Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com Autoblog Green http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog Green http://green.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Spanish Basque Country gets EV recharging network alongside some gas pumps]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/spanish-basque-country-gets-ev-recharging-network-alongside-some/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/spanish-basque-country-gets-ev-recharging-network-alongside-some/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/03/spanish-basque-country-gets-ev-recharging-network-alongside-some/#commentsFiled under: , ,



The Basque Government in Spain has announced an agreement with Repsol to install recharging points for EVs at gasoline refueling stations. These EV stations would be safely separated from gasoline pumps but will be installed near already existing infrastructure. The plan was announced by Repsol's CEO Antoni Brufau, the Basque Prime Minister Patxi López and the Director of the Basque Institute of Energy, Bernabé Unda. Repsol is Spain's largest gasoline distributor and the world's 15th largest oil company. The Basque country is also the site of one of Mercedes' van manufacturing facility in the city of Vitoria. The Basque government also announced that Mercedes was set to build all-electric vans in this factory.

[Source: EITB]

Spanish Basque Country gets EV recharging network alongside some gas pumps originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>basque countryBasqueCountryeuskadiev charging networksEvChargingNetworkspublic ev chargingpublic promotedPublicEvChargingPublicPromotedrepsolspainTue, 03 Nov 2009 16:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Daimler to open alt-fuel R&D center in Redford, MI]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/daimler-to-open-alt-fuel-randd-center-in-redford-mi/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/daimler-to-open-alt-fuel-randd-center-in-redford-mi/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/11/02/daimler-to-open-alt-fuel-randd-center-in-redford-mi/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Mercedes Benz ML450 hybrid - click above for high-res image gallery

With the end of the two-mode hybrid co-development partnership, Daimler has decided that it will not completely withdraw its hybrid engineering back to Germany. Instead, the company will be opening a new engineering office in Redford Township, MI west of Detroit. The new facility will expand its focus beyond just hybrids to all manner of alternative powertrains, including electric drive. The center will be co-located on the same campus with Detroit Diesel which is also owned by Daimler.

The state of Michigan gave Daimler $7.5 million in tax breaks with Redford kicking in some more in order to get the facility. Daimler declines to say how many people will be employed in Redford but the Detroit Free Press previously reported that it would be over 220 engineers and technicians over the next several years.

Gallery: New York 2009: Mercedes-Benz ML 450 Hybrid


[Source: Detroit Free Press]

Daimler to open alt-fuel R&D center in Redford, MI originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 02 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daimlermercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz hybrid llcmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBenzHybridLlcredfordMon, 02 Nov 2009 09:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Two-mode hybrid joint development disbanded; Ram hybrid coming in 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/two-mode-hybrid-joint-development-disbanded-ram-hybrid-coming-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/two-mode-hybrid-joint-development-disbanded-ram-hybrid-coming-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/two-mode-hybrid-joint-development-disbanded-ram-hybrid-coming-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,



The big joint development program formed several years ago between General Motors, Daimler, Chrysler and BMW to develop the two-mode hybrid system for light duty vehicles is over. With all four automakers now having launched or about to introduce versions of the hybrid system, the joint program is being wound down and the Troy, Michigan office where engineers from each company collaborated will be closed by the end of this year. Most of the joint work actually ended last June and many of the staff have already been relocated to other facilities.

The Mercedes ML450 hybrid and BMW X6 ActiveHybrid are both going into production about now using a version of the two mode transmission built by Daimler.

Chrysler, which briefly built a version of the Durango and Aspen SUVs with the hybrid system last year, remains committed to re-launching the system in the Ram pickups in 2010. At this point however, it looks unlikely the planned light duty hybrid will launch anytime soon in the Ram 1500.

[Source: Detroit News]

Two-mode hybrid joint development disbanded; Ram hybrid coming in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dodge ram hybridDodgeRamHybridtwo modetwo mode hybridtwo mode hybrid towingtwo mode ramTwoModeTwoModeHybridTwoModeHybridTowingTwoModeRamTue, 27 Oct 2009 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes GL350 BlueTec wins best SUV at Texas Truck Rodeo]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/mercedes-gl350-bluetec-wins-best-suv-at-texas-truck-rodeo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/mercedes-gl350-bluetec-wins-best-suv-at-texas-truck-rodeo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/27/mercedes-gl350-bluetec-wins-best-suv-at-texas-truck-rodeo/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mercedes-Benz GL350 Bluetec - click above for high-res image gallery

Every autumn, the Texas Auto Writers Association holds a two-day truck rodeo to determine the best in class in all of the different segments of the truck market. Out of all of this year's SUV competitiors, the auto writers (do they actually sell any cars in Texas?) picked out the updated Mercedes-Benz GL350 Bluetec.

The big GL was among 16 SUVs put to the test by the 41 journalists and was the first ever European model to win the category. The GL's 210 hp and 400 pound-feet of torque help it get a 7,500 pound tow rating, The EPA rates the GL350 at 17 mpg city and 23 mpg although on a recent stint with the GL, we averaged just over 23 mpg combined, easily topping our best results to date with any of the GM hybrid SUVs. Besides best overall SUV, the GL350 also earned an honor as the best full-size luxury boat.

Gallery: Mercedes Benz GL350 Bluetec


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes GL350 BlueTec wins best SUV at Texas Truck Rodeo

Mercedes GL350 BlueTec wins best SUV at Texas Truck Rodeo originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 27 Oct 2009 11:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedesMercedes Benzmercedes-benzmercedes-benz gl350 bluetecMercedes-benzGl350BluetecMercedesBenzSUV of the YearSuvOfTheYeartexas truck rodeoTexasTruckRodeotruck of texasTruckOfTexasTue, 27 Oct 2009 11:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Daimler launches €600 million small car investment, A-Class BEV in 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/24/daimler-launches-600-million-small-car-investment-a-class-bev/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/24/daimler-launches-600-million-small-car-investment-a-class-bev/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/24/daimler-launches-600-million-small-car-investment-a-class-bev/#commentsFiled under: , ,



After at least two years of trying to determine what it was going to do about its next-generation Mercedes-Benz A and B-class compacts, Daimler has announced that it will commit €600 million to update and expand the factory that builds them. We still don't know what platform Mercedes will use for the new small cars, but they will start production at the Rastatt factory in late 2011. Part of the updates to the factory will include a 710,000 square foot body shop to produces the shells of the new models. Mercedes has already started construction of a stamping facility in nearby Kuppenheim to produce the panels that will be welded at the Rastatt body shop.

The next-generation compacts will also add two new body configurations in addition to the current hatchback body styles. No information has been provided but the most likely candidates are some sort of taller wagon/MPV to compete against the likes of the VW Touran or Ford C-Max or a sedan which could mean the introduction of the small cars to the U.S. market.

Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche also announced that low-volume production of a battery electric A-Class E-Cell will start in late 2010. We contacted Tesla spokeswoman Rachel Konrad to see if they will be supplying batteries or other components for the A-Class BEV as they are for the smaller Smart ED but she declined to comment on the matter. Given Daimler's investment in Tesla, it would certainly make sense to the have the California company provide those systems. If so, that could help Tesla keep revenues flowing (Roadster sales have apparently slowed) until the Model S comes on stream.

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Daimler launches €600 million small car investment, A-Class BEV in 2010

Daimler launches €600 million small car investment, A-Class BEV in 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 24 Oct 2009 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electric vehicleelectric vehiclesElectricVehicleElectricVehiclesmercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz a-classmercedes benz a-class e-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz b-classMercedes-benzB-classMercedesBenzMercedesBenzA-classMercedesBenzA-classE-cellSat, 24 Oct 2009 14:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Medic! Spanish bifuel ambulances curb emissions, disappoint drivers]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/medic-spanish-bifuel-ambulances-curb-emissions-disappoint-driv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/medic-spanish-bifuel-ambulances-curb-emissions-disappoint-driv/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/10/medic-spanish-bifuel-ambulances-curb-emissions-disappoint-driv/#commentsFiled under: , ,



A Spanish ambulance company in the city of Zaragoza, Ambuibérica, is trying out bifuel vehicles to transport patients. The 10 Mercedes-sourced vehicles use bifuel powertrains that can burn both natural gas and gasoline. Turns out, the drivers aren't too happy with these models: they criticize the van's short, 250-km range (about 140 miles), lack of natural gas availability in town and lower speed compared to the diesel counterparts. While the city of Zaragoza itself has some natural gas fueling stations, the rest of the Aragon region doesn't have any, so the company isn't exactly eager to expand the bifuel experience to rural parts of Aragon. The picture above shows a diesel ambulance in the city of Tarragona.

[Source: El Periódico de Aragón]

Medic! Spanish bifuel ambulances curb emissions, disappoint drivers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 10 Oct 2009 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambulancearagonbifuelemergency vehicleEmergencyVehiclespainzaragozaSat, 10 Oct 2009 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid qualifies for tax credit worth up to $1,150]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/mercedes-benz-s400-hybrid-qualifies-for-tax-credit-worth-up-to/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/mercedes-benz-s400-hybrid-qualifies-for-tax-credit-worth-up-to/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/09/mercedes-benz-s400-hybrid-qualifies-for-tax-credit-worth-up-to/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mercedes-Benz S400, the first production hybrid to use lithium-ion batteries, has been declared eligible for the IRS' Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit as a Qualified Hybrid Motor Vehicle. For the S400, this credit is worth up to $1,150. This puts the S400 near the bottom of the list, with vehicles like the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid 2WD worth $3,000 and the Nissan Altima Hybrid getting $2,350.

In addition to the li-ion battery pack, the S400 offers auto-start-stop, electric assist, and regenerative braking capabilities. The EPA rates the S400 at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid


[Source: Green Car Congress]

Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid qualifies for tax credit worth up to $1,150 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>S400s400 bluehybrids400 hybrids400 irss400 taxs400 tax creditS400BluehybridS400HybridS400IrsS400TaxS400TaxCreditTax CreditTaxCreditFri, 09 Oct 2009 18:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Dr. Z: BEVs and hybrids for the near term, fuel cells for the long haul]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/dr-z-bevs-and-hybrids-for-the-near-term-fuel-cells-for-the-lo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/dr-z-bevs-and-hybrids-for-the-near-term-fuel-cells-for-the-lo/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/05/dr-z-bevs-and-hybrids-for-the-near-term-fuel-cells-for-the-lo/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

Like pretty much every major automaker, Daimler is preparing to launch battery electric vehicles in the next few years. However, again like many of its competitors, the German automaker remains unconvinced that batteries will see the kind of technical progress needed to make them a truly viable long-term mainstream option. Like Honda, Toyota, General Motors and Hyundai, (and to lesser degrees, Ford, Nissan and others) Daimler sees the hydrogen fuel cell as the best option for the end game.

Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche spoke with Automotive News during the Frankfurt Motor Show and acknowledged that both battery and fuel cell electric vehicles need infrastructure. The fuel cell doesn't have the range or re-energizing time constraints that a battery does. Both directions will require work to get the cost down comparable to existing vehicles, but Zetsche seems unconvinced that batteries will ever get there. Zetsche is also confident that a hydrogen fueling network will be put in place in Europe in the coming years.

Zetsche isn't declaring a winner yet, but highlights the modularization that vehicle electrification brings with it. Because battery and fuel cell vehicles all use the same motors and power electronics for propulsion, it is possible to follow parallel paths while sharing much of the underlying technology.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell


[Source: Automotive News - sub req'd]

Dr. Z: BEVs and hybrids for the near term, fuel cells for the long haul originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>battery electric vehicleBatteryElectricVehicleDieter ZetscheDieterZetscheFuel CellFuelCellhydrogenhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenFuelCellMercedes Benzmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMon, 05 Oct 2009 18:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Daimler wins award for Citaro FuelCELL bus development]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/daimler-wins-award-for-citaro-fuelcell-bus-development/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/daimler-wins-award-for-citaro-fuelcell-bus-development/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/10/03/daimler-wins-award-for-citaro-fuelcell-bus-development/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Along with a number of other automakers, Daimler has been working diligently to bring fuel cell technology to the road in real applications, including testing the Citaro FuelCell bus. Since 2003, a fleet of 36 first-generation hydrogen Citaros has been operating with transit authorities across Europe. In that time, the buses have accumulated 135,000 hours of operation and over 1.2 million miles.

Daimler is currently preparing to build a new fleet of 30 examples of its next-generation Citaro FuelCELL. In recognition of these efforts, the environmental ministry of the German state of Baden-Württemberg have presented Daimler with an award for its work. The award was presented at a fuel cell conference in Stuttgart earlier this week. The new buses use the same series hybrid architecture as the Citaro G Bluetec hybrid. The rear wheels are driven by hub motors with a lithium ion battery. The fuel cell operates at constant output, keeping the battery pack charged.

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Daimler wins award for Citaro FuelCELL bus development

Daimler wins award for Citaro FuelCELL bus development originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 03 Oct 2009 14:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mercedesMercedes Benzmercedes benz citaro fuel cell busmercedes-benzMercedesBenzMercedesBenzCitaroFuelCellBusSat, 03 Oct 2009 14:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz launches BlueEfficiency Sprinter van]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mercedes-benz-launches-blueefficiency-sprinter-van/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mercedes-benz-launches-blueefficiency-sprinter-van/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/30/mercedes-benz-launches-blueefficiency-sprinter-van/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mercedes-Benz BlueEfficiency Sprinter - click above for high res image gallery

Over the past year, Mercedes-Benz has been rolling out high mileage BlueEfficiency versions of several passenger car models and has now expanded the eco-tweaks to their commercial vehicles. Effective immediately, two different Sprinter BlueEfficiency variants are available with different engines.

The first is powered by a new 2.2-liter four cylinder common rail diesel engine that is available in 95, 129 and 163 hp variants. Torque ranges from 184 lb-ft to 265 lb-ft. Electric on-demand control of auxiliary systems like the oil pump, alternator and oil spray nozzles allows the loads to be managed to reduce parasitic losses.

The Sprinter is also available with a 156 hp natural gas fueled four cylinder engine. Natural gas Sprinters can be had as either CNG-only or bi-fueled versions that can also run on gasoline. Both engines are paired up with a new wide-ratio ECO Gear six-speed manual transmission. The gearbox incorporates automatic start-stop functionality to shut the engines down when the van stops.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter BlueEfficiency


[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz launches BlueEfficiency Sprinter van

Mercedes-Benz launches BlueEfficiency Sprinter van originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dieselfalsemercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz sprintermercedes benz sprinter blueefficiencymercedes-benzmercedesbenzMercedesBenzSprinterMercedesBenzSprinterBlueefficiencynatural gasnatural gas vehiclesNaturalGasNaturalGasVehiclesWed, 30 Sep 2009 18:07:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: Mercedes-Benz plans to lease 100 hydrogen F-Cell cars in U.S.]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-plans-to-lease-100-hydrogen-f-cell-cars-in-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-plans-to-lease-100-hydrogen-f-cell-cars-in-u-s/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-plans-to-lease-100-hydrogen-f-cell-cars-in-u-s/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mercedes-Benz officially introduced the world to its latest hydrogen fuel cell-powered car this week at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and it's wasting little time getting the F-Cell into limited-scale production. In this case, "limited-scale" means 200 vehicles, and Daimler R&D chief Thomas Weber tells Automotive News (sub. req'd) about half of those cars are headed to the United States to be leased by the public.

Naturally, those hundred F-Cell drivers are going to need a place to refuel their hydrogen cars, and there's currently a woeful lack of fueling stations here in the States. This being the case, it's not surprising that Mercedes-Benz plans to send the majority of its F-Cell hatchbacks to California, the state with the most widespread hydrogen infrastructure.

According to Mercedes-Benz, a three-minute refuel will allow its F-Cell to travel for 250 miles. Check out our live shots of the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell below.



[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd]

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz plans to lease 100 hydrogen F-Cell cars in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hydrogenhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenFuelCellmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz f-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz f-cellMercedes-benzF-cellMercedesBenzMercedesBenzF-cellThu, 17 Sep 2009 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz now shipping the S400 hybrid to U.S. dealers]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-now-shipping-the-s400-hybrid-to-us-dealers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-now-shipping-the-s400-hybrid-to-us-dealers/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/mercedes-benz-now-shipping-the-s400-hybrid-to-us-dealers/#commentsFiled under: ,

2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 hybrid - click above for high res image gallery

Mercedes-Benz has apparently begun shipping the new S400 BlueHybrid sedan to its U.S. dealer network. One of our readers spotted one and grabbed a photo of the window sticker. The S400 is Mercedes' first production hybrid vehicle and utilizes the mild hybrid system it developed in conjunction with BMW. While BMW is going whole hog for performance with its ActiveHybrid 7, Mercedes is going more for efficiency. The Stuttgart brand has opted use its 3.5-liter V6 with the hybrid system along with the first lithium ion battery used in such an application. The 120 V battery is actually nearly the same size as a traditional lead acid starter battery and takes its place in the engine compartment so no trunk space is lost compared to the standard car.

The S400 Hybrid gets an EPA rating of 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. That compares to 15/23 mpg for the V8-powered S550. The base price on the S400 starts at $87,950 and the car spotted by our reader had a bottom line of $93,775. You can configure your own S400 at the Mercedes USA site. Thanks to USCGTO for the tip!








Mercedes-Benz now shipping the S400 hybrid to U.S. dealers originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20102010 mercedes benz s400 hybrid2010MercedesBenzS400Hybridhybridhybrid carhybrid carsHybridCarHybridCarshybridsmercedes benzmercedes benz s400 blue hybridmercedes benz s400 bluehybridmercedes benz s400 hybridmercedes-benzmercedesbenzMercedesBenzS400BluehybridMercedesBenzS400Hybrids400 bluehybrids400 bluetec hybrid auto show de los ngeless400 hybridS400BluehybridS400BluetecHybridAutoShowDeLosNgelesS400HybridThu, 17 Sep 2009 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/17/frankfurt-2009-mercedes-benz-f-cell-in-tailpipe-emissions-out/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

As promised, Mercedes-Benz trotted its hydrogen fuel cell-powered F-Cell in front of the crowds at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and we were on hand to snap off a series of images. It's easy to spot the B-Class sheetmetal and underpinnings of the compact hatch, which goes to show how well the German automaker was able to integrate its space-age hydrogen drivetrain.

A 100 kW electric motor provides motive force to the front wheels, and MB claims the F-Cell will have similar performance to a 2.0 liter gas engine while returning the equivalent of 86.6 mpg on the European combined cycle. Mercedes has promised to begin leasing its new hydrogen-powered five-door hatchback in early 2010, and it's reportedly coming to America to fulfill all our zero-emission fantasies. Now, if we could just get that pesky hydrogen infrastructure problem sorted out...



Frankfurt 2009: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell rids the show floor of tailpipe emissions originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 17 Sep 2009 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-cellfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt auto showfrankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowgreenmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz f-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz f-cellMercedes-benzF-cellMercedesBenzMercedesBenzF-cellThu, 17 Sep 2009 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes adds two new BlueEfficiency GLK models]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/mercedes-adds-two-new-blueefficiency-glk-models/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/mercedes-adds-two-new-blueefficiency-glk-models/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/12/mercedes-adds-two-new-blueefficiency-glk-models/#commentsFiled under: ,

Mercedes-Benz GLK BlueEfficiency - click above for high res image gallery

Mercedes Benz is adding two new BlueEfficiency variants to is compact GLK crossover. Both are powered by versions of Mercedes' new 2.2-liter four cylinder diesel engine. The rear wheel drive 220 CDI gets the 170 hp variant while the all wheel drive 250 CDI 4Matic gets the more powerful dual turbo 204 hp unit.

The RWD 220 gets as much as 39.2 mpg (U.S.) combined on the EU driving cycle with CO2 emissions of 158 g/km. This model can get to 62 mph in 8.5 seconds. The more powerful AWD version cuts that acceleration time to 7 seconds while still achieving 35.1 mpg (U.S.) on the EU cycle.

Currently, the new GLKs are only being offered in Europe, but both can meet the EU5 and upcoming EU6 emissions standards. Best of all, they are also able to meet US Tier2 Bin5 standards so they could be sold in all 50 states. The BlueEfficiency models get lower rolling resistance tires, more aerodynamic (read: smaller) mirrors, underbody panels and electric power steering to optimize efficiency.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz GLK BlueEfficiency


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]







Continue reading Mercedes adds two new BlueEfficiency GLK models

Mercedes adds two new BlueEfficiency GLK models originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Sat, 12 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blueefficiencyglk 220glk 250Glk220Glk250mercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz glkmercedes benz glk blueefficiencymercedes-benzmercedesbenzMercedesBenzGlkMercedesBenzGlkBlueefficiencySat, 12 Sep 2009 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially, official: Mercedes-Benz Vision S 500 Plug-in hybrid brings big numbers to Frankfurt]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/officially-official-mercedes-benz-vision-s-500-plug-in-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/officially-official-mercedes-benz-vision-s-500-plug-in-hybrid/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/10/officially-official-mercedes-benz-vision-s-500-plug-in-hybrid/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercedes-Benz S 500 Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

News of the Mercedes-Benz S 500 Hybrid has been quickly confirmed by Daimler, with the added information that this is a "near series" concept that we'll see in Frankfurt next week. The 3.5-liter luxury PHEV will indeed get 73.5 U.S. mpg (3.2L per 100 km) and it appears this was calculated on the European cycle, so knock off a few mpg to get an estimate of what the car would be rated in the U.S. (although, with the somewhat mysterious plug-in hybrid rating system, we give up trying to really guess the number). We also know that the four-door sedan will emit just 74 grams of CO2 per kilometer, an impressive figure. The powertrain is made up of a V6 gasoline engine and a 44 kW/60 hp electric motor that gives the S 500 Hybrid a 0-62 mph time of 5.5 seconds.The 18-mile electric range has also been confirmed, but Daimler only defines the lithium-ion battery pack, which lives in the trunk, as being "over 10 kWh." At least this gives us something to watch for in Frankfurt.

As to when the PHEV architecture might become available to buyers, Daimler AG Board member Thomas Weber said that, "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." Find out more after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz S 500 Hybrid

mb-s500-hybrid-large_1mb-s500-hybrid-large_3mb-s500-hybrid-large_5mb-s500-hybrid-large_2mb-s500-hybrid-large_4

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Officially, official: Mercedes-Benz Vision S 500 Plug-in hybrid brings big numbers to Frankfurt

Officially, official: Mercedes-Benz Vision S 500 Plug-in hybrid brings big numbers to Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 10 Sep 2009 13:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>benz phevBenzPhevfalsemercedes phevMercedes-Benz S 500 HybridMercedes-benzS500HybridMercedesPhevphevplug in hybridplug in mercedesPlugInHybridPlugInMercedess 500 hybrids 500 phevS500HybridS500PhevThu, 10 Sep 2009 13:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt Preview: Mercedes-Benz to unveil Vision S 500 plug-in hybrid concept]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/frankfurt-preview-mercedes-benz-to-unveil-vision-s-500-plug-in/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/frankfurt-preview-mercedes-benz-to-unveil-vision-s-500-plug-in/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/09/frankfurt-preview-mercedes-benz-to-unveil-vision-s-500-plug-in/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mercedes-Benz S 500 Hybrid - Click above for high-res image gallery

According to World Car Fans, there's a new hybrid S-Class concept from Mercedes-Benz slated for debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week. Unlike the previously-announced mild hybrid version of the S 400, the new Vision S 500 will reportedly come equipped with a plug and will be capable of powering itself solely on electric power for considerable distances.

At the heart of the concept will be a lithium ion battery pack that will store 10 kWh of power, which we hear will allow for an electric-only range of over 18 miles (30 kilometers). That power storage unit will send its electrons to a 60-horsepower (44 kW) electric motor that's mated up to an unknown gasoline-fed V6. Together, the twin power sources will reportedly push the big Benz to 60 mph in under 5.5 seconds.

Naturally, fuel economy and emissions are of paramount concern with a machine such as this, and the S 500 PHEV won't disappoint. We're not sure what standard was used to come up with the 73.5 U.S. mpg (3.2L per 100 km) figure, but it appears to compare rather favorably with other competing luxury hybrids. Stay tuned for more details when we hit the floor in Frankfurt.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz S 500 Hybrid

mb-s500-hybrid-large_1mb-s500-hybrid-large_3mb-s500-hybrid-large_5mb-s500-hybrid-large_2mb-s500-hybrid-large_4

[Source: World Car Fans]

Frankfurt Preview: Mercedes-Benz to unveil Vision S 500 plug-in hybrid concept originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 13:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingfrankfurtfrankfurt 2009frankfurt motor showFrankfurt2009FrankfurtMotorShowmercedes benz s 500 hybridmercedes-benzmercedes-benz s 500 hybridmercedes-benz s500 hybridMercedes-benzS500HybridMercedesBenzS500Hybrids 500 hybrids500 hybridS500HybridWed, 09 Sep 2009 13:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Daimler Buses NA tops 3,000 hybrid bus orders]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/daimler-buses-na-tops-3-000-hybrid-bus-orders/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/daimler-buses-na-tops-3-000-hybrid-bus-orders/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/08/daimler-buses-na-tops-3-000-hybrid-bus-orders/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Hybrid buses are becoming an increasingly common sight in cities around North America and Daimler has grabbed the largest share of the market. Daimler Bus North America has now received orders for over 3,000 of its Orion VII hybrid buses. Over 2,200 of the Orions are already in service, with the single largest population in the New York City area. There, over 1,250 units are prowling the streets.

The Orion VII uses a series hybrid drivetrain developed by BAE systems. Since 2008, the Orions have been using lithium ion battery packs in place of the original nickel metal hydride packs. In a set-up somewhat similar to the Chevy Volt, a Cummins diesel engine drives a generator and the wheels are driven by the electric motor. Unlike conventional buses, the series hybrid has no transmission, eliminating a major maintenance item. The Daimler press release is after the jump.

[Source: Daimler]

Continue reading Daimler Buses NA tops 3,000 hybrid bus orders

Daimler Buses NA tops 3,000 hybrid bus orders originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>daimlerdaimler busdaimler bus north americaDaimlerBusDaimlerBusNorthAmericahybrid busHybridBusorionorion hybrid busesorion viiOrionHybridBusesorionviiTue, 08 Sep 2009 11:01:00 EST<![CDATA[1990 Mercedes 190 D upgraded to new BlueEFFICIENCY engine, jumps from 32 to 48 mpg]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/1990-mercedes-190-d-upgraded-to-new-blueefficiency-engine-jumps/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/1990-mercedes-190-d-upgraded-to-new-blueefficiency-engine-jumps/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/03/1990-mercedes-190-d-upgraded-to-new-blueefficiency-engine-jumps/#commentsFiled under: ,


Mercedes 190 D BlueEFFICIENCY experimental vehicle (center) - Click above for high-res image gallery

There are a lot of ways to convert an older, dirtier car to something that uses less fuel. Most often, if you're going to start with an old diesel Mercedes, you want to add an SVO system. If you work at Mercedes-Benz, though, a recent experiment was to convert a diesel engine to, well, another diesel engine. The old diesel in question here was a 190 D from 1990. The new diesel powerplant comes from an up-to-date C-Class BlueEFFICIENCY model (above, left). The results, power output was tripled while fuel economy was improved from 32 mpg (U.S) in the original to 48 mpg (U.S.) in the converted vehicle (using the NEDC method in effect when the 190 D was made). Another easy-to-understand improvement: the original 190 D made the 0-62 mph run in a leisurely 18.1 seconds. The converted vehicle can get to that speed in 6.2 seconds.

Gallery: Mercedes 190 D BlueEFFICIENCY experimental vehicle

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[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading 1990 Mercedes 190 D upgraded to new BlueEFFICIENCY engine, jumps from 32 to 48 mpg

1990 Mercedes 190 D upgraded to new BlueEFFICIENCY engine, jumps from 32 to 48 mpg originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>190 d190 d c-class190d190DC-classblueefficiencyfalsemercedes benzmercedes benz 190 dMercedesBenzMercedesBenz190DThu, 03 Sep 2009 14:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Pics Aplenty: Mercedes-Benz BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/pics-aplenty-mercedes-benz-bluezero-e-cell-plus/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/pics-aplenty-mercedes-benz-bluezero-e-cell-plus/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/09/02/pics-aplenty-mercedes-benz-bluezero-e-cell-plus/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mercedes-Benz concept BlueZero Plus - Click above for high-res image gallery

We first learned about the E-Cell Plus variant of the Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZero when the concept line was unveiled in Detroit earlier this year. At the time, Mercedes explained that the range-extended E-Cell Plus used the 1.0-liter, 67-hp three-cylinder engine from the Smart ForTwo and a half-size battery - a 17.5 kWh lithium ion battery pack instead of the pure electric version's 35 kWh - to get a total range 360 miles. An hour's charge was enough to go 60 miles.

Daimler's original numbers claimed a maximum charging capacity of 17 kW. A new release, accompanied by a slew of fresh pictures of the E-Cell Plus wearing new ALU-BEAM Copper paint, says that this has been bumped up to 20 kW, while the battery is now an even 18 kWh pack. Of course, if you have a standard home outlet (3.3 kW charging capacity), the charging time is about six hours. The E-Cell Plus' 100 kW (70 kW sustained output) can move the car from 0 to 62 mph in under 11 seconds. Read more after the jump.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS

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[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Pics Aplenty: Mercedes-Benz BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS

Pics Aplenty: Mercedes-Benz BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bluezerobluezero e-cellbluezero e-plusBluezeroE-cellBluezeroE-pluse-celle-cell plusE-cellPlusmercedes-benz concept bluezeromercedes-benz concept bluezero e-cell plusMercedes-benzConceptBluezeroMercedes-benzConceptBluezeroE-cellPlusWed, 02 Sep 2009 13:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz launches B-Class F-Cell, leases to begin in early 2010]]>http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/28/report-mercedes-benz-launches-b-class-f-cell-leases-to-begin-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/28/report-mercedes-benz-launches-b-class-f-cell-leases-to-begin-i/http://green.autoblog.com/2009/08/28/report-mercedes-benz-launches-b-class-f-cell-leases-to-begin-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Mercedes-Benz F-Cell - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back in April, Mercedes-Benz announced via a short little blurb on a larger press release that it planned to begin small-scale series production of a new hydrogen fuel cell-powered automobile called the F-Cell. According to the German automaker, the car is just about ready to launch, with 200 vehicles slated to be leased throughout the United States and Europe early next year.

The front-wheel drive F-Cell is based on Mercedes-Benz's B-Class platform and uses a 100 kW electric motor that puts out an impressive 214 lb-ft of torque. MB claims this powertrain will offer comparable performance to a 2.0-liter gas-powered automobile (the run to 60 will take under 11 seconds) while returning the equivalent of 86.6 mpg on the European combined cycle.

Sandwiched under the car's floor will be a 1.4 kWh lithium ion battery that recaptures energy normally lost to braking. We'd also figure that battery pack will provide an even flow of electrons to the motor while the fuel cell hums away silently. Range is quoted at around 250 miles and Mercedes claims a hydrogen recharge time of just three minutes. Expect more details on the car to emerge at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. Full press release after the break.


Gallery: Mercedes-Benz F-Cell


[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz launches B-Class F-Cell, leases to begin in early 2010

Mercedes-Benz launches B-Class F-Cell, leases to begin in early 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog Green on Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>f-cellhydrogenhydrogen carhydrogen fuel cellHydrogenCarHydrogenFuelCellmercedesmercedes benzmercedes benz f-cellmercedes f-cellmercedes-benzmercedes-benz b-class f-cellmercedes-benz f-cellMercedes-benzB-classF-cellMercedes-benzF-cellMercedesBenzMercedesBenzF-cellMercedesF-cellFri, 28 Aug 2009 13:08:00 EST