Mercedes-Benz – Page 67 – Automobiles Review

2012 Mercedes-Benz B 180 certified with less CO2 emissions

The new Mercedes Benz B 180 has just received the Environmental Certificate, because ir produces 16 percent less CO2 emissions than the prvious one. The high level of environmental compatibility however can be seen even beyond the reductions in fuel consumption. To be more precise Mercedes-Benz analyses the environmental compatibility of its models according to their entire life cycle. This cycle embraces not only the production of the vehicle but also includes their long years of service and eventually adds the recycling at the end of their lives. But this wasn’t the only vehicle produced by the luxury brand, which has received the forespoken certificate. Additionally nine other model series were awarded with the Environmental Certificate.

But let us revew the entire life cycle of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. Starting with the production, through service of over 160,000 kilometres and ending with the recycling – the new model B 180 causes 16 percent less CO₂ emissions than its predecessor. The primary energy consumption over the vehicle’s entire life cycle is cut by 14 percent, of couse this is in comparison to the precious version of the car. For instance, the fuel consumption of the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol model with dual clutch transmission ranges from 5.9 to 6.2 l/100 km. To make it clearer the last version of the B 180 had a fuel consumption of 7.3 to 7.5 l/100 km. Therefore this means that there is substantial reduction in fuel consumption of up to 19 percent! These savings are due to an intelligent package of measures, namely – the BlueEFFICIENCY technologies. They include optimisation measures in the area of the powertrain, energy management, aerodynamics, tyres optimised for minimum rolling resistance, weight reduction through lightweight construction and driver information to encourage an energy-saving style of driving.

Moreover the new B-Class already meets the recycling rate of 95 percent by weight. To be more precise the B-Class includes 75 components representing a total weight of 39 kilograms which can be produced with the partial use of high-quality recycled plastics, thus resulting in 13 percent increase in the weight of approved recycled components. For example, the typical areas of use are wheel arch linings, cable ducts and underbody panels, which consist for the most part of polypropylene. In addition to that there is also an increased emphasis on closed automobile materials cycles. For instance, a recyclate is used for the front wheel arch linings, which is produced from refabricated vehicle components such as starter battery housings, bumper panels from the Mercedes-Benz Recycling System (MeRSy) and production waste from cockpit units. Furthermore, 21 components in the B-Class weight 20 kilograms. They
are produced using natural materials, which marks an increase of 29 percent. And to go further into detaisl these natural materials consist primarily of coconut and wood fibres and honeycomb cardboard in combination with various polymer materials. Next, the modular body-in-white concept is a sign that the B-Class is constructed to accommodate versions with an alternative drive. For example, the appropriate interfaces in the body shell enable the main floor panel to be modified and a step to be
produced for the “ENERGY SPACE” on the versions with alternative drive. At last the underfloor compartment covers part of the area under the rear bench seat, thus offering space for alternative energy accumulators.

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 26, 2012

VOGTLAND Air Suspension Tweak

VOGTLAND is a company with a long lasting experience in suspension tuning and coil-spring production. Now they have a new product exclusively for vehicles with air-suspension chassis as standard. It is an electric module that basically overrides the function of whatever the air suspension and the user has a more viable access to vehicle height control.

The benefits that can come out of this are in favor of the dynamics. Suspensions can be lowered by up to 40 millimeters and as we all know the lower the center of gravity, the better the handling. Besides it just looks more cooler the lower it gets.

Installation depends on model of the vehicle but it is generally easy and seamless. Just pluging in all the connecting cables to the steering electronics of the on-board power supply will do the trick. The module is 100% compatible with standard equipment so any other systems that the chassis might have, can function without a problem. Deinstallation is just as easy, taking up only minutes of the customer’s time. Various cars, SUV’s and such, made by Audi, Bentley, Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Volkswagen can be fitted with VOGTLAND‘s module in question, For more information you can check out their website at: www.vogtland.com

Source: Vogtland

January 23, 2012

FAB Design Mercedes E-Class Convertible

FAB Design has announced their tuning package for Mercedes-Benz E-Class Convertible.

The wide body kit includes new front and rear bumper, a pair of side skirts and extended fenders and quarter panels. The whole package gives superb stance of the beautiful drop-top. The front bumper also comes with LED daylight running lights and exposed carbon fiber sections. Last, but not least, the exterior received a carbon fiber extendable trunk lid spoiler.

FAB E-Class Convertible stands on forged three-piece 9J x 20” at the front and 10J x 20” at the rear alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires.

The stance is also improved by a tuned sports suspension.

The final touch are the two oval tailpipes, which are part of the sports exhaust system with sound control.

Source: FAB Design

January 18, 2012

2012 Mercedes ML 63 AMG Price – €108 885

2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG now can be yours for “just” € 108 885. In addition you can order the AMG performance package for € 7 021. If you think that the price is too high, you have to consider this one more time, because…

The new ML 63 AMG comes with an extremely powerful 5.5 litre bi-turbo V8 engine with 525PS (386 kW) and 700Nm (519 lb-ft). It further can be boosted to to 557PS (410 kW) and 760Nm (563 lb-ft) with the AMG Performance Package. All this power and the four-wheel drive system catapult the heavy SUV from stand still to 100 km/h in 4.7 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph) electronically limited. Last, but not least – the fuel consumption is at decent level 11.8 liters per 100 km.

The engine is mated to AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC system. This is a 7-speed automatic gearbox with several functions – C (Controlled Efficiency), S (Sport) and M (Manual).
If you opted for the AMG Performance package, you’ll get not only the power boost package, but an engine cover in high-quality real carbon, callipers in red painted finish and the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA.

2012 ML 63 AMG stands on enormous five-spoke light-alloy wheels – 9J x 20” with 265/45 R 20 up front and 10J x 21” with 295/35 R 21 at the rear axle. The AMG high-performance braking system provides for the shortest possible braking distances and high fade resistance, featuring ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round in size 390 x 36 mm – front and 345 x 26 mm – rear.

The interior has electrically adjustable AMG sports seats, four-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel with aluminium shift paddles. There are also aluminium trim elements, leather upholstery and a lot AMG badges. The distinctively designed instrument cluster with colour TFT monitor, AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu is exclusive to the ML 63 AMG. The designo Exclusive package features Nappa leather upholstery on the AMG sports seats with an unusual diamond pattern. It is available in designo marron, designo porcelain and designo black.

Check out the full specs HERE!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 16, 2012

Inden Design Challenge the SLS AMG Gullwing

The 1954 Mercedes Benz SL 300 is an icon. Back then it was the first street car ever to feature direct fuel injection. Because of that it was also the fastest. It performed with poise and grace and it looked like supermodel. Today AMG have done a good job to commemorate it with the SLS but being Mercedes Benz descendants, one would imagine that the would do so naturally.

However, now Inden Design have dared to intervene and try to improve upon the SLS itself. AMG have already fitted a 6.2-liter V8 which develops 571 hp and 650 Nm of torque but by fine tuning the software and replacing some exhaust modules, Inden have managed to add 52 hp more making a total of 623 hp. Most likely the standard wheels wont be happy about the new found power so they have been replaced as well. Now “The Flyer “ (that is how Inden have named their project) wears four 20 inch wheels dimensioned 265/30 on the front axle and 290/30 at the back

INDEN design is a tuning house for performance cars such as Mercedes and Ferrari and is situated in Rennerod, Germany.

Source: INDEN design

January 9, 2012

Mercedes-Benz Vito Sport-X

The luxury brand Mercedes-Benz has worked in collaboration with Pioneer GB. The result is the Project-X which is the ultimate DJ van with Pioneer’s world record holding Sound Pressure Level in-car entertainment products. The so called Project-X vehicle is based on a Mercedes-Benz Vito 122CDI Sport-X Dualiner model. The car is powered by a range-topping turbo-charged 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine and produces 224 hp (165 kW) and 440 Nm (325 lb-ft), reaching 100km/h in just 8.3 seconds with a maximum speed of 196 km/h!

The astonishing machine features almost £25,000 worth of Pioneer kit. In details there are two 15” competition class SPL subs and four 10” Champion Series subs which ensure a consistently clear, powerful and wide-ranging bass response. The vehicle also comes with two Pioneer CDJs and unique mixer. In combination both offer the perfect party set-up. The total system features no less than eight independent amplifiers using four batteries and a 300amp power supply, with a speaker power handling capability at a staggering 30,050 watts! Perfect for loud parties, isn’t it?

This special edition Vito Sport-X includes also a Brabus sport steering wheel, gear lever in black leather (with Brabus emblem on it) and lowering springs, chrome sidebars, Sports exhaust, metallic paint, tinted glass, colour coded bumpers and chrome grille and tailgate trim. Hence all this makes the Project-X not only perfect in sound, but also in appearance. Simply breath-taking!

Source: Mercedes-Benz

January 6, 2012

Short preview on next weeks North American International Auto Show

Everything about this year’s North American International Auto Show will spin around small vehicles. As the population grows big and hence the customers of vehicles too, there is obviously the tendency of making more downsized automobiles. The North American International Auto Show will take place next week in Detroit. In addition, there will also be a premiere of the automotive world’s most eagerly anticipated new vehicle. The North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week will also be full of luxury and innovation. Another important highlight is that there will be a huge “invasion” of hybrid vehicles as automakers compete to boost fuel economy. The North American International Auto Show 2012 is undeniably where the global automotive community comes together to catch up on the latest news and events.

In short this is what we are going to see just in few days:

Strongly anticipated at this Auto Show is the Acura brand. First, there will be presented a brand new concept called Acura NSX. This is a high-performance hybrid with a V-6 engine mated to a lithium ion battery pack. It will be developed and expected on the market in three years. Speaking about the immediate future there is the 2012 and 2013 Acura ILX Sedan, and also the redesigned 2013 RDX Compact Crossover, which will be powered by a V-6 replacing a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.From Audi we expect to see a refreshed model of a small sporty sedan and a crossover concept. The next brand with a downsized automobile is Buick, which will reveal a new small crossover, called 2013 Buick Encore. From Cadillac we expect the ATS Sedan, which, as promised will be launched in the second half of this year. Chevrolet will present a sporty RS modification of the Sonic Subcompact with a new front image and grille, and a six-speed manual included. In addition we are going to see two concept vehicles from Chevrolet. Dodge will thrill us with the new 2013 Dodge Dart with a lot of powertrain options and Dodge Charger styling cues. The Dart will be at dealerships in the first half of this year. Ford brand will present at the NAIAS its renewed version of 2013 Fusion which now is with smoother lines, has an engines with direct injection and turbochargers, and a hybrid. Honda will redesign its Accord model in the middle of the year and will also show a new Accord Coupe Concept. This will be a great show for the brand Hyundai which will unveil the turbocharged four-cylinder Veloster. Another preview will be made with a 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe which has now a new grille and front fascia and a brand new interior. From Lexus we expect to see the LF-LC Coupe Concept and we also expect to get the answer whether this vehicle will be hybrid or not. Lincoln will appear with a concept of the new generation MKZ Sedan. A lot of success is going to be expected again from the brand Mercedes-Benz. First of all there will be a presentation of the redesigned 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, which is now longer and lighter than the previous model and has a new all-aluminum body. In addition the SL550 will be powered by a new 4.6-liter direct-injection V-8. Furthermore the luxury brand will present two E-Class Hybrids: the E400 Hybrid Sedan and the E300 BlueTec Hybrid. We can’t continue without mentioning the MINI brand which will “show-off” with their 2012 Roadster which will be in dealerships in February. Nissan Pathfinder Concept will be previewed by Nissan which will also show an electric version of the NV200. The luxury of Porsche will be presented by the 911 Carrera and Carrera S models which will go on sale in few months. Scion is a Toyota sub-brand which will show a new model of FR-S Coupe. The smallest of all small cars – Smart, will exhibit a two-seat electric pickup concept called the Smart For-Us. The Toyota brand of course will compete with a plug-in hybrid concept called the NS4. In addition it will also show the production version of the 2012 Prius C Hatchback. Another European car – Volkswagen will preview a hybrid, called 2013 Jetta Hybrid. And at last the Swedish brand Volvo has prepared for us a surprise with a new Hybrid concept will be firstly revealed at the North American International Auto Show.

To sum up, at the NAIAS we expect to see these production vehicles: 2012/2013 Acura ILX sedan, 2013 Acura RDX Crossover, 2013 Buick Encore Crossover, 2013 Cadillac ATS Sedan, 2013 Dodge Dart Compact, 2013 Ford Fusion, 2013 Mercedes SL Roadster, 2013 Mercedes E-Class Hybrids, 2012 Mini Roadster, 2012 Toyota Prius C Hatchback; and these Concepts: Acura NSX, Audi crossover, Honda Accord Coupe, Lexus LF-LC Coupe, Lincoln MKZ Sedan, Nissan Pathfinder, Scion FR-S Coupe, Smart For-Us Pickup, Toyota NS4 Hybrid, Volvo hybrid. All this makes us eager to expect what will happen next week! Stay tuned!

January 4, 2012

2011 Top 10 Tunings

If you wonder which are the most creative and astonishing tunings that we have seen during the almost gone 2011, here we have picked 10 of the most impressive ones. There were several factors that have been considered in order to make this top 10. First of all exterior tuning, next is the overall improvement in the performance, and at last is the changes made in the interior.

VILNER SATURN SKY

This unique Vilner design has made it through in our top 10. Vilner Saturn Sky boasts nice oriental blue exterior combined with a red interior. The tuner also included LED daytime running lights for the front bumper. However there is more attention put on the interior: it includes black Alcantara and carbon fiber trim parts, as well as new dials, a carbon fiber steering wheel and new upholstery. In the package is also included a newly fitted high-end Ground Zero sound system. Unfortunately there is nothing done to improve the performance of the car. It comes with its standard 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine with 260PS (194 kW) and 353Nm (260 lb-ft) of torque. From 0 to 100 km/h it accelerates in just 5.5 seconds.

Exterior:	[rating:5/10]
Interior:	[rating:10/10]
Performance:	[rating:2/10]

MARANGONI RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

The next place in our chart goes for this beautiful tuning of Range Rover Evoque. As you can see it grabs the attention with its red tires, strange rims and a lot of carbon fiber all. The SUV also has an improved body kit which features redesigned front bumper and aluminum bonner with integrated air intakes, and a new rear bumper with an integrated carbon diffuser. In addition there are also carbon wheel arches, boot handle, bottom door guards and mirror covers. Furthermore the interior is improved by a lot of carbon fiber and some Alcantara. The last “touch” are the 20” OZ Racing Dakar wheels wrapped in 255/30 ZR20 red M-Power tires. To improve the overall performance of the car the Marangoni Range Rover Evoque comes with 60PS (44 kW) more, which means a total of 300PS (225 kW) from the 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine. In addition the performance is further improved by a complete braking system – Tarox B360 with 10-piston calipers and and 330×26 mm composite disks.

Exterior:	[rating:9/10]
Interior:	[rating:4/10]
Performance:	[rating:5/10]

BMW ALPINA B6 BI-TURBO CONVERTIBLE

BMW Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible tuning is based on the well known 650i model. It has all-aluminium bi-turbo V8 power plant which boasts 507PS (373 kW) and staggering 700Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. It accelerates from0 to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds and its top speed is 311 km/h (193 mph). Moreover Alpina B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible also comes with complete aerodynamic package including front and rear bumpers and side skirts. There are also a four-tailpipe Akrapovic sports exhaust system and huge 20” alloy wheels. Concerning the interior the B6 Bi-Turbo Convertible has just the extensive range of standard equipment, which includes leather upholstery, fully adjustable comfort seats with heating system, navigation system with preparation for Bluetooth mobile phone, USB audio interface, Xenon lights and LED fog lights. Unfortunately there isn’t any upgrade in the interior. For this reason this special car has the number eight in our chart.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:5/10]
Performance:	[rating:7/10]

OAKLEY DESIGN LAMBORGHINI AVENTADOR LP760-2

This Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 is an every-day road-going car with great power and specifications. Oakley Design’s tuning of it is called LP760-2 and the model is only rear wheel drive. The vehicle has been stripped of its front differential and related components, so it is much lighter – totally 85 kg (187 pounds). Furthermore, the 6.5 liter V12 engine is upgraded to gain another 71PS and 55Nm. Hence, the total output is 771PS (567 kW) and 745Nm (550 lb-ft). In addition this amazing tuning stands on enormous Oakley Design P40 wheels with dimensions 9.0J to 9.5J x 19” at the front, and from 12.0J to 13.0J x 20” at the rear fitted with ultra-performance 255/35ZR19 and 355/30ZR20 Pirelli PZero tires. Further modifications are made on the aerodynamics which features: modified front bumper, new side skirts, revised rear bumper with a new diffuser. The car also comes with a carbon fiber roof for further weight saving and stylish improvement.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:6/10]
Performance:	[rating:7/10]

HENNESSEY VENOM RED

Hennessey Performance ultra-fast beast – 2011 Venom GT has deserved its place in our top 10. First of all it has astonishing exterior, finished in passionate red body color. Furthermore it is powered by an in-house tweaked 6.2-liters V8 twin-turbo powerplant which is linked to a Ricardo 6-speed gearbox, the Chassis Number 03 – Venom GT is capable of producing the breath-taking figures of 1,200 horsepower and 1,155 lb-ft of peak torque, while boasting a curb weight of just 2,685 pounds! The HPE Venom GT is based upon a completely re-designed Lotus chassis, packed with all-new front and rear space frames as well as state-of-the-art carbon-made body with automatic rear wing that contributes remarkably for the super ride’s drivability at high speeds.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:7/10]
Performance:	[rating:7/10]

MAGNAT SNOWMOBILE Porsche GT3

The next place goes for Porsche GT3 with the tuning package from Magnat and Wimmer. Here the mighty 3.8 liter flat-six received updated software and modified exhaust system including sport catalysts and suction tubes optimization. The overall result in power optimization is 462HP (340 kW) and 451Nm (334 lb-ft). The top speed is 317 km/h (197 mph). Snowmobile Porsche GT3 stands on Ultraleggera HLT CT by OZ in 8.5J x 19” and 12J x 19” fitted with 235/35 ZR19 and 305/30 ZR19 Yokohama Advan Sport tires. What about the interior: Magnat has used materials from highest quality such as leather, Alcantara and high gloss paintwork. All this let the GT3 shine in its unique design, the dynamic diamond patterns setting sportive and, in the same time, exclusive accents. In addition there is an audio system with 2100 WATTS.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:7/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

MERCEDES SLR BLACK ARROW BY EDO COMPETITION

Edo Competition’s SLR Black Arrow is an extremely powerful vehicle that incredibly quickens the pulse when its pedal hits the metal. Based upon the renowned Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Coupe, the edo competition’s SLR Black Arrow conversion benefits a special, stealth-like exterior finish, a new high-tech stainless steel exhaust unit as well as sleek, 21-inch lightweight racing alloys wrapped in high-performance rubber.

In the power compartment, the revised McLaren SLR Coupe’s hand-built 5.4-liters, supercharged V8 plant now tops the extraordinary figure of 722 horsepower at 7,100 revolutions and 890 Nm of peak torque, resulting in top speed of 345 km/h and only 3.4 seconds for 0-100km/h acceleration sprint. Furthermore, the edo SLR Black Arrow has premium leather/alcantara upholstery, special steering wheel with shift paddles and custom carbon applications on the dashboard, center console and door panels. A high-end sound system with navigation, phone, TV and iPod, as well as a reversing camera add even more exclusivity to this already iconic ride’s re-styled cockpit.

Exterior:	[rating:7/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

EDO COMPETITION KOENIGSEGG CCR

Edo Competition makes it with another tuning in our chart. This time the car is Koenigsegg CCR, which is the next level above super sport like the mighty Lamboghinis, Ferraris and Porsches.

CCR is powered by a 4.7 liter twin-supercharged V8. Edo Competition boosted the engine of this beast to the whopping 891PS (655 kW) thanks to an ECU re-map. The drive ratio is also improved to gain the hyper car better stability and faster acceleration. The top speed is 390 km/h (242 mph). There are also improvements in the interior, which has received Alcantara upholstery, a redesigned center console, a new infotainment system, and a tire pressure monitoring system that has a display integrated into the dashboard.

Exterior:	[rating:8/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

ABT AUDI R8 GT S

This ABT Audi R8 GT S got the place of number two in our chart not only because of the incredible outlook it has, but also because it produces 620PS (456 kW). This is due to the 5.2 liter V10 engine, which has received a number of upgrades. The convertible stands on enormous 20” ABT BR alloys or 19” CR Superlight rims. There are also some improvements in the interior: red carbon on almost every single detail, sports steering wheel, centre console, shifting gate and parts of the door panels. The remaining parts of the doors and the dashboard are upholstered with new leather. We can’t go further without mentioning the red safety belts and illuminated door sill panels for the overall powerful appearance of the ABT R8 GT S.

Exterior:	[rating:9/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:8/10]

WIESMANN BLACK BAT

And the first place goes to…. Wiesmann’s Black Bat! The company SchwabenFolia in Korntal-Münchingen situated in Baden-Württemberg has created this astonishing Wiesmann MF5 V10 Roadster. The project name is Black Bat because it represents the ultimate Batmobile in reality! Everything is tuned in this car. Firstly this vehicle comes with an extra matte black exterior, door panels, engine room and the inner hood, as well as the completely foiled trunk and inner flap. This breathtaking tuned car is powered by the brilliant S85B50 – 5.0 liter V10 with 507PS (378 kW) at 7750RPM and 520Nm (384 lb-ft) of torque at 6100RPM. Furthermore the BMW’s Performance engine includes cast aluminum block with bed plate design split at the crankshaft axis, cast aluminum heads with four valves per cylinder and CNC machined ports and combustion chambers. All these engine boosts result in enhanced acceleration, which for the standard 0-100 km/h takes only 3.5 seconds. Moreover the top speed is more than 321 km/h (200 mph). You can see how amazingly this car looks. Its movie-like appearance is improved by the enormous BBS forged alloy wheels 10J x 20” with 285/30 ZR20 tires at the front and 11.5J x 20” with 325/25 ZR20 on the rear axle. Behind them, there are brembo 6-piston calipers with 308 x 32 mm perforated compound brake discs and 4-piston calipers with 380 x 28 mm discs at the rear. The interior is also enhanced thus: all in the interior is covered with high quality leather which gives the car the perfect finish! All results in the overall weight of 1395 kg. No doubt now that this car deserves the first place!

Exterior:	[rating:10/10]
Interior:	[rating:8/10]
Performance:	[rating:9/10]

December 29, 2011

Senner Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Senner Tuning has unveiled their program for the famous Mercedes SLS AMG. It includes performance modifications and some improvement of the stance.

The new Gullwing is powered by the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in the world – AMG’s 6.2 liter beast with 571PS (420 kW) and 650Nm (479 lb-ft). It is boosted to 606PS (446 kW) and 690Nm (509 lb-ft). The results are thanks to a number of upgrades – an ECU re-map, optimized air-flow and new stainless steel sports exhaust system.

The sports coupe stands on enormous Corniche Vegas wheels – 9J x 20” with 255/30 R20 tires on the front axle and 11J x 20” with 285/30 R20 on the rear. The stance is further improved by a set of adjustable coilovers from KW.

The price for these upgrades start at €19 500.

Source: Senner

December 28, 2011

Mercedes S 250 CDI and ML 250 Green Winners for 2011

Since 1997, every year the ÖkoTrend institute has been awarding and ranking thousands of cars based on data which involves the subject’s environmental impact, efficiency, manufacture, logistics and recycling. All and all there are 12 categories in which cars may fall in to.

This year the “Luxury” and “SUV” categories are headed by the S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC respectively. The cars are going home with an “AUTO TEST WINNERS in GREEN!” award from the specialist publication AUTO TEST.

The vehicles maybe different but the engine is the same: a 2.1 liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder diesel unit with direct injection. Power comes in the form of 204bhp but what’s really impressive is the torque – 500 newton metres. For the cars to get to 60mph from a stand still it takes 8.2 seconds for the CDI and 9.0 seconds for the ML.

Nimble as they are, the ML’s combined consumption and emissions do not exceed 6.0 liters per 100km and 158 g/km respectively while the S-klasse gets an even lower number of 5.7 liters per 100km and 149 g/km of CO2 emissions (again combined).

Source: Daimler

December 28, 2011

Prior Design and Their PD500 Kit

Prior Design have released a host of pictures of a Mercedes-Benz E-Klasse Limousine w212 fitted with their PD500 aerodynamic kit. The end result? Very subtle – the package includes specially designed front and rear bumpers, two side skirts and that’s about it.

Prior-Design is a subsidiary of NTC GmbH, which specializes in the design, development, and distribution of exclusive aerodynamics, exclusive alloy wheels, and high-quality exhaust systems. And they obviously favor delicate elegance as an alternative to the ostentatious, flashy products you might see coming from other design houses.

Prior Design Mercedes-Benz E-Class PD500

Source: Prior Design

December 23, 2011

2012 Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID

Today we have very special and „ecological“ news from one of the most famous luxury brands. Mercedes-Benz launches hybrid offensive, starting with a world’s most economical luxury-class model. Mercedes-Benz is beginning a new chapter in its brand’s core segment, while at the same time making new standards for luxury-class business vehicles. Firstly, there is the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which will be available as a Saloon and Estate. More importantly it impresses with new record values concerning the efficiency. Its consumption levels are 4.2 l/100 km, thank to the impressive performance of the 4-cylinder diesel engine. The engine has 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft). In addition it works along with an electric motor producing 20 kW and 250 Nm. Hence this results in a coherent overall concept: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID – the most economical luxury-class vehicle in the world!

On the other hand the V6-cylinder petrol engine in the E 400 HYBRID produces 225 kW (306 hp) and 370 Nm (273 lb-ft). Additionally it is enhanced by a further 20 kW and 250 Nm from the electric motor. The consumption figures based on the American CAFE standard are: City 24 mpg, Highway 31 mpg, Combined 27 mpg.

As usual and having in mind that the new vehicles are Mercedes-Benz brand, they offer great comfort for both passengers and driver. There is enough space in terms of the interior or luggage compartment. Moreover there are additional benefits to the intelligent modular hybrid concept, which represents a comprehensive enhancement of the Mercedes-Benz S 400 HYBRID. It has advanced to the position of clear market leader since 2009. In this hybrid model no changes to the vehicle body are required, and the hybrid module is both flexible and modular. Hence, this allows its use in other model series, and in addition to diesel and petrol variants there will also be right-hand drive variants.

The new hybrid models debut at the Detroit Motor Show, which will take place between 14^th and 22^d of January 2012. Their appearance on the market will be over the course of the year. An important detail here is that the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned to be launched on the European market, while the E 400 HYBRID will be made available on the American market first, followed by other countries such as Japan and China later.

E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID at a glance:

Compact, intelligent and modular hybrid concept: no changes to the body of the base vehicle are necessary
Also available as an Estate
Space, safety and comfort remain unchanged
No compromises in terms of space, safety and comfort
Significant increase in comfort with start/stop operation; noiseless start, complete climatic comfort
Top marks for consumption in the luxury-class business vehicle segment: 4.2 litres/100 km, 109 g CO₂/km
Part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz: increase in the engine output of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID with 150 kW + 20 kW electric motor/500 Nm + 250 Nm, compared with the E 250 CDI (150 kW/500 Nm), positioning it at the same level as the E 300 CDI (170 kW/540 Nm)
Fuel savings of around 15 percent compared with the E 250 CDI – even in actual road traffic conditions
Impressive hybrid driving experience (start/stop function, regenerative braking, boost effect, purely electric motoring and “sailing” function)

E 400 HYBRID at a glance:

Compact, intelligent and modular hybrid concept: no changes to the body of the base vehicle are necessary
No compromises in terms of space, safety and comfort
Significant increase in comfort with start/stop operation; noiseless start, complete climatic comfort
Consumption combined (CAFE): 27 mpg
Part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz: increase in the engine output of the E 400 HYBRID by some 20 kW and 250 Nm thanks to the electric motor
Impressive hybrid driving experience (start/stop function, regenerative braking, boost effect, purely electric motoring and “sailing” function)

Source: Mercedes-Benz

December 22, 2011

Tag: Mercedes-Benz