The early buzz says the BlueZero hatchbacks preview styling for the next-generation Mercedes B-Class due in model year 2012. But what's under the skin is equally impressive: a pure electric drivetrain, a gas-electric hybrid and a hydrogen fuel cell driving an electric motor. The common thread running through all three BlueZero vehicles is electricity.
The headline in Autobild.de says it all: "Die neue B-Klasse fährt elektrisch," or "The new B-Class goes electric."
The first of the three concepts is the BlueZero E-Cell, a pure-electric model featuring a 100-kW motor with 236 pound-feet of torque and a lithium-ion battery pack. The range is just over 60 miles on a two-hour charge.
An extended-range companion is the BlueZero E-Cell Plus, a gas-electric hybrid which adds a turbocharged three-cylinder engine from the Smart stable as an onboard generator to boost range to nearly 375 miles.
The third model is the BlueZero F-Cell, which uses a hydrogen fuel cell to deliver 136 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque, with zero emissions.
Inside Line says: The BlueZero could be one of the most intriguing — and forward-looking — entries at the Detroit show. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent
Add A Comment »