Taking a Closer Look at the Upcoming Mercedes BlueTec Vehicles
There has been a lot of buzz in the auto industry surrounding Mercedes-Benz’ brand new BlueTec technology. This ultra-low emissions diesel technology burns much cleaner than traditional gasoline engines. At the same time, the system is customized to greatly enhance fuel efficiency. In today’s climate of increasing concern over the problems of global warming coupled with skyrocketing gas prices, the need for such a solution is clear. Nonetheless, developing the new technology to the point of widespread consumer introduction was not an easy process. Consumer Reports recently reported on the reasons why.
One problem, apparently, was in the type of diesel that has been readily sold on the American market. Older diesel fuels were dirty and toxic. Remember the diesel fumes that used to surround big trucks? It was easy to smell them coming in your direction. However, the increased attention on environmental concerns has led to a gradual shift in the type of diesel that is available. Newer, ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel has become the national standard, and is perfect for use in clean burning vehicles.
Engineering the BlueTec system was the next hurdle that Mercedes had to overcome. On Monday, we will discuss the specifics behind this amazing piece of technology. A great deal of precision engineering and a unique method of cleaning the exhaust gases are just two of the components required to make BlueTec a success.
Mercedes recently announced a lineup of three 2009 SUV classes that will offer BlueTec as an option: ML-Class, R-Class and GL-Class. Mercedes estimates the GL 320 with BlueTec will average 24 mpg, a savings of nearly 40% over a traditional gas engine. To learn more about the BlueTec vehicles, be sure to check out this month’s BlueTec focus.
Filed Under: Mercedes-Benz Vehicles
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nice blog.