Mercedes-Benz’s green offensive

Mercedes will match arch rival BMW and its green initiative by introducing carbon dioxide-reducing stop-start technology across its entire lineup and go one step further by installing integrated starter generator (ISG) systems to aid engine performance. The first stop-start equipped Mercedes models will be the A and B-class models and are planned for launch at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

DaimlerChrysler’s head of R&D Thomas Weber, says that Mercedes’ larger vehicles will use a different system to improve efficiency. According to an inside source, who spoke with Automotive News, Mercedes’ large cars will use new ISG systems. The set-up features an electric motor attached to the engine’s flywheel that acts as both a starter and generator. Such a system can reduce engine vibrations and aid engine performance during gearshifts.

Mercedes is also rumored to unveil a new Bluetec-diesel concept that’ll feature a mild-hybrid system and is said to be a preview of a production model that’s expected to hit the market by the end of the decade.