Mercedes-Benz Release BlueEFFICIENCY

With climate change at the forefront of everyones mind and new emissions targets to achieve in Europe by 2010 everyone is striving to reduce carbon emissions. Mercedes have for some time used Daimler BlueTec systems but have now branded their own range of new vehicles with the target of reducing emissions.

Ecologically-sensitive motoring is a key issue and one Mercedes-Benz have focused on particularly hard. Their efforts have received acclaim in the form of environmental certificates from Germany ’s prestigious TUV. These prominent certificates have been awarded to the S-Class, A-Class, B-Class and C-Class.

In a bid to help the customer identify with their eco-credentials Mercedes-Benz are releasing new super-economical BlueEFFICIENCY editions to some of their most popular models, including the A-Class and B-Class BlueEFFICIENCY.

These efficient models are also focused on smaller energy saving models. The percentage of small car sales is growing and in the current climate with falling all round it is important to capitalize on his growth.

The diesel A-Class 160 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY produces the least emissions of any Mercedes-Benz vehicle at just 116 g/km of CO2, which also makes it class-leading in the premium hatchback sector nationwide.

The new models are incredibly similar to those currently on the market but with a myriad of small but vital modifications from the engine to the wheels. Many will also  feature the popular stop-start technology.

The latest development is the BlueEFFICIENCY C 180 K, which will replace the current C 180 KOMPRESSOR from December 2008 production. This super-efficient model will provide the performance and luxury that C-Class drivers have come to expect, while delivering substantial improvements on economy and emissions.

Whilst Mercedes-Benz recognize that the C 180 K is one of the most iconic and popular designs maximum effort has been taken not to compromise the performance of this premium vehicle. The engine, chassis, tyres and equipment have all been re-developed to reduce resistance and economise on every drop of fuel.

The effects of these changes have resulted in a reduction in CO2 levels to just 149 g/km, saving 18g/km and reducing the vehicle excise duty. These savings also result in fuel consumption savings of 11% compared to the existing C 180 KOMPRESSOR design.

The original ‘KOMPRESSOR’ badging at the rear remains the same but the BlueEFFICIENCY badges on the wings. What’s probably best about all this is that although the emissions are lower, fuel consumption is down and the engine size is now 1,597 cc, compared to the old 180 K it still has the same 156 hp and 230 Nm torque.

Ed Dooley

25/10/2008