SLK to get award-winning diesel heart? Engine Technology International mentions a top-ranking Mercedes-Benz
powertrain engineer who admitted that Mercedes might soon launch a
diesel-powered SLK model, following the company's success at 2009's
International Engine of the Year Awards. Mercedes showed a diesel
powered Vision SLK320 TriTurbo in 2005 mentioned earlier.
Speaking just moments after collecting the award for the best 2- to 2.5-liter
for the all-new 2.1-liter diesel heart that currently powers the new E-Class,
Christoph Schmidt-Arnold, head project manager for the new diesel engines,
commented, "The Award is a great acknowledgement to the team behind this
engine. We've been working for four to five years on the program - and this
is an engine family with a lot more engine applications to come.
The displacement will not really change. We'll probably see power output
increase and decrease and also install the engines in other applications,
not just passenger cars, but smaller cars and even sporty cars.
If we look at what's happening in the market today, Audi has launched a
diesel engine in its TT range and it's doing very well. Now, when we think
about putting our 250 [diesel engine] with 500 Nm of torque in the SLK, it
really becomes a matter of driving pleasure rather than fuel efficiency -
there's a lot of torque and the SLK will go off like a rocket!"
June 26, 2009
The new engines are based on a state-of-the-art design featuring a long stroke (bore x stroke 95.8 x 104 mm), overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, turbocharger with variable turbine geometry and common-rail injection. The engineers from Mitsubishi Fuso have adapted both the engines and the peripherals such as clutch, engine brake and cooling perfectly to the high requirements pertaining to a light-duty truck.
The Fuso Canter dates back to 1963 and is now enjoying success on the market in its seventh generation. Around 3.5 million Canters have rolled off the production line to date. Last year, an impressive 144,000 of this top seller were built. This represents the highest production output for any lorry in the Daimler Group.
June 26, 2009
Mercedes-Benz selects NHTC glow plugs Mercedes-Benz will install NGK's New High Temperature Ceramic Glow
Plug (NHTC) in the new OM651 four cylinder, and in the new generation of
the OM642 six cylinder diesel. They were already used since 2007 in the
OM642 six cylinder engine in the USA.
The NHTC glow plug contributes to a perfect cold start and clean
combustion by reducing the output of pollutants and particulate emissions.
This is due to its fully ceramic heating element, which reaches its operating
temperature of 1.000°C in less than two seconds. It also allows constant
after-glow temperatures of about 1.350°C. NGK introduced the NHTC glow plugs
in Europe 5 years ago. VW installed them first.
June 24, 2009
Diesel is now a quarter less than regular in California.
Diesel market share in North America Automotive News mentioned the diesel market share recently
and some numbers are tabulated below. The Jetta SportWagon is seeing
'particularly strong' demand. Mercedes-Benz Canada reports
57.6%
and an even higher 77.9% 4MATIC® ratio!
July 2, 2009 (updated)
present diesel market share
last year
E-Class
unknown
11.7 percent
GL-Class
21.8 percent
13.7 percent
M-Class
16.5 percent
13.7 percent
R-Class
15.1 percent
10 percent
Jetta
40 percent
Jetta SportWagen
81 percent
Q7
26 percent
3-series
unknown
X5
20 percent
MB Canada
59.1 percent
59.8 percent
Sprinter
100 percent
99 percent
Clean, economical and powerful: the new-generation diesel engines for the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Mercedes now offers its new four cylinder diesel OM651, together with a
6 speed manual transmission especially developed for commercial vehicles,
in its Sprinter models. The OM651 replaces the OM646. The six cylinder
diesel OM642 was further refined, and like the OM651 now meets Euro 5.
The new OM651 is available in three power levels:
95 hp and 250 Nm (basic version)
129 hp and 305 Nm
163 hp and 360 Nm
Together with the new Eco Gear 360, developed for commercial vehicles,
and the new Eco Gear 480 for the six cylinder models powered by the OM642,
the new Sprinters save between 0.5 to 1.0 liters per 100 kilometers compared
to the predecessors.
May 29, 2009
Daimler loses European BlueTEC® patent The European patent court revoked the SCR patent filed in 1999, since
catalyst supplier Umicore objected.
Daimler spent years of research and development, and was surprised and
disappointed. In 2007 the court upheld
the patent in a first instance decision. Johnson Matthey and HJS
Fahrzeugtechnik allied with Daimler, and may also hold associated patents.
Audi claims BlueTEC is now available without license in Europe. Mercedes
believes Audi copied BlueTEC, and offered them to license it last year, which
was refused.
SCR may be difficult to patent, since it's similiar to processes used
in stationary engines and powerplants. However, standard SCR without
the improvements, would be unusable in automobiles.
The interest in BlueTEC is intense among automakers in Europe, because it
allows diesels, and direct injection gasoline engines, to comply with
strict Euro 6 emissions, to be phased in by 2014.
May 28, 2009
MTU Opens Service Center in California MTU Detroit Diesel opened an after sales support for its large diesel
engines. The new center is located in San Leandro, just nine miles from
the U.S. Coast Guard station in Alameda, which is home port for NSC Bertholf
and soon to become home port for NSC Waesche. Both NSC's propulsion package
include CODAG (combined diesel and gas turbine) propulsion plants with twin
20V1163 6500 kW diesels and one GE LM2500 gas turbine.
May 25, 2009
Schneider National receives first BlueTECs REDFORD, Mich. - Detroit Diesel delivered the first BlueTEC® trucks
to Schneider National, the nation's largest truckload carrier, headquartered
in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
The Detroit Diesel DD15 power two Freightliner
Cascadia trucks, which already accumulated 45,000 miles in day-to-day
real-world testing. With BlueTEC the trucks meet EPA 2010 emissions.
Schneider has been using Detroit Diesel powerplants since 1991.
Terra Industries out of Sioux City, Iowa, supplies the inital fill
DEF for Daimler Trucks North America.
May 5, 2009
SUV Models with BlueTEC® Technology are coming to Europe
An American dream has come true. The BlueTEC® models of Mercedes-Benz
have achieved what no-one ever thought possible: American car drivers
find diesel-powered passenger car models attractive. With this success
under its belt, Mercedes-Benz is now bringing its BlueTEC® SUVs to the
European market. This is a guaranteed home win. The three BlueTEC® SUVs
can be ordered immediately; deliveries will begin in September 2009.
Celebrities are not the only ones to have their hearts captured by the
low emission and economical yet powerful diesel models but also regular
demanding customers. The turn in American tax policy has contributed to
this. With the purchase of a Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC owners get the same
tax benefits as for a hybrid car. For example, the GL equipped with
BlueTEC technology can bring a savings of 1,370 euros. Mercedes-Benz
will be offering the full range of BlueTEC models in Europe from fall 2009.
In addition to the E 350 BlueTEC sedan, the range also includes three
SUV vehicles - the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and
R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC. BlueTEC will additionally bolster the appeal of
this vehicle category in Europe.
BlueTEC is a technology developed by Mercedes-Benz for effective reduction
of diesel vehicle emissions, especially nitrogen oxides. This is the only
exhaust gas constituent which has inherently higher levels in diesel
engines than in gasoline engines. AdBlue®, a harmless, water-based urea
solution, is injected into the exhaust flow, reducing up to 80 percent
of the nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water in the downstream
SCR catalytic converter. Moreover, the GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, ML 350
BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC already meet the exhaust limits
of the EU-6 Standard, which will become effective from 2014.
The powerful V6 diesel engine of the new BlueTEC SUV models shows that
large SUVs are also capable of fuel economy and extremely low emissions.
It delivers 155 kW/211 hp with a torque of 540 Newton meters, thus
guaranteeing low consumption values as well as outstanding performance.
Stars and BlueTEC Automobiles
In addition to the successful actress Naomi Watts and her partner
Liev Schreiber (known from "X-Men" and "The Manchurian Candidate"),
BlueTEC drivers from the film and television industry also include
William Baldwin, "Desperate Housewives" star Kyle MacLachlan, "Sex and
the City" actress Kim Cattrall, Oscar nominee and Golden Globe winner
Gary Oldman and "Phantom of the Opera" singer Emmy Rossum. "My ML 320
BlueTEC has all the power and luxury you'd expect of a Mercedes-Benz,
plus the efficiency and low environmental impact of an economy or even
hybrid vehicle", says Emmy Rossum. "BlueTEC is really the best of both
worlds." World-famous singer, musician and environmental activist Sheryl
Crow enjoys the advantages of the R-Class BlueTEC and echoes this view:
"The newest clean diesel vehicles are eco-friendly and deserve as much
attention as other gas alternatives like hybrids!"
In the world of music, pop star Gwen Stefani and her husband, musician
Gavin Rossdale, also drive a Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC, as does singer Josh
Kelley who is married to "Grey's Anatomy" star Katherine Heigl. Other
owners of a Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC vehicle include Nicole Richie and Joel
Madden, singer of the US band "Good Charlotte". Seven-time Grammy award
winner Alanis Morissette chose a fuel-efficient and low emission
Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC to feature in her video for "Underneath".
BlueTEC Models: Selling Prices in Europe
The ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, GL 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC
models can be ordered immediately, with delivery starting in September
2009. Here are the prices at a glance, excluding VAT:
ML 350 BlueTEC € 48,400
GL 350 BlueTEC € 60,850
R 350 BlueTEC € 50,100
May 5, 2009
Mercedes-Benz Zetros 4x4 and 6x6 all-terrain trucks The new Zetros all-terrain trucks are powered by the OM 926 LA inline six
workhorse with 326 hp and 959 lb-ft of torque from 1200 to 1600 rpms.
The Zetros are offered as 4x4 and 6x6, with manually lockable axles.
The extreme off-road capability of the Zetros all-wheel-drive truck
is unique in this segment, including especially its tactical and
strategic mobility (air and rail transportability). The approach
of a cab-behind-engine truck with its low design height and its centre
of gravity behind the front axle provides an ideal platform for armoured
versions capable of withstanding mines and ballistic attack. The Zetros
is based on standard production line, all-wheel-drive components from
the Axor/Actros series that have proven themselves on assignments
worldwide and have been modified for off-road use, combined with an
innovative cab module. This draws on the "Global Cockpit" and
steering system of the MB Axor. Tons of Work. No roads.
April 25, 2009
E 250 CDI Coupé debuts with twin turbo The new diesel engine in the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé model marks
the debut of two-stage turbocharging in a volume production diesel engine
for Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. The aim is to achieve further advantages
compared to a single-stage turbocharger, for example a further improvement
in start-up performance and peak output.
The compact module for the new two-stage turbocharger consists of a small
high-pressure (HP) turbocharger and a large low-pressure (LP) turbocharger.
These are connected in series, and each has a turbine and a compressor
driven by this turbine. The HP turbine is located directly at the exhaust
manifold and initially allows exhaust gas to flow through it; it then
rotates at up to 215,000 revolutions per minute. The HP turbine housing
features an integral bypass duct, which can be opened or closed by means
of a charge-pressure control flap triggered by a vacuum cell. If the flap
is closed, the whole exhaust stream flows through the HP turbine, meaning
that the exhaust-gas energy is available solely for the HP turbine drive.
This means that the optimum charge pressure can be built up at low engine
revs.
As the engine speed increases, the charge-pressure control flap opens. Any
remaining exhaust gas energy drives the HP turbine at a maximum speed of
up to 185,000 revolutions per minute. To protect against overloading, the
LP turbine is also equipped with a bypass, which is opened or closed by
means of a wastegate. Once the engine reaches medium revs, the HP turbine's
charge-pressure control flap is opened so wide that the HP turbine ceases
to perform any appreciable work. This allows the full exhaust gas energy
to be directed with low losses into the LP turbine, which then does all of
the turbine work.
The two compressors are likewise connected in series and are in addition
connected to a bypass duct. The combustion air from the air cleaner first
flows through the low-pressure compressor, where it is compressed as a
function of the LP turbine's operating energy input. This pre-compressed
air then passes into the high-pressure compressor, which is coupled to the
HP turbine, where it undergoes further compression. The result is a genuine
two-stage turbocharging process.
The key benefit of this sophisticated, on-demand control of the combustion
air supply by means of two turbochargers is the improved cylinder charging
and, consequently, a high torque even at low revs. What's more, fuel
consumption is reduced. During normal operation, the advantages of this
concept can be seen in the harmonious driving characteristics without
turbo lag, a good torque curve across the entire engine speed range,
spontaneous throttle response and noticeably improved performance.
As a logical addition to the turbocharger system, Mercedes-Benz installs
a larger intercooler than the one seen in the previous models, which reduces
the temperature of the compressed and heated air by up to 140 degrees Kelvin
so that a larger volume of air can enter the combustion chambers.
April 22, 2009
picture: Delphi Europe
Vision E 250 BlueTEC concept at New York Auto Show Mercedes created the E250 BlueTEC concept specifically for the North
American market, to show how BlueTEC technology in the E-Class can
be combined with a four-cylinder engine with optimised fuel consumption.
When fitted to
the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, the E 250 BlueTEC achieves
an estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg U.S. in the city and 39 mpg U.S. on the
highway.
The E 250 BlueTEC concept fulfills the strictest emission standards, including
Bin 5 in the U.S., and would even meet the considerably toughened limits laid
down in EURO 6 legislation not due for implementation until September 2014.
For the E 250 BlueTEC, the modern 2.2 liter four-cylinder CDI engine underwent
a detailed redevelopment program in order to reduce further the internal raw
emissions generated by the engine. The power unit
hardware incorporates features from the volume production engines, such as
four-valve technology, fourth-generation common-rail piezo direct injection,
2-stage turbocharger and exhaust gas recirculation. A highly sensitive
electronic engine control system reacts precisely across the full range of
operating conditions to optimise the combustion process. The exhaust gas
treatment system incorporates an oxidation catalytic converter mounted close
to the engine, AdBlue SCR, as well as a diesel particulate filter, which is
located at the rear bulkhead in order to shorten its regeneration time.
Some data for the E 250 BlueTEC (preliminary):
engine
OM651 DE22 LA
I4
valves per cylinder
4
displacement
2143 cm³
power
150 kW / 204 hp
torque
500 Nm / 369 lb-ft @ 1600-1800 rpm
turbos
regulated two stage
transmission
7-speed automatic
emission
Bin 5
fuel economy
28 MPG city / 39 MPG highway (U.S.)
April 8, 2009
Daimler's vision: Auto 2000 with twin turbo diesel In 1980 Daimler-Benz researched and developed a car for the
future, the Auto 2000. It was based on the W126 S-Class sedan.
Several enhancements like lightweight materials, covered wheels
and underside, the new aerodynamic hood from the C126 coupe, and an
extension of the cabin over the
trunk, reduced the cd value from 0.36 in the production car,
and 0.34 in the coupe, to a low 0.28. The Auto
2000 was propelled by an innovatibe engine as well: A twin-turbo
V6 with 3.3 liter displacement, with regulated two stage turbocharging,
burnt a mere 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers, when driving at 120 km/h.
March 27, 2009
calender year and model
2009 GL350 CDI BlueTEC with facelift
2010 E350 CDI BlueTEC (50-state)
2010 C-Class diesel... C220 or C250
2010 GLK diesel (maybe diesel hybrid)
2011 S-Class diesel
Future MBUSA diesel powertrains At the recent Auto Show in Detroit, Mercedes revealed which engines
will be offered in the United States for the new W212 E-Class. From the
start the familiar 5.5 liter gasoline V8 and the familiar 3.5 liter
gasoline V6 engines will be offered.
In calender year 2010 the 50-state E350 CDI BlueTEC, 4MATIC and the
E63 AMG will join the E-Class lineup. Calender year 2010 may also see
the new OM651 4-cylinder diesel launch in North America, in the C-Class
and also in the GLK, Mercedes new compact sport utility, maybe even as
diesel-electric hybrid.
And for calender year 2011 a torquey S-Class diesel is eagerly
anticipated, enhancing premium long distance Motoring in Style, adequate
to explore the wide open spaces in the west of this big country, from the
comforts of a nappa leather clad cabin.
January 25, 2009
From the owner's manual: Low outside temperatures The flow properties of diesel may be insufficient at low ambient
temperatures.
To prevent operating problems, diesel fuel with improved cold flow qualities
is available during the winter months. Your vehicle must be refuelled with
this winter diesel at temperatures of 23 °F or below.
You can use this winter diesel at temperatures down to about -20°C / -4°F
without problems.
If only summer diesel fuel or less cold-resistant winter diesel fuel is
available, you should add an amount of flow improver to the fuel
corresponding to the outside temperature. The Mercedes-Benz part
number for the recommended diesel fuel additive is A000 989 28 45.
Mix the additive with the diesel in good time, before the flow properties
of the diesel become insufficient. Otherwise, malfunctions can only be
rectified by heating the entire fuel system, e.g. by parking the vehicle
in a heated garage.
January 17, 2009
ExxonMobil and Valero to increase ULSD diesel production ExxonMobil Refining and Supply sees a growing market for diesel,
which provides better fuel economy than gasoline. Expanding their
output of lower-emission fuel, they will spend more than $1 billion
to increase production by 6 million gallons a day of ultra low sulfur
diesel (ULSD) at two Gulf of Mexico refineries and a third in Europe by 2010.
Those are the two largest U.S. refineries, with 567,000 bpd crude capacity in
Baytown, Texas, shown at left, and the 503,000 bpd complex in Baton Rouge,
Louisiana, and in Europe, their 305,000 bpd refinery in Antwerp, Belgium.
Valero recently announced a gas oil hydrocracker at its St. Charles
refinery and a hydrocracker/coker at Port Arthur, which are expected to
boost these refineries' production of ULSD by 49,000 barrels per day and
54,000 barrels per day, respectively.
The completed projects will position these refineries among
the leaders in the U.S. refining industry, adding more capacity to
produce ULSD and process heavy, sour feedstocks that trade at
discounts to light sweet crude oil. The projects are expected to be
complete by 2011.
December 16, 2008
Diesel 1-2 Victory in American Le Mans Finale LAGUNA SECA. The R10 TDI were able to complete their successful
2008 sportscar season with another 1-2 victory. In the finale of the
American Le Mans Series at Laguna Seca, California, Lucas Luhr and
Marco Werner celebrated a narrow victory in front of their team mates
Christijan Albers and Emanuele Pirro.
October 19, 2008
Mission Accomplished: Diesels are BACK Just got word that the Mercedes plant in Vance has released the model
year 2009 diesels and the 2009 R320 CDI BlueTEC,
ML320 CDI BlueTEC and
GL320 CDI BlueTEC are expected at
dealers nationwide shortly. This page was started after Mercedes dropped
diesels in 1999, to track the return of the frugal oil burners. More diesels
are in the pipeline, from several different carmakers.
MBUSA press release October 7, 2008
Mondial de L'Automobile: Concept FASCINATION coupé study Mercedes-Benz builds the world's most desirable coupés - a claim which
the Stuttgart-based car maker is underlining at the 2008 Paris Motor Show
with its ConceptFASCINATION design study. This unique vehicle, whose
innovative and unconventional proportions interpret the emotional appeal
of a coupé in a new way, represents an exciting and intelligent combination
of sporty and elegant design with stylish practicality. Wood, aluminium and
smoked glass give a particularly exclusive look and feel to the luggage
compartment which incorporates a refrigerated compartment and a humidor as
well as offering a large load space. These attributes embody the two
objectives of ConceptFASCINATION - to provide a high level of practical
usability and to create a coupé which appeals to the heart with fast,
thrilling lines. In developing this design study, Mercedes-Benz has given
fresh impetus to the long-established (although now rarely seen) "shooting
brake", a vehicle category with its own distinctive charisma. Freed from
the constraints of a specifications book, the designers have created an
automotive sculpture with great aesthetic appeal which once again
demonstrates Mercedes-Benz's high level of design expertise. Under the
hood the innovative new four cylinder BlueTEC with 150 kW / 204 hp
powers the ConceptFASCINATION.
September 11, 2008
C250 CDI BlueEfficiency Prime Edition World Premiere Mercedes launches the completely new OM651 diesel engine generation
mentioned earlier starting this fall in the C-Class.
In the C250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Prime Edition, this engine produces,
with its 2.2 litres of displacement, 150 kW / 204 hp and 500 Nm of torque.
The premiere model can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just
7.0 seconds, on the way to its top speed of 250 km/h. Notwithstanding
these exceptional performance figures, the Prime Edition only consumes
an average of 5.2 liters per 100 km NEDC (45 MPG US).
The dual stage supercharged engine impresses with its eager responsiveness
and smoothness of operation, which can make it a sensible alternative to
the higher-displacement six-cylinder engines in the future.
This engine is also planned for the new E-Class next spring, the E-Class
coupe/CLK, the compact new GLK, the S-Class and the
Sprinter.
Also, it might make it to these shores.
September 10, 2008
Federal tax credit for model year 2009 GL, ML and R diesels Purchasers of model year 2009 BlueTEC diesels may claim these IRS
tax credits: ML320 BlueTEC $900, R320 BlueTEC $1550, GL320 BlueTEC $1800.
The BlueTEC SUVs become available in October.
How to buy Mercedes diesels in California? Presently diesels need to have 7500 miles or more on the odometer
to be eligible for a California registration. To find them one can use
for example
MBUSA's preowned vehicle search
(select engine type: diesel). Currently about 200 are listed, E320 CDI,
ML320 CDI, R320 CDI and GL320 CDI.
July 14, 2008
Wal-Mart orders 300 Cascadias with new heavy duty DD15 Wal-Mart Stores ordered 300 Freightliner Cascadia trucks with the
14.8 liter DD15 turbodiesel, after extensive testing of
the new platform. The Cascadia introduces the DD15 as mentioned
earlier.
"Wal-Mart is committed to making its private fleet 25 percent
more efficient by the end of 2008. We are constantly evaluating new
technology and new innovation as we look for additional ways to improve
our fleet's efficiency.." -- Jeff Byrne, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.
June 23, 2008
MB Canada diesel ratio near 60% In May 2008 the diesel sales ratio in Canada reached 59.8%,
while the 4MATIC® permanent all-wheel drive accounted for 63.2%
of the overall MB passenger car and light truck sales.
A few years ago, in 2005, Mercedes celebrated its 50th year in Canada.
June 3, 2008
Actros in Guinness Book of Records The new 40 ton Mercedes-Benz Actros tractor trailer is on its way into
the Guinness Book of Records: It has become "the world's most fuel efficient
volume production truck" with diesel consumption of 19.44 l/100 km over
12,728.94 kilometers in seven days on the test track in Nardo, while
carrying a load of 25 tons. Taken in relation to its transport capacity,
this equates to about 0.8 liters per ton-kilometer. This means that the
ultimate efficiency goal of 1 liter per 100 kilometers fuel consumption
(235 MPG in US numbers) has become reality for the first time in a truck.
May 30, 2008
Volkswagen unveils BlueTDI for America with CPEMS VW introduced the production version of
the Jetta BlueTDI, their next-generation four cylinder turbodiesel,
developed for the North American market. VW added piezoresistive
cylinder pressure sensors to optimise the combustion in each cylinder
individually (earlier mention), dual
circuit EGR and a maintenance-free nitrogen oxide trap to meet 50 state
regulations, while also improving the fuel efficiency compared to the
predecessor.
April 24, 2008
Mercedes introduces new four cylinder diesel: OM651 The new generation of four-cylinder diesel engines from
Mercedes-Benz leads the way, and takes performance, consumption and
emissions into a new dimension. Among the many technical feats
it introduces direct acting piezo injectors, and regulated two stage
turbocharging to Mercedes-Benz passenger diesels. This innovative
powerplant will premiere in the C-Class this fall, then in the new
E-Class (W212) in the spring of 2009, the GLK in April 2009, and is
also planned for the Sprinter.
April 10, 2008
The good oil Using a special sensor, Daimler researchers will in future be able
to directly monitor oil quality on board a vehicle; maintenance intervals
will thus be extended by around 25 percent. The oil's speed of flow, for
instance, gives an indication of its degree of contamination and thus of
its lubricative quality within the engine. What can be conveniently
measured here in the laboratory is determined by other means by the
scientists on board the moving vehicle, where they calculate the oil's
viscosity on the basis of its side-to-side movement inside the sump.
March 12, 2008
Unimog goes to work at Glacier National Park Two Unimog U500 snow plows are in service at Glacier National
Park. They are powered by Mercedes-Benz 260 hp MBE900 turbocharged
and intercooled inline six cylinder. They are used to maintain the
100 miles of asphalted and 120 miles of gravel roads.
February, 2008
Daimler starts IHI Charging Systems joint venture with IHI Daimler started a turbo charger joint venture with IHI.
"Not long from now, we will be Europe's third-largest turbocharger supplier,"
says Leopold Mikulic, head of passenger-car engines and powertrains at Daimler.
The Nikkei reports the joint venture between Daimler and IHI will build
a new plant in Thüringen near Daimler's engine plant in Kölleda.
As early as 1885 Gottlieb Daimler and Rudolf Diesel investigated
precompressing the combustion air. For Mercedes-Benz the breakthrough
occurred with passenger car diesels in 1978, when the Garrett T03
turbocharger was introduced in the 300SD. Honeywell recently celebrated
the 100th anniversary of the turbocharger.
February 2008
MBUSA announces BlueTEC SUVs for August/September 2008 MBUSA plans to double their diesel sales with the upcoming launch of
the BlueTEC SUVs according to several press reports citing MBUSA.
The ML320 BlueTEC, R320 BlueTEC
and GL320 BlueTEC are expected in August
or September of 2008 and will be offered in all 50 states. The engine
just garnered the coveted Ward's Auto 10 Best Engines award for 2008,
after being thus honored in 2007. Bill Visnic, Ward's Auto World senior
technical editor, commented: "The powerful and frugal new diesel V6 produces
torque that far surpasses gasoline engines of similar size while providing
25% better fuel economy."
December 14, 2007
Freightliner Sportchassis P2XL, P4XL The P2XL 'ultimate pickup truck' features a standard full size
pickup bed on a Freightliner M2 106 chassis. It's powered by a
7.2 liter Mercedes-Benz diesel, the OM926 DE72 LA, called MBE 900 in
North America. Its regulated dual stage turbocharger features an
innovative electric actuator to control the bypass valve, and milled
titanium impellers. Optional are the Cummins ISC or MBE 4000.
The new 4X4 Sportchassis P4XL sits 8" higher. An engine teardown
after 780,000 miles confirms the durability.
P2XL and P4XL engines
MBE 900
7.2L 330 hp @ 2200 rpm
1000 lb-ft @ 1300 rpm
Cummins ISC
8.3L 330 hp @ 2000 rpm
1000 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm
MBE 4000
12.8L 450 hp @ 1900 rpm
1650 lb-ft @ 1100 rpm
November 25, 2007
Alternative Fuels: Sundiesel plant in the USA? Daimler and Shell recently invested in CHOREN, a biomass to liquids
(BTL) diesel producer. CHOREN is building a 15,000 ton per year pilot
plant in Freiberg which starts operation in mid 2008 and is to supply
first fill diesel fuel for new Mercedes-Benz automobiles
(earlier mention).
CHOREN plans a broad sundiesel market introduction.
There is a chance a 200,000 ton per year plant, one of their
"SIGMA" plants, might be built in the USA.
Sundiesel is a clean sulfur free and aromatic free synthetic diesel consisting
of only 10 chemical compounds instead of 400 in conventional diesel fuel,
and performs well in Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen diesel engines.
October 21, 2007
Daimler Trucks introduces new DD15 heavy duty platform The new 14.8 liter inline six heavy duty diesel combines performance,
economy and serviceability and is the result of 5 years of development,
involving up to 400 Daimler engineers on three continents. This innovative
powerplant family features an amplified common rail system, turbo
compounding without wastegate, and compacted graphite iron cylinder
blocks, cast at Daimler's foundry in Mannheim.
The DD15 is expected to launch on the Freightliner Cascadia in 2008. The 12.8
liter DD13 and 15.6 liter DD16 should follow in 2009-2010.
October 19, 2007
In California the E320 BlueTEC is lease-priced on a par with
its gasoline sibling, the E350.
Mercedes-Benz is First to Bring Diesel Back to California LOS ANGELES. On the runway at this week's
Mercedes-Benz FashionWeek at Smashbox Studios, Mercedes-Benz USA unveiled
a version of its E320 BlueTEC, a diesel sedan that will
immediately be available in limited numbers to California customers
through a special two-year/24,000-mile lease.
"In order to be able to provide the power and economy of diesel
technology throughout the world, we had to make the diesel version as clean
as the gasoline model. With BlueTEC, the nitrogen oxides can be reduced to such
an extent that our diesel vehicles will satisfy the strictest emission
regulations in the world -- even in the future. This makes Mercedes-Benz
the first manufacturer in the world to fully bring all exhaust gas
components under control," said Dr. Leopold Mikulic, head of powertrain
development at Mercedes-Benz Cars. The E320 BlueTEC uses the NSK Advanced
version of BlueTEC. The article also mentions the present market share:
45-state diesel market share
E320 BlueTEC
17 percent
GL-Class
12 percent
R-Class
22 percent
M-Class
23 percent
October 15, 2007
Will Mercedes make a ML320 CDI Triturbo? For the M-Class facelift expected in 1 to 2 years Mercedes may
pull the triturbo diesel out of the hat once again. The
concept was first shown in Geneva in 2005, then based on the
Vision SLK 320 CDI Triturbo mentioned earlier and rocketed
the roadster in a mere 5.3 seconds to 100 kilometers per hour while
exceeding 31 MPG.
Regulated two stage charging with two small turbines outside the
cylinder banks on either side, team with a third large one placed in
the center of the Vee to accomplish this feat.
engine
OM642 DE30 3LA
Mercedes model
SLK 320 CDI Triturbo
V6 (72° V angle)
valves per cylinder
4
displacement
2987 cc
power
210 kW / 286 hp
torque
630 Nm / 465 lb-ft
turbos
3 turbos: 1 large, 2 small
August 18, 2007
The Mercedes-Benz I6 versus V6 turbodiesel Model year 2005 and 2006 E320 CDI inline six cylinder engines have
grey cast iron blocks and multivalve high-strength aluminum heads.
Let's compare with the model year 2007 V6 turbodiesel, featuring an
aluminum crankcase with cast-in grey iron cylinder liners.
The V6 power and torque increase slightly and maximum torque starts
at a low 1600 revolutions per minute. The plot shows the European
E320 CDI V6.
Optimized air flow with swirl by electric controlled intake port
shutoff and electric controlled variable nozzle turbine (VNT)
turbocharging contribute to this performance. The I6 has inherently
lower vibrations, while the V6 relies on a counter rotating balancer
shaft to compensate.
Mercedes-Benz launches Euro 5 BlueTEC in Europe Mercedes announced more details about the first Bluetec passenger
car to be released in Europe later this year. It's based on the E320 CDI
and retains the same favorable consumption figures. The 3.0 litre V6
engine develops 155 kW/211 hp and 540 Nm of torque while burning just
7.3 litres* of diesel per 100 kilometres. The E300 BlueTEC accelerates
from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds* and is capable of a top speed of
244 km/h* (* provisional data). The E300 Bluetec likely retains
the 2.47:1 rear ratio from the Euro E320 CDI, differing from the 2.65:1
rear axle installed on US models. The initial step of the formation of
nitrogen oxides in the E300 BlueTEC has been reduced through optimisation
measures inside the engine:
A reduction in the compression ratio to 16.5:1
The use of special piezo injectors with reduced hydraulic flow
An optimised exhaust gas turbocharger with variable turbine geometry
Optimised exhaust gas recirculation control with raised return rate
The use of ceramic glow plugs, which ensure quick cold starts every
time for reduced-compression engines
Current and future emission limits
for diesel vehicles in the EU*
CO (g/km)
NOx (g/km)
HC + NOx (g/km)
Particulate (g/km)
EURO 4 - All new vehicles from 1/1/2006
0.50
0.25
0.30
0.025
EURO 5 - Phase in: 9/2009 to 12/2010
0.50
0.18
0.23
0.005
EURO 6 - Phase in: 9/2014 to 12/2015
0.50
0.08
0.17
0.005
* Group M1, passenger-carrying vehicles with a maximum of
eight seats not including the driver's seat, permitted gross vehicle
weight up to 2500 kg, NEDC 2000 test procedure
Complementing the revisions carried out inside the engine is
an efficient exhaust gas treatment system tailored specially to the
E320 BlueTEC powerplant. This includes the oxidation catalytic converter,
which cuts emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons (HC),
and an additive-free diesel particulate filter. A further developed NOx
storage catalytic converter with a patented onboard ammonia generation system,
teams up with an SCR catalytic converter and enables
extremely low nitrogen oxide emissions. This NSK Advanced exhaust gas
treatment system works without the need for any additional equipment.
August 10, 2007
Mercedes introduces DiesOtto combined combustion concept Mercedes combined the advantages of the diesel and the Otto gasoline
engine in a future engine demonstration. The 1.8 liter four cylinder
produces 175 kW (238 hp) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque from low RPM
and would consume less than 6 liters per 100 kilometers (40 MPG US), and
this number does not pertain to a small compact but to a S-Class premium
automobile with full luxury and safety features, emphasizes Mercedes.
At startup and full load the DiesOtto utilises spark ignition, but in
part load switches
within one cycle to controlled auto ignition, running as efficient as a
diesel, but produces only minimal amounts of nitrogen oxides and particulates
mainly due to lower combustion temperatures. Thus a conventional 3-way
catalytic exhaust system is sufficient. The DiesOtto features electro
magnetic variable
valve actuation (earlier mention), variable compression,
downsized engine, direct fuel injection, turbocharging, stop-start or ISG
hybridisation - modules which are to be spread across Mercedes engines in
the coming years until series production of the complete concept is
finalized in the midterm.
July 24, 2007
American Q7 TDI diesel to launch in 2008 The 3.0 liter V6 turbodiesel has 230 hp and 400 lb-ft
in the Q7 TDI which will launch in the USA in 2008.
It's the first application of the integrated piezoresistive cylinder
pressure sensor glow plug (earlier mention),
for powerful yet precise engine control, cooled EGR
and BlueTEC SCR to meet stringent American and European emission limits.
This comes on the heels of the second win at the 24 hours LeMans
earlier this year. The R10 TDI shown at left is based on the same DNA.
July 18, 2007
Diesel SUV update: 50-state versions coming next year For model year 2008 Maine, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island join
the states where new passenger vehicle diesels can not be offered,
before the 50-state GL-, M- and R-Class turbodiesels launch in
model year 2009.
Mercedes developed the SCR system together with
HJS Fahrzeugtechnik
and Johnson-Matthey.
Long-time M-Class supplier Rehau
develops heated AdBlue lines leading from the tank to the metering valve.
Model year 2007: 45 state CDI
Model year 2008: 42 state CDI
Model year 2009: 50-state ML320, R320, GL320 BlueTEC
July 11, 2007
Ford to be first with light duty diesel pickup Autoweek reports that Ford plans a 4.4 liter V8 diesel for the
F150 light duty pickups, and they want to be first among the Big 3
and introduce the diesel in 2009. The engine block will likely be cast
from compacted graphite iron at Tupy SA, and might be machined at
Ford's engine plant in Chihuahua.
July 2, 2007
500.000th Mercedes Actros rolls off the line The Actros was introduced in 1996 and the second version in 2003
and became the workhorse in many truck fleets. Half a million
have been manufactured. In early 2005 the Actros first introduced
Bluetec diesel engines achieving both lower emissions and lower fuel
consumption. More than 80,000 Bluetec trucks are currently on the road.
Continental Temic supplies Actros fuel injection technology since 1996.
Eberspächer/Purem supplies the AdBlue system
and Tenneco
Edenkoben the integrated SCR muffler.
June 25, 2007
Daimler Truck and Fiat Powertrain start cooperation Daimler Truck Group and Fiat Powertrain announced an 8 year cooperation.
As a first step Fiat Powertrain will supply the diesel engines for the new
Mitsubishi Fuso Canter light commercial vehicle to be marketed in major
markets including Japan and Europe. Fiat will supply 80,000 F1C 3.0 liter
inline four turbodiesels
rated at 177 hp at 3500 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) at 1700 rpm to Fuso
starting in 2009. Mitsubishi Fuso will remain the hybrid competence center
within the truck group.
June 19, 2007
GM announces 4.5 L V8 Tier 2 Bin 5 clean diesel GM joins the clean diesel bandwagon and announces a new powerful
and fuel efficient Duramax 4.5 liter V8 turbodiesel to be produced
in New York for their pickup trucks under 8600 lbs GVW and
the Hummer H2. It has aluminum cylinder heads with integrated
manifolding, a VNT turbocharger with intercooling and is GM's first
engine to use a selective catalytic reduction NOx aftertreatment
system and particulate filter. It will deliver 310 hp
and 520 lb-ft of torque. The block is made of compacted graphite
iron (CGI) supplied and machined by Tupy SA in Brazil, before assembly
in Tonawanda. Production is expected to start in 2009.
June 15, 2007
Mercedes, Honda clean diesels in Japan Honda may offer diesel engines in Japan starting in 2009 despite
the relative unpopularity of diesel cars in the world's
third largest auto market reports Nikkei Business News. Honda
hopes the cleaner diesel engine could help it clear Japan's
stricter gas emissions regulations. Only 0.1% of passenger cars
sold in 2006 in Japan were diesel as few models were available
and many Japanese consumers still see them as being dirty and noisy.
Nissan, Toyota, Subaru and Suzuki are also working on clean diesels.
So far Daimler is the only one to offer fuel efficient
low emission diesels in Japan like the E320 CDI sedan and the
E320 CDI station wagon introduced there last August. Sales
are reportedly exceeding expectations.
Mercedes-Benz Clean Diesel info site in Japan June 13, 2007
New 4 cylinder diesel OM651 to debut in March 2009 JESMB reports the
new OM651 inline 4 diesel will debut with the new E-Class (W212)
in March of 2009. It's not yet known if a Bluetec model of this engine
will be introduced in North America. These versions are expected:
200 CDI with 136 hp and 330 NM (1 VNT turbocharger)
220 CDI with 170 hp and 400 NM (1 VNT turbocharger, maybe regulated two stage R2S)
250 CDI with 200 hp and 480 NM (temporarily 500 NM in overboost mode, regulated two stage R2S turbochargers)
The higher figure of 204 hp in the S-Class Bluetec study is due to a double flowed exhaust system. The new E-Class is to have a single flow system.
This engine was already mentioned earlier.
June 8, 2007
Daimler releases new smart fortwo cdi From the press release: "with fuel consumption of just 3.3 litres
per 100 kilometres, (NEDC, combined) and emissions of 88 grams of carbon
dioxide per kilometre the new smart fortwo cdi is the most economical
production car worldwide...." For a diesel-electric prototype based
on the previous generation smart fortwo cdi an even better efficiency
of 2.9 liter per 100 kilometers - 81.1 MPG was achieved
(earlier mention). However for
the USA introduction in 2008 a gasoline version is planned.
smart fortwo info page June 6, 2007
