Making its world premiere on the Mercedes E350 BlueTEC is the first nine-speed automatic transmission with torque converter, the 9G-TRONIC for premium vehicles. Equipped with the innovative power transmission, the E350 BlueTEC will be one of the most fuel-efficient six-cylinder diesel models in its class. Thanks to the high level of efficiency of the patented transmission design, NEDC fuel consumption in the E-Class is reduced to 5.3 litres of diesel per 100 km. As is typical of the brand, the transmission features outstanding comfort and barely perceptible gear changes. The E 350 BlueTEC featuring the 9G-TRONIC as standard is available to order with immediate effect. Despite the extended scope of functions, the pricing for both the Saloon and Estate models remains unchanged.

In the E 350 BlueTEC, which is available as Saloon and Estate models and comes fitted with the new 9G-TRONIC as standard, the 185 kW (252 hp) V6 diesel engine has an average NEDC fuel consumption of 5.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (Estate: 5.5 l/100 km), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 138 g/km (Estate: 144 g/km). As a result, the new models with 9G-TRONIC undercut their predecessors in terms of both consumption and CO2 emissions. The higher number of gears and the broader gear ratio spread help to increase drive comfort and enable a significant enhancement to be achieved in terms of converting engine power into traction.

The first nine-speed automatic transmission with torque converter, the 9G-TRONIC for premium vehicles

Perfect interaction: E 350 BlueTEC with V6 diesel engine and 9G-TRONIC

On the one hand, the overall reduction in engine speed improves NVH comfort and therefore the pleasant sense of well-being on board the E-Class, and on the other also cuts down external noise by up to 4 dB(A), thus reducing the strain on the environment.

The reduced fuel consumption of the E 350 BlueTEC with 9G-TRONIC has primarily been achieved as a result of the high level of efficiency of the transmission. As part of this, the broad ratio spread of 9.15 for gears one to nine enables a clearly perceptible reduction in engine speed and is a decisive factor behind the high level of energy efficiency and ride comfort. Shortened shift and reaction times ensure optimum spontaneity combined with outstanding ease of shifting. In manual mode and the S program in particular, the 9G-TRONIC responds significantly more spontaneously and enhances driving pleasure.

The particular ease of shifting of the new 9G-TRONIC – a focal point during development and a hallmark feature of a Mercedes-Benz automatic transmission – comes courtesy of a comprehensive package of measures. These include the novel direct control system which enables short, barely perceptible gear changes. The combination of double torsional damper and centrifugal pendulum technology in the torque converter ensures outstanding drive comfort. Together with the extended gear ratio spread, higher speeds can now be driven at lower engine speeds for even greater comfort. In reality this translates for example into being able to drive at 120 km/h in 9th gear with an engine speed of around only 1350 rpm.

Advanced technology for superior power transmission

In the case of the 9-speed automatic transmission, the development engineers also focused on the area of “compact lightweight construction”. Despite two additional gears and a maximum transferable torque of up to 1000 Newton metres, the new automatic transmission requires as little installation space as its predecessor and, in addition, is lighter. The two-piece housing design has been retained: the torque converter housing is made of lightweight aluminium, while the transmission housing with weight-optimised plastic oil pan is made of an even lighter magnesium alloy.

Another goal was to implement the nine gears with a minimal number of planetary gear sets and shift elements. Intensive, computer-based system analysis and mock-up made it possible to realise this goal with just four simple planetary gear sets and six shift elements. Three speed sensors monitor operation and provide the transmission control system with corresponding data for effective shifting. Here it is possible for several gears to be jumped when accelerating or decelerating, should the driving conditions call for it.

To ensure the reliable and at the same time highly efficient supply of the durable and shear-resistant 2nd-generation synthetic fuel economy engine oil, the new automatic transmission is fitted with two pumps. The considerably smaller mechanical main pump, featuring an off-axis design, is located next to the main shaft and is chain-driven and fed by a separate electric auxiliary pump. This design enables the flow of lubrication and coolant to be controlled actively on demand and also means that the 9G-TRONIC can benefit from a start/stop system. Thanks to the world’s first direct control system in a planetary automatic transmission with nine gears, it has also been possible to significantly increase hydraulic efficiency within the transmission.

The E 350 BlueTEC is set to become one of the most fuel-efficient six-cylinder diesel models in its class

Around 22 million automatic transmissions from Mercedes-Benz since 1961

Mercedes-Benz has been developing and producing high-quality automatic transmissions featuring outstanding ease of shifting, optimum energy efficiency and dependable durability for more than 50 years. To date, a total of around 22 million automatic passenger car transmissions have left the manufacturing plant at Stuttgart-Hedelfingen, close to the Group’s headquarters in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim.

The 9G-TRONIC is suitable for rear-wheel and all-wheel drives as well as hybrid and plug-in hybrid drive systems and will be used in almost all model series and engines in the coming years.

The E 350 BlueTEC fitted with the 9G-TRONIC as standard is available to order as Saloon or Estate models with immediate effect. As such the benefits of the new automatic transmission are being passed on to customers at no extra cost. The market launch will take place in September 2013.

Prices for Germany (incl. 19% VAT):

E 350 BlueTEC Saloon 54,710.25 euros

E 350 BlueTEC Estate 57,923.25 euros

It should come as no surprise that the S250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the ML250 BlueTEC 4Matic are among the most environmentally friendly vehicles in their class. Both vehicles are powered by a four-cylinder diesel unit with direct injection and turbocharging. The engine has a displacement of 2143 cubic centimetres, from which it delivers an output of 150 kW (204 hp), placing a powerful torque of 500 newton metres at the driver’s disposal.

The S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, which is in the luxury class, uses the four-cylinder diesel to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 8.2 seconds, while the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, in the SUV category, takes 9.0 seconds to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint.

But, even with their sporty performances, both of the models are easy on fuel. The S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY consumes 5.7 l/100 km combined (which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 149 g/km combined). The ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC consumes 6.0 litres over 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of 158 g/km (both figures combined).

Recently, the “ÖkoTrend” institute declared the S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC to be not just among the best in their class but the best in terms of being the most environmentally friendly cars in their class.

Since 1997 the ÖkoTrend institute has been publishing an environmental ranking for cars on an annual basis. In order to reach a conclusion the institute evaluates the environmental compatibility of several tens of thousands of data relating to around a thousand car models in twelve categories. This stringent assessment includes information on consumption, pollutant emissions, manufacturing, logistics, recycling and the manufacturers’ environmental systems.

The above reseach led to the “AUTO TEST WINNERS in GREEN!” awards from the specialist publication AUTO TEST to go to the Mercedes S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC.

Mercedes-Benz launches hybrid offensive with the world’s most economical luxury vehicle.

• E300 BlueTEC HYBRID: 4.2 l of diesel/100 km
• E400 HYBRID: combined fuel economy of 27 mpg (estimated)
• More torque and performance without compromising on passenger or luggage space
• Modular hybrid concept using lithium-ion batteries
• Sophisticated driving experience with stop/start function, regenerative braking, boost effect and pure electric driving

Mercedes-Benz is opening a new chapter in its core segment while at the same time setting new standards for luxury sedans. The E300 BlueTEC HYBRID (European model) impresses with new record values when it comes to efficiency. It boasts exemplary consumption levels (4.2 l/100 km1) as well as impressive performance: the E300 BlueTEC HYBRID combines a 4-cylinder diesel engine developing 201 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque with an electric motor producing 27 hp and 184 lb-ft. The E300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the most economical luxury vehicle in the world.

Available in the U.S. during the 2nd half of 2012, the 2013 E400 HYBRID features a direct-injection V6 gasoline engine producing 302 hp and 273 lb-ft supplemented by an additional 27 hp and 184 lb-ft from the electric motor. The estimated consumption figures are: 24 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 27 mpg combined.

“With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive. The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models”, explains Professor Dr. Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “With a clear focus on the different requirements of global markets, we are able to offer precisely the models which our customers want. The E-Class hybrids provide a clear reduction in consumption as well as a very impressive driving experience: they represent hybrid motoring at the premium level.”

The new models do not require their passengers to compromise when it comes to space, however, whether in terms of the interior or the luggage compartment. There are also additional benefits to the intelligent modular hybrid concept, which builds upon the Mercedes-Benz S400 HYBRID that debuted in 2009: no changes to the vehicle body are required, the hybrid module is both flexible and modular, thus allowing its use in other model series, and in addition to diesel and gasoline powertrains there will also be right-hand drive variants. Meanwhile, the extra cost involved is only moderate. The new hybrid models will celebrate their world premiere at the Detroit Auto Show (January 14-22, 2012) and will appear on the market over the course of the year. The 2013 E400 HYBRID goes on-sale in the U.S. during the 2nd half of 2012 followed by other countries such as Japan and China, while the E300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned to be launched in Europe.

Highlights of the E400 HYBRID at a glance:

• Compact, intelligent and modular hybrid configuration: no changes to the body of the E-Class are necessary
• No compromises in terms of passenger or luggage space, safety and comfort
• Significant increase in comfort with stop/start operation; noiseless start, complete climatic comfort
• Estimated fuel consumption: 27 mpg (combined)
• Part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz: increase in the engine output of the E400 HYBRID by some 27 hp and 184 lb-ft thanks to the electric motor
• Sophisticated hybrid driving experience (stop/start function, regenerative braking, boost effect and pure electric driving)

Highlights of the E300 BlueTEC HYBRID (European model) at a glance:

• Compact, intelligent and modular hybrid concept: no changes to the body of the E-Class are necessary
• Also available as a Wagon (in Europe)
• Space, safety and comfort remain unchanged
• Significant increase in comfort with stop/start operation; noiseless start, complete climatic comfort
• Top marks for consumption in the luxury-class business vehicle segment: 4.2 litres/100 km, 109 g CO2/km
• Part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz: increase in the engine output of the E300 BlueTEC HYBRID with 150 kW +20 kW electric motor/500 Nm + 250 Nm, compared with the E250 CDI (150 kW/500 Nm), positioning it at the same level as the E300 CDI (170 kW/540 Nm)
• Fuel savings of around 15 percent compared with the E250 CDI (european model)
• Sophisticated hybrid driving experience (stop/start function, regenerative braking, boost effect, and pure electric driving)

Effective immediately, Mercedes-Benz is combining the V6 diesel engine in the S350 BlueTEC with an ECO start/stop function. As a result, the fuel consumption of the luxury class saloon has been lowered to 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres or 1.6 gallons per 62 miles (NEDC combined). The S 350 BlueTEC is also one of the world’s cleanest diesel models.

The V6 diesel engine in the S 350 BlueTEC develops an output of 190 kW (258 hp) from a displacement of 2987 cc, and generates 620 Nm of torque. It also comes with excellent fuel consumption and emission values as standard. Thanks to BlueTEC with AdBlue exhaust treatment, the S-Class model – which made its debut in 2010 – currently already fulfils the emission values planned for 2014 in accordance with the EU6 standard, and as such is one of the world’s cleanest diesel vehicles. The new ECO start/stop function fitted as standard now helps to improve the efficiency of the luxury class saloon even further. With a combined consumption of 6.2 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres, the S 350 BlueTEC improves on the figures of its predecessor by 0.6 litre, or nine percent. CO2 emissions have dropped from 177 to 164 grammes per kilometre.

The ECO start/stop system developed by Mercedes-Benz switches the engine off when the vehicle comes to a standstill – for example at traffic lights. The engine then immediately starts again as soon as the driver takes his foot off the brake pedal. Thanks to the intelligent control system, all of the vehicle’s functions and comfort systems continue to operate during the stop phase.

The increase in efficiency was also achieved, among other things, through the use of TWAS(twin-wire-arc-sprayed) coating technology.

AMG has been using TWAS coating technology since 2005 in the 6.3-litre V8 in all model series, including the new SLS. Based on the positive experiences gained, Mercedes has now also developed this technology further for diesel engines. It is currently being introduced in the new Mercedes V6 diesel engine.

The benefits are impressive. Taking the diesel engine as an example, the potential savings are around 3%. At the same time, the weight has been reduced by 4.3 kg.

The price of the Mercedes-Benz S 350 BlueTEC remains unchanged at 76,517 euros, inclusive of 19% VAT.

The world’s first tuned car to meet the new EURO VI exhaust emission standard comes from BRABUS . Equipped with the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit the new Mercedes S 350 BlueTEC delivers an additional 55 hp (54 bhp) / 40.5 kW of power and a peak torque of 690 Nm (509 lb-ft). This tuning kit also makes BRABUS the first tuner to meet the strict limits of the EURO VI emission standard that won’t go into effect until 2014. In emission testing required for certification the S 350 BlueTEC with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S remained below the EURO VI limits by 30 percent. Special versions of the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit are also available for all four body styles of the Mercedes E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model and for the new CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY.

For more than three decades now engine tuning ‘made by BRABUS’ has stood for enormous performance combined with durability and suitability for daily use beyond reproach. Just as important for the engine specialists in the BRABUS engineering center in Bottrop has always been the perfect symbiosis of high performance and excellent eco-friendliness.

Already back in 1986 BRABUS presented the first tuned car that was equipped with a catalytic converter, the Mercedes 190 E with AB1 tuning kit. One year later the entire BRABUS engine range was converted to eco-friendly emission control by means of catalysts.

Sizeable investments into the development of high-performance metal catalysts culminated in 1999 in the presentation of the BRABUS 5.8 high-capacity engine based on the Mercedes 500.294 The V8 engine delivered 400 hp (394 bhp) / 294 kW and already undercut the Euro IV emission standard that didn’t go into effect until 2005. In emission testing required for homologation the engine bested the new standard’s permissible emissions by up to 56 percent. That qualified the Mercedes CL 500 equipped with this engine even in California as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV).

At the Frankfurt Motor Show IAA 2001 the BRABUS E V8 CDI, based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class of the time, celebrated its world premiere. At that time this sedan was the only diesel car in the world equipped with a diesel particulate filter and De-NOx catalysts. It was the first diesel engine to successfully pass Euro IV emission tests that didn’t become law until four years later. Incidentally, the E V8 CDI was also the most powerful diesel car available anywhere in the world at the time.

The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6 BLUE power kit for the Mercedes E 300 BLUETEC set another milestone on the path to increasingly cleaner high-performance automobiles in 2007. It made BRABUS the first tuner to meet strict EURO V exhaust emission limits, which go into effect in 2011. In emission tests BRABUS-tuned engines remained below permissible limits by up to 65 percent.

The Mercedes S 350 BlueTEC is one of the first diesel-powered cars on the market that meets the EURO VI emission standard. For a reputable tuner it also raises the bar to new unfamiliar heights. In contrast to almost all other tuners BRABUS has its own engine development department equipped with state-of-the-art test-bench technology and emission laboratory.

For the V6 turbodiesel engine with common-rail direct injection the engineers developed the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S module for the electronic engine management system of the S 350 BlueTEC. The auxiliary control unit can also be installed in the 4MATIC four-wheel- drive model. It is designed as a plug-and-play device and is integrated into the CAN data bus of the luxury sedan. The BRABUS mapping was adapted specifically to the eco-friendly BlueTEC concept that uses AdBlue® SCR technology.

The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S kit comes with a very special feature. The extent of the performance increase is dependent on the selected shift mode of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. In ‘Eco’ mode the maximum power output of the engine remains unchanged but peak torque jumps from standard 620 Nm to 690 Nm (457 to 509 lb-ft), on tap between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. Upon switching to ‘Manual’ or ‘Sport’ mode the increase in torque is accompanied by an increase in maximum power output from 258 hp (255 bhp) / 190 kW to 313 hp (308 bhp) / 230 kW at a low 3,600 rpm.

In this configuration the tuned S 350 sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.5 seconds, half a second faster than the production car. Top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h (155 mph).

The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit is also available for all four body styles of the Mercedes E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and for the new CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model. The engine parameters are identical. Maximum power output for these models also jumps to 313 hp (308 bhp) / 230 kW at a low 3,600 rpm and peak torque grows to 690 Nm (509 lb-ft).

On the road the 2.987-ccm (182.3 cubic inches) V6 with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S tuning and the standard seven-speed automatic gearbox delivers excellent performance. But that’s not all: The increase in torque results in further improved pulling power, which benefits fuel economy. Depending on driving style, fuel economy of all models can be further improved over their production counterparts.

Like all BRABUS components the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit is backed by the BRABUS Tuning Warranty® of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers / 62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions, as of November 2006).

The perfect complement to the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit for all model series is the custom-tailored BRABUS sport exhaust system with four polished tailpipes. The fully stainless-steel exhaust systems lend the common-rail engine a more powerful exhaust note and further optimize power yield.

The new BlueDIRECT engines from Mercedes-Benz, currently seen in the recently premiered 2011 Mercedes CL-Class, set new standards in both efficiency and dynamics. Through a combination of innovative measures, including the third-generation spray-guided direct petrol injection and ECO start/stop function, the new V6 and V8 engines consume 20 to 24 percent less fuel than the previous versions. Not only do the engines use less fuel, they also have increased performance.

To provide a better idea of the benefits of the new BlueDIRECT engines as well as how they operate, Mercedes has released an insightful video of the technology behind them.  To view the video, hit play below, sit back and enjoy.

The new S 350 BlueTEC which is now available from Mercedes-Benz is the most efficient and safest S-Class ever. And thanks to AdBlue® emission control it also offers one of the cleanest diesel models in the world. With combined fuel consumption of just 6.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (NEDC) – corresponding to CO2 emissions of 177 grammes per kilometre – the new diesel model is eleven percent more economical than its predecessor. At the same time, the power output is up ten percent at 190 kW (258 hp) and torque is 15 percent higher at 620 Newton metres. In addition, the S 350 BlueTEC already complies with the emission levels which are planned for 2014 with the introduction of the EU 6 standard. Other new features for the S-Class of model year 2010 include Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist.

The new S 350 BlueTEC combines outstanding safety and comfort plus performance on a par with an eight-cylinder vehicle with the excellent fuel consumption and emission values of a mid-size model. At 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres, the S 350 BlueTEC undercuts its predecessor model by 0.8 litres. CO2 emissions have similarly dropped by eleven percent, from 199 to 177 grammes per kilometre. At the same time output characteristics have improved, maximum power output rising from 173 kW (235 hp) to 190 kW (258 hp) with the current V6 engine and torque hitting a massive 620 Newton metres. The highly efficient and clean V6 diesel engine assures the luxury saloon of impressive performance, with acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.1 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited).

BlueTEC is a technology developed by Mercedes-Benz to reduce emissions from diesel vehicles, in particular nitrogen oxides. To this end AdBlue®, an aqueous urea solution, is injected into the exhaust flow. This releases ammonia, which converts up to 80 percent of nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water in the downstream SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) catalytic converter. As a result, the S 350 BlueTEC already complies with the emission levels which are planned for 2014 with the introduction of the EU 6 standard. The AdBlue® tank is installed under the luggage compartment floor and has a capacity of 25.7 litres. The tank is replenished at the regular maintenance intervals every 25,000 kilometres. The price for the new S 350 BlueTEC stands at € 76,279.00.

Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist

In parallel with the CL-Class, Mercedes-Benz is also introducing two new safety systems for the S-Class which can help to avoid dangerous situations and accidents. When the wheels pass over a broken lane marking, the system activates an electric motor in the steering wheel which triggers brief vibrations – a subtle but effective warning signal. Active Lane Keeping Assist takes effect when the vehicle unintentionally passes over a continuous line to the right or left of the lane. In this case it gently brakes the rear wheel on the opposite side of the vehicle to counteract the drift away from the lane. Active Lane Keeping Assist employs the ESP® electronic stability programme for this purpose.

Active Blind Spot Assist is now available as a further new feature for the S-Class. This system warns the driver by means of a red signal in the glass of the exterior mirror when it detects that changing the lane may lead to an accident. Close-range radar sensors scan the area directly alongside and behind the car for this purpose. If the driver ignores the warnings and a vehicle in the neighbouring lane comes dangerously near – when cutting in after overtaking, for example – gentle corrective braking intervention will take place via ESP® on the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle. This results in slight yawing of the saloon around its vertical axis as a result of the varying brake force distribution.

Where an accident is nevertheless unavoidable, braking intervention by Active Blind Spot Assist helps to reduce the severity of impact. Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist are available for the S-Class now as part of the Driving Assistance package PLUS.

New leather appointments with stitching

To personalise the interior of the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz is also offering new, high-quality leather appointments which underscore the luxury saloon’s exclusive character. A defining feature is the contrasting stitching on the PASSION leather package and the Exclusive PASSION leather package (standard for S 600). Colours and scope of appointments vary according to upholstery and package contents.

The PASSION leather package features the stitching on the fine leather of the seats and armrests as well as on the top and bottom of the instrument panel support and the door panelling, all of which are finished in ARTICO, a man-made leather which is pleasant to the touch. The Exclusive PASSION leather package features seats, armrests, instrument panel support, door linings, ruffled pockets and a rear shelf in fine leather with contrasting stitching. Alcantara is used for the roof liner and to cover the A-, B- and C-pillars.

Tailor-made high-end sound system

The new Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG sound system tailored to the luxury saloon’s interior is available as a further new feature for the S-Class (standard for S 65 AMG). A combination of 15 loudspeakers and two amplifiers with a total output of 1200 W ensure a thrilling quality of sound from this high-end system. The algorithm of the digital sound processor allows a choice between high-end studio sound and surround sound, and the audio output can be focused exactly on the seat positions of the driver, front-passenger, rear seats or the centre of the interior.

Music can be enjoyed on long trips without tiring the listeners, thanks in particular to the dynamic compensation of driving noise: a microphone integrated in the roof lining between the gullwing doors provides a continuous supply of data on the current interior noise level. The digital sound processor analyses all the frequency bands and increases the volume according to the vehicle’s speed – via individual adjustment of each loudspeaker and the different frequency ranges.

Daimler Trucks North America (DTNA) announced today that it will invest $194 million (approximately €157 million) in the Detroit Diesel engine production facility in Redford, Michigan. The investment will be supported by a variety of state and local incentives. These incentives include a Michigan Economic Growth Authority Award of $56.8 million (approximately €46 million), which is granted by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, as well as other state and local tax credits and abatements.

Following a call for bids and a series of public hearings, DTNA was authorized to receive a subsidy for its investment project in Redford. “We’re very happy with the framework agreement we recently negotiated with the UAW,” says Martin Daum, President and CEO of DTNA. “We would also like to thank the State of Michigan, Redford Township, and Wayne County for jointly reaching the decision to provide us with the funding package. Our total investment of approximately $200 million underscores the importance of the Redford plant and our confidence in the workforce of Detroit Diesel. Strong partners are needed if a commitment on this scale is to be successful.”

DTNA’s investment will substantially expand the engine production capacity in Redford. Detroit Diesel’s diesel engines with BlueTec technology are extremely fuel-efficient, and they are taking on a pioneering role within the North American industry when it comes to complying with the U.S. emissions standard EPA 2010. DTNA is the leading supplier of EPA 2010-compliant Class 8 heavy-duty trucks.

A big part of the investment will be spent on cylinder head production. The funds will also be used to redesign the manufacturing facilities, improve plant infrastructure, and purchase machines and equipment. The measures for increasing production capacity at the 28-hectare Redford production plant are scheduled to commence in July 2010 and continue until September 2011.

Detroit Diesel Corporation, which has its headquarters in Redford, Michigan, is a company of Daimler Trucks North America and a leading manufacturer of on-highway diesel engines for the commercial truck market.

With the new greenhouse gas emissions standard signed into law, the automotive industry is poised to undergo more change in the next 10 years than it has in the previous half century, said Mercedes-Benz USA executive Sascha Simon during a speech to young entrepreneurs at the Summit Series in Washington DC. He did stress however that there is no “silver bullet” that will solve America’s transportation problems and its reliance on gasoline.

Sascha Simon, manager of advanced product planning for Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), said, “There are many buzzwords that spur the public imagination and have been touted as the best or even the only solution: plug-in hybrids, electric vehicles, power grids, charging stations, lithium-ion batteries. All of these can serve the goal of creating a sustainable future transportation system. However, the notion that we all will drive short-range battery electric vehicles is not a realistic one.”

Simon explained that many drivers need and demand larger vehicles that can travel long distances. Commercial fleets especially will not be able to rely on batteries alone. For this reason, Mercedes-Benz is investing significant resources in hydrogen electric technology, which has the potential to significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels without constraining customer expectations. The company plans to complement its current portfolio of BlueTEC clean diesel SUVs and hybrid offerings with hydrogen electric vehicles at the end of this year to start introducing customers to the technology and gain real-world experience.

However, according to Simon, infrastructure challenges are preventing the technology from being adopted on a large scale. He suggested that this new generation of buyers would play a large role in shaping the face of transportation going forward.

“The road to zero emissions is not necessarily as long as most people think. The speed of progress depends on government climate change programs and carbon fuel supplies, but just as important is the customers’ willingness to adopt and embrace alternative fuel vehicles. We also need new and innovative thinking to increase the number of suppliers for these new technologies,” Simon said.

Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC clean diesel technology, a Hollywood veteran for luxury eco-chic transportation, is getting support from a cast of new environmentally friendly vehicles including the Mercedes-Benz 2010 S400 HYBRID luxury sedan and ML450 HYBRID SUV. The expansion of Mercedes-Benz eco line-up is making it easy for celebs to have green transportation by offering the best of both worlds: supreme luxury, safety, and technology with solid environmental credentials.

S400 HYBRID

The new Mercedes-Benz 2010 S400 HYBRID luxury sedan is the vehicle of choice for A-list actors including Robert Downey Jr, who drove the luxury sedan when off-camera while shooting his upcoming film Due Date, and Gerard Butler, among others. The S400 Hybrid made its rounds during the award season as, the chic transportation choice among a select group of celebs in the know.

The S400 HYBRID features the world’s first lithium-ion battery in a production hybrid vehicle and the 275-hp V6 gasoline engine provides an impressive estimated 30 miles per gallon on the highway. The ML450 HYBRID mid-size SUV uses a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine, two electric motors and sophisticated electronics to produce more than 46 percent better fuel economy than a comparable V8-powered ML550 model, and is the vehicle of choice for international pop star Miley Cyrus.

BlueTEC clean diesel

Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC and ML Hybrid vehicles combine a smooth, quiet ride with fuel efficiency that delivers 20-30 percent higher fuel economy than a comparable gasoline engine making it the GREEN choice for a number of Hollywood’s elite including Sarah Jessica Parker, Liv Tyler, Rosario Dawson, Christina Applegate, Molly Sims,  Giles Marini, Felicity Huffman among others.

Today, Mercedes-Benz offers three BlueTEC SUVs – the R, ML and GL320 BlueTEC – and, will soon add the E350 BlueTEC sedan this fall. The term “BlueTEC” is derived from the innovative AdBlue process that dramatically reduces emissions and enables the diesel V6 engines to meet the stringent emissions standards of all 50 States. According to the EPA, the nation would save 1.4 million barrels of oil a day if just one third of all light-duty vehicles in the USA were state-of-the-art diesel vehicles.

An added bonus of driving green cars like the Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC and Hybrid, beyond not sacrificing space, safety or luxury, is the IRS alternative-powertrain tax credit.  The current Diesel Tax Credits for owners of a 2009/10 Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC are $1,800 for the GL320/GL350; $1,550 for the R320/R350; and $900 for the ML320/ML350. Mercedes-Benz hybrid credits are $2200 for the ML450 and $1150 for the S400.

For 2010 Mercedes-Benz plans to offer a limited number of B-Class hydrogen fuel cell vehicles available for lease in California. Essentially an electric car that makes its own power on board, the new Mercedes-Benz F-Cell has a range of about 240 miles before needing refueling. Running on compressed hydrogen, the F-Cell boasts an equivalent fuel mileage of 86.6 city-highway combined miles per gallon and water is the F-Cell’s only emission.

** On a side note, I nor any or of the staff here at eMercedesBenz endorse purchasing a vehicle based on what celebrity may or may not be driving them.  When it comes to selecting a new car, SUV, etc., base your decisions on your own experiences with the model through test drives and dealer demonstrations, talk to other owners and gain their real world insight about the model, and most importantly, forget Hollywood.  It won’t take Robert Downey Jr. to convince you the S400 Hybrid is the best luxury hybrid sedan on the market.

With the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID being presented at the Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz is offering a look ahead to Western Europe’s first diesel hybrid. It pairs a 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine developing 150 kW (204 hp) with a powerful hybrid module. Its 15 kW electric motor, positioned between the internal combustion engine and the 7-speed automatic transmission, assists the diesel engine when the car is accelerating (boost effect) and is used for the recuperation of braking energy in alternator mode, although it is also suitable for driving using electric power alone. Based on the innovative modular system for hybrid vehicles developed by Mercedes-Benz, the diesel hybrid ushers in a new era of hybrid drives. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID consumes 4.1 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (CO2 109 g/km). It will be launched at the end of 2011.

The technical basis for the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the E 250 CDI with a four‑cylinder diesel engine developing 150 kW (204 hp). For the new hybrid model, the Mercedes-Benz engineers have used the fuel-efficient 4-cylinder diesel engine in combination with a compact electric motor developing 15 kW. The electric motor draws its energy from a high-voltage, lithium-ion battery, which has already proven itself in the S 400 Hybrid. Despite the high overall output of up to 165 kW (224 hp) and a torque of over 580 Nm, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID consumes no more than 4.1 litres of fuel per 100 km (NEDC), equivalent to CO2 emissions of 109 g/km. Fuel consumption is therefore on a par with extremely efficient small cars, while the hybrid drive system outperforms current six‑cylinder diesel engines in terms of output and driving enjoyment.

The exemplary fuel consumption figures are due in no small part to innovative hybrid components and a sophisticated operation strategy incorporating the following principal features:

• Even at low revs, the electric motor assists the diesel engine with high torque (boost effect). The result is excitingly high, clearly noticeable agility

  When driving for longer distances or on the motorway, the intelligent electronics recognise the driving situation and automatically adjust the load point of the internal combustion engine to achieve a lower specific fuel consumption, thereby helping to save fuel and reduce emissions

• Thanks to a clutch between the engine and the electric motor, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID can cover short distances at speeds of up to 35 km/h using electric drive alone. Consequently, the internal combustion engine does not even need to be started in most cases when driving in stop-and-go urban traffic or manoeuvring in parking spaces

• The internal combustion engine in the new diesel hybrid is switched off as soon as the vehicle starts to coast down from 80 km/h; in this case, the electric motor just keeps the road speed constant. Experts call this effective driving state “sailing”

• The diesel engine is started smoothly as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal, hits the accelerator pedal or reaches a defined limit speed during acceleration

• Recuperation starts as soon as the driver releases the accelerator pedal – in this case, the electric motor functions as an alternator and converts the kinetic energy into electrical energy, which is stored in the high-voltage battery. Even when braking, part of the energy is converted into electrical energy

The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid offers all the driving characteristics of a full hybrid, such as purely electric driving, stop/start function, recuperation, boost effect and, for the first time, “sailing” and silent starting of the internal combustion engine by the high-voltage electric motor.

Even with hybrid technology on board, the E 300 BlueTEC still provides hallmark Mercedes-Benz comfort. The air conditioning compressor and the steering are powered electrically, meaning that both systems operate even when the internal combustion engine is not running. What’s more, none of these measures restrict boot space and variability in the slightest, as all of the hybrid technology, including the high-voltage battery, is housed in the engine compartment. This is made possible thanks to Mercedes-Benz’s sophisticated modularisation concept and the extremely compact components.

From 2011, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID Saloon and Estate will expand the range of exceptionally ecofriendly and economical Mercedes-Benz cars, which already features over 70 BlueEFFICIENCY models from the A-Class to the S-Class, including the S 400 HYBRID and the ML 450 HYBRID – the first two hybrid passenger cars to be produced by a European manufacturer.

The latest version of the classic Mercedes-Benz G-Class off-roader, now in its 31st year, features state-of-the-art BlueTEC technology. BlueTEC is a Mercedes-Benz-developed technology designed to reduce diesel vehicle emissions, especially nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. The BlueTEC version of the G-Class uses AdBlue®, an aqueous urea solution which is injected into the exhaust-gas stream. This process releases ammonia, which converts up to 80 percent of the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water by a process of reduction in the downstream SCR catalytic converter. Since the G-Class is often used in remote areas of the world – one of its main purposes – the engineers have simplified matters by integrating the AdBlue® filler cap in the vehicle’s outside tank recess. One full tank of AdBlue® is good for around 12,000 kilometres.

The V6 diesel engine in the G 350 BlueTEC develops 155 kW (210 hp) at 3400 rpm and has a torque of 540 Nm between 1600 and 2400 rpm. This model therefore produces substantially fewer emissions than the previous G 350 CDI model – undercutting the limits of the EU5 standard and, in particular, reducing NOx emissions by around 50 % – yet still delivers comparable performance.

A full range: the current G-Class

The “G” family currently has three body variants – short-wheelbase Station Wagon, long-wheelbase Station Wagon and Convertible – which can be combined with either the new BlueTEC engine, as described, or a powerful 5.5‑litre V8 petrol engine developing 285 kW (388 hp) with a torque of 530 Nm. The flagship G 55 AMG model – available only as a four-door, long-wheelbase Station Wagon – is powered by a V8 supercharged engine developing 373 kW (507 hp) with an impressive peak torque of 700 Nm.

The evergreen Mercedes-Benz off-roader continues to offer a superior synthesis of high-performance drive and dynamic handling control systems. The standard specification includes the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, the Electronic Stability Program ESP® and three differential locks selectable at the push of a button, alongside the permanent all-wheel drive with off-road ratio and the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission.

A series of awards: the G-Class in readers’ polls

The stalwart of the off-road scene continues to enjoy success after success, as underlined by the latest readers’ polls. In the readers’ poll for “Off-roader of the Year 2010” held by the motoring magazine “Off Road”, the legendary G-Class notched up a double success: it won first place in the “Luxury off-roader” category, while the special EDITION.PUR model, which entered production in 2009 to mark the 30th anniversary of the G-Class, took second place in the “Classic” category.

These latest public awards make the G-Class one of the most popular and highly acclaimed models in the world of off-road vehicles, as a look at the other major awards received in recent years reveals. For the seventh time, the readers of “Off Road” have awarded the title of “Off-roader of the Year” to the G-Class, following its successes in 2001, 2003, 2006, 2007, 2008 and 2009. In its 2007 and 2009 readers’ polls, the off-road magazine “4Wheel Fun” declared the “G” to be a “Superstar”. Following its successes in 2003 and 2007, the readers of “Motor Klassik” once again voted the Mercedes-Benz G-Class the “Classic of the Future” last year. And no less than 14 times, readers of the motoring magazine “auto motor und sport” have chosen the G-Class as the world’s best off-road vehicle.

The Daimler Competence Center for Emission-free Mobility at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Mannheim is currently celebrating its 15th anniversary. Since 1994, the center has enhanced numerous alternative drive systems for commercial vehicles and cars all the way to the small-series production stage. The aim of the Competence Center is to bring green technologies to market at affordable prices. Among the vehicles that Daimler is currently building at the center are the Mercedes-Benz B-Class 180 NGT, the prototypes of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class 200 NGT, which will begin series production in the fourth quarter of 2010, and the Mercedes-Benz Atego BlueTec Hybrid truck.

“As a pioneer for sustainable mobility, Daimler is developing a broad range of cutting-edge drive technologies for tomorrow’s transportation needs. Competence centers such as this one are transforming the latest research and development results into products for everyday use,” says Dr. Christian Mohrdieck, Head of Fuel Cell & Battery Drive System Development, in explaining the relationship between Daimler’s global strategy and the Mannheim plant’s local activities.

As early as 1994, Daimler decided to commission a small, yet dedicated team in Mannheim to develop low-emission commercial vehicles to the series-production stage. Initial successes were not slow in coming, demonstrating once again how Daimler plays a pioneering role in the development of environmentally friendly drive systems. Among the Competence Center’s first projects were the development of an electric-drive Mercedes-Benz Sprinter for Deutsche Post DHL, a hybrid-drive Mercedes-Benz Vario large van, and the first-generation natural gas-drive Sprinter. The experiences and insights gained also helped to accelerate the introduction of green technologies in passenger car engines. “Lots of inventions that were originally series-produced in commercial vehicles can now be found in cars,” says Bernhard Heil, Vice President, Truck Product Engineering, Systems and Powertrain, about this still largely unknown technology transfer. “More and more commercial vehicle customers want to have green technologies, especially if they pay off. However, environmental consciousness is also playing an increasingly important role. The best example of this is an innovation fleet of 50 Atego BlueTec Hybrid trucks that we will deliver to our customers for everyday use in 2010, thus demonstrating how we’re taking the lead in the industry here as well.”

Last but not least, tomorrow’s engines from the Competence Center will also help to safeguard jobs in the future. “Innovations have been going into series production in Mannheim for more than 100 years. The Competence Center is continuing this history and with it the tradition of Carl Benz. Green technologies at affordable prices will therefore translate into secure, long-term jobs at our plant,” explains Herrmann Doppler, Head of Worldwide Truck Engine Production. For Mannheim Mayor Dr. Peter Kurz, the development is a good omen for Mannheim as a business location: “As the largest employer in our city, the Mercedes-Benz plant in Mannheim is showing how innovations can help you succeed even in an era of globalization. We’re proud and happy to continue to accompany Daimler on its path toward sustainable mobility.”

The Competence Center currently has around 80 employees who work on cutting-edge production facilities, with which they manufactured about 6,000 vehicles from a variety of model series in 2009.

About Daimler

Daimler AG, Stuttgart, with its businesses Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Vans, Daimler Buses and Daimler Financial Services, is a globally leading producer of premium passenger cars and the global market leader of heavy- and medium-duty trucks as well as buses. The Daimler Financial Services division has a broad offering of financial services, including vehicle financing, leasing, insurance and fleet management. Daimler sells its products in nearly all the countries of the world and has production facilities on five continents. The company’s founders, Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz, continued to make automotive history following their invention of the automobile in 1886. As an automotive pioneer, Daimler and its employees willingly accept an obligation to act responsibly towards society and the environment and to shape the future of safe and sustainable mobility with groundbreaking technologies and high-quality products. The current brand portfolio includes the world’s most valuable automobile brand, Mercedes-Benz, as well as smart, AMG, Maybach, Freightliner, Western Star, Mitsubishi Fuso, Setra, Orion and Thomas Built Buses. The company is listed on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt, New York and Stuttgart (stock exchange abbreviation DAI). In 2008, the Group sold 2.1 million vehicles and employed a workforce of over 270,000 people; revenue totaled €95.9 billion and EBIT amounted to €2.7 billion. Daimler is an automotive Group with a commitment to excellence, and aims to achieve sustainable growth and industry-leading profitability

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

The only Mercedes-Benz plant in North America celebrated a significant milestone– the production of the plant’s 1 millionth M-Class. The milestone vehicle is a fuel-efficient ML 350 BlueTEC diesel, destined for a West Coast Mercedes-Benz dealership.

“Everyone here at MBUSI is extremely proud to have reached this milestone,” said Ola Kaellenius, who assumed leadership of the plant in June 2009 as the new President and CEO of MBUSI. “This year has posed some challenges, but our Team Members have worked to maintain our momentum and they’ve turned those challenges into opportunities. I’m personally excited by the passion and dedication I’ve seen in our Team Members as they’ve worked to help us achieve our goal of delivering superior products to our customers.”

Initially, the M-Class was the only vehicle produced at the Alabama plant. More than 570,000 vehicles were built during the original M-Class’ eight-year lifecycle — from 1997 to 2004. That success led to a $600-million plant expansion. Today, three vehicles are built at the Tuscaloosa facility – the second-generation M-Class, the R-Class SUV Tourer, and the GL-Class luxury SUV. In total, MBUSI has built more than 1.2 million vehicles and MBUSI is the sole production location for these three products.

In October 2006, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to begin a BlueTEC offensive within the U.S. passenger vehicle segment to coincide with the introduction of ultra low-sulfur diesel fuel. The E320 BlueTEC was a huge success right from the beginning and was voted “2007 World Green Car of the Year”.

Mercedes-Benz is now pushing forward with this initiative with the R, ML and GL 350 BlueTEC – the world’s first three diesel SUVs that not only meet the particularly demanding targets specified in the U.S. BIN5 (50-state) standards, but which also have the potential to fulfill the stringent EU6 standards due in the future, thus also significantly exceeding all current emission standards for diesel passenger cars worldwide. In the U.S., around 20 percent of all customers order their Mercedes-Benz SUVs as a BlueTEC diesel version.

In addition to the innovative clean BlueTEC diesel technology, MBUSI will begin building the new ML 450 HYBRID, which goes on sale Fall of 2009. MBUSI currently has more than 3,000 Team Members who are building the M-, R- and GL-class SUVs for all global markets.

BlueEFFICIENCY and BlueTEC technologies, efficient engines, even more attractive appointments, all-new body elements and an upgraded interior will make the Mercedes-Benz GL even more appealing. In its new model year, the world’s top-class luxury SUV will consume up to 8 percent less fuel (preliminary value) and be even more environmentally compatible. Other outstanding features of the GL-Class will include excellent handling both on road and off road, exceptional roominess and the comfort of a luxury saloon.

Beginning in autumn 2009, Mercedes-Benz will also offer the world’s most extensive range of SUV models equipped with especially efficient SCR exhaust gas treatment technology. Besides the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, customers will also have the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC models to choose from. The fuel-efficient, environmentally friendly trio of models already created a stir during their first sales year in the USA and they are sure to also boost the appeal of this vehicle class in Europe.

The GL-Class is becoming even more appealing

The GL-Class from Mercedes-Benz continues to hold the top position in the market segment of luxurious sports utility vehicles, but that’s not all: the latest model updates have made the premium off-roader even more attractive. In addition to introducing various technical modifications and innovations that particularly boost the fuel efficiency and environmental compatibility of the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and the GL 350 CDI 4MATIC featuring the BlueEFFICIENCY technology, the designers have made the vehicle’s striking body even more appealing. The GL-Class’ expressive presence is further accentuated by modernised bumpers, redesigned chrome underbody protection at the front and the rear, a new radiator grille and fog lights/daytime driving lamps connected by a chrome bar. Other new features include light-alloy wheels measuring between 18 and 21 inches and reworked chrome tailpipes. The range of colours is supplemented by two new metallic paintjobs: “Tenorite Grey” and “Palladium Silver”. The tow bar is now hidden behind the rear apron and is swung out when needed.

The premium off-roader also offers the very best in safety. The safety features encompass a variety of assistance systems, including the innovative safety concept PRE-SAFE®, which automatically prepares the vehicle and its occupants for an impending collision by optimally activating the protective functions. The SUV’s Intelligent Light System (ILS) optimally distributes the light across the road in line with the respective driving situation and weather conditions. Standard features also include LED daytime driving lamps and taillights.

Luxurious interior with outstanding feel-good factor

The up to seven occupants of the GL-Class will enjoy an incredibly spacious interior that provides passengers with the pleasant ambience that is typical of Mercedes-Benz and comparable to that of the S-Class. The redesigned leather/ARTICO seats with contrasting trimming will be a real eye-catcher in the new model year, while the top-of-the-line GL 500 model will be available with exclusive nappa leather appointments. All vehicles will have a new range of instruments, a multifunction nappa leather steering wheel and crash-responsive NECK PRO comfort headrests for the driver and the front-seat passenger. The interior’s attractiveness is further enhanced by optional equipment such as two-tone leather appointments in black/cashmere beige or black/alpaca grey and the indirect ambient lighting employed in the S-Class. The range of interior trim options is augmented by the variant “anthracite-coloured poplar”.

GL 350 CDI 4MATIC with BlueEFFICIENCY technology provides lots of driving pleasure while reducing fuel consumption

In addition to the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC featuring SCR technology, the GL‑Class is now available with BlueEFFICIENCY technology in the GL 350 CDI 4MATIC. This model consumes around 5 percent less fuel than its predecessor without any change in performance. The vehicle’s V6 engine continues to generate 165 kW/224 hp and already provides its maximum torque of 510 Nm at 1,600 rpm. On average, the diesel engine consumes only 9.3 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres.

Like all other BlueEFFICIENCY models from Mercedes-Benz, the GL also features an extensive package of measures that help reduce fuel consumption. Besides the direct-injection diesel engine, these include the efficient 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission that switches to neutral when the vehicle is waiting at a traffic light or in a traffic jam in order to reduce engine load and fuel consumption. Fuel consumption is further reduced through the use of lower rolling resistance tyres. Aerodynamics have been improved by redesigning the radiator grille and adding more spoilers to the areas surrounding the front wheels. The GL’s fuel consumption is further reduced by the energy-saving electro-hydraulic power steering system. And thanks to a fuel consumption computer and a display showing current fuel consumption, GL drivers can always regulate their fuel consumption and, if necessary, adjust their driving behaviour.

Superlative drive comfort: GL 450 4MATIC, GL 500 4MATIC and GL 450 CDI 4MATIC equipped with V8 engines

Superlative power delivery and maximum drive comfort are among the special attributes of the two V8 petrol models, which also fulfil the EU5 standard. The GL 500’s 5.5-litre V8 engine delivers 285 kW/388 hp and a torque of 530 Nm. Within 6.5 seconds the vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h almost as quickly as a sports car, and the top speed of 240 km/h is also comparable. In the GL 450, the V8 petrol engine has a displacement of 4.6 litres, an output of 250 kW/340 hp and a maximum torque of 460 Nm. The vehicle accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and has a top speed of 235 km/h. The V8 diesel engine in the GL 450 CDI 4MATIC delivers 225 kW/306 hp, and its 700 Nm of torque create ideal conditions for achieving superior drive comfort.

Safe and agile both on and off the road

Besides featuring the innovative 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, the standard-fitted AIRMATIC air suspension, the high-precision direct steering system and the standard-fitted Adaptive Damping System (ADS), the imposing GL surprises customers with its impressive handling properties and ensures outstanding drive comfort and active safety. As a fully fledged off-roader, the GL performs well not only on the road but also when driving cross-country. The modified AIRMATIC system allows the vehicle to achieve a ground clearance of up to 307 millimetres. The Offroad-Pro technology package that is available as standard greatly improves manoeuvring in difficult terrain, thanks to the use of gear ratio reduction and multiple disc locks at the rear axle and the centre differential. The driver’s task is further simplified by additional electronic handling systems, such as Offroad ABS, Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) and anti-stall assist.

BlueTEC campaign: R, ML and GL-Class now available in Europe with the world’s cleanest diesel technology

The GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC boast impressive performance, high torque, great fuel efficiency and low emissions, which make them some of the world’s cleanest premium SUVs. The latter two models can now also be ordered in Europe , where they will become available this autumn. The vehicles’ environmental friendliness was confirmed by the readers of Bild am Sonntag and a panel of experts who together awarded BlueTEC the “Green Steering Wheel”. The commission already certified last year that this technology has the greatest ecological potential of all of the currently available environmentally friendly automotive innovations.

In October 2006, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to commence a BlueTEC initiative in the passenger car segment which was timed to coincide with the introduction of low-sulphur fuel in the United States of America. The E 320 BlueTEC proved a great success from the outset, and was voted “World Green Car of the Year 2007”. As a next step, Mercedes-Benz is now due to offer the R, ML and GL 320 BlueTEC in the USA, the world’s first three diesel cars which not only meet the particularly demanding criteria of the American Bin 5 standard, but also have the potential to fulfil the stringent EU6 standard due in the future – and which therefore considerably better all the current, worldwide exhaust emission standards for diesel passenger cars.

With attributes such as excellent pulling power, economy and a high output, the diesel engine has also proved an attractive alternative to the spark-ignition engine in the USA in times of increasing fuel prices and growing sensitivity to the issue of CO2 emissions. In the land of large minivans, pickups and SUVs, and the given driving conditions characterised by steady cruising speeds on the highways and enormous overland distances, the diesel is able to show its advantages particularly well. At the same time, American legislation sets very strict emission standards for diesel-powered vehicles. This is why Mercedes-Benz introduced the E 320 BlueTEC with its in-house BlueTEC technology in America first, and is now including a variant of this BlueTEC technology with AdBlue injection in its cross-Atlantic range. This innovative drive technology enables these large and powerful SUVs to meet the limits imposed by the US Bin 5 standard.

Impressive power, great fuel economy and extremely low emissions

The muscular V6 diesel engine powering the new BlueTEC models in the GL, M and R-Class shows that a low fuel consumption and very low emissions are also possible for large SUVs. It has an output of 155 kW/211 hp and develops a torque of 540 Nm. Fuel economy is outstanding: the GL 320 BlueTEC, for example, consumes just 9.5 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (25 mpg). This represents an advantage of around 20 to 40 percent versus a comparable petrol model, and easily makes the Mercedes-Benz GL 320 BlueTEC the most economical full-size SUV in the USA.

Key technical data at a glance:

Certain features of the six-cylinder diesel engine had to be modified for use in the new models ML 320 BlueTEC, GL 320 BlueTEC and R 320 BlueTEC with AdBlue injection. The piston crowns were revised for an improved mixture formation, and the compression ratio was reduced from 17.7 to 16.5. The VNT turbocharger and engine control unit were also improved and reconfigured. All three of the new SUVs are available only with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission.

Nitrogen oxides drastically reduced with BlueTEC

As a modular concept for an effective reduction in the fuel consumption and emissions of diesel vehicles, the BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz puts in place a number of coordinated measures which both minimise untreated emissions using in-engine features and ensure efficient exhaust gas aftertreatment. All relevant emissions components are successively and concertedly reduced to a minimum, in part by using an oxidising catalytic converter and a particulate filter. The most important goal is to achieve a drastic reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions, the only exhaust gas constituent which has inherently higher levels in diesel engines than in petrol engines.

Mercedes-Benz has developed two versions to this end. In the E 320 BlueTEC Saloon available in the USA and the E 300 BlueTEC sold in Europe, an oxidising catalytic converter and a particulate filter are combined with a particularly durable NOx storage-type catalytic converter and a special SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) converter. The second BlueTEC version is used for the new GL 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC and R 320 BlueTEC models. In this case AdBlue, an aqueous urea solution is injected into the stream of exhaust gases. This releases ammonia, of which 80 percent is reduced to form harmless nitrogen and water by the downstream SCR converter.

This innovative emissions control technology follows the following stages:

• Optimisation of the engines and their combustion processes to reduce untreated emissions as far as possible. These measures include electronic engine management, four-valve technology, third-generation common-rail direct injection with piezo-electric injectors, a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry and exhaust gas recirculation.
• Oxidising catalytic converters are used to minimise emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons (HC).
• A particulate filter, which has been standard equipment in all Mercedes-Benz diesel models in many countries since summer 2005, reduces particulate emissions to a barely measurable level. This easily meets both the current EU4 particulate limits (0.025 grams/kilometre) and the current US limits.
• Nitrogen oxides are reduced by a storage-type NOx catalytic converter combined with an SCR catalytic converter, or by AdBlue injection combined with an SCRcatalytic converter. These effective aftertreatment methods allow the nitrogen oxide emissions of BlueTEC vehicles to be reduced by
  up to 80 percent.

AdBlue injection specially advantageous in large vehicles

Whether a storage-type NOx catalytic converter or AdBlue injection is used depends on the individual vehicle concept and the prevailing market conditions from case to case. AdBlue technology has advantages for large saloons, pickups and SUVs, as the engine does not need to operate with an intermittent, rich combustion mixture to clean the storage-type NOx catalytic converter which removes the harmful nitrogen oxides from the exhaust stream. This would be necessary at frequent intervals in the case of heavy vehicles with relatively high fuel consumption, and would lead to an even higher consumption.

In the case of the urea-SCR process, the reducing agent AdBlue is injected into the exhaust tract. This is an aqueous urea solution which is carried in an auxiliary tank. When injected into the hot, pre-treated exhaust gases, AdBlue is first broken down into its constituents of water and urea. From around 170 degrees Celsius the urea is converted into ammonia (NH3) – the actual active agent in this process. The ammonia is stored in the catalytic converter, and reduces the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen when exhaust gases containing nitrogen oxides flow through the catalytic converter. The engine management system controls the injection of AdBlue in such a way that the ammonia reservoir of the SCR converter always contains some but never too much ammonia. This is monitored by an NOx sensor.

A small AdBlue tank is sufficient

The urea solution is held in a separate onboard tank, and fed to the metering module by means of a pump. As the average consumption of AdBlue is only around 0.1 litres per 100 kilometres (or 1 to 3 percent of diesel consumption), the tank can be of such a size that it only needs to be refilled at the workshop during regular service intervals. The tank capacity is 28 litres in the R 320 BlueTEC and ML 320 BlueTEC, and 32 litres in the GL 320 BlueTEC. Even under more demanding conditions with a higher AdBlue consumption, e.g. when towing a trailer, this is sufficient to avoid the need for unscheduled refilling stops in the workshop. This means that the customer has no need to concern him- or herself with the AdBlue level in the tank. Should the AdBlue level unexpectedly fall below a certain level nonetheless, the electronics provide a timely warning.

More extensive equipment and visual modifications

With these innovative BlueTEC models in the R, M and GL-Class, Mercedes-Benz is not only demonstrating the potential of the diesel as a drive system, but also offers tailor-made solutions for the high expectations of the premium segment with the widest range of SUVs. The R-Class particularly excels with its outstanding long-distance comfort, and with the most generous and variable interior with up to seven seats. The M-Class is the most successful Mercedes-Benz Sport Utility Vehicle, and is seen as the trailblazer for all modern premium SUVs. And with the GL-Class, Mercedes-Benz occupies the peak position in the entire SUV world – its occupants enjoy first-class on-road and off-road travel under all conditions.

All three SUVs have now been revised in numerous respects.

The modifications to the M-Class are the most comprehensive of all. The new generation of this dynamic SUV now has even more striking characteristics, and appears even more sporty and powerful. The front and rear ends have been redesigned and given a stylistically updated and youthful touch. The front end of this off-roader is now defined by a redesigned bumper, re-contoured headlamps and a larger, even more dominant radiator. The rear aspect also has a redesigned bumper with inset reflective strips to emphasise the vehicle width, as well as tail lights with smoked-glass lenses. Stylistic fine-tuning and new materials which are pleasing to the eye and touch combine with a new two-tone colour scheme to add fresh highlights to the interior. One eye-catching feature is the new four-spoke multifunction steering wheel, which the GL and R-Class will also receive.
The standard appointments for the M, R and GL-Class have also been significantly expanded. They now include the unique, preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints, as well as a new, Mercedes-Benz developed telematic system with further improved user friendliness, high performance and numerous additional functions.

Key new features at a glance

More performance, more comfort – new-generation telematics

A completely newly developed generation of telematic systems developed by Mercedes-Benz will be used in SUVs in future. These excel with even greater user friendliness, a high performance and numerous new functions. Integrated features include a hand-free system based on Bluetooth technology, and an Aux-In connection for mobile audio units such as an iPod. On request there is also a new Media Interface, which can connect an external music source with the onboard electronics and control system of the off-roader, enabling music tracks to be shown in the instrument cluster and the colour display in the centre console, and conveniently accessed using the keys on the multifunction steering wheel. At the same time the battery of the audio unit is charged.

There is a choice of three units, all of them with a colour display, a twin tuner for improved radio reception, speed-sensitive volume control, a keypad for entering telephone numbers and radio frequencies and a Bluetooth interface which enables a mobile phone to be wirelessly linked to the hands-free system. In the USA there is also the option of an HD radio and SIRIUS satellite radio. In conjunction with the new telematics generation, Mercedes-Benz also offers the optimised LINGUATRONIC voice control system as an option.

The occupants are also able to enjoy a surround-sound experience of concert hall quality with the latest generation of the optional harman kardon® Logic7® sound system. With its high output and digital signal processor (DSP), this ensures outstandingly transparent listening pleasure.
As a further option, passengers in the rear can be provided with a rear-seat entertainment system featuring two large, 8-inch screens, a DVD-player, two wireless headsets for more freedom of movement and a remote control unit.

Unrivalled safety features as standard

In the SUV segment too, Mercedes-Benz vehicles have always been exemplary when it comes to safety. In future the R, M and GL-Class will be supplied with the preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints as standard equipment.

Mercedes-Benz is the trendsetter for diesel cars

As long as 70 years ago, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to use the combustion principle pioneered by Rudolf Diesel in a passenger car engine. This technology has a much higher efficiency than the spark-ignition engine, and has been steadily improved over many years. One decisive technological leap forward led to the development of the modern diesel in 1997: the introduction of common-rail direct injection in combination with four-valve technology. Since then the abbreviation CDI has stood for both unrivalled fuel economy and an enormous increase in torque – a synonym for a level of pulling power which guarantees plenty of driving pleasure and often makes diesels superior to petrol models developing the same output.

If the diesel has previously had any disadvantages versus the petrol engine, this has been in the area of its specific emissions – above all soot particles and nitrogen oxides. Ever since the introduction of the maintenance-free particulate filter in autumn 2003, Mercedes-Benz has however also set the best example where particulates are concerned. And despite having achieved a reduction in nitrogen oxides by around 75 percent thanks to in-engine measures over the last 15 years, Mercedes-Benz has not been content to rest on its laurels in this respect. Equipped with innovative BlueTEC technology, which was introduced for the first time in a passenger car in the USA, the high-tech diesel engines from Mercedes-Benz meet the world’s toughest exhaust emission limits. While AdBlue injection makes the new M 320 BlueTEC, R 320 BlueTEC and GL 320 BlueTEC the world’s cleanest diesel SUVs.

Key technical data at a glance

* provisional figures

The descriptions and data contained in this press kit refer exclusively to vehicles of US-specific configuration.

Mercedes-Benz today has unveiled an updated version of the largest member of its SUV family – the GL-Class – while at the same time introducing a range of new BlueTEC SUV models. On the new GL, key exterior changes include modernized bumpers, redesigned chrome underbody protection at the front and the rear, a new radiator grille and fog lights/daytime driving lamps connected by a chrome bar, new light-alloy wheels measuring between 18 – 21 inches and reworked chrome tailpipes. Also available are two exterior paint colors: “Tenorite Gray” and “Palladium Silver.”

Inside, enhancements to the seven-passenger SUV include redesigned leather/ARTICO seats with contrasting trimming (there’s also an optional nappa leather interior for the GL500), a new range of instruments, a multifunction nappa leather steering wheel and crash-responsive NECK PRO comfort headrests for the driver and the front-seat passenger. Also available is optional two-tone leather appointments in black/cashmere beige or black/alpaca gray and the indirect ambient lighting employed in the S-Class, while augmenting the range of interior trim is a new variant, entitled “anthracite-colored poplar.”

And lastly, the final key change to the Mercedes GL-Class worth noting is the availability of GL 350 CDI 4MATIC and GL 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY variants. On the latter, fuel consumption is improved roughly 5 percent when compared to its predecessor thanks to better aerodynamics, low resistance rolling tires and a more intelligent 7G-TRONIC transmission. As a result, the model consumes an average of 9.3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (about 25 mpg), while power and torque come in at 165 kW/224 hp and 510 Nm @ 1,600 rpm, respectively.

It’s important to note, however, that as of now, this information applies only to the European market. There’s no word yet on the availability of the aforementioned models in the U.S., so check with your local dealer for more info.

BlueTEC is the keyword for the future of diesel engine technology. Thanks to the highly effective exhaust treatment system developed by Mercedes-Benz, BlueTEC vehicles fulfil the strictest global emissions standards to make them the cleanest diesels in the world. With the E 250 BlueTEC concept, which was created specifically for the North American market, Mercedes-Benz is now demonstrating how BlueTEC technology in the E-Class can be combined with a four-cylinder engine with optimised fuel consumption. When fitted to the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the E 250 BlueTEC boasts fuel economy of 28 mpg U.S. in city traffic and 39 mpg U.S.on the motorway (U.S. FE standards). The E 250 BlueTEC concept fulfils the strictest emissions standards, including Bin 5 in the U.S., and would even meet the considerably toughened limits laid down in EU6 legislation not due for implementation until 1 September 2014.

The EU6 standard specifies maximum nitrogen oxide emissions that are less than half of those permitted by the current EU5 standard. The following is an overview of the current and future limits for diesel vehicles in the EU*:

* Group M1 – passenger vehicles with no more than eight seats plus driver. Max. gross vehicle weight 3,500kg.Test procedure NEDC 2000.

For the E 250 BlueTEC, the modern 2.2 litre four-cylinder CDI engine underwent a detailed redevelopment program in order to reduce further the internal raw emissions generated by the engine and to fulfil the legislative requirements for on-board diagnostics (OBD), as well as other factors. The power unit hardware incorporates features from the series production engines, such as four-valve technology, fourth-generation common-rail piezo direct injection, 2-stage turbocharger and exhaust gas recirculation. A highly sensitive electronic engine control system reacts precisely across the full range of operating conditions to optimise the combustion process. The exhaust gas treatment system incorporates an oxidation catalytic converter mounted close to the engine, as well as a diesel particulate filter, which is located at the rear bulkhead in order to shorten its regeneration time.

At the heart of the BlueTEC system are two SCR catalytic converters (Selective Catalytic Reduction) with an “AdBlue®” injector positioned upstream. “AdBlue®” is a synthetic, aqueous urea solution that enables the nitrogen oxide (NOx) to be converted into harmless nitrogen gas in the SCR catalytic converters.

The monitoring and diagnosis of the sophisticated exhaust gas treatment process is handled by several sensors, including a differential pressure sensor, a Lambda probe plus NOx and temperature sensors.

For on-board storage of the “AdBlue®” solution, the E 250 BlueTEC has a 25 litre tank equipped with a membrane pump, valve, pressure and temperature sensors and an electrical heating unit, which prevents the 33-percent urea solution from freezing at extremely low temperatures. The tank volume is sufficient for the duration of a full service interval and is refilled as part of the regular maintenance schedule. The “AdBlue®” tank is integrated into the spare wheel well in the boot.

E 250 BlueTEC combines environmental awareness, driving fun and comfort

The combination of the powerful four-cylinder engine with SCR technology makes a convincing argument not only in terms of fuel economy and emissions, but also with impressive performance and the associated fun factor. Thanks to a pair of Lanchester balancing shafts, the concept vehicle’s powertrain boasts the exceptionally smooth characteristics expected of a Mercedes-Benz.

Summary technical data for the E 250 BlueTEC:

Now that you’ve had some time to take in the new design of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, you may be wondering how its pricing will relate to that of the current model. According to the company, pricing for the next E will start at €41,590.50 ex-works for the E220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, with the E500 4MATIC coming in at the high end of the spectrum at €70,269.50 ex-works. As you likely have already surmised from the designated currency, these prices are for the European market, and include sales tax of 19%.

As for the base prices of the other models, here’s a quick rundown:

E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (6-speed manual)

€41,590.50

E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (6-speed manual)

€44,506.00

E 350 BlueTEC (7-speed auto)

€53,371.50

E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (7-speed auto)

€50,991.50

E 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY (7-speed auto)

€53,728.50

E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY (5-speed auto)

€44,506.00

E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY (7-speed auto)

€51,943.50

E 350 4MATIC (7-speed auto)

€53,728.50

E 500 (7-speed auto)

€67,532.50

E 500 4MATIC (7-speed auto)

€70,269.50

Again, all of the prices are ex-works, and each contains added sales tax of 19%.

For more info regarding the new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class pricing along with pricing of various popular options, keep reading for the official press release.