Tidy fuel storage in the Mercedes-Benz E 200 NGT
Modified performance: CO2 emissions down to 149 g /km in CNG mode
Mercedes-Benz is rolling out its new E 200 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY with bi-fuel natural gas drive to European sales partners this month, in parallel with its appearance at the Geneva Show. The four-cylinder supercharged “Kompressor” engine with an output of 120 kW (163 hp) has been modified with the addition of further injectors on the underside of the intake manifold and can run on either natural gas or unleaded premium-grade petrol.
A pressure regulator with sensor and electromagnetic shut-off valve is fitted near the engine to regulate the supply of natural gas and maintain the required system pressure at a constant level. Imperceptible to the vehicle’s occupants, an innovative engine management system ensures a smooth, jolt-free switch between fuel modes – even when the vehicle is moving.
Along with the conventional petrol tank from the standard model, four gas cylinders are neatly concealed in the natural gas-powered vehicle – one behind the rear seat backrest and two underneath the floor of the boot. They have a total capacity of 121.5 litres of natural gas (corresponding to 19.5 kg).
The output and torque characteristics of the four-cylinder power unit are maintained even when it is running on natural gas. In conjunction with a five-speed automatic transmission, the E-Class Saloon accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds, while its top speed is 224 km/h. Fuel consumption in petrol-driven mode has been reduced compared with the predecessor model by 1.2 litres to 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined). In CNG operating mode, consumption could be reduced by 0.6 kg per 100 kilometres to 5.5 kg – corresponding to CO2 emissions of 149 g per kilometre. Running on natural gas, the car has a range of around 360 kilometres, while its standard 59 l fuel tank gives it a petrol-driven range of around 730 kilometres: in other words almost 1100 kilometres in total.
The advantages of running on natural gas: a reduction of around 10 percent in fuel consumption, a more than 20 percent reduction in CO2 emissions and significantly cleaner emissions than comparable models with petrol engine only.
This article compiled using information from a Daimler AG press release.
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