Automotive fascination and high tech of the highest order – these are the characteristics embodied by the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The super sports car boasts a purist design, consistent lightweight design, superior driving dynamics and exemplary safety.

The new super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and AMG dazzles with its unparalleled technology package: an aluminium space-frame bodyshell with gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-litre, front-mid V8 engine with 420 kW/571 hp peak output, 650 Nm of torque, and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration; and sports suspension with aluminium double-wishbones. It’s a unique combination that guarantees supreme driving dynamics. The car’s ideal weight distribution between the front and rear axles (47 to 53 percent respectively), its low centre of gravity and DIN kerb weight of 1,620 kilograms emphasize the outstanding sports car concept. The Gullwing model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 317 km/h (electronically limited). The fuel consumption of 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined) is best-in-class (all values provisional).

2010 Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing super sports car

Design: Purist, distinctive, and passionate

The purist design of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG dazzles with its passionate sportiness and reinterprets the breathtaking design of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. The stylistic highlight is without a doubt the gullwing doors, which impart the SLS AMG with incomparable charisma. The long bonnet, the low greenhouse positioned far back, and the short rear with the extendable rear spoiler symbolise dynamics, as do the long wheelbase, the wide track, and the large wheels. It is not just the gullwing doors that awaken reminiscences of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. The wide radiator grille with the large Mercedes star, the wing-like cross fin on the bonnet and the vehicle flanks are also reminiscent of the legendary sports car.

Aviation engineering provided the inspiration to the Mercedes-Benz designers for the interior. The characteristic styling feature is the dashboard, whose powerful and dramatic wing-shape makes for an impression of width. The four prominent dashboard air vents with their adjustable, cruciform nozzles are reminiscent of a jet’s engines. The elongated centre console made of solid matt metal also takes up the plane cockpit theme. Among other things, the centre console incorporates the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which enables SLS owners to customise their vehicle set-up. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is operated by means of the E-SELECT lever, which resembles a jet’s thrust control. Despite the low seating position typical of a sports car, the wide opening gullwing doors ensure easy entry and exit. The gullwing doors require less room to open than do conventional coupe doors and can be completely opened in standard sized garages.

Aluminium space frame for light weight and highest strength

The SLS is taking a new approach in its body concept. For the first time ever, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are presenting an automobile, whose chassis and body are made of aluminium. This leads to significant weight savings compared to the traditional steel construction, as shown by the car’s DIN kerb weight of only 1,620 kilograms. The newly developed aluminium space-frame bodyshell combines intelligent, lightweight design with high strength – and thus benefits the excellent handling dynamics. The aluminium space frame is 45 per cent aluminium profiles, 31 per cent aluminium panelling, 20 per cent cast aluminium and four per cent steel. The use of ultra high-tensile, hot-rolled steel in the A-pillars provides a further increase in occupant safety. The shell weighs 241 kilograms – an absolute peak value in the super sports car segment. The highest possible degree of passive safety is guaranteed for the occupants by the vehicle’s standard equipment, which includes three-point seatbelts, seat-belt tensioners, belt force limiters, and eight airbags.

Further-developed AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with an output of 420 kW/571 hp

The heart of the SLS is a powerful eight-cylinder engine with dry sump lubrication. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 produces 420 kW/571 hp at 6,800 rpm and develops a maximum torque of 650 Nm at 4,750 rpm. The SLS accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 317 km/h (all figures are preliminary). The SLS AMG consumes 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined, preliminary figure). Efficiency-enhancement measures include not only the LDS cylinder bore linings but also a need-based fuel delivery and the recovery of braking energy.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers its power to the rear axle via a dual-clutch transmission permanently connected to the engine housing via a torque tube. A carbon shaft rotates at engine speed inside the torque tube. Power transfer is via the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sports transmission. This dual-clutch transmission boasts fast gear changes with no interruption of tractive force and offers four driving modes. The mechanical differential lock guarantees optimum traction.

Sophisticated chassis layout with double-wishbone suspension

All four wheels are guided on dual A-arms with track rod. The A-arms, the steering knuckles and hub carriers at the front and rear axles are made of aluminium. The Gullwing model comes with a 3-stage ESP® as standard. The AMG high-performance brake system with composite brake discs on the front axle ensures short braking distances. Even better braking performance is offered by the optional ceramic-composite brake system. Weight-optimised AMG light alloy wheels in accordance with the new, innovative flow-forming principle, 9.5 x 19 inches at the front, and 11.0 x 20 inch at the rear, are fitted with 265/35 R 19 tyres up front and 295/30 R 20 tyres at the rear.

The reinterpretation of the Gullwing model will celebrate its market launch in spring 2010. The price will be 177,310 euros (incl. 19% VAT).

New Gullwing model with purely electric high-tech drive system: The electric Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG concept car – the exciting future of the super sports car

Mercedes AMG is paving the way ahead. In the form of the new SLS AMG with electric drive, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars is developing an exciting super sports car with a zero-emission high-tech drive system. With this model, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are displaying their expertise in the development of alternative drive solutions for high-performance super sports cars, delivering further proof of their pioneering status in this market segment.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG with electric drive transforms the vision of powerful and locally emission-free super sports cars into reality thanks to an innovative drive system. Powerful forward thrust is provided by four electric motors with a combined peak output of 392 kW and a maximum torque of 880 Nm. The four electric motors are positioned near the wheels, substantially reducing the unsprung masses compared to wheel-hub motors. One transmission per axle transmits the power. This intelligent all-wheel drive system allows dynamically optimised power transmission without any losses by means of torque vectoring – in other words the specific, targeted acceleration of individual wheels. In its first, pilot phase, the SLS AMG with electric drive incorporates a liquid-cooled, high-voltage lithium-ion battery of modular design with an energy content of 48 kWh and a capacity of 40 Ah. The 400-volt battery is charged by means of targeted regeneration during braking whilst the car is being driven.

Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in around 4 seconds

When it comes to dynamics, the electrically driven SLS AMG delivers an unequivocal statement: The Gullwing model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in around 4 seconds, putting it on the same high level as the SLS AMG with a 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 420 kW/571 hp.

“With the SLS AMG with electric drive, we wanted to redefine the super sports car. For us, it is not just an issue of responsibility. We attach just as much importance to fascination and classic AMG performance,” says Volker Mornhinweg, Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Optimal weight distribution and low centre of gravity

The purely electric drive system was factored into the equation as early as the concept phase when the new Gullwing model was being developed by Mercedes-Benz and AMG. It is ideally packaged for the integration of high-performance, zero-emission technology. By way of example, the four electric motors and the two transmissions can be positioned near the wheels and very low down in the vehicle. The same applies to the modular high-current battery, whose modules are located in front of the bulkhead, in the centre tunnel and behind the seats. Advantages of this solution include the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and the balanced weight distribution – ideal conditions for optimum handling, which the electrically powered SLS AMG shares with its petrol-driven sister model.

Key data at a glance:

Peak output: 392 kW

Torque: 880 Nm

0-100 km/h: Approx. 4 sec.

Rated capacity: 40 Ah (at 400 V)

Energy content: 3x 16 kWh = 48 kWh

The installation of the drive components required no changes whatsoever to the Gullwing model’s aluminium space-frame bodyshell. And there were just as few constraints when it came to maintaining the excellent level of passive safety and high degree of long-distance comfort that are hallmarks of Mercedes cars.

Strategic alliance for fast electrification of the car

With the electrically powered SLS AMG, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are continuing to pursue their aim of minimizing the amount of time it will take to bring about the electrification of the car. The strategic involvement in Deutsche Accumotive GmbH & Co. KG, a joint venture between Daimler AG and Evonik Industries AG, will provide the battery technology required in future. Daimler has the leading role in this joint venture, whose mission is to develop and produce batteries and battery systems for automotive applications.

While one car boasts outstanding driving performance and high fuel efficiency, the other offers high fuel efficiency and good handling. What is the difference between the two? The sporty handling dynamics set the tone in the all-wheel drive GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: The modern, four-cylinder diesel with 150 kW (204 hp) and an impressive 500 Nm of torque guarantees top acceleration and flexibility. In fact, this model has the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine in the SUV world. The rear-wheel drive GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with the familiar 125 kW (170 hp) diesel engine, on the other hand, impresses with even better fuel economy (consumption as low as 6.0 l/100 km) while at the same time delivering great performance.

The new models underscore the leading position of the distinctive yet compact GLK. Whereas the GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC featuring permanently engaged all-wheel drive, 7G-TRONIC transmission and the segment’s most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine augments the world of top-of-the-range compact SUVs, the GLK 220 CDI with rear-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission offers maximum fuel economy. It consumes only between 6.0 and 6.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres and combines these low consumption values with good performance. The rear-wheel drive vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 205 km/h. The GLK 250 CDI4MATIC completes the sprint to the 100 km/h mark in 7.9 seconds and doesn’t stop accelerating until reaching 213 km/h. This sports car-like performance does not come at the typical cost of higher consumption. The diesel consumes only 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres on average.

GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC: The fun yet frugal power SUV

The GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY brings the world’s most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine for an SUV to the Mercedes-Benz range. The new 2143 cc diesel engine with direct fuel injection produces 150 kW/204 hp and 500 Nm of torque in the GLK for outstanding performance. Just as impressive as the sprint times and the top speed is the GLK’s top-gear acceleration. Thanks to its high torque, which is already present at 1600 rpm, the GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC accelerates powerfully when overtaking, requiring only 7.0 seconds for the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h. In spite of its great performance, this GLK model is very economical to drive, consuming only 6.7 litres of diesel fuel on average per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC consumption, preliminary value). This makes the GLK significantly more fuel efficient than comparable models in this performance class. The vehicle produces CO2 emissions of 176 grams per kilometre.Furthermore, it not only meets the EU5 emissions standard but also has the potential to fulfil the EU6 limits as well as the BIN 5 requirements in the USA.

Diesel engine with advanced common-rail technology

One of the hallmarks of the new diesel engine in the GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY is the increased maximum rail pressure of 2000 bar. This increase in pressure potential is a prerequisite for increasing engine output and torque while at the same time significantly reducing untreated emissions. Newly developed piezo injectors take advantage of the fact that piezoceramics change their crystal structure – and therefore their thickness – in a matter of nanoseconds (one nanosecond = one billionth of a second) when electrical voltage is applied. The new injectors are equipped with a stack of thin piezoceramic layers (called the “piezo stack”) to enable them to achieve a sufficient overall stroke from the very small stroke per layer. The injector needle is actuated directly, so that the fuel injection can be adjusted even more precisely in line with the current load and engine speed situation. Another key factor behind the low emissions, low fuel consumption at full load and peak output is the ignition pressure of 200 bars, which puts the four-cylinder diesel at the head of the field when it comes to diesel engines for passenger vehicles.

A two-stage supercharging system comprising a small high-pressure (HP) turbocharger and a large low-pressure (LP) turbocharger ensures that the optimum charging pressure is always available. The two turbochargers are connected in series, and each has a turbine and a compressor driven by this turbine for the combustion air. The HP turbine is located directly at the exhaust manifold and initially allows exhaust gas to flow through it, causing it to rotate at up to 215,000 revolutions per minute. The HP turbine housing features an integral bypass duct, which can be opened or closed by means of a wastegate triggered by a vacuum unit. If the flap is closed, the entire exhaust stream flows through the HP turbine so that the exhaust gas energy is initially available to drive the HP turbine. This allows the optimal boost pressure to be developed even at low engine speeds. As the engine speed increases, the wastegate opens, distributing the exhaust gas energy to the turbines with optimum efficiency. Downstream of the HP turbine, the two exhaust gas streams reconverge, and the remaining exhaust gas energy drives the LP turbine at a maximum speed of up to 185,000 revolutions per minute. At intermediate engine speeds, the wastegate of the HP turbine is opened so wide that the HP turbine ceases to perform any appreciable work. This allows the full exhaust gas energy to be directed with low losses into the LP turbine, which then does all of the turbine work.

The two compressors are likewise connected in series and are in addition connected to a bypass duct. The combustion air from the air filter first flows through the low-pressure compressor, where it is compressed as a function of the LP turbine’s driving power. The compressed air then flows into the high-pressure compressor, which is coupled to the HP turbine, where it undergoes further compression for a genuine two-stage supercharging process.

The key benefit of this intelligent, on-demand control is the improved cylinder charging and, consequently, high torque even at low engine speeds. What’s more, fuel consumption is reduced. During normal operation, the advantages of this concept can be seen in the harmonious driving characteristics with no turbo lag, a good torque curve across the entire engine speed range, spontaneous throttle response and noticeably improved performance. As a logical supplement to the turbocharger system, Mercedes-Benz installs a larger intercooler that reduces the temperature of the compressed and heated air by as much as 140 degrees Celsius so that a larger volume of air can enter the combustion chambers.

The newly developed exhaust gas recirculation valve (EGR valve) works like a rotary disc valve and precisely controls the quantity of fresh air and recirculated exhaust air to effectively reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides.

Sacrifice without detriment: The GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with rear-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission

The powerful, yet economical four-cylinder diesel engine in the GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is another unit from this same generation of engines. It produces 125 kw/170 hp and, depending on the equipment level, consumes only between 6.0 and 6.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC consumption, preliminary value). CO2 emissions are from 158 to 168 grams per kilometre. Not only does it meet the current EU5 emissions standard, this version also has the potential to fulfil the EU6 limits as well as the BIN 5 requirements in the USA.

In combination with a tried and tested six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, the engine of the GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY exudes a lot of power and responds to the driver’s commands with a great deal of agility. It boasts good pulling power and, like the more powerful variant, is extremely smooth running for a four-cylinder diesel engine. In addition to good performance, the engine generates an impressive torque at low engine speeds: Peak torque of 400 Nm is available over a wide rev range from 1400 to 2800 rpm, making it possible to drive very fuel efficiently at low engine speeds in everyday driving situations. The rear-wheel drive vehicle sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 205 km/h.

The GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is also available with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission as an option.

BlueEFFICIENCY: Efficient measures for reducing fuel consumption

Like all BlueEFFICIENCY models from Mercedes-Benz, the two new GLK models also feature an extensive package of measures that help to reduce fuel consumption. Measures besides the diesel engine with direct injection and the low-friction powertrain include weight savings achieved through the use of high strength and ultra high strength steels in the bodyshell and weight-optimised alloy wheels. Aerodynamic side mirrors and underbody panels lower the air resistance, and newly developed 235/60 R 17 V tyres reduce rolling resistance. A regulated fuel pump and the energy-saving electric power steering system further reduce the GLK’s fuel consumption. Thanks to a fuel-consumption computer and a display showing current fuel consumption, GLK drivers can check their fuel consumption at any time and adjust their driving behaviour accordingly.

New equipment details for the new model year

New equipment options are available for the distinctive compact SUV. These include convenience features such as KEYLESS GO or – in combination with the COMAND APS multimedia system – a reversing camera with static help lines that make it easier to manoeuvre in tight quarters. Effective immediately, all COMAND infotainment systems are able to receive digital radio (DAB). Passive safety was further improved by the standard pelvisbag*, which provide additional protection to the pelvis in the event of a collision. The crash-responsive exit assistant is a new function of the Memory equipment package that makes it easier to exit the vehicle after an accident by automatically moving the power-adjustable steering wheel to its highest position. The optional Intelligent Light System (ILS) now includes LED* daytime running lights, and 19 inch winter wheels have been added to the portfolio for the coming cold season.

Customers can choose ARTICO, a particularly robust, yet breathable synthetic leather for the interior of the GLKs.Also available is the luxurious designo line of two-colour leather appointments in black/light brown and black/corteccia.

Drivers with sporting ambitions can select EXTERIEUR*, a new AMG sports package based on the existing sports package. The scope of supply includes, in addition to the standard sports package, AMG-specific front and rear aprons with optical underbody protection in chrome, body-colour side skirts, a radiator grille with two smooth chrome louvers, a chrome rub strip and 20 inch, twin-spoke AMG alloy wheels asymmetrically shod with 235/45 R20 tyres up front and 255/40 R20 tyres in the rear.

* available from December 2009

Attractive model range: A choice of six GLK models

The GLK is a powerful and distinctive compact SUV.The striking, multi-talented vehicle sets itself apart from its competitors through its functional and appealing body shape while also combining attributes that previously were completely contradictory: Thanks to its AGILITY CONTROL chassis with variable damping, the vehicle brings together impressive handling with great driving safety and outstanding ride comfort.

The ultramodern engine line-up in all GLK models provides superlative drive comfort and compelling performance coupled with superior fuel efficiency and low emissions. Besides the two new models GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, the vehicle is also available in four other versions: The new diesel models are supplemented by the 4MATIC version of the GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the tried and tested GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC V6 diesel model. The GLK model range is rounded off by the two V6 petrol models GLK 300 4MATIC and GLK 350 4MATIC. They and the three four-cylinder diesel models meet the strict EU5 emissions standard.

All GLK models with all-wheel drive come standard with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz is launching its first series-produced fuel cell car on the road: the new B‑Class F-CELL. The environmentally friendly electric car has better a performance similar to than a 2,0-litre petrol car and is fully suited for everyday driving. The zero-emission drive system consumes the equivalent of 3.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). Production of the B‑Class F-CELL will commence in late 2009 with a small lot. The first of around 200 vehicles will be delivered to customers in Europe and the USA at the beginning of next year.

The new fuel cell vehicle offers everything that people expect from a Mercedes-Benz: High comfort and safety as well as no reduction in interior space and boot capacity. Customers will not have to sacrifice any driving pleasure either, because the electric motor has a peak performance of 100 kW/136 hp and a maximum torque of 290 Nm, which is available from the first rotation. It ensures that the B‑Class F-CELL, whose impressive dynamic handling properties are in some cases far better than those of a two-litre petrol car, gets off to an excellent start. Despite these qualities, the zero-emission fuel cell drive consumes the equivalent of only 3.3 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC). Thanks to its great range of about 400 kilometres and short refuelling times of around three minutes, the B‑Class F-CELL ensures local zero-emission mobility even for long stretches.

“2009 is the year in which we are establishing further milestones where sustainable mobility is concerned. The B-Class F-CELL is taking on a pioneering role as the world’s first fuel cell powered automobile to be produced under series production conditions”, says Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Development for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The vehicle’s technological heart is the new generation of the compact, high-performance fuel cell system, in which gaseous hydrogen reacts with atmospheric oxygen at 700 bar to generate a current for the electric motor. The fuel cell system of the B‑Class F-CELL has a very good cold-start capability even at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius. The drive system was completely newly developed versus the F-CELL A-Class presented in 2004, with Mercedes-Benz engineers achieving considerable improvements in output, torque, operating range, reliability, starting characteristics and comfort. The B-Class F-CELL now offers driving pleasure and day-to-day suitability at Mercedes level – without local emissions.

As in hybrids with combustion engines, the fuel-cell car uses a lithium-ion battery with an output of 35 kW and a capacity of 1.4 kWh to boost power and recover braking energy. Lithium-ion technology offers several advantages over conventional batteries, including compact dimensions, high performance, great recharge efficiency and a long service life.

The B‑Class F-CELL employs the unique sandwich floor architecture that is well-known from the A- and B-Class. The advantage of this design is that the drive components are located in the sandwich floor, where they are protected and don’t take up much space so that the vehicle’s interior remains fully usable and a boot capacity of 416 litres is available.

The B-Class F-CELL does not need to fear comparison where equipment is concerned either. Eye-catching features include a bonamite silver paint finish and exclusive light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design. In the interior, leather upholstery, seat heating, automatic climate control and the COMAND-system, as well as other features, continue to ensure a high level of comfort.

Same level of safety as in other Mercedes cars

No matter what the conditions, the operational reliability of the B‑Class F-CELL is of the same high level as in Mercedes vehicles with conventional combustion engines. The B‑Class F-CELL’s integrated safety concept takes the specific characteristics of the innovative drive system into account. The concept incorporates the expertise from the many years of experience Mercedes-Benz has had with fuel cell drives and high-voltage applications. Mercedes engineers have tested and optimised the drive-specific components’ safety in more than 30 additional crash tests.

Network of filling stations required for car’s widespread use

With more than 100 test vehicles and a combined total of over 4.5 million kilometres of trial testing, Daimler and Mercedes-Benz have the most extensive experience with fuel cell vehicles of any manufacturer worldwide. The B‑Class F-CELL is further testimony of this technology’s high level of development for automotive use. However, a comprehensive network of hydrogen filling stations still has to be set up before locally zero-emission driving can become a widespread reality. To make this possible, Daimler is cooperating with government authorities, energy utilities and oil companies in joint projects in places such as Hamburg, Stuttgart and California.

Mercedes-Benz views the development of electric cars with battery and fuel cell drives for local zero-emission driving as a means of supplementing vehicles with high-tech internal combustion engines. Advanced diesel and petrol engines will remain important for automotive applications for a long time to come – not only for individual mobility in passenger cars – especially over long distances – but, more importantly, for freight transport in trucks. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, will increasingly be used in urban transport.

The near-series Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS electric car combines environment-friendly electric mobility in the city with unrestricted suitability for long-distance driving. This is made possible by the combination of the battery-electric drive with a combustion engine. The range extender gives the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS a total range of up to 600 kilometres, with 100 kilometres thereof solely under electric power and thus free of local emissions.

The BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS is part of a family of modularly constructed electric cars, which will enable Mercedes-Benz to meet all customer requirements for sustainable mobility in the future. In this variant of the concept vehicle, the electric motor of the purely battery-powered BlueZERO E-CELL is combined with an additional three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine. Putting out 50 kW, the compact combustion engine is installed in the area of the rear axle and can charge the battery while the car is being driven. The CO2 bonus for the battery-electric driving mode reduces the vehicle’s emissions to only 32 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The range extender enables the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS to drive for up to 600 km, of which up to 100 km can be driven in electric mode with zero local emissions. The long combined range makes the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS fully suitable for everyday use and assures that the customer will reach his or her destination even with a depleted battery. After all, the car can be refuelled quickly and easily at any normal filling station.

Battery with superior lithium-ion technology

During rapid charging with a charging capacity of 20 kW, the high-performance, 18 kWh lithium-ion battery of the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can store enough power within around 30 minutes for a 50 kilometre cruising range. The complete electric range of 100 kilometres requires a charging time of somewhat more than an hour. Charging time with a standard charge cycle at a conventional household outlet with 3,3 kW is approximately 6 hours. Special on-board electronics support the intelligent charging stations and billing systems used by electric fuelling stations. Advantages of lithium-ion batteries compared to other battery technologies include their compact dimensions, high output and energy density, high charge efficiency and long service life.

Concept BlueZERO – the triad of electric mobility

Mercedes-Benz is showing the way to environmentally compatible electric mobility with the near-series Concept BlueZERO. The vehicle’s intelligent modular concept enables a single vehicle architecture to be used to create three models with different drive system configurations.

• The BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS is equipped with an electric drive and a supplemental combustion engine with an electrical generator (range extender). The car has a total range of up to 600 kilometres, of which up to 100 kilometres can be covered solely on electricity.
• Originally presented in Detroit at the beginning of the year, the BlueZERO E‑CELL is propelled exclusively by a battery-powered electric drive that allows the car to travel up to 200 kilometres on a single battery charge and completely free of local emissions.
• The third drive version is the fuel cell powered BlueZERO F-CELL, with a range of about 400 km on electric power and therefore also without any local emissions.

All three BlueZERO models feature front-wheel drive, which is typical for this class of car. The drive components have been modularly organised by the Mercedes engineers and can be combined as needed. These include state-of-the-art liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries with up to 35 kWh capacity, and a compact electric motor with a maximum output of 100 kW (sustained output: 70 kW). The maximum torque of 320 Nm is available from the electric motor’s first revolution, and it surpasses the value attained by today’s V6 petrol engines at 2,500 rpm. Like its two sister models, the BlueZERO E-CELL and the BlueZERO F-CELL, the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than eleven seconds. To ensure optimum range and energy efficiency, the top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h.

“The Concept BlueZERO offers a triple demonstration of the technical maturity of alternative drive systems from Mercedes-Benz. Electric vehicles with battery electric or fuel cell drive systems will not truly be on an equal footing with today’s combustion engine drive systems until the customers are confident that there is a sufficient infrastructure of electricity and hydrogen refuelling stations,” says Prof. Herbert Kohler, Head of E-Drive and Future Mobility and also Chief Environmental Officer at Daimler.

Concept BlueZERO: Modular architecture for flexibility and efficiency

The three BlueZERO variants were developed on the basis of the unique sandwich-floor architecture known from the A-Class and B-Class. The advantage of the enhanced design is that the key drive components are installed in the vehicle’s underbody in such a way that they take up little space, ensure a good centre of gravity, and are maximally protected. The BlueZERO models therefore differ considerably from conventionally designed electric cars, which have heavy and voluminous storage batteries installed in the boot, for example, or in the area of the backseat. All three BlueZERO variants share key technological components and have identical designs and vehicle dimensions. Even though they have compact exterior dimensions, the 4.22-meter-long BlueZERO models have a spacious and versatile interior and cargo space. The vehicles’ five full-size seats, approximately 450 kilograms of payload, and more than 500 litres of cargo capacity make them suitable family cars.

“Our modular system permits different drive configurations for each customer requirement,” says Dr. Thomas Weber, the Daimler Board of Management Member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “The improved sandwich floor platform serves as the perfect basis for a diverse range of vehicles with electric drives. We are currently developing an additional platform for future compact models that have drive systems using optimized internal combustion engines. The smart linking of both architectures will allow us to expand our product range in an extremely flexible and efficient manner. Beginning in 2009, we will manufacture the first small batch of Mercedes fuel cell cars. In 2010, they will be followed by a small batch of Mercedes-Benz vehicles that run solely on electric power supplied by a battery. Thanks to these measures, we are excellently positioned for the future.”

Electric powered vehicles are fun to drive

Mercedes-Benz vehicles will continue to combine environmental awareness and driving fun in future. One way in which the Mercedes-Benz designers have emphasised this aspiration is by introducing paint finishes in three new ALU-BEAM colours. Each of the three variants makes its individual mark: Confident ALU-BEAM Copper was chosen for the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS. The BlueZERO E-CELL is painted a fresh ALU-BEAM yellow; the BlueZERO F-CELL appears in ALU-BEAM green.

Mercedes-Benz feels it won’t be just one technology that paves the way to sustainable mobility in the future, however. Instead the company is responding with solutions that are every bit as varied as the demands. The individual technologies are being used in specific applications where they can provide the greatest advantage with respect to optimal consumption and emission values. Mercedes-Benz views the development of electric cars with battery and fuel cell drives for local zero-emission driving as a means of supplementing the extremely clean and economical BlueEFFICIENCY and hybrid vehicles already available today. However, the unrestricted and convenient operation of electric cars still faces a series of challenges, including high system costs, insufficient infrastructure and short cruising ranges. Advanced diesel and petrol engines will remain the driving force for automobiles for a long time to come – not only for individual mobility in passenger cars (especially over long distances), but, more importantly, for freight transport in trucks. Despite all the progress that Mercedes-Benz has once again so emphatically documented with the Concept BlueZERO, electric cars will not be replacing vehicles with combustion engines any time soon. The electrification of modern, high-tech engines will, however, play an increasingly important role in the drive system mix of the future.

• Concept BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS
• Electric powered concept car with a battery-electric range of up to 100 kilometres
• A combustion engine that serves as an electrical generator (range extender) extends the range to up to 600 kilometres (total)
• The concept vehicle can be recharged simply and conveniently at a common household outlet
• With a charging capacity of 20 kW, the Concept BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can be recharged within around half an hour for a 50 kilometre range
• The liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries used as an energy source have an energy content of up to 17.50 kWh
• Front-wheel drive
• Electric drive
• CO2 emissions: 0 g/km
• Range: up to 100/600 km
• Battery: Lithium-ion
• Rated output: 100 kW/136 hp
• Max. torque: 320 Nm
• Top speed: 150 km/h
• Acceleration 0-100 km/h: < 11.0 seconds
• Range extender
• Cylinders: 3
• Displacement: 1.0l turbo
• Output: 50 kW at 3500 rpm

Shortly after the successful market launch of the S 400 HYBRID, currently the most fuel-efficient luxury-segment saloon with a petrol engine, Mercedes-Benz will be presenting the first “three-litre car” in the premium class – the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID – at the 63rd IAA in Frankfurt. The technology vehicle will display the future of Mercedes-Benz’ modular set of hybrid systems. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID can drive for up to 30 kilometres solely on electricity and therefore without producing any local emissions. The efficient drive system combined with the CO2 bonus for the battery-electric driving mode enables the vehicle to achieve a certified consumption of only 3.2 litres of petrol per 100 kilometers. With CO2 emissions of only 74 grams per kilometre in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle), the experimental vehicle developed in Sindelfingen demonstrates the long-term viability of future S‑Class generations.

The outstanding values are made possible by the combination of a plug-in hybrid with the efficiency-boosting BlueEFFICIENCY measures. At the same time, the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID has all of the strengths that are typical of the S‑Class: top comfort, outstanding safety and masterful performance. The drive system in the concept car consists of three main components: a powerful V6 petrol engine with a next-generation direct injection system, a 44 kW/60 hp hybrid module and a lithium-ion battery with more than 10 kWh of storage capacity that can be recharged at charging stations. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

“The Vision 500 Plug-in HYBRID is a new milestone on our path toward zero-emission mobility,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “It is a luxurious and safe S‑Class that offers superior driving performance while at the same time consuming less fuel than current compacts. All of this shows that our top models will also be able to combine automotive fascination with responsibility for the environment.”

“Although it will take some time before this model can go into series production, our engineers will be working full steam to carry out the necessary integration measures and ensure that all components can meet the tough everyday demands required of a luxury long-distance saloon,” says Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “We’ve already got all the key technology we need for such a dream car, which is why I see it being included in the next generation of the S‑Class. The important thing now is that our development work be accompanied by the establishment of a full-coverage infrastructure that will allow the potential of this innovative drive system to be fully exploited.”

The electrical drive components of the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID demonstrate the versatility of Mercedes-Benz’ intelligently organised set of hybrid systems, which has a widely scalable range of performance. The hybrid module’s design does not differ much from the compact, disc-shaped 15-kW electric motor of the S 400 HYBRID, even though it is three times as powerful. As a result, the hybrid module can be elegantly incorporated into the housing of the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, allowing this model variant as well as the S 400 HYBRID to retain the S‑Class’ spacious interior. Future model generations will orient themselves on this system architecture.

Whereas the extremely compact lithium-ion battery in the S 400 HYBRID (0.9 kWh) can be housed in the vehicle’s engine compartment, the significantly higher-performing lithium-ion unit in the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID (over 10 kWh) requires more installation space. The battery is located behind the rear seats in the boot. The lithium-ion battery’s location above the rear axle provides crucial benefits, since it ensures that the vehicle has a balanced weight distribution and that the petrol tank remains adequate for long-distance cruising. In addition, the protected position of the tank ensures it is as safe as possible during crashes.

Additional clutch decouples the hybrid module and combustion engine

In accordance with the modular concept, the powertrain design for the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID is basically the same as that for the S 400 HYBRID. One system-specific attribute is the presence of an additional clutch integrated between the combustion engine and the electric motor. This device decouples the two components in the pure electric drive mode, thereby ensuring the highest level of efficiency in the latter. Moreover, because it is fully integrated into the vehicle’s converter housing, the clutch does not take up any additional space.

Electrical outlet as a filling station: Powerful plug-in battery

Another key difference between the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID and conventional hybrids involves the plug-in battery, which can be charged at charging stations, thereby enabling the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID to travel up to 30 kilometres on electric power. The rapid charge cycle takes less than 60 minutes with a charging capactiy of 20 kW. A standard charge cycle at a conventional household socket with 3,3 kW takes about four-and-a-half hours to recharge a completely discharged battery.

The model is also equipped with a compact onboard charger: Housed behind the side boot wall, this unit controls the recharging process and is protected against short circuits, voltage reversal, and voltage surges. The charging system also protects the battery by monitoring voltage, the charging level and charging time. The total weight of the electrical components in the current experimental vehicle is 215 kilograms, whereby the lithium-ion battery weighs approximately 130 kg. That’s much less than a conventional NiMH battery with the same capacity, as the weight of such batteries ranges from 180 – 200 kg.

The vehicle’s hybrid module also provides additional energy when the car is in motion through regenerative braking – the recovery of energy when braking. Here, the clutch enhances efficiency as well, as it enables complete energy regeneration without engine drag losses.

Range of up to 30 kilometres with all-electric driving

The high-performance battery and the 44 kW/60 hp hybrid module enable the vehicle to drive up to 30 kilometres purely on electricity. That is completely sufficient for many trips within cities, where the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID is quick and very comfortable without producing any local emissions. The petrol engine automatically adds its power to that of the electric motor when travelling at high speeds or driving up steep inclines. Before closing the clutch in such cases, the vehicle electronics synchronises the engine speed with the hybrid module’s rotational speed so that the engine is activated extremely smoothly without the driver noticing.

What’s more, the hybrid module’s sophisticated interplay with the combustion engine enables numerous additional functions that positively impact fuel consumption, emissions and vehicle agility. Like the system employed in the

S 400 HYBRID, the hybrid module in the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID also comes with the ECO start/stop function. This feature also enhances safety and driving pleasure because of its boost effect, which has the electric motor providing powerful support to the combustion engine during the high-consumption acceleration phase. This system has already proved its practical viability in a slightly different configuration in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Extensive electronic safety and control components

The lithium-ion battery not only serves as an energy storage device for the electric motor in the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID; it is also linked via a DC-DC converter to the 12-volt on-board network, which provides power to standard consumers such as the headlamps and various comfort devices. To ensure a consistently high level of electrical efficiency, the voltage transformers are water-cooled via an additional low-temperature circuit.

Special power electronics are required for operating the three-phase AC electric motor in the high-voltage direct current grid, and the inverter for this task is housed in the engine compartment. Because the power electronics system itself is heated by the electric current thus created, it too is integrated into the low-temperature cooling circuit. Mercedes-Benz employs standardised components for the power electronics system as well, enabling them to be efficiently combined with different electric motors and battery types across all model series.

On the road to plug-in hybrids: Diesel-hybrid concepts

An important milestone on the road to plug-in hybrids is the recently unveiled Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID diesel hybrid. Like the S 400 HYBRID and the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID, it is based on the Mercedes-Benz modular hybrid concept. This near-series vehicle study combines a new 2.2-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine with the 15 kW/20 hp hybrid module that is also used in the S 400 HYBRID, but which here also enables pure electric driving. This drive system configuration enables the Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID to travel 100 km on only 4.5 litres of fuel (preliminary value). This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 119 grams per kilometre with an output of 165 kW/224 hp and superior torque of

580 – 600 newtonmetres (combined in both cases), more or less the same performance as today’s six-cylinder diesel engines. Exhaust gas treatment is handled by the combination of an oxidizing catalytic converter, a diesel particulate filter and BlueTEC mit AdBlue® injection. The Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID thus also has the potential to meet the world’s most stringent emission standards.

Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID – Technical data

Combustion engine (petrol)

No. of cylinders/arrangement: V6, 4 valves per cylinder

Displacement: 3.5 l

Hybrid module

Type: Permanently excited synchronous machine

Rated output: approx. 44 kW/60 PS

Rated torque: 250 Nm

Performance and fuel consumption

Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h: 5.5 s*

Top speed: 250 km/h

Fuel consumption: 3.2 l/100 km (combined)*

CO2 emissions: 74 g/km (combined):

*preliminary values

From November 2009, Mercedes-Benz will be expanding its family of E‑Class vehicles by adding another highly distinctive model: the new estate. Just like the saloon and coupe, the new estate combines unique design with leadership in safety, comfort, quality and practicality. The new E‑Class marks the debut of a number of technical innovations which no other car in the world in this category is able to offer – from drowsiness detection to automatic emergency braking when an accident is recognised as being imminent, and from Adaptive Highbeam Assist to the Active Bonnet. Naturally the new estate also features all these innovations. In addition, it also features air suspension with self-levelling at the rear as standard as well as unique innovations with regard to load compartment management features.

Design: New Mercedes hallmarks combined with E‑Class styling features

The new estate immediately makes an athletic and practical, but also effortlessly superior and safe impression. The profile displays many new elements and leaves no room for doubt about the new estate’s identity. The B and C-pillars appear to merge into the background thanks to glossy, black trim panels, making the entire side window area look like a single entity. The intriguing design of the door sill panels, which are visually understated in the centre but feature a prominent light-catching contour towards the wheel arches, accentuates the dramatic overall effect of the side aspect. This is additionally emphasised by the muscular, sweeping line on the rear side panel in front of the rear wheels.

When shaping the rear end, the Mercedes designers concentrated on highlighting the estate’s high levels of practicality. They did this by emphasising horizontal lines, for example the band formed by the tail lights and the chromed tailgate handle. The new LED tail lights are based on a two-piece design and create a visual continuation of the side wall into the tailgate. Both by day and night, their distinctive design makes it easy to recognise the E‑Class estate.

Practicality: Top marks for load capacity and ease of operation

If the vehicle has to be loaded from the rear, the standard EASY-PACK tailgate can be opened automatically using the ignition key or manually by pressing the handle. The innovative “Quickfold” system enables the rear seat backrests to be folded down from the load compartment. Neither the head restraints nor the rear-seat cushions need to be adjusted beforehand in order to do this. The two backrest sections are unlocked and folded down by a cable pull, creating a level loading surface. As another useful feature, either the left of right backrest sections, or both together, can be folded down. This enables the rear seat unit to be used by passengers even when long and bulky items are being carried. The backrest sections can also be unlocked and folded down from the side.

The new E‑Class estate sets a new standard in its class for the size of its load capacity, which has a volume of up to 1,950 litres (length/width/height: 4,895/1,854/1,471 millimetres). An exemplary load management system is specified as standard. Examples of this system include the automatically opening and closing EASY-PACK tailgate and the EASY-PACK folding load compartment floor. The latter considerably increases the usable height of the load compartment. It can be folded up and secured in various positions. Standard equipment also includes the EASY-PACK load compartment cover with a load securing net. The optional folding bench seat for the load compartment is also unique in this vehicle segment.

Suspension: Automatic self-levelling at the rear as standard

Outstanding long-distance driving comfort is ensured in the estate by the all-new DIRECT CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping system as standard. Thanks to the likewise standard self-levelling rear suspension, the estate always remains at the same level, even when fully laden. The tuning of the estate’s chassis has been adapted to the modified body geometry. The shock absorbers and the torsion bar stabilisers have been somewhat upgraded, making the vehicle just as agile as the saloon without sacrificing rolling comfort.

Engines: Considerable reduction in fuel consumption and emissions

A range of new engines and numerous improvements to, for example, aerodynamics, weight, energy management and rolling resistance, have substantially reduced the new estate’s fuel consumption and emissions. An overview of all the available engines at the market launch:

Diesel

E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 2143 cm³, 125 kW/170 hp, 5.8 l/100 km, 150 g/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from €44,803.50

E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 2143 cm³, 150 kW/204 hp, 5.8 l/100 km, 150 g/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from €47,719.00

E 350 CDI Blue-EFFICIENCY: V6, 2987 cm³, 170 kW/231 hp, 7.0 – 7.3 l/ 100 km, 185 – 192 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from €54,204.50

Petrol

E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY: V6, 3498 cm³, 215 kW/292 hp, 8.6 – 8.9 l/ 100 km, 200 – 208 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from €55,156.50

E 500: V8, 5461 cm³, 285 kW/388 hp, 11.1 – 11.2 l/100 km, 258 – 260 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from €70,150.50

The following engines will be available in the first quarter of 2010:

Diesel

E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 2143 cm³, 100 kW/136 hp, 5.7 – n/a l/100 km, 150 – n/a g CO2/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from €41,947.50

E 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: V6, 2987 cc, 170 kW/231 hp, 7.6 – 7.7 l/100 km, CO2200-203 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from €56,941.50

Petrol

E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 1796 cc, 135 kW/183 hp, 7.7 – n/a l/100 km, CO2 179 – n/a g/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from €42,721

E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 1796 cc, 150 kW/204 hp, 8.0 – 8.2 l/100 km, CO2 185 – 191 g/km, 5-speed automatic transmission, from €47,719

E 350 4MATIC: V6, 3498 cc, 200 kW/272 hp, 10.2 – 10.3 l/100 km, CO2 238 – 241 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from €56,941.50

(All prices inclusive of 19% VAT)

Pole Position for the new E 63 AMG estate: The performance estate car with an AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine delivers 386 kW/525 hp, accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds and offers a load capacity of 1,950 litres – and that with a relatively low fuel consumption of 12.8 litres per 100 km (combined, preliminary figures). With these dream figures, the new E 63 AMG estate is an extraordinary combination of dynamic performance, great utility and high efficiency.

The top-model of the E‑Class not only features a unique design, but also an extremely responsive AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7 seven-speed sports transmission, a completely newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sport chassis including electronically controlled damping and a new front axle. A ceramic-composite brake system is also available as an optional extra with the E 63 AMG estate. The unique combination of driver assistance systems raises the estate to a new level of active and passive safety.

A boot with a huge load volume and a high degree of functionality

With a volume of between 695 and 1,950 litres, the luggage area has not only been expanded but is also way ahead of the competition in terms of the most important load compartment capacity dimensions and load compartment volume. Standard equipment includes the major components from the EASY-PACK system, including the folding load compartment floor with two loading levels and folding box, the load compartment cover, the Quickfold system for convenient folding down of the rear seats with its 1/3–2/3 division and the electric EASY-PACK tailgate.

The market launch of the new E 63 AMG estate will be in February 2010 at a price of 108,409 euros (incl. 19 % VAT).