For the Detroit Auto Show in January, Mercedes plans to give the worlda preview of three fuel-saving systems for its new entry-premium modelrange, which should replace the B-class by 2010. Known as ConceptBlueZero, the technology will be shown in forms ranging from a purelyelectric car, a plug-in hybrid, and as a fuel cell model.
The electric model “E-Cell” will have a 100-kilowatt motor with alithium-ion battery pack and a range of around 60 miles. The plug-inhybrid on the other hand will feature a three-cylinder gasoline enginewith an electric generator to extend the car's range in electric mode(similar to what General Motors plans for the Chevrolet Volt). Thethird model called the F-Cell, will use a fuel cell and hydrogen tanksto produce the necessary electricity.
Mercedes' plan is to replace the B-class and A-class with four cars,which include a coupe to compete with the BMW 1-series, and also an SUVto rival BMW's upcoming X1. These replacements are slated to be builtin Rastatt, Germany, as well as in Kecskemet, Hungary where M-B willopen up shop by 2010. Have a look at the full press release for ConceptBlueZero below and take a look at a few images of the car in ourattached gallery.
