DENZA Unveils All-Electric Show Car at Auto China 2012 in Beijing

DENZA unveiled its new all-electric vehicle show car at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The battery-driven vehicle that defines a new level of sophistication in the Chinese New Energy Vehicle (NEV) segment is the result of the partnership between BYD and Daimler.

Auto China 2012 marks the first appearance of the DENZA brand at a motor show. It is also the first landmark event since the official launch of the brand, which took place in Shenzhen in March this year. The arrival of DENZA marked the first strictly NEV brand in the Chinese market.

“Even before the birth of DENZA, Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology Co., Ltd. (BDNT) has created a very special ‘first’: When Daimler and BYD made their partnership official in the spring of 2010, they founded the first joint venture in China dedicated solely to New Energy Vehicle. The Joint Venture is making extremely positive progress with the first prototypes of the future production model already out on the streets,” said Ulrich Walker, Chairman of the Board of Directors of BDNT and Chairman and CEO of Daimler Northeast Asia. “We are very much on track with the plans for our DENZA vehicle.”

Over 200 engineers and experts from both companies have gathered and combined their strengths at BDNT’s base in Shenzhen. BYD is providing its expertise in battery technology and e-drive systems, as well as their experience in bringing electric vehicles onto the roads of China. Daimler is contributing more than 125 years of excellence in automotive design and know-how in vehicle architecture, safety and quality.

The concept car unveiled today, a full electric battery-driven model, was designed, and will be built and sold in China. “We are reaching out to those who believe that state-of-the-art technologies and beautiful concepts can blend together into the perfect mobility solution without compromising on safety and comfort, to provide both a modern and green urban lifestyle,” remarked BDNT COO Arno Roehringer while introducing the car at Auto China 2012. “We are creating DENZA not only for the people of today, but also for inspiring our next generations.”

“We brought traditional Chinese elements forward into the next generation with a priority on ergonomic design and some futuristic innovations,” said CEO Lian Yubo, on hand to point out some of the features of the car to the gathering of auto media and various dignitaries. “The rear seating area was designed to feel as much as possible like a lounge area. The lounge character really comes out through the reclining rear seats integrated into the design.” He went on to describe the chrome inside and out, the wood and copper features in the interior, and the ambient light system that runs all throughout the cabin making night driving more pleasant without compromising safety.

The exterior chrome can be illuminated to provide perfected visibility and safety. It is visually integrated with the battery storage area, which succeeds better than most EVs at keeping the batteries out of passengers’ way. Combined with the rear-hinged rear doors, the DENZA concept car is easily accessible, with no awkward battery-related steps to clear while entering or exiting the vehicle.

The DENZA booth at Auto China is carefully designed to reflect the strengths of the car, as well as the values of the company. The main feature is a large white ribbon which flows all around the booth, defining its dimensions and the character of the interior. The sense of movement – like a car on the road - is reinforced by the actual movement of the light in the LED strip along its rocker panel. The LED light is the identical blue found in DENZA logo and in the body paint of the car. This “DENZA blue” color represents the company’s twin conceptual foundations of environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology.

On DENZA

China is the home of DENZA because of its potential as an NEV market. With its expanding middle class, increasing urbanization, open-minded consumers, and a supportive government determined to reduce their reliance on crude oil, central government expects the number of NEVs in China to rise from its current level of 10,000 to 5,000,000 by 2020 according to the latest NEV industrialization plan. With the launch of its new concept car, and a production model slated for release in 2013, DENZA is “on track”.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY declared 2012 World Green Car

At a press conference hosted by Bridgestone Corporation and the New York International Auto Show, the Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was declared the 2012 World Green Car.

The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY was chosen from an initial entry list of 23 new vehicles from all over the world, then three finalists: the Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, the Ford Focus Electric, and the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid.

This is the second time in World Green Car history that a Mercedes-Benz technology has won this prestigious honour. The Mercedes-Benz E 320 BlueTEC technology was the 2007 World Green Car winner.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The Mercedes-Benz efficiency champions: Complete Story

These days, Mercedes-Benz is fully focused on building the most efficient premium automobiles in the world. The German constructor is keen to offer a green alternative in every market segment. Whether we talk about the newly unveiled E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, the diesel-powered SLK 250 CDI or the new generation SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, the recipe for success remains the same. Minute attention is paid to the aerodynamical development of the body, while the engines, running on petrol or diesel, are constantly enhanced with the latest technologies that help achieve outstanding values for CO2 emissions and fuel economy.

Why not have a look through the links posted below which talk about Mercedes-Benz's newest fleet of highly efficient cars? Enjoy!


>> The Mercedes-Benz efficiency champions: Impressive efficiency without compromises



>> New Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: The world's most fuel-efficient luxury-class model



>> The Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI: Roadster with 'power diesel'



>> The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI: The 5 litres/100 km S-Class



>> New Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC: Range of up to 1500 kilometres



>> The all new Mercedes-Benz SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY: Light, athletic, luxurious

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The all new Mercedes-Benz SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY: Light, athletic, luxurious

With the all-new SL, Mercedes-Benz is continuing a tradition that began 60 years ago, since when "SL" has always stood for a symbiosis of sportiness, style and comfort – and for trailblazing innovations. The SL's bodyshell consists almost entirely of aluminium for the first time, and weighs in at up to 140 kilograms less than its predecessor. The highly rigid all-aluminium bodyshell provides the basis for emphatically sportier, agile handling accompanied by exemplary ride and driving comfort. Enhanced driving dynamics are ensured by new BlueDIRECT engines.

The new V6 power unit of the new SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY generates 225 kW (306 hp) from an unchanged displacement of 3499 cubic centimetres, and delivers 370 newton metres of torque. It consumes a modest 6.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres, and is therefore almost 30 percent more economical than its predecessor. The SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY is equipped with an ECO start/stop function as standard.

The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, which has been optimised for fuel consumption and comfort, also contributes to fuel efficiency. The modesty of the BlueDIRECT engines in no way compromises the dynamism of the Roadster. On the contrary, the SL 350 sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds and is therefore three tenths of a second faster than its predecessor.

Aerodynamics: new standards

The design of the new SL not only meets high aesthetic demands – it also boasts exemplary aerodynamic qualities. As such, the roadster merits best marks in its segment in four important disciplines:
- it has the lowest drag coefficient (Cd = 0.27 for the SL 350);

- it has the lowest wind noise, virtually on a par with a closed saloon;

- it provides the best comfort for open-top motoring, and can be driven with the roof down even at high speeds;

- there is virtually no soiling of the side windows.




Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

New Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC: Range of up to 1500 kilometres

The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class sets new standards in the SUV sector, and particularly impresses with its low fuel consumption and emission figures. Compared to the previous series, the entire model range of the new M-Class consumes an average of 25 percent less fuel. Outstandingly, the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is content with an NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km) and can travel up to 1500 kilometres on a single tankful. Efficiency notwithstanding, the fascination of the M-Class with its unique synthesis of agility, driving pleasure and comfort is fully preserved.

In the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, the 3.0-litre V6 of the previous ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC model is replaced by the thrifty four-cylinder power unit already familiar from the S-Class. The NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km is 28 percent lower than that of the previous model. Thanks to AdBlue® exhaust aftertreatment, the diesel meets the EU-6 standard due to come into force from 2014.

The calculatory range with a full tank of fuel is particularly impressive. With an NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km, the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC with the standard 70-litre tank can cover around 1170 kilometres between fuel-stops. If the vehicle is fitted with the optional 93-litre‑tank, the car can even cover up to 1500 kilometres between fuel-stops.

The excellent fuel economy is underpinned by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures, as well as by this state-of-the-art engineering. In addition to the ECO start/stop function that comes as standard, these measures include the new seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with a new fuel-economy converter, low-friction bearings and a transmission oil thermal management system. Low-friction axle drives, electric steering, the optimised belt drive, the on-demand control of all ancillary components and pumps, and tyres with low rolling resistance also play their part in reducing fuel consumption. What's more, intelligent lightweight design has stopped the weight from spiralling upwards.

With a drag coefficient of Cd = 0.32, the new M-Class (ML 250 BlueTEC) also sets a new best figure for this vehicle class. The key factor determining the low wind resistance is the aerodynamic efficiency of the basic body shell, including the optimised design of the front bumper, the A-pillars and the roof spoiler, plus numerous other detailed improvements.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI: The 5 litres/100 km S-Class

The title of "The world's most economical luxury saloon" goes to the new S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. With an output of 150 kW (204 hp) it achieves a fuel consumption of only 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 149 grams per kilometre.

The first four-cylinder engine in the more than 60-year success story of the S‑Class attains a combined fuel consumption of just 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 149 grams per kilometre. This makes the S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY the first car in the luxury segment to consume under 6 litres of fuel per 100 km, and the first vehicle in its class to attain CO2 emissions below the 150-gram mark. With a peak power output of 150 kW (204 hp) and maximum torque of 500 newton metres, the four-cylinder CDI guarantees the superior performance which is a hallmark of the S‑Class. It accelerates the large saloon from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds, with a top speed of 240 km/h.

The 2.2-litre CDI engine already delivers its maximum torque at 1600 rpm. The high torque at low engine speeds is a result of two-stage turbocharging. This technology, which is employed in a series-production passenger car diesel engine for the first time in the C and E-Class, is predominantly responsible for the high output at the level of a six-cylinder power unit.

The compact module for the two-stage turbocharging consists of a small high-pressure (HP) turbocharger and a large low-pressure (LP) turbocharger. These are connected in series, and each has a turbine and a compressor driven by this turbine. The HP turbine is located directly at the exhaust manifold to take the initial flow of exhaust gas, and rotates at up to 215,000 rpm. The HP turbine housing features an integral bypass duct, which can be opened or closed by means of a charge-pressure control flap triggered by a vacuum cell. If the flap is closed the whole exhaust stream flows through the HP turbine, so that the exhaust gas energy is available solely for the HP turbine drive. This means that the optimum charge pressure can already be built up at low engine speeds.

Improved cylinder charging even at low rpm

The two compressors are likewise connected in series, and are in addition connected to a bypass duct. The combustion air from the air filter first flows through the low-pressure compressor, where it is compressed as a function of the LP turbine's output. This pre-compressed air then passes into the high-pressure compressor, which is coupled to the HP turbine, where it undergoes further compression. The result is a genuine two-stage turbocharging process. The major advantage of this sophisticated, demand-related control of the combustion air supply using two turbochargers is improved cylinder charging, and therefore high torque even at low engine speeds. Fuel consumption is also reduced. When the car is driven, this concept makes itself felt by harmonious driving characteristics with no turbo-lag, a favourable torque curve across the entire engine speed range, great responsiveness and excellent performance.

A further feature of the innovative and highly efficient diesel engine is fourth-generation common-rail direct injection. The rail pressure of 2000 bar is crucial in order to deliver 150 kW (204 hp) of engine power and maximum torque of 500 Nm in combination with low untreated emissions.










Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI: Roadster with 'power diesel'

With the SLK 250 CDI, Mercedes-Benz is not only continuing its unrivaled diesel tradition but also refuting the misconception that diesel engines and sports cars do not go together. The four-cylinder diesel engine of the Roadster generates 150 kW (204 hp) from a displacement of just under 2.2 litres, and gives the two-seater a decidedly sporty character. 6.7 seconds elapse when sprinting from zero to 100 km/h – a figure worthy of a sports car. Moreover, with an NEDC combined diesel consumption of 4.9 litres per 100 km, the SLK 250 CDI is the most economical and therefore environmentally friendly roadster in its segment.

For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering the sporty SLK Roadster with a diesel engine. The four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 2143 cc generates an output of 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 newton metres of torque – as much as a petrol engine with twice the displacement would normally generate. This makes the new SLK 250 CDI the most powerful diesel model in its class, and gives the Roadster the potential for extremely sporty performance.

Equipped with the standard 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission (a six-speed manual transmission will follow in the second quarter of 2012), the diesel SLK is able to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 243 km/h. Moreover, the flexibility of the SLK 250 CDI is nothing short of phenomenal. Thanks to its enormous diesel torque it accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in just 4.3 seconds – easily the best figure in this class, making for safe and effortless overtaking.

Apart from this, the SLK 250 CDI is the most economical and therefore the most environmentally compatible roadster in its segment. It is happy with 4.9 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 128 g/km. In other words, the diesel SLK combines thoroughbred sports car performance with the fuel economy of a sub-compact. This guarantees effortlessly superior driving pleasure with great fuel efficiency.

The diesel engine achieves its exemplary output, torque, fuel consumption and emissions figures, as well as its highly impressive smoothness for a diesel unit, thanks to a series of innovative technologies. These include fourth-generation common-rail injection with precise injection timing, as well as two-stage turbocharging. Like all SLK models, the SLK 250 CDI is equipped with an ECO start/stop system as standard.

Its frugal fuel consumption makes the SLK 250 CDI a car with superior long-distance qualities. Using the European motorways, it is quite possible to drive non-stop from the North Sea all the way to a beach on the Mediterranean. Very comfortable sports seats, a comfortable suspension setup and the largest luggage capacity in this segment also do their bit to create the right conditions.






Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

New Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: The world's most fuel-efficient luxury-class model

The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is all set for its market launch with record efficiency values of 4.2 litres of diesel/100 km and 109 g CO2/km, accompanied by increased torque and power output. Its modular hybrid concept with a lithium-ion battery does not impose any compromises on space and offers an impressive driving experience thanks to start/stop, regenerative braking, the boost effect, all-electric driving and sailing. Available as either a saloon or estate, the new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment.

Mercedes-Benz is opening up a new chapter in the core segment for the brand, setting new standards for luxury-class business cars: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as a Saloon and an Estate, boasts truly impressive performance. Its 4-cylinder diesel engine generates 150 kW (204 hp) of output and 500 Nm of torque. The diesel engine combines with an electric motor rated at 20 kW and 250 Nm to produce a harmonious overall concept.

The new model does not impose compromises on passengers in terms of spaciousness, either in the interior or in the luggage compartment. The intelligent, modular hybrid concept represents a comprehensive enhancement of the S 400 HYBRID – the clear market leader in its segment: no body modifications are necessary, the hybrid module is flexible and also suitable for deployment in other model series.

The extra cost of € 3570 with a comparable level of equipment is moderate: in Germany the Saloon version of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID costs € 51,794.75, the Estate version € 55,007.75 (both incl. 19% VAT). Both models will be launched in the third quarter 2012.

The philosophy: enhanced efficiency without compromising on comfort or utility

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID forms part of the brand's downsizing strategy, which involves making conventional models perform far more efficiently than previously – without sacrificing driveability or comfort. Here the company's engineers have their sights set on fuel consumption figures in everyday traffic, rather than on standard or NEDC combined consumption. The familiar "Real Life Safety" philosophy, which focuses on safety benefits under real-life conditions rather than standardised crash-test results, is augmented by "Real Life Efficiency".

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is based on the E 250 CDI, yet has a higher output and approx. 15 percent lower fuel consumption.

Overview of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID:

On the road therefore, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is comparable to the E 300 CDI (170 kW/540 Nm), yet it boasts around 35 percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. In terms of vehicle weight too, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is on a par with the E 300 CDI.

At the same time, hybridisation enhances ride comfort: the car starts and moves off in virtual silence, while the hybrid module also dampens any internal combustion engine vibrations. What's more, full climate control is available even in start/stop mode.

Sailing along the motorway

Mercedes-Benz hybrid technology offers a wealth of extra functions that enhance both comfort and efficiency, as well as helping to deliver a special driving experience underpinned by accomplished sportiness:

When the car is stationary – ECO start/stop: the internal combustion engine can be switched off when coasting on the overrun at speeds up to 160 km/h, since ancillaries such as the steering, brakes and refrigerant compressor operate electrically. It is restarted quickly, smoothly and virtually silently.

Manoeuvring: in most cases the car uses electric power alone for manoeuvring and parking.

Accelerating: electrical power alone is used for moving off and driving under low load. Acceleration from standstill is particularly powerful, since the electric motor's full torque of up to 250 Nm is immediately available.

Boost function: the electric motor supports the combustion engine during acceleration, e.g. when overtaking.

Cruising: when the car is being driven at a constant speed, the engine control unit shifts the operating points towards exceptionally low specific fuel consumption levels.

Sailing: "sailing", as it has come to be known, is possible at speeds below 160 km/h. The combustion engine shuts down and the desired speed is maintained by the electric‑motor alone until the battery needs recharging.

Kinetic energy recuperation when coasting or braking: when the car is coasting (decelerating on the overrun), the electric motor acts as a generator. When the brake pedal is depressed, the generator output is initially increased proportionally for greater deceleration. Only when increased brake pressure is applied are the wheel brakes also operated.
Information: an additional economy effect arises after a relatively short period of time, as drivers come to apply the above-stated functions in an increasingly more purposeful and effective manner. They are supported here by the display concept in the hybrid models – the central display provides information on the current energy flow and the charge status of the battery.

The hybrid module: a compact and intelligently integrated powerhouse

The hybrid drive unit is a further development of the module from the S 400 HYBRID and is based on the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. Distinguishing features include omission of the hydraulic torque converter and the addition of a wet clutch of the kind also found in the high-performance AMG models. Consequently, the electric motor can be integrated in the transmission unit in such a way that it takes up only marginally more space than the 7G-TRONIC (+65 mm). The omission of the converter allows all-electric motoring as well as "sailing", thus significantly boosting the potential to reduce fuel consumption.

The compact electric motor, which is installed in space-saving configuration in the clutch housing between engine and transmission, is a 3-phase AC internal rotor magneto motor which generates a maximum output of 20 kW and peak torque of 250 Nm at an operating voltage of 120 volts.

The components: perfectly integrated into the vehicle

The hybrid drive's electrical energy is provided by the high-voltage lithium-ion battery specially developed for use in vehicles. Its key characteristics include an output of 19 kW and an energy content of 0.8 kWh, allowing the E-Class to run on electric power alone at up to 35 km/h and for up to one kilometre. Its space-saving installation in the engine compartment in place of the conventional starter battery means that the generous interior dimensions and the luggage compartment capacity remain unchanged. In addition to serving as an energy accumulator for the electric motor, the lithium-ion battery is also connected via the voltage converter to the 12V on-board electrical system, which supplies power to standard power-consuming devices such as the headlamps and the comfort features.

Sophisticated packaging means that numerous hybrid-specific components such as the high-performance electronics in the engine compartment can be directly incorporated with the internal combustion engine, thus neatly rounding off the modularity concept: the hybrid models can be produced on the same assembly line as their conventional counterparts without needing to be diverted elsewhere. Another plus point of the overall concept is the scalability and compatibility with other vehicles and engines.

Safety: on a par with previous models

Integration of the hybrid systems without any body modifications has the practical benefit of not restricting spaciousness in any way, as well as ensuring that all hybrid models boast exactly the same high level of safety as their counterparts with an internal combustion engine – a very important aspect for Mercedes-Benz. Accident behaviour has been successfully tested in crash simulations and tests.

At a glance: Technical highlights of the Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID*

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.