Mercedes ECO-Start Turning Heads in England
For many years, Mercedes-Benz has enjoyed a well-earned reputation as a world leader in luxury, safety, performance and environmental friendliness. In recent years, Mercedes has experienced an explosion in technological growth. The latest entry in a long line of green technologies is the new ECO-Start system, which is proving highly useful across England, according to the Transport News Network.
ECO-Start is an enhancement on the original Motor Start Stop, or MSS, system that is already available in England. Both systems have been installed as optional add-ons in Sprinter vans with manual transmissions and four cylinder engines.
The system is activated by flipping a switch on the dashboard. When active, the system automatically turns off the engine whenever the van is stopped for more than two seconds. ECO-Start monitors the engine to ensure that it is operating at normal temperature before engaging. Additionally, the driver must put the car in neutral and lift his or her foot from the clutch. When the clutch pedal is again pressed, the car automatically restarts.
Although data is not immediately available on the new ECO-Start system, real-world testing of the MSS was conducted by a number of transportation companies in London and Manchester. The data from the London test showed that the vehicle spent an average of one hour with the engine off during the five hour testing period. Comparing the vehicle’s performance to that of a non-MSS version of the same vehicle showed that the MSS-equipped van used 10% less fuel.
In Manchester, the results were even more stunning. That test showed a reduction of 30% in fuel consumption. Experts attribute the difference in fuel savings to outside influences including driving style and traffic patterns.
These results show real promise for drivers in urban areas, particularly as fuel costs continue to soar. To learn more about ECO-Start or any other fascinating new Mercedes-Benz vehicle technology, why not drop by our local dealership?
Filed Under: Mercedes-Benz Vehicles
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