCY (70 kW/95 hp) absolves a measured test journey with a fuel consumption of 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres, which corresponds to 139 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre.

Even greater advantages can be achieved in normal road traffic, as the results of extensive practical trials have confirmed: Mercedes employees tested the system in 175 test cars, covering a total of around 1.2 million kilometres. Roughly half of this enormous mileage was covered in city traffic, where the new ECO start/stop function enabled fuel savings of up to nine percent to be achieved.

NGT: B-Class powered by natural gas and petrol

A further new addition to the B-Class range bears the initials “NGT″ on the right- hand side of its tailgate. They stand for “Natural Gas Technology” and identify a model variant which is as economical as it is environmentally compatible, courtesy of its bi-fuel drive: the B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY is able to run on both natural gas and premium grade petrol while delivering an identical maximum output of 85 kW/116 hp.

In addition to the petrol tank, there are five natural gas reservoirs whose total capacity of 16 kilograms equates to a range of over 300 kilometres. With overall NEDC consumption figures of 7.3 litres of premium petrol and 4.9 kilograms of natural gas per 100 kilometres, the new B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY is therefore able to attain a total range in excess of 1000 kilometres. The driver determines which power source is used at the touch of a button, using the multifunction steering wheel; an electronic control unit carries out the switch instantaneously without any jolts - even while on the move.

The lower carbon dioxide emissions and cheaper fuel costs make natural gas an attractive alternative to petrol and diesel, both ecologically and economically speaking. On the NEDC cycle, the CO2 emissions are 17 percent lower than in

the petrol-powered B 170 at 135 grams per kilometre. If the 4.9 kilograms (7.5 m³) of natural gas consumed per 100 kilometres by the new B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY is converted into the equivalent quantity of petrol energy, the fuel cost per kilometre is around 50 percent less than when running on petrol

Ecology: the A-Class is the first compact car with an environmental certificate

Mercedes-Benz not only assesses the environmental compatibility of vehicles on the basis of standardised emissions and fuel consumption measurement, but also taking into account the entire vehicle lifecycle - from production and many years of operation to eventual recycling and disposal. An analysis of more than 40 000 individual processes provides an overall picture and enables the development work to be objectively assessed. This eco balance sheet is the basis of the environmental certificate according to the stringent international ISO standard 14062 (Design For Environment), which Mercedes-Benz is the world’s only automobile brand to have received.

Mercedes engineers have, for the first time, compiled an eco balance sheet for the natural-gas drive. It forms one element of the Environmental Certificate awarded to the B-Class by Germany’s TÜV Technical Inspection Authority. The results of this integrated analysis over a total distance travelled of 150,000 kilometres highlight, for example, a number of clear advantages for the natural-gas drive. The overall CO emissions are some 20 percent below the figure for the 2 comparable petrol-engined model. Nitrogen oxide emissions are eleven percent lower, while the experts have calculated a 54 percent difference in carbon monoxide emissions over the entire lifecycle in favour of the natural-gas drive.

Detailed information about the eco balance sheet and the environmental certificates for the A and B-Class may be found in Mercedes-Benz brochures, which are available on the Internet at www.media.daimler.com.

Safety: flashing brake lights warn following traffic

Mercedes-Benz has also made further improvements to the safety and comfort of the A and B-Class. The adaptive brake light introduces technology from the luxury class into the compact segment, which therefore benefits from a further accident prevention system as a standard feature. Under emergency braking from a speed exceeding 50 km/h, the brake lights flash rapidly to warn following traffic, enabling drivers to respond more rapidly and prevent a collision.

Mercedes-Benz has now added to this extensive safety technology with crash- responsive emergency lighting for the interior. This is switched on automatically following an accident of a defined severity, providing the occupants with better orientation and facilitating the work of the emergency services.

Parking assist: ultrasound and electric steering for easier parking

When finding and reversing into a parking space, drivers of the A and B-Class will in future be aided by an active parking assist feature which is available on request for all model variants. Using newly developed, side-mounted ultrasonic sensors, this system identifies suitable parking spaces on both sides of the road in passing, then informs the driver by means of a display. Once a suitable parking space has been found, an arrow appears in the display to inform the driver on which side of the road the parking space is located. If he or she engages reverse gear, acknowledges the display message and accelerates, active parking assist takes over the steering and automatically manoeuvres the car into the parking space. The driver only needs to accelerate and operate the brakes; the ultrasonic sensors of the PARKTRONIC system assist in this by keeping them informed about the distance to the vehicle in front of and behind the car.

Mercedes engineers have also added a new function to a well-proven support system: the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) now has an automatic hill-start assist function which prevents the car from rolling backwards when the driver changes from the brake pedal to the accelerator when moving off on an uphill gradient.

Audio: new units offer Bluetooth, a colour display and Europe-wide navigation

Like all the new 2008 Mercedes models, the A and B-Class is available with further improved information, communication, navigation and entertainment systems. The new Audio 50 APS is equipped with a colour display, Europe-wide DVD navigation system and DVD drive, while the top-of-the-range COMAND APS includes HDD navigation, a MUSIC REGISTER, an SD card slot and voice control. Even more scope for mobile musical pleasure is provided by a newly developed, interactive media interface, an optional item which is able to connect an MP3-player, USB stick or other external audio unit to the onboard infotainment system.

[Source: Daimler]

Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments

Original post by Sebastian Blanco

Filed under: Mercedes Benz, Natural Gas, Green Daily

click to enlarge

Mercedes-Benz premiered two new models - updated A and B Class vehicles - at the Auto Mobil International exhibition in Leipzig. When the B Class was previewed last month, we learned it would get a start-stop “mini hybrid” system as well as a BlueEFFICIENCY option. The A Class 150 and 170 now also gain the start-stop system (no surprises there). The new A 160 CDI with BlueEFFICIENCY can now go 52 miles on a U.S.-sized gallon of gas (4.5 litres per 100 kilometres) and the 60 kW/82 hp Coupé emits just 119 grams of CO₂ per km. Overall, the eco-additions to the three A and B class models that have the BlueEFFICIENCY packages reduce fuel use in the city by up to nine percent. The new B 170 NGT (that stands for “Natural Gas Technology”) can also burn either petrol or natural gas, something that will appeal to emissions-minded European drivers. The NGT has a tank for gasoline and five natural gas reservoirs and will able to drive over 1,000 km (620 miles) if all available fuel space is filled to start. These updated models will be available starting this fall. Full details after the break.

Press Release:

Mercedes-Benz at “Auto Mobil International”

A and B-Class: World premiere of the new model generations in Leipzig

Leipzig - The focus of attention at “Auto Mobil International” (AMI) in Leipzig will be on the new generations of the A and B-Class. Both models are now more youthful, attractive and environmentally compatible than ever before. This is ensured by an all-round design makeover, an even more attractive equipment package and new technical developments which further improve safety, comfort and economy. A comfortable ECO start/stop function is now available for the high-volume models A 150/170 and B 150/170 which reduces petrol consumption in city traffic by up to nine percent. For the three-door A 160 CDI, Mercedes-Benz has developed a BlueEFFICIENCY package to lower the fuel consumption of the coupé to just
4.5 litres per 100 kilometres. Other new development include the bivalent petrol/natural gas drive of the B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY and active parking assist, which helps the driver of the A and B-Class when finding and reversing into a parking space.

Since its world premiere in 1997, the A-Class has made a name for itself as a trendsetter and innovative leader in the compact car segment. Outstanding safety, great day-to-day flexibility and typical Mercedes reliability have always been among the strengths of the A-Class, which has so far captured the enthusiasm of about 1.7 million male and female drivers with its distinctive and versatile vehicle concept.

The new-generation A-Class builds on these strengths: in spring 2008 Mercedes-Benz is presenting the five-door saloon and the three-door coupé in completely upgraded versions. Viewed from the front, this compact Mercedes-Benz now appears even more youthful and self-confident than before. The sweeping lines of the newly designed headlamps harmoniously combine the front end and flanks, which literally appear to be cast from a single mould. The likewise redesigned front bumper reinforces this impression; its lower air intake is now much larger, emphasising the width of the body. The radiator grille is also in a new design which underlines the progressive aura of the A-Class. Design features at the front end provide even more clear distinctions between the design and equipment lines of the A-Class than before. In the AVANTGARDE line the front bumper has been given a distinctive design which emphasises the arrow-shape of the front end and suggests even greater agility. When viewed from the side the different lines in the A-Class are distinguished by individual wheel designs. While the basic model is equipped with 15-inch wheels and seven- spoke hubcaps as standard, ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE are fitted with individually designed 16-inch light-alloy wheels. The new, larger exterior mirror housings and door handles are now painted in the vehicle colour for all model variants.

Interior: upgraded with larger stowage compartments and new fabrics

Mercedes designers also paid particular attention to enhanced value when redesigning the interior, choosing new, high-grade upholstery fabrics and door linings. In addition new decorative trim of smoke-grey, diagonally brushed aluminium enhances the interior of the AVANTGARDE line, while the dignified aura of the ELEGANCE models is heightened by wood trim. All variants of the A-Class share a larger stowage compartment in the centre console and a newly designed cupholder between the front seats.

B-Class: The Sports Tourer in better shape than ever

Mercedes-Benz has also developed the B-Class further in design and technical terms. The restyled front end injects the B-Class with even more poise and assurance than before. This is primarily down to the radiator grille with its three chromed cross fins painted in metallic grey and the Mercedes star integrated into its centre. However, the more imposing appearance of the B-Class also stems from the new-look bumper - whose design emphasises the large air intake at the bottom - as well as the modified bonnet.

Typical distinguishing features of the current Mercedes style are also very much in evidence in the side profile of the B-Class, which presents a thrilling interplay between taut forms and crisp lines. Of particular note is the character line, which rises progressively from the front wing to the rear tail light, thereby marking an intriguing divide between the concave and convex-formed surfaces along the body’s flanks. This line furthermore underscores the body’s wedge-shaped form, and thereby gives added impact to the Sports Tourer’s athletic, powerful nature.</