The Mercedes Plan: Diesel Hybrids, Fuel Cell by 2010
FRANKFURT — Mercedes-Benz plans to roll out a wide range of diesel- and hybrid-powertrain models over the next three years to cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and plans to put a B-class wagon powered by a fuel cell into production in 2010.
FRANKFURT — Mercedes-Benz plans to roll out a wide range of diesel- and hybrid-powertrain models over the next three years to cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, and plans to put a B-class wagon powered by a fuel cell into production in 2010, according to Automotive News.
Mercedes-Benz plans to have Bluetec diesel-hybrid models in its lineup, beginning in 2010, as it seeks to produce and sell the world’s cleanest sedans. The German automaker laid out its “Road to the Future” at the Frankfurt motor show.
Among its plans:
A diesel engine for the U.S. in 2008 that will meet emissions regulations in all 50 states. The engine will be offered in the R-Class wagon, and ML- and GL-Class SUVs.
A hybrid version of the ML-Class SUV in 2009. The powertrain mates a 4.6L V-6 engine with the two mode rear-drive hybrid system that DaimlerChrysler developed in conjunction with BMW and GM.
A hybrid version of the S-Class sedan will also be introduced in 2009. This S 400 hybrid will mate a V-6 gasoline engine with an integrated starter-generator. The starter-generator provides stop-start function, and can power the car on electricity only for short distances. It also adds an electric boost to the gasoline engine under heavy loads.
Mercedes says the hybrid powertrain, rated at 299 hp, can accelerate the large sedan from 0 to 62 mph in 7.3 seconds, receiving 20.9 miles per gallon.
A fuel cell version of the B-Class small wagon will go into limited production in 2010. Mercedes said the car will be powered by a new generation of its fuel cell stack that is smaller, yet puts out more power.
Versions of the E-Class and S-Class sedans powered by Bluetec diesel hybrid powertrains are due in 2010. The powertrains will include a four-cylinder diesel engine and seven-speed automatic transmission. The E-Class hybrid will burn 5.1L (1.3 gallons) of fuel per 100 kilometers, or about 47.6 miles per gallon.
A version of the C-Class with the Bluetec diesel hybrid is due after 2010, Mercedes added.
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