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| Concept BlueZERO uses a modular design |
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Mercedes-Benz has revealed its latest idea of environmentally responsible electromobility, known as the Concept BlueZERO.
Based on a single vehicle architecture, this intelligent, modular concept allows three models with different drive configurations.
These include battery-electric drive and a range of up to 120 miles using electric drive alone.
Secondly, a fuel cell version with a range of well over 248 miles using electric drive.
And Mercedes-Benz plans a BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS with electric drive and additional internal combustion engine as power generator (range extender).
This version has an overall range of up to 370 miles and can cover a distance of up to 60 miles using electric drive alone.
The three BlueZERO variants are based on the unique sandwich-floor architecture which Mercedes-Benz introduced some 10 years ago, initially for the A-Class and then for the B-Class.
Advantages of the modified construction include the positive effect of the major drive components on the centre of gravity, their space-saving design and the fact that they are extremely well protected within the vehicle underbody.
The five-seater BlueZERO concept cars also set standards in terms of lightweight design, interior layout and body form.
"The flexible BlueZERO concept allows electromobility for every requirement and highlights the fact that Mercedes-Benz is the world's only car manufacturer to already have in place all the key technologies for electric cars offering full everyday practicality," says Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.
The hi-tech BlueZERO concepts will be revealed in full at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. |
