|
Mercedes-Benz Hybrid & Electric
|
Strategic partnership: Daimler acquires stake in Tesla
German automaker acquires nearly 10 percent of one of the leading electric vehicle companies
Automakers agreed to cooperate in battery systems, electric drive systems and vehicle projects
Stuttgart, Germany, and San Carlos, Calif. -- Daimler AG has acquired an equity stake of nearly 10 percent of Tesla Motors
Inc. This investment deepens the relationship between the inventor of the
automobile and the newest member of the global auto industry. Tesla is the
only production automaker selling a highway capable electric vehicle in
North America and Europe.
The two companies have already been working closely to integrate Tesla's
lithium-ion battery packs and charging electronics into the first 1,000
units of Daimler's electric smart car. In order to benefit from each other's
know-how, the investment enables the partners to collaborate even more
closely on the development of battery systems, electric drive systems and
in individual vehicle projects.
"Our strategic partnership is an important step to accelerate the
commercialization of electric drives globally," said Dr. Thomas Weber,
Member of the Board of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and
Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "As a young and dynamic company, Tesla
stands for visionary power and pioneering spirit. Together with Daimler's
120 years of experience in the automotive sector this collaboration is a
unique combination of two company's strengths. This marks another important
milestone in Daimler's strategy for sustainable mobility..
"Daimler has set the benchmark for engineering excellence and vehicle quality
for more than a century. It is an honor and a powerful endorsement of our
technology that Daimler would choose to invest in and partner with Tesla,"
said Tesla CEO and Product Architect Elon Musk. "Daimler is also on the
leading edge in the field of sustainable mobility. Among others the
lithium-ion pouch-cell battery developed by Daimler and especially designed
for automotive applications is of interest to us. We are looking forward to
a strategic cooperation in a number of areas including leveraging Daimler's
engineering, production and supply chain expertise. This will accelerate
bringing our Tesla Model S to production and ensure that it is a superlative
vehicle on all levels."
Together on the road to electro-mobility
As part of the collaboration, Prof. Herbert Kohler, Vice President E-Drive
and Future Mobility at Daimler AG, will take a seat on Tesla's board of
directors. This long-term partnership with Tesla complements Daimler's
multi-facetted strategy to advance the electrification of the automobile.
Daimler is also moving forward the industrialization of lithium-ion technology.
In March, the company founded the Deutsche Accumotive GmbH, a joint venture
with Evonik Industries AG. As a result, Daimler is the first vehicle
manufacturer worldwide that develops, produces and markets batteries for
automotive applications. This is based on a Daimler stockholding in Li-Tec,
the German specialist for lithium-ion battery cells.
100 smart electric cars have already been undergoing large-scale trials
in London since 2007. These electric vehicles are being tested in day-to-day
assignments by fleet operators and private customers.
Later this year the smart assembly plant in Hambach, France, will start
production of up to 1,000 units of the second-generation smart fortwo with
electric drive, which will initially be used for mobility projects such
as e-mobility Berlin or e-mobility Italy. This year Daimler is also starting
small-series production of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class with a fuel cell drive system. In 2010 the company will introduce its first battery-powered Mercedes-Benz. As of 2012, Daimler plans to equip all smart and Mercedes-Benz
electric vehicles with its in house produced lithium-ion batteries.
In 2004, Tesla began development of its first electric vehicle, the Roadster,
which remains the only highway capable EV for sale in North America or Europe.
The Tesla Roadster is the first production battery electric vehicle to travel
more than 200 miles per charge and the first US- and EU-certified lithium-ion
battery electric vehicle. This green supercar accelerates from 0 to 60 mph
in 3.9 seconds yet gets the equivalent of 256 miles per gallon. The Roadster,
which travels an estimated 244 miles per charge with zero tailpipe emissions,
is the first production vehicle to break the historical compromise between
automobile performance and efficiency.
The Tesla Model S builds upon the success of the Tesla Roadster by leveraging
its technology into the world's first fully electric sedan. Based in Silicon
Valley, Tesla unveiled the Model S in March and plans to produce it in
California starting in late 2011.
May 19, 2009
|
|
The Updated 2009 Mercedes S-Class Makes Its World Debut
The technology highlights include the world's first standard production
hybrid drive with a lithium-ion battery in the S 400 HYBRID, which makes
the top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz model the most economical petrol-engine
luxury saloon. The battery developers Herbert Kohler for Daimler and
Michael Keller for Continental, received the Porsche prize 2009
from the TU Wien.
April 9, 2009
|
|
ML 450 HYBRID - 4-cylinder fuel consumption with V8 power
Mercedes introduces the production version of the ML450 HYBRID
at the New York Auto Show with more torque than expected.
The performance figures for the ML 450 HYBRID are
at the level of a classic eight-cylinder SUV with permanent all-wheel drive.
Yet, its fuel consumption is up to 60 percent lower.
Conceived specifically for the North American market, the ML 450 HYBRID
achieves an estimated gas mileage of 21 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on
the highway. The ML350 BlueTEC diesel compares with 18/24 mpg city/highway
mileage.
For the ML 450 HYBRID Mercedes promises a refined driving experience
combined with increased driveline comfort, with a system output of 335 hp
and an overall torque of 381 lb-ft.
April 8, 2009
|
|
Evonik and Daimler announce alliance
Evonik and Daimler are developing lithium-ion cells with Li-Tec,
to push forward research, development and production of the cells.
The lithium-ion batteries produced by the joint venture will be used in
both the passenger car and commercial vehicle sectors, starting in 2012.
According to Daimler, the electrification of the automobile is the key
to sustainable mobility.
December 15, 2008
|
|
Daimler introduces three BlueZERO electric concept cars
The all-electric BlueZERO E-CELL is powered by lithium-ion
cells, with a range of up to 124 miles. Recharging takes 3 to 4 hours from a
standard outlet, or 30 minutes for a 30 mile range. The E-CELL
debuts a new alu-beam color: lime green.
The BlueZERO F-CELL produces its electricity itself from oxygen and
hydrogen, with a range beyond 249 miles. The F-CELL introduces alu-beam mint
green.
The BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS houses in addition to the electric motor a
small gasoline engine (50 kW, 68 hp, from the Smart) in the spare wheel well.
If the battery with a range of 62 miles runs out of juice, a generator
then produces electricity to extend the range up to 373 miles. Recharging
takes 2 hours.
The sandwich floor houses the high voltage electrics in all three. The
concepts will be shown at the upcoming North American International
Autoshow in Detroit.
Fleet tests start with the F-CELL in 2009
followed by the E-CELL in 2010.
Volume production launches a few months after the electric smart fortwo
in 2012. By then batteries are expected to become more cost effective.
December 11, 2008
|
|
PSA Peugeot Citroėn and Bosch to develop diesel hybrid
The recently signed agreement calls for Bosch to co-develop,
industrialize and supply electric motors and power electronics for
PSA Peugeot Citroėn's four-wheel-drive diesel hybrid powertrain.
Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show on the Peugeot Prologue and
Citroėn Hypnos concept cars, this innovative diesel hybrid
technology will equip Peugeot and Citroėn vehicles starting in 2011.
It's a through the road hybrid, with the diesel driving the front wheels,
and the electric motor driving the rear wheels. PSA Peugeot Citroėn selected
Bosch as core development partner.
December 10, 2008
|
|
Mercedes ML450 HYBRID engineering vehicle
At MBUSI the first engineering vehicle, which is used for
validation and testing purposes, rolled off the assembly line
on October 29, 2008.
Its innovative two-mode hybrid system enables all-electric
driving and utilizes a further refined engine, like in the
S400 HYRBID.
The 3.5-litre V6 gasoline engine with variable valve control makes use
of the advantages offered by the Atkinson principle, where the expansion
phase is longer than the compression phase. The intake valve is kept
open slightly longer between the intake and compression phases, which
improves the engine's thermal efficiency while reducing the specific
fuel consumption and untreated emissions. A new cylinder head, different
pistons and a modified camshaft with different camshaft control increase
the output by 5 kW (7 hp) to 205 kW (275 hp) with 258 lb-ft
of torque - while reducing fuel consumption at the same time.
The electric continuously variable transmission together with the engine
produce a combined system output of 250 kW (335 hp) with a combined peak
torque of 381 lb-ft. Two electric motors rated at 67 and 63 kW are integrated
into the compact transmission, with two variable and four fixed gears.
ML450 HYBRID |
| 3.5 liter V6 engine
Atkinson cycle |
205 kW (275 hp) |
258 lb-ft |
| 2 electric motors
two-mode automatic |
67 kW / 63 kW |
|
Combined
system output |
250 kW (335 hp) |
381 lb-ft |
Fuel consumption |
7.7 L / 100 km | |
October 31, 2008
|
|
Magna Steyr HySUV update
Magna Steyr gave an update about the ML350 HySUV concept developed
with Siemens, including the Magna developed lithium ion battery packs
at the recent A3PS.
In a mixed urban and extra-urban consumer drive cycle, the HySUV
saved about 25%, while weighing around 300 kg more than the ML350
onto which it is based.
October 21, 2008
|
|
Continental Starts S400 HYBRID Battery Volume Production
Continental started volume production of the lithium-ion battery
packs for the Mercedes-Benz S400 HYBRID at their new plant located
in Nuremberg. Continental says they are the world's first manufacturer to
start volume production of lithium-ion batteries to be used in hybrid
drive cars. Compared with the nickel-metal hydride technology currently
in use in hybrid vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, offer greater storage
capacity. The battery which Continental has developed weighs around
25 kilograms and requires an installation volume of some 13 liters.
This allows the electric motor to boost the combustion engine by up to 19 kW,
saving fuel during acceleration or when starting off.
The battery is charged when the vehicle brakes or decelerates, freewheeling
up to a red light, for example. This regenerative braking or recuperation
is controlled by the power electronics. Like the integral automatic
start-stop function which automatically switches off the engine when the
vehicle comes to a standstill and switches it on again when starting off,
recuperation is included as part of Continental's hybrid modular system
which combines all their hybrid technology expertise in a single package.
The lithium-ion battery produced in Nuremberg, including the hybrid
technology, will be installed as standard in the new Mercedes S400 HYBRID,
available from the middle of 2009.
September 24, 2008
|
|
Daimler to Show Several Hybrids at IAA Commercial Vehicles
At the upcoming commercial vehicle show in Hannover Daimler Trucks
is presenting a number of hybrids, including three Mercedes world premieres,
including the Axor BlueTec Hybrid truck, the first hybrid prototype for
use in long-distance transport. For local transport applications,
Mercedes has equipped the Econic with two hybrid variants: the
Econic BlueTec Hybrid with diesel engine, and the Econic
NGT Hybrid, a concept with a natural-gas-powered engine. Already in
use by customers is the 12-ton Mercedes-Benz Atego BlueTec Hybrid,
which DHL is currently testing in Germany.
Making its European premiere is the concept Fuso Canter Eco-D,
a light dump truck variant with a futuristic design and hybrid technology.
The second generation Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Plug-in Hybrid has been
undergoing customer testing since summer 2008 and consumes up to
40 percent less diesel than a conventionally powered model.
September 20, 2008
|
|
Mercedes-Benz Reveals S400 HYBRID Details
Mercedes will exhibit their first hybrid, the S400 HYBRID
at the Mondial de L'Automobile in Paris this fall. The 3.5 liter
gasoline engine was optimised with new cylinder head, pistons and
camshafts, by using the Atkinson cycle, to improve the engine's
thermal efficiency and specific consumption, while also slightly
increasing the power, resulting in a combined hybrid system power
of 220 kW / 299 hp and combined torque of 385 Nm.
The S400 HYBRID accelerates to 100 km/h in a mere 7.2 seconds while
consuming the promised average 7.9 liters per 100 km, up to 2.2 liters
less than the S350 on which it is based. The S 400 HYBRID is
produced at the Sindelfingen plant, together with the other S-Class models.
The gasoline engine, 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission and electric motor
are first put together to form a hybrid module, then delivered to the
production line as a unit. The market launch in western Europe is planned
for June 2009; China is expected to follow in August 2009 and the USA
in September 2009.
S400 HYBRID |
| 3.5 liter V6 engine
Atkinson cycle |
205 kW (279 hp) |
249 lb-ft |
| electric motor
7G-Tronic |
15 kW |
118 lb-ft |
Combined
system output |
220 kW (299 hp) |
277 lb-ft |
Fuel consumption
average (NEDC) |
7.9 L / 100 km | |
September 17, 2008
|
| Mitsubishi Fuso Canter ECO Hybrid now in Japan, Europe
The drive system is based on a 3.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine
developing an output of 92 kW (125 hp) and a torque of 294 Nm - a compact
and lightweight power unit in relation to the overall weight.
This engine also features exhaust gas recirculation and a particulate
filter. It is combined with an 35 kW electric motor which acts as a generator
when braking, as well as a 1.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The batteries
are charged by recuperated braking energy. To augment this effect the drive
unit is disengaged during braking. Power is transferred by an automated
manual transmission. A stop-start function switches the engine off when
the vehicle is idling at standstill.
The Canter Eco Hybrid changes its operating mode depending on the driving
situation. Electric drive is used when moving off. The diesel engine is
switched on in addition when strong acceleration is required, and
powers the truck alone when cruising speed is reached. With a net weight
of 2.9 t and a permissible gross vehicle weight of 4.5, 6.5 or 7.5 t,
the Canter has a high payload despite its hybrid-drive system. After
production start in Japan in the summer of 2006 mentioned earlier,
it now also entered customer trials at DHL Express
in the UK and mail transport at Deutsche Post World Net.
July 24, 2008
|
|
Clean and quiet as a whisper through the city
With its second-generation Sprinter Plug-In Hybrid or range extended
electric vehicle during a practical operational test conducted with
FedEx
over a demanding inner-city route in Paris, fuel consumption fell by 40
percent to just 10.1 l per 100 km compared to diesel operation alone.
62 percent of the journey was absolved under electric power only. The
developers expect a similar reduction in fuel consumption during the
latest trials in the USA. Their realistic assumptions are in part based
on earlier trials of the first-generation Sprinter Plug-In Hybrid in
New York: in that case fuel consumption fell by 36 percent compared
to conventional operation when one third of the route was covered under
electric power alone. The Sprinter Plug-In Hybrid was first introduced
at the IAA in September 2004 as mentioned earlier.
June 30, 2008
|
| Tesla Motors, Daimler in deal?
Tesla Motors and Daimler agreed on a small technology cooperation,
according to Elon Musk, which may lead to a potentially large deal.
Potential areas of cooperation could be advanced battery technology,
electric drive systems, or Tesla's next generation electric sedan,
project WhiteStar. Last September Mercedes was thinking about a
cooperation with Tesla Motors as mentioned earlier.
June 14, 2008
|
|
UPS Places Largest Order for Hybrid Electric Trucks
UPS ordered 200 diesel electric walk in distribution trucks.
The architecture of the van's drive system follows the familiar parallel
hybrid principle, and is based on a 900-series (US designation: MBE 900)
four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 4.25 liters and an
output of 125 kW (170 hp) in a joint venture with an Eaton 44 kW electric
hybrid drive. Hybrids are well suited for urban delivery routes with
frequent stop-and-gos. UPS also ordered 300 compressed natural gas vans,
and 1500 turbodiesel vans, which are well suited for longer distribution
routes.
June 5, 2008
|
| Researchers elucidate how lithium ion cells work
MIT researchers Kisuk Kang and Gerbrand Ceder found
how the lithium ions inside the battery work. The ions are stored in
highly ordered octahedral sites inside the layered oxide of the cell
electrode.
When charging the cell these ions then hop via intermediate tetrahedral
sites into adjacent octahedral sites.
The intermediate elevated energy tetrahedral transition state was found
to be rate limiting, one factor limiting the cell's performance.
May 24, 2008
|
| ZF Sachs to produce S-Class hybrid module
ZF Friedrichshafen officially inaugurated
a new production facility for electric drives in Schweinfurt.
The first volume production contract is for the Mercedes-Benz S 400 HYBRID.
At the present time pilot production has started for release samples.
Volume production is to begin in the fourth quarter of 2008.
ZF is working on eight series production projects for four manufacturers,
with planned launch between 2008 to 2012.
The hybrid drive modules have from 10 to 100 kW as well as a
maximum torque of 100 to 1000 Nm, depending on the requirements.
Electric drive modules for passenger vehicles, buses and delivery vans
can be built.
ZF Sachs also builds the electric drive for the Sprinter hybrid and
plug-in hybrid test program, and codeveloped with KEN Mannheim and
the EPRI.
May 7, 2008
|
| Orion VII New Generation Hybrid Bus update
Daimler Buses North America announces the next leap in diesel-electric
hybrid bus technology with the release of an improved driveline configuration
in 2010, and the electrification of accessories for deliveries in 2011.
The picture shows an Orion VII New Generation bus, an attractive European
inspired, redefined city bus operated by MTA New York City.
May 4, 2008
|
|
Mercedes unveils Vision GLK BlueTEC HYBRID
In Geneva Daimler presented a sleek Vision GLK BlueTEC HYRBID
concept in alubeam blue.
It's powered by a four cylinder turbodiesel and 15 kW electric motor
sandwiched between automatic and engine. With a combined hybrid system
power of 165 kW / 224 hp and combined torque of 560 Nm / 413 lb-ft the
GLK rockets to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds while consuming 5.9 liters
per 100 km. Market introduction will not be before 2011.
March 1, 2008
|
S 400 HYBRID lithium ion battery announced at the 2008 Motorshow in Geneva
|
Continental Launches Production of Lithium-Ion Battery
Hanover/Regensburg. Continental will launch volume production of a
high-performance lithium-ion battery for hybrid vehicles at the end
of the present year. It will be used in the Mercedes S 400 HYBRID.
"This marks an important breakthrough for Continental as supplier of
battery systems. In the next few years we will be launching production
of further lithium-ion energy storage devices for mild- and full-hybrid
and electric-powered vehicles," says Continental Executive Board member
Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann (far left).
Lithium-ion technology is viewed as the key to the success of the hybrid
and electric drive systems in motor vehicles. Lithium-ion batteries have
a higher energy density, and thus a wider range, than those based on
conventional nickel metal hydride technology. The power output of the
battery determines the overall performance of the vehicle as well as the
potential for lower emissions and for possible fuel savings.
Aside from the lithium-ion battery, Continental also supplies the inverter
and the DC/DC converter for the Mercedes S 400 HYBRID. The inverter
controls the flow of energy between the electric motor and the hybrid
battery. The DC/DC converter is the link between the hybrid battery and
the vehicle's standard electric system and thus permits the
elimination of the conventional generator.
February 29, 2008
|
|
Breakthrough in Battery Technology by Daimler
First patented integration of a lithium-ion battery into a series- produced passenger car
Available in Mercedes-Benz S 400 HYBRID starting in 2009
25 patents for top technology 'made in Germany'
Daimler AG has achieved a crucial breakthrough in battery technology.
The Stuttgart-based automaker is the world's first manufacturer to have
succeeded in adapting lithium-ion technology to the demanding requirements
of automotive applications. Until now, the technology has been used
primarily in consumer electronics. The new battery will be used in the
series-production S 400 HYBRID beginning next year. This important
technology was possible thanks to 25 patents held by Daimler.
Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Daimler AG Board of Management and
responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, says:
"What we have here is a groundbreaking key technology that is going to
be a decisive factor for the future success of the automotive industry.
That is a tribute to our intensive research efforts, which we have been
conducting in this area since 1992."
The engineers' success is above all a result of the Daimler-developed
integration of the lithium-ion battery into the vehicle's climate control
system. This ensures that the battery always works at optimal system
temperatures of between 15 and 35°C, which in turn makes it possible for
the battery to provide long service life and maximum performance.
The main advantages offered by the newly developed lithium-ion battery
are its very compact dimensions and its far superior performance compared
to conventional nickel-metal hydride batteries. The weight/power ratio of
the entire battery is 1,900 watts per liter (W/L). What's more, the battery
stands out by virtue of its high ampere-hour efficiency, long service life,
and great reliability, even at very low temperatures. Its high level of
safety is the equal of that provided by today's auto batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries are ideally suited for use in hybrid vehicles
to help reducing fuel consumption. At the same
time, the Daimler engineers are investigating to what degree this technology
can be applied to other vehicle concepts, such as electric and fuel
cell-powered cars.
S 400 HYBRID -- the world's most economical luxury sedan
The S 400 HYBRID consumes only 7.9 liters of gasoline per 100 km in
the NEDC, a very low value for this vehicle class and power class, making
the S 400 HYBRID the world's most economical luxury sedan -- unrivaled
by any gasoline, diesel, or hybrid drive system offered by any competitor.
And S 400 HYBRID drivers will still enjoy impressive performance:
combined with the hybrid module, the maximum output is 220 kW/299 hp, and
the corresponding maximum torque is 375 Nm. The S 400 HYBRID
accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds on its way to an
electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Even more potential is offered by the combination of clean BlueTEC
diesel technology with a hybrid module, a duo that is featured in the S 300
BlueTEC HYBRID, for example.
February 29, 2008
|
 |
Lithium Ion Factory for Mercedes-Benz S 400 Hybrid Opens
Johnson Controls Saft opened the new factory in Western France to
produce lithium ion cells for the Mercedes S 400 Hybrid.
Initially 5000 units are planned per year, and this can be expanded lateron,
for example to include other automakers.
"We are the first company to produce the batteries for the
automotive industry," said Mary Ann Wright who is general manager of
Johnson Controls' hybrid battery business.
The joint venture also supplies the cells for the Sprinter Hybrid vans.
Top picture: Quality check at the end of the coating line where the positive
and negative ink are applied.
Middle upper: Cathode, separation and anode foils are wound together
in the joint ventures' new plant in Nersac.
Middle lower: This machine, part of the automatic production line, welds the
cover to the can to close the cell.
Bottom picture: The automatic assembly line inserts the coil into the can and closes the cell.
© JCI, photo credits Saft
February 2, 2008
|
|
Daimler Plug-In Hybrid Vehicles need more R&D
At the electric vehicle symposium in Anaheim California Daimler researchers
Dr. Christian Mohrdieck, Dr. Andreas Truckenbrodt and
Prof. Karl E. Noreika presented a paper titled: "Plug-In Hybrids - Promise,
Hype or the Solution?". They summarised the status of Plug-In
Hybrids thusly:
The key component for the success of Plug-In Technology is the
Li-Ion battery. Lifetime, cost and safety are the main critical areas
which need substantial improvement.
Operation of a PHEV can reduce fuel consumption and hence save
costs. However these savings are outweighed by the initial costs of the
battery.
Batteries that fulfill the special requirement of high energy and
high power density for Plug-In vehicles are not yet available. Further
research and development is required and will take several years.
Daimler's Plug-In-Hybrid Sprinters are in normal operation in a
test fleet with customers and help evaluate the technical and the market
feasibility for Plug-In-Hybrid vehicles.
December 5, 2007
|
|
Daimler Trucks and Buses Update
Daimler Trucks and Buses issued an extensive update on their commercial
trucks and buses. Their focus is on BlueTEC Hybrids.
From left to right: Canter BlueTEC Hybrid, Atego BlueTEC Hybrid,
Econic NGT, Freightliner M2 hybrid and Mercedes Citaro G BlueTEC Hybrid Bus
November 12, 2007
|
 |
Mercedes-Benz may cooperate with Tesla Motors
Wirtschaftswoche. Mercedes head of development Dr. Thomas
Weber is thinking about a cooperation with Tesla Motors.
Mercedes-Benz is planning to bring a hybrid with Lithium Ion batteries
to market and is working with Continental and A123 Systems.
Tesla's pioneering lithium ion battery pack has a high energy density,
about 55 kWh and 450 kg, using 6831 cells.
In the picture Tesla chief engineer Martin Eberhard chats with customer
Arnold Schwarzenegger.
September 22, 2007
|
Saft confirms Lithium Ion batteries for S 400 Hybrid
Johnson Controls Saft in Paris confirmed that it has been selected
to supply lithium ion batteries for the Mercedes S 400 HYBRID.
The batteries are to be supplied from a new plant in Nersac, France
as mentioned earlier. "I am very
pleased that
the combining of Saft's and Johnson Controls' know-how has led
to a first programme of this importance" said John Searle, Chairman
of Saft's Management Board.
September 12, 2007
 |
Mercedes-Benz Hybrid Fleet @ IAA 2007
Top row: S 400 BLUETEC HYBRID, E 300 BLUETEC HYBRID
Middle: F 700 DiesOtto HYBRID, S 400 HYBRID, ML 450 HYBRID
Bottom: C 300 BLUETEC HYBRID, S 300 BLUETEC HYBRID
September 11, 2007
|
| | when | combustion
engine | combined hybrid system
power + torque | consumption | |
| S400 HYBRID | 2009 | M272 (V6) | 220 kW/299 hp 375 Nm | 7.9 l/100 km | gasoline hybrid |
| ML450 HYBRID | 2009 | M272 (V6) | 250 kW/340 hp 480 Nm | 7.7 l/100 km | gasoline hybrid |
| E300 BlueTEC HYBRID | 2010 | OM651 (I4) | 165 kW/224 hp 560 Nm | 5.1 l/100 km | diesel hybrid |
| S300 BlueTEC HYBRID | 2010 | OM651 (I4) | 165 kW/224 hp 560 Nm | 5.4 l/100 km | diesel hybrid |
| C300 BlueTEC HYBRID | 2011 | OM651 (I4) | 165 kW/224 hp 560 Nm | 4.6 l/100 km | diesel hybrid |
| S400 BlueTEC HYBRID | after 2010 | OM642 (V6) | 195 kW/265 hp 630 Nm | 5.8 l/100 km | diesel hybrid |
 |
Maxwell to design ULTRACAPS for Mercedes-Benz Cars
David Schramm, Maxwell's CEO,
said
the new contract provides for funding from Mercedes to develop a new
BOOSTCAP(R) ultracapacitor cell specifically designed to meet the energy
storage and power delivery requirements of one of Mercedes' torque assist
and recuperative braking systems. BMW has been researching an X5 with
ultracap powered active transmission.
September 10, 2007
|
|
ML 450 HYBRID: Mercedes two-mode hybrid introduced
As one of the seven hybrid models at the IAA 2007 Mercedes-Benz
is presenting the ML 450 HYBRID, due to be launched on the market in 2009.
Its two-mode hybrid system enables electric driving and satisfies the
highest comfort demands.
With a combined system output of 250 kW (340 hp) and a combined maximum
torque of 480 Nm, the ML 450 HYBRID consumes just 7.7 litres per 100
kilometers.
September 6, 2007
|
|
Behr develops storage evaporator for stop-start hybrids
From Behr's recent annual press conference: For air conditioning in
the stop-start mode of mild hybrids, we are working on so-called storage
air conditioning. This involves a cooling battery filled with a latent
medium, which is cooled by the refrigerant from the evaporator. For example,
if the vehicle is stationary at a red light, the air conditioning compressor
is also inactive. The latent medium melts and thus cools the vehicle
interior for up to 50 seconds - long enough for an average red-light phase.
Behr and BHTC make the PHYSIO CONTROL® shown at left.
August 1, 2007
|
|
IAV paper: Dieselhybrid compelling for large vehicles
At the Motor Symposium in Vienna IAV said
hybrids are compelling for large diesel offroaders. The additional
costs are justified by a 15% efficiency gain and enhanced agility. The
hybrid levels the load on the diesel.
As an example a typical 3 liter SUV diesel engine would be
replaced by a 2 liter 4 cylinder in combination with a 50 kW
electric motor. With changed engine control, phlegmatising the diesel,
not only the consumption can be reduced but nitrogen oxide emissions
as well, by 40%, facilitating exhaust cleanup. While electric boosting
handles quick dynamic torque requests.
July 31, 2007
|
|
Porsche/Audi announce Hybrid SUV with 8.9 liters/100 km
The new Porsche Cayenne hybrid is a parallel hybrid
consisting of a high-strength clutch and an electric disc motor
sandwiched between the engine's flywheel and the automatic transmission,
similar to the 2002 ML270 HYPER and the Sprinter hybrid introduced in 2004.
In electric mode the Cayenne hybrid can drive up to 50 km/h, and
'sail' without combustion engine up to 120 km/h.
It uses a 34 kW electric motor and a 69 kg battery in the spare
wheel well which is made up of 240 cells and rated at 288 Volts
and 38 kilowatts.
The system is controlled by an advanced "Hybrid Manager" power
controller developed with Bosch and VW.
July 30, 2007
|
|
smart fortwo to introduce automatic stop-start
The Hightech Report 2007/1 mentions an automatic stop-start
system will first launch on the new smart fortwo by the end of the
year and is to be spread to Mercedes models lateron starting with
the A- and B-Class.
Mercedes studied a belt driven stop-start generator in
cooperation with Valeo on the previous generation smart fortwo cdi.
The automatic stop start is planned for the gasoline powered smart
fortwo models and stops the engine when waiting at a red light to
reduce emissions and to enhance efficiency. The system restarts the
engine automatically once the foot is taken off the brake pedal.
smart fortwo info page
June 21, 2007
|
|
I'm going downstairs to put a bullet in a V-8. -- P.J. O.Rourke
|
Wolfgang's MB Page
|
|
