On April 12, 2006, Mercedes-Benz presented the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class at the New York International Automobile Show. As product enhancement the series was equipped with new engines, forward-looking safety technology, and the most up-to-date lighting equipment. In addition, the design engineers redeveloped or improved 2,000 parts.

The new generation of the E-Class demonstrated its dynamism, strength and effortless superiority mainly through a revised design. The sedan and station wagon appeared even more dynamic and commanding than before. Inside, the new generation was distinguished among other things by attractive color combinations, a new four-spoke steering wheel and a new control unit for the standard automatic climate control.

The vehicles went on sale in Europe in early June 2006, and a few weeks later also in the USA. A total of 29 model variants were available to choose from – 16 sedans and 13 station wagons. Compared with its competitors, Mercedes-Benz offered the largest and most varied model range in this market segment.

New engines for the new generation of E-Class

Six out of ten engines of the facelifted E-Class were new or advance developments. In particular the four-cylinder diesel engines of models E 200 CDI and E 220 CDI were optimized to further improve output, torque and smoothness. In the gasoline engine department the engineers concentrated mainly on the power plants with four and eight cylinders. In the future the top engine in the E-Class would be the newly developed V8 engine (M 273) from the S-Class with 5.5-liter displacement and 285 kW (388 hp).

Mercedes-AMG first presented the E 63 AMG at the New York International Auto Show. Powered by the new AMG naturally aspirated V8, which obtained peak output of 378 kW (514 hp) and maximum torque of 465 ft-lbs (630 Nm) with a displacement of 6.2 liters, the E 63 AMG model was the most powerful E-Class ever. From 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) the sedan needed just 4.5 seconds, the station wagon 4.6 seconds. The perfect partner for the 6.3-liter naturally aspirated V8 engine from AMG was the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT 7-speed automatic transmission with three individual shift modes.

BlueTEC: The future of the diesel

The decision taken by Mercedes-Benz to put its first BlueTEC passenger car on the North American market in autumn 2006 pointed the way ahead for the compression-ignition engine. Compared with the advanced CDI engines, BlueTEC diesel technology produced a further significant reduction of nitrogen oxide emissions in particular. Following the successful launch of the world’s first BlueTEC passenger car the E 320 BlueTEC was voted “World Green Car of the Year 2007″ in America.

The Mercedes-Benz E 320 BlueTEC also demonstrated its capabilities in 2006 in a long-distance run from Paris to Beijing. This symbolic bridging of Europe and Asia took in large parts of the route covered by the first transcontinental car race in history, which took its participants from Beijing to Paris in 62 days in 1907. Three Mercedes-Benz E 320 BlueTEC vehicles along with 30 E 320 CDI models made up the field of E-Class sedans that travelled from Paris to Beijing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3tSNWgQji4

See more YouTube videos of the Paris Beijing 2006 run.

The new E 300 BlueTEC – Road to the future

In 2007 Mercedes-Benz began introducing the new BlueTEC diesel technology in Europe. At the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt in September 2007 the Stuttgart brand presented the new E 300 BlueTEC as the latest model in the 211 series. This cleanest and thriftiest EU5 diesel from the business class came onto the European market in December 2007. With these two models, the E-Class spearheaded a Mercedes-Benz offensive across all model series. Since the years ahead will see BlueTEC variants for models from C-Class to R-Class on the “Mercedes-Benz Road to the Future”.

The slightly lower peak output of the new BlueTEC model in the US version (155 kW/211 hp instead of 165 kW/ 224 hp) resulted from measures designed to improve emissions. Further optimization measures included special piezo injectors and selective fine-tuning of turbocharger and exhaust gas recirculation. The unchanged high peak torque of 398 ft-lbs (540 Nm) at 1,600 rpm guarantees effortlessly superior performance with low fuel consumption and very clean exhaust gases. The NEDC consumption of the E 300 BlueTEC is around 7.3 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers, which is about 32 miles per gallon (mpg.)

E 350 CGI: direct-injection gasoline engine in the E-Class

Parallel to the E 300 BlueTEC model, Mercedes-Benz introduced the E 350 CGI model. Its V6 gasoline engine was equipped with ultramodern gasoline direct injection featuring a spray-guided combustion process (CGI). The world’s first engine to feature this innovative combustion system and piezo injection came from the CLS 350 CGI model. The E 350 CGI model has been available as a sedan or station wagon since December 2007.

Compared with the E 350 model, which is still available, the 215 kW (292 hp) V6 engine offers 15 kW (20 hp) more output and 11 ft-lbs (15 Nm) more torque, combined with ten percent lower fuel consumption. The E 350 CGI sedan model, which accelerates from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 6.8 seconds, uses just 8.7 liters of premium gasoline per 100 kilometers (New European Driving Cycle, or NEDC average) or about 27 mpg. In both model variants the top speed is electronically governed at 155 mph (250 km/h.)

E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class will also assume the role of pioneer in the next series of E-Class. The year 2010 is expected to see the arrival of the first of three Mercedes-Benz models from the next generation of the intermediate range, equipped with a unique combination of BlueTEC, 7G-TRONIC (MB’s trademark name for its seven-speed automatic transmission) and hybrid technology. The modular technology concept of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID model comprises the new four-cylinder diesel engine, which develops 150 kW (204 hp) and a maximum torque of 354 ft-lbs (480 Nm) from 2.2 liters, and a compact hybrid module that delivers an additional 15 kW (20 hp). Consumption of just 5.1 liters of diesel fuel per 100 kilometers (46 mpg) and carbon dioxide emissions of only 134 grams per kilometer make the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID model the world’s thriftiest and cleanest business sedan.

BlueTEC Diesel hybrid E 300. No price announcement yet, but Benz fans are already salivating.

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Mercedes-Benz E-Class Powering Toward 2010 E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Design: new Mercedes hallmarks combined with E-Class styling features

The new Estate immediately makes an athletic and practical, but also effortlessly superior and safe impression. Its distinctive design character is based on the new Mercedes style, which had its debut in the S-Class and is now also represented in the C-Class. One of its main features is the interplay between concave and taut surfaces, which are delimited by dynamic edges and structured contours.

The side view reveals many new elements, leaving no doubt about the identity of the new Estate. The B- and C-pillars appear to merge into the background thanks to glossy, black trim panels, making the entire side window area look like a single entity. This leads to a taut arch leading from the filigree A-pillar to the dramatic roof line and the downward-tapering D-pillar, all resting on the athletic shoulder line of the Estate. The intriguing design of the door sill panels, which are visually understated in the center but feature a prominent light-catching contour towards the wheel arches, accentuates the dramatic overall effect of the side aspect. This is additionally emphasised by the muscular, sweeping line on the rear side panel in front of the rear wheel.

When shaping the rear end, the Mercedes designers took care to give expression to the high practicality of the new model. They did this by emphasizing horizontal lines, for example the band formed by the tail lights and the chromed tailgate handle. The new LED tail lights are based on a two-piece design, and create a visual continuation of the side wall into the tailgate. Both by day and night, their distinctive design is a major recognition factor for the E-Class Estate. This is the largest estate car in the premium segment, and it makes no secret of the fact.

Safety: nine airbags as standard, plus innovative driver assistance systems

Mercedes-Benz has consolidated its leadership in safety even further with the new E-Class. Around one dozen new or modified driver assistance systems help to prevent road accidents or at least reduce the severity of the impact. These include the standard ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system, the optional DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control and the optional PRE-SAFE® Brake, which is able to initiate partial and full emergency braking autonomously. For the first time, PRE-SAFE® is also able to use only the information received from the short-range sensors in the front bumper to tension the front seat belts at the last moment before an accident recognized as unavoidable, thereby reducing the loads exerted on the driver and front passenger during the crash.

With nine airbags fitted as standard, four belt tensioners and belt force limiters, and NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger, the new E-Class offers an even more extensive package of safety equipment than its predecessor. The airbags, which can deploy in a matter of milliseconds in the event of an accident, include two adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag for the driver, two sidebags in the front-seat backrests and two large windowbags which extend from the A-pillar to the C‑pillar during a side impact. Pelvisbags for the front occupants are also included for the first time. These reduce the loads acting on the torso and pelvic area during a lateral collision.

Sidebags for the rear seat passengers can also be installed as optional extras. As a further safety innovation, Mercedes-Benz also offers optional, self-adaptive belt force limiters for the rear. These adjust to the size and weight of the passengers, and also become available for the Sedan with the introduction of the Estate.

Suspension: automatic self-levelling at the rear as standard

Outstanding comfort on long journeys in the Estate is ensured by the newly developed DIRECT CONTROL suspension, which features the adaptive damping system as standard. The likewise standard self-levelling rear suspension sees to it that the Estate always remains at the same level, even when fully laden. The Estate’s suspension setup has also been adapted to suit the modified body geometry, with slightly stiffer shock absorber settings and torsion bar stabilizers, making the Estate just as agile as the Sedan without having to make compromises in terms of road roar and tyre vibration characteristics.

Engines: considerable reduction in fuel consumption and emissions

The fuel consumption and emissions of the new Estate have been considerably reduced by new engines and numerous optimization measures (aerodynamics, weight, energy management, reduced resistances). One prime example is the E 250 CDI with an output of 150 kW and a peak torque of 500 Nm, achieving 41.3 mpg (5.7 litres per 100 km,) with CO2 emissions of 150 g per km.

The engine line-up available for the new Estate at launch comprises five units developing between 125 kW/170 hp and 285 kW/388 hp. Though with a lower displacement, the new and modified engines generate more output than their predecessors, while impressing with fuel consumption figures that were previously only found in the compact class. This was made possible by numerous innovations, for example spray-guided direct injection for the E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY gasoline model. The four-cylinder CDI engines partly owe their exceptional status to newly developed piezo injectors and two-stage turbocharging. All the powerplants meet the requirements of the EU5 emission standard. The E-Class Estate can be ordered now for Europe but no detail was given for U.S. market.

All of the engines available at launch, the accompanying transmissions installed as standard and the basic prices at a glance:

Diesel

• E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 2143 cc, 125 kW/170 hp, 40.6-41.3 mpg (5.7-5.8 l per 100 km,) CO2 150-153 g/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from US$ 64,266 (€ 44,803.50)
• E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 2143 cc, 150 kW/204 hp, 40.6-41.3 mpg (5.7-5.8 l/100 km,) CO2 150-153 g/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from US$ 68,449 (€ 47,719)
• E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: V6, 2987 cc, 170 kW/231 hp, 32.2-33.6 mpg (7.0-7.3 l/100 km,) CO2 185-192 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from US$ 77,751 (€ 54,204.50)

Gasoline

• E 350 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY: V6, 3498 cc, 215 kW/292 hp, 26.4-27.4 mpg (8.6–8.9 l/100 km,) CO2 200-208 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from US$ 79,116 (€ 55,156.50)
• E 500: V8, 5461 cc, 285 kW/388 hp, 21.0-21.2 mpg (11.1–11.2 l/100 km,) CO2 258-260 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from US$ 100,623 (€ 70,150.50)

The following additional models are available from the first quarter of 2010 onwards:

Diesel

• E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 2143 cc, 100 kW/136 hp, 41.3* mpg (5.7* l/100 km,) CO2 150* g/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from US$ 60,169 (€ 41,947.50)
• E 350 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: V6, 2987 cc, 170 kW/231 hp, 30.5-30.9 mpg (7.6–7.7 l/100 km,) CO2 200-203 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from US$ 81,677 (€ 56,941.50)

Gasoline

• E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 1796 cc, 135 kW/183 hp, 30.6* mpg (7.7* l/100 km,) CO2 179* g/km, 6-speed manual transmission, from US$ 61,279 (€ 42,721)
• E 250 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY: 4-cylinder in-line, 1796 cc, 150 kW/204 hp, 28.7-29.4 mpg (8.0-8.2 l/100 km,) CO2 185-191 g/km, 5-speed automatic transmission, from US$ 68,448 (€ 47,719)
• E 350 4MATIC: V6, 3498 cc, 200 kW/272 hp, 22.8-23.0 mpg (10.2-10.3 l/100 km,) CO2 238-241 g/km, 7-speed automatic transmission, from US$ 81,677 (€ 56,941.50)

* Provitional figures

New Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate (Wagon) Features Efficient Engine Options is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Mercedes-Benz is adding to the engine line-up for the new E-Class by introducing two economical four-cylinder models. The E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY developing 100 kW/136 hp achieves 45 miles per gallon (mpg) or 5.2 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers, while the new E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY has an output of 135 kW/184 hp and gets 33 mpg or 7.2 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers.

Sophisticated, efficient four-cylinder engines make for lower fuel consumption and less environmental pollution without having to compromise on classic Mercedes attributes such as ride comfort and driving enjoyment. As shown by two new E-Class models, which Mercedes-Benz is introducing to complete its engine line-up in the executive category.

The diesel powerplant in the E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY has a displacement of 2143 cc, an output of 100 kW/136 hp, and consumes 5.2 to 5.5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers (CO2 emissions: 137 – 145 g/km), enabling the sedan to accelerate from zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 10.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h.)

The gasoline engine in the new E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY boasts a displacement of 1.8 liters and an output of 135 kW/184 hp. It takes 8.5 seconds to accelerate from zero to62 mph (100 km/h)and has a top speed of 144 mph (232 km/h.) This model consumes 7.2 liters of premium unleaded petrol (RON 95) per 100 kilometers (CO2 emissions: 169 g/km), not least thanks to the ECO start/stop function, which is fitted as standard in conjunction with the six-speed manual transmission.

These are all-new four-cylinder powerplants with direct injection. One of the main features of the new diesel engine is latest-generation common-rail direct injection. The likewise new four-cylinder gasoline engine with direct injection is fitted with a turbocharger as well as adjustable intake and exhaust camshafts.

Like all the other engine variants for the new E-Class, which have already been awarded the Environment Certificate by TÜV Süd (Technical Inspection Authority in southern Germany), the two new powerplants comply with the EU5 limits.

Other key attributes of the world’s best-selling luxury sedan, alongside its exceptionally ecofriendly design, include a unique combination of driver assistance systems, such as drowsiness detection, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and automatic emergency braking, which can help to prevent accidents. Further classic E-Class hallmarks include a high level of long-distance comfort, high-quality interior materials, build quality displaying unerring attention to detail and perfect ergonomics.

Prices for the E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY start at US$ 55,026 (€ 38,734.50,) while those for the
E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY start at US$ 56,125 (€ 39,508.), based on May 2009 exchange rate The market launch is expected in September 2009. Availability of both E 200 versions in U.S. market are unclear at this time.

E 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY

E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY

Mercedes-Benz E-Class: New, Efficient Four-Cylinder E 200 Ready to Roll is a post from: CleanCarTalk

The Mercedes-Benz SLS is not for everyone, but it never fails to turn heads. Add the AMG badge and you know it’s built for performance. Now MB is giving it full electric drive. Powerful and locally emission-free.

Key performance data at a glance:

• Max. output: 392 kW
• Torque: 880 Nm
• 0-100 km/h: Approx. 4 s
• Rated capacity: 40 Ah (at 400 V)
• Energy content: 3x 16 kWh = 48 kWh

From Mercedes-Benz press release:

… forwards (sic) thrust is provided by four electric motors with a combined peak output of 392 kW and a maximum torque of 880 Nm. The four electric motors are positioned near the wheels, substantially reducing the unsprung masses compared to wheel-hub motors. One transmission per axle transmits the power. This intelligent all-wheel-drive system allows dynamically optimised power transmission without any losses by means of Torque Vectoring – in other words the specifically targeted acceleration of individual wheels. In its first pilot phase, the SLS AMG with electric drive incorporates a liquid-cooled high-voltage lithium-ion battery of modular design with an energy content of 48 kWh and a capacity of 40 Ah. The 400-volt battery is charged by means of targeted recuperation during braking whilst the car is being driven.

… the swing-wing model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in around 4 seconds – putting it on the same high level as the SLS AMG with a 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 420 kW/571 hp.

The electrically powered SLS AMG sees Mercedes-Benz and AMGcontinuing to pursue their aim of minimising the amount of time it takes to bring about the electrification of the car. Their strategic involvement in Deutsche Accumotive GmbH & Co. KG, a joint venture between Daimler AG and Evonik Industries AG, will provide the battery technology required in future. Daimler has the leading role in this joint venture for the development and production of batteries and battery systems for automotive applications.

A few other highlights:

Wide-opening swing-wing doors for easy entry even in garages …

At the design stage great attention was paid to the widest possible opening angle – it is a full 70 degrees.

… another important criterion for dignified access and egress, two gas-pressure struts positioned next to the door hinges require only very little pressure when opening and closing the doors – even at very low ambient temperatures.

The swing-wing doors require less opening space than conventional coupé doors, and can be fully opened in a normal garage.

By the way, I like MB’s description of this electric car as “locally emission-free.” A very responsible marketing and PR step. The other manufacturers should do the same.

All graphics courtesy Daimler.com.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG with Electric Drive – 0 to 62 mph in 4 Seconds is a post from: CleanCarTalk

Editor’s note: This is part of a series of articles peeking into clean car industries and car manufacturers of China, India, South Korea and Germany. Please send comments and suggestions using our Contact page or by leaving a comment at the end of this article.

Germany’s automobile industry is an important industry in the country. It currently offers almost a million jobs to the German working population. In fact, Germany’s industry dominates over 29% of the production of passenger cars in Europe. It is the source of several iconic automobile brands and various highly notable car models. The industry suffered a temporary downfall back in 1930, during the time of the Great Depression.

The momentary fall of the industry proved to be somewhat positive as it weeded out the weaker car companies in the country. At the end, around only twelve car companies survived, including Daimler-Benz, Ford, Opel, Audi, among some others. These companies made the German car industry flourish, and several of the world’s greatest automobiles were born.

Fast forward to the present, and the German car industry is booming. Enjoying worldwide popularity thanks to the exceptional models and performance of the top German car brands, the industry is responsible for the creation of some of the most notable cars in history. Now, six companies dominate the German automobile industry.

These companies include Audi, Daimler AG, BMW, Porsche, and Opel. Volkswagen, one of the largest automotive companies in the world, is part of the list. Opel, though owned by General Motors, is originally a German company and still focuses its operations on the German car industry. Now, what used to be just 900 cars built in 1901 has elevated to a total number of about six million cars produced annually in recent years. The German brands have also taken over worldwide markets, producing more than half of the total number of cars manufactured in other countries. Running alongside two other car industry giants Japan and United States, the automobile industry of Germany is enjoying its peak.

World-Class Cars, Not Yet on the Hybrid Bandwagon

Germany is also well-known for world-class luxury cars such as sleek and shiny Audi cars, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz, bearing the familiar globally-popular insignia of the brands. In recent years, German’s exports suffered a decline due to the economic crisis. Aside from that, times are changing, and consumers are now paying more attention to developments regarding fuel-efficient and clean cars. The sales of German cars have been predicted to fall, but German car manufacturers are countering the trend by releasing new models and accelerating their production of clean cars such as hybrid cars and electric cars.

The German car manufacturers were not big fans of hybrid cars, despite some hybrid cars they have revealed at car shows in recent years. Most German car companies recognized at first that hybrids will not match up to the quality of diesel and next-generation gasoline vehicles. Instead of plunging head first into the trend of hybrid cars, German car manufacturers analyzed not just production costs and prices but also the overall expense of building and operating a car with a full hybrid system. The companies considered that despite the high improvements in fuel emissions, full hybrid cars cost around 18 times for every 3% to 5% increase in fuel efficiency. With this in mind, German car makers are taking the hybrid power train one step at a time.

Advanced Concepts Already in Work

This, however, did not keep the German manufacturers from toying with concept cars such as the 70-mpg full hybrid Golf from Volkswagen, a diesel-electric model. BMW also has not yet released any hybrids for real, though the company has also looked into the concept and has developed a sample gas-electric hybrid edition of the existing X6 SUV.

Porsche, however, takes on a different view. Despite its knowledge of the consequences of using hybrids, the company hopes to maintain its dominance in the industry in case the industry swerves to the hybrid course. Thus, the company hopes that if it goes ahead in the release of hybrid cars, they will do so in quality. The company currently maintains a power train development project for two hybrid concept cars, the Panamera Hybrid and the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid.

Mercedes-Benz, however, had other plans in mind. They are also active in the development of eco-friendly vehicles, but seem to be taking things one step at a time. The company uses a unique modular design for their new vehicles so that hybrid systems can be easily applied at later time. On the side, studies and developments on hybrid cars continue. In fact, Mercedes-Benz has a hybrid set for release in the near future, the S400 BlueHYBRID. Mercedes-Benz is showing strong eagerness for the move to the hybrid cars. Here’s a peak under the hood of the S400 BlueHYBRID (courtesy emercedesbenz.com.)

The S 400 HYBRID is the first passenger car model with hybrid drive to be introduced by Mercedes-Benz. Its combination of a further developed V6 petrol engine and a compact hybrid module makes the S 400 HYBRID the world’s most efficient luxury saloon with a petrol engine. In the New European Driving Cycle, the combined fuel consumption is only 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres. This produces the world’s lowest CO2 emissions in this vehicle and output class – just 186 grams per kilometre.

These exemplary figures go hand in hand with outstanding performance potential: the 3.5-litre petrol engine develops 205 kW/279 hp, while the electric motor adds another 15 kW/20 hp and a starting torque of 160 Nm. The combined output is therefore 220 kW/299 hp, with a combined maximum torque of 385 newton metres. Moreover, the new S 400 HYBRID is the first series-production model to be equipped with a particularly powerful lithium-ion battery specifically designed for automotive use. This is another pioneering step by Mercedes-Benz towards the electrification of the automobile.


Although at first glance, it seems that the German car industry is falling behind of other automakers, such as Japan’s, which has already released the iconic Toyota Prius, the saying “better sure than sorry” seems to apply to Germany’s case. The entire industry seems to be taking precautions but at the same time, actively pursuing hybrid technologies. So whatever direction the automobile industry goes, the German car manufacturers will surely still come out as strong contenders.

The German Diesels

Despite the hesitations to release full hybrid cars, the German car manufacturers saw fit to improve the fuel efficiency of their existing car offers. Volkswagen has introduced its Blue Motion line, a line of cars with ultra low emission and improved efficiency. The cars include the Polo, Passat, Estate wagon and Golf, with more to be announced. The VW Golf was actually named “2009 World Car of the Year” at the recent New York International Auto Show. The Golf features a 1.6L diesel engine with impressive rated mileage of 70 miles per gallon. It emits just 99 grams of CO2 with every kilometer traveled, which beats the specifications of the 2009 Prius hybrid car (104 g/km of CO2). The company has also entered into a collaborative project with Porsche for the production of eco-friendly cars. And don’t forget the 2009 Jetta TDI diesel, which is rated at 41 mpg but is already racking up praises from fans who have exceeded 50 mpg.  

VW Gold BlueMotion Diesel Car

VW Jetta TDI Diesel Car

When Toyota and Honda both came out with hybrid cars, the world’s attention was captured. With the release came the speculations that it would only be a matter of time for the other automobile industry giants to follow suit. However, many years after the Toyota Prius was released, people were still waiting for the German hybrids. The first impression was that the German giants were lagging behind, but with new offers in the market from these German giants such as the VW Jetta Wagon and the E320 from Mercedes-Benz that offer excellent mileage and impressive fuel efficiency on diesel, German car manufacturers seemed to say to the world that the costly full hybrid cars are not necessary the best or only solution for the environment.

Taking German Hybrids to Market

Today, while the German car manufacturers are indeed looking more closely into hybrid cars, they are not racing ahead like Chinese and Japanese car manufacturers. Given the careful planning and meticulous studies that the German car makers put into the direction they want to take the industry towards, when the time comes for the hybrids to take over, German car makers such as VW, Audi, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, and many others will be expected to play the game competitively.

Three hybrid cars are lined up for release from German manufacturers, though the release dates are still fuzzy as of press time. The cars are the Audi Q7, the Porsche Cayenne, and the VW Touareg. All cars are still in the development stage and it will be several more years before completion. With reputation and brand name at risk, the German car manufacturers are surely developing ways to ensure their hybrid cars as high in quality as possible. Some companies, such as Daimler as well as BMW have also entered into agreements with companies from Japan and the United States. Even BMW and Mercedes-Benz, two rivals, are now collaborating on concepts for the future hybrid car.

Euro 6 emission standards set for implementation in 2015 will be produce interesting clean cars, including hybrids, coming out of Germany. With quality, performance and reputation on the line, top German car brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Porsche, Daimler AG, and VW will come to market with full force in due time. The bottom line: the German hybrids will certainly be worth the wait.

Clean Cars Made in Germany: Latest From German Car Manufacturers is a post from: CleanCarTalk

President Obama made the announcement this morning in the White House Rose Garden. He was joined on stage by the Presidents, CEOs, or other top executives from Ford, Toyota, General Motors, Honda, Chrysler, BMW AG, Nissan, Mercedez-Benz, Mazda, Volkswagon, and the United Auto Workers to announce a new consensus. The President said this was a historic day. Here are a few excerpts from his speech.

…Right now, the rules governing fuel economy in this country are inadequate, uncertain, and in flux.  First, there is the standard for fuel economy administered by the Department of Transportation.  On top of that, the Environmental Protection Agency, in response to a decision by the Supreme Court, may have to set limits on greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles — establishing another standard.  California has sought permission under the Clean Air Act to require that vehicles sold in California meet yet another even stricter emission rule.  And 13 states and the District of Columbia have agreed to adopt California greenhouse gas reductions if the permission — called a waiver — is granted…

…A series of major lawsuits will be dropped in support of this new national standard.  The state of California has also agreed to support this standard — and I want to applaud California and Governor Schwarzenegger and the entire California delegation for their extraordinary leadership.  They have led the way on this as they have in so many other efforts to protect our environment.  In addition, because the Department of Transportation and EPA will adopt the same rule, we will avoid an inefficient and ineffective system of regulations that separately govern the fuel economy of autos and the carbon emissions they produce…

…In three years’ time you will have paid off the additional investment required.  So this is a winning proposition for folks looking to buy a car.  In fact, over the life of a vehicle, the typical driver would save about $2,800 by getting better gas mileage…

…in the next five years, we’re seeking to raise fuel-economy standards to an industry average of 35.5 miles per gallon in 2016, an increase of more than eight miles per gallon per vehicle…

President Obama Announces Fuel Economy Standards of 35.5 mpg by 2016 is a post from: CleanCarTalk

S400 BlueHybrid (3:48)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bB1PvgBez1k

2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid (2:05)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWu7uXDoPAY

2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid by Road and Track (0:59)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XoF24jQ1yk

2010 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid Videos is a post from: CleanCarTalk

A new study indicated, among other trends, that 21% of Europeans said they would buy a car from Apple, while 48% would buy a car from BMW.

Okay now let’s put things in context. According to a BusinessWeek article “Luxury Buyers Ready for E-Cars, Bain Says” posted by Jack Ewing on January 27, 2009, the survey by consultant Bain & Co. of Munich, Germany included 4,000 people from eight countries, including the U.S., China, Japan and Germany. General finding is that high-income buyers are ready to buy electric cars as a second vehicle. Now this is no surprise since affluent buyers don’t need basic transportation and can afford a second car, be it a Ferrari or a Tesla. What’s more interesting though is the fact that those surveyed said they are ready to buy electric cars.

It is Tesla’s strategy to build an electric car for the high-end market first. Then with experience and volume, roll out more affordable sedans for the mass. It makes a lot of sense for a company which has not produced an automobile before. But what does this really do to the industry?

According to the article, the study seems to indicate a major shift in traditional car manufacturers mentality that actually forces them to go slowly with new electric-powered vehicles. This is because as the internal combustion engines, transmissions and other conventional fossil fuel-related components are removed from the automobiles, as in the case of hybrids, plug-in hybrids and all-electric cars, the less there is to differentiate between car brands. As Mr. Ewing wrote, “Electric motors are much less complicated to build than internal combustion engines and require only a simple gearbox … The qualities that have sold BMWs, Lexus and Mercedes won’t be as unique anymore.”

What’s left is unique design, which can still give you a strong competitive edge. This means we’ll probably see more collaborations between car manufacturers and non-automobile companies in the future. And when you have the Swiss watch manufacturer Swatch choosing Daimler-Benz to build the Swatch Mercedes ART, or smart as we know it, an Apple car may not be that far-fetched.

What’s your take on this? Share your opinions by leaving a comment below.

Only the Affluent Can Afford Electric Cars Today, and One in Five Would Buy Car from Apple – Yes That Apple (AAPL) is a post from: CleanCarTalk

While it looks like Mercedes-Benz will leave the 2009 E-Class sedans unchanged, the arrival of the E-320 BlueTEC diesel is exciting. For the 2010 version, only more refinements are expected.

Directly from MB, the 2009 E320 BlueTEC’s arrival significantly alters the operating cost equation. The E320 delivers substantial torque and high mileage. Now emissions certified in all 50 states and all of Canada, the E320 BlueTEC uses a 3.0-liter turbo diesel V6 producing 210 hp and 400 lb/ft of torque. The EPA mileage estimate is 23 mpg in city driving and 32 mpg on the highway, putting the E320 BlueTEC at the top of the charts in its class by a wide margin. The E320 BlueTEC is otherwise identical to the E350 aside from riding on 16-inch wheels. The BlueTEC diesel is unlike any diesel you’ve ever seen or heard about. It features low emissions, a smooth, clatter-free idle with prodigious torque and impressive fuel economy.

It’s an impressive sedan. FoxNews.com back in April 2008 wrote about a 700-mile-on-a-tank trip on a 2008 diesel E-320 in this Mercedes-Benz E320 BlueTec article. The 21-gallon capacity tank did its job, proving that the car does what the EPA numbers specify. Here’s a YouTube video explaining the BlueTEC technology at work using cool animation.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5STGppxcdw

MB won’t tinker too much with the 2010 model either, according to this Car and Driver spied article by Jared Gall. Mr. Gall wrote, “Our sources tell us there will also be little change in the engine room, where the V-6 diesel in the E320 BlueTec and the V-8 in the E550 will receive only minor updates”. That’s okay with me. Why mess with a good thing.

Check out below some spy photos of the 2010 E-Class courtesy of CarandDriver.com.

From the photos, I can see minor fixes around the vehicle body, most notably sharper edges all around, with new side mirrors and no more oval headlights. It also looks like MB will put the large three star in the middle of the grill instead of the hood ornament. The design actually reminds me of the new C-Class look.

With a New BlueTEC Buzz, a Glimpse of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a post from: CleanCarTalk