Mercedes Shows Hybrids at Frankfurt

At the International Motor Show (IAA) 2005 in Frankfurt, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the ‘Direct Hybrid’ and the ‘Bluetec Hybrid,’ two concept cars using the new S-Class as an installation example. The goal with these hybrids is to "make petrol cars as efficient as diesels, and diesels as clean as petrol cars". They have been made through the hybrid development agreement between DaimlerChrysler and GM, now to be joined by BMW.

"For the drive concepts of the near future the objective is to make petrol cars as efficient as diesels, and diesels as clean as petrol cars" said Dr. Thomas Weber, who is responsible for research and technology and for development at the Mercedes Car Group.

For the petrol engine car, the main emphasis is on reducing fuel consumption with a second-generation spray-guided petrol direct injection system using the current 3.5-litre V6.

The ‘Bluetec Hybrid’ concept car is based on the new 3-litre V6 diesel in the new S-Class. ‘Bluetec’ is a new exhaust gas purification technology that reduces nitrogen oxides by about 80 per cent through selective catalytic reduction, making the ‘Bluetec Hybrid’ the “cleanest diesel in the world”.

Both ‘mild hybrid’ drive systems are combined with an electric motor integrated in the drivetrain. The combustion engine switches off whenever it is not needed, while the electric motor reclaims energy during coasting and braking. These combined features allow a 20 per cent reduction in fuel consumption in the Bluetec Hybrid, and a 25 per cent reduction in the Direct Hybrid.

On 22 August, DaimlerChrysler and GM signed a cooperation agreement regarding the joint development of hybrid drive systems, which began in late 2004. In a memorandum of understanding, another partner, BMW, has now declared its intention to conclude an agreement with GM and DaimlerChrysler towards the end of the year. The three global automakers are cooperating in order to pool their expertise for the rapid and efficient development of future hybrid drive systems.

Related Links
Mercedes Benz
BMW to join Daimler, GM in hybrid project

Comments

[Chuck]

Car buyers are turning to hybrids to battle the high price of gas at the pump, but do these combination gas/electric vehicles really save you money? The International Energy Agency projects that world energy demand will increase by more than 50% between now and 2030. To meet that demand, the hybrid approach will need to expand beyond cars. In fact, it's already happening. So does it means "Are the Hybrids Taking Over"? ( http://blogs.iloha.net/autobodyparts/ ).