Manchester, Vermont - Diesel fuel seldom got good press in North America. With the black smoke and unpleasant smell, it was mostly used to power big trucks that needed plenty of low-end torque. However, due to the rising gasoline prices and efforts to make diesel cleaner than ever, the auto industry is witnessing a dramatic shift toward efficient, environmentally-friendly powertrain technologies that meet the requirements of all consumers and governments.

Mercedes-Benz has over 70 years of experience in diesel technology. We recently drove to Vermont where the automaker had gathered over a dozen legendary diesel-powered vehicles, led by the C111-III that broke long-distance speed records on the track in 1976.

Mercedes decided to up the ante by offering a new, clean diesel powertrain with its 2009 SUV and crossover lineup. Instead of using conventional technologies, engineers will rely on a proven system launched in 2006 (and rewarded as the "Best Technology of the Year" by the AJAC): BlueTEC.


As early as this September, North American buyers will be able to get their hands on clean ML320, R320 and GL320 models that meet the most stringent environmental standards.

Using all the latest filter systems out there, BlueTEC operates in four optimized cycle phases. Combustion is improved, the catalytic converter is more effective and a particle filter has been added. More importantly, BlueTEC employs a urea-based fluid called AdBlue, which neutralizes nitrogen oxides in the exhaust system.

Costing a few dollars per 20,000 kilometers, AdBlue makes diesel engines as clean as the cleanest gasoline powerplants on the market while offering 30-percent greater fuel economy.

The new diesels also produce nearly 400 pounds-feet of torque at only 1,600 rpm, not to mention over 210 horsepower. This readily-accessible torque improves driving dynamics, allowing explosive takeoffs and offering the same thrills behind the wheel as a traditionally-powered vehicle.

Universal standards
Environmental protection and emission control are issues that considerably alter the equation. Automakers must strive to design a system that will meet every possible standard across the globe. The choice of Vermont by Mercedes-Benz is no coincidence; this US state has some of the toughest emission standards in the world, along with California.

Quebec as well as other provinces and US states would definitely like to institute such high standards. It might become a reality should the right conditions present themselves. "Right now, BlueTEC not only meets current standards but also some that won't come into effect until 2012, said company spokesman William Craven. We could implement new, cleaner technologies in North America if only we could get the same ultra high-octane fuels sold in Europe. Unfortunately, that's not the case in Canada. In the meantime, BlueTEC is the best solution we have."

Mercedes-Benz is looking toward the future and has already conducted a series of tests with a diesel-electric GLK Hybrid, which could be hitting the market sooner rather than later.


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux