Mercedes set for hydrogen drive in 2010
Mercedes has given the B-Class a design makeover with more economical engines and a special fuel-cell hydrogen drive version available in 2010, the car maker has announced. The four-cylinder engines are up to seven percent more economical than the predecessor with exhaust emissions that undercut current European Union (EU) emission standards by as much as 90 percent, Mercedes said. A new start/stop function will be available for the B 150 and B 170 models. The engine switches off automatically at traffic lights. Additional new developments include a bi-fuel petrol/natural-gas drive in the B 170 NGT, along with active parking assist. The B-Class continues to be available with a choice of six engines two direct - injection diesel units (80 kW/109 hp and 103 kW/140 hp) delivering up to 300 Newton metres of torque, as well as four petrol engines with a peak power output of up to 142 kW/193 hp and a maximum torque of 280 Newton metres. Depending on the model and engine output, the four pe