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The new Mercedes-Benz SL: Engine and drive system - The power and the economy

By | Published Tuesday, 13 March 2012

Rich power reserves plus modest fuel consumption – this formula describes the fundamental characteristics of the new SL models. They owe this in part to the two V6 and V8 units from the new generation of BlueDIRECT engines from Mercedes-Benz. As is already the case with the S-Class and the CLS, they now also enable the SL to achieve previously unattained marks for efficiency in its segment. The V8 in the new SL 500 has at its disposal 4663 cubic centimetres of displacement from which it achieves 320 kW (435 hp) – so in spite of having around 0.8 litres less displacement that’s some 12 percent more than its predecessor (285 kW/388 hp). The consumption, meanwhile, falls by up to 22 percent, with the torque increasing at the same time from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – an increase of 32 percent. The V6 engine for the SL 350 has the same displacement as its predecessor – 3499 cubic centimetres – from which it now achieves 225 kW (306 hp). Whilst this means that its output is 7 kW less than the engine in its predecessor (232 kW/315 hp), as the torque simultaneously climbs from 360 Nm to the current figure of 370 Nm, there is no perceptible loss of power – on the contrary, in fact: when accelerating, the new SL 350 even proves superior. Plus the new V6 impresses with its outstanding consumption figures. It is content with 6.8 litres over 100 kilometres, making it almost 30 percent more economical than its predecessor (9.7 l/100 km).


Thanks to the economy of both engines, it has been possible to decrease the volume of the fuel tank from 80 litres to 65 litres. Nevertheless a greater range is available than was the case with the predecessor.

Of a torquey disposition when sprinting

The acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h go to prove that economy does nothing to dampen torquey spirits. Despite a nominal reduction of 7 kW, the SL 350 covers this sprint in 5.9 seconds, which is three tenths faster than its predecessor. From a standstill the SL 500 races to the 100 km/h mark in 4.6 seconds, making it eight tenths faster than the previous SL 500.

Both engines are exemplary when it comes to in-gear acceleration, too. Proof positive can be found in acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h in 4th gear, for only good figures facilitate fast and safe overtaking on rural roads. 5.5 seconds for the SL 350 and 3.2 seconds for the SL 500 make the new SL’s excellent characteristics in this discipline plain for all to behold.

“The new BlueDIRECT engines in the SL with six and eight cylinders form a unique synthesis of effortlessly superior power delivery, comfort and consuption”, comments Professor Dr Thomas Weber, responsible for corporate research and development at Mercedes-Benz Cars on the Board of Management of Daimler AG. “Both impress in the new SL, delivering refinement of the highest calibre and exemplary environmental acceptability.”

The V8 is in a new league of its own

The new V8 was systematically enhanced on the basis of the very successful predecessor. Mercedes-Benz engineers primarily achieved a high output for a lower displacement by using one turbocharger for each bank of cylinders. The turbochargers were configured to provide high torque even at low engine speeds – compared to the previous engine, the result is an increase of more than 40 percent at 2000 rpm. A superb 700 Nm are available between 1600 and 4750 rpm.

The V6 impresses with its low fuel consumption and high comfort

The new six-cylinder is a naturally aspirated engine. The most striking change between the new V6 unit and its predecessor is a reduction in the V-angle between the cylinder banks from 90 degrees to 60 degrees. This enabled the balancer shaft counteracting primary vibrations to be omitted, and as a result the driver registers an outstanding level of comfort.

Innovative technology makes V6 and V8 engines fit for the future

Both the new V6 and the new V8 from Mercedes-Benz are derived from their predecessors. They have aluminium crankcases, pistons and cylinder heads. The crankshaft, connecting rods and valves are of special forged steel. Practically all the details were, however, newly developed or revised with the aim of achieving more fuel economy, more output and more refinement.

The technology package in the new engine generation includes a number of new developments that are unique in this combination:

- In combination with multi-spark ignition, a further developed, 3rd-generation direct fuel injection system with spray-guided combustion and piezo-electric injectors offers further possibilities for fuel savings – in the V8 by means of an improved, homogeneous combustion process, and in the V6 by a new, stratified combustion process with a considerably extended characteristic map and fuel-efficient lean-burn technology.

- In conjunction with the ECO start/stop function, shift point adjustment and systematic friction-reducing measures, improvements in day-to-day fuel consumption of up to 30 percent are possible.

- Power consumption by ancillary units has been reduced. These include an optimised water pump with 2nd-generation thermal management, a demand-controlled oil pump, a volume-controlled high-pressure fuel pump and an intelligent generator management system.

The key data for the new SL
ECO start/stop function with direct-start

The standard-specification ECO start/stop function operates with starter-supported direct-start. This means that when the engine is switched off, the attitude of the crankshaft is registered by a new crankshaft sensor so that the engine control unit knows the positions of the individual pistons. On restarting, it can then select the cylinder that is in the most suitable position for first ignition. After the starter has briefly turned over the engine, reliable injection, ignition and combustion is immediately possible there.

An additional, demand-controlled electric transmission oil pump supplies the clutches of the automatic transmission with oil pressure prior to starting, so as to enable a swift resumption of the journey after direct starting of the combustion engine via the ECO start/stop function. The starter motor (starter) has also undergone thorough modification: it is now designed to be highly durable, ensuring that it will last a car’s lifetime in continuous urban driving involving frequent auto-starting. In addition, the on-board electrical system is supported by a second battery. As is the case with the starter battery (95 Ah), the “auxiliary battery” (12 Ah) also features maintenance-free AGM technology (AGM = absorbed glass mat).

Intelligent alternator management

Its intelligent alternator management also contributes to the luxury roadster’s sensitive treatment of energy. When the battery is charged to more than 80 percent, the alternator is governed to take load off the engine. The energy required in this operating state is supplied by the battery. If the driver removes their foot from the accelerator pedal or applies the brakes, kinetic energy is recovered and fed to the battery.

Automatic transmission for less consumption and more fun at the wheel

All SL models come with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard. Now in its sixth generation, the multi-ratio automatic transmission was developed by Mercedes-Benz and has been produced since 1960. The new version has once again been thoroughly revised to optimise consumption and comfort compared with its predecessor. The new generation of the torque converter provides an improved dynamic response and reduced noise and vibration levels thanks to a new hydraulic circuit, as well as enhanced dampers and an optimised torque converter housing. The extreme wheel-slip reduction of the torque converter housing, combined with

- larger mechanical damper de-coupling, helps to reduce consumption significantly;

- in addition, the gearshift program in ECO mode has been changed in favour of lower engine rpm at cruising speeds;

- friction-optimised bearings and seals plus a new automatic transmission oil (FE-ATF) with reduced viscosity in conjunction with an optimised additive package.

This results in more driving enjoyment than was the case with the predecessor transmission – and also improved smoothness, not to mention an average of seven percent less consumption (in the NEDC).

What’s more, the increased durability of the new oil also brings with it new oil-change intervals from 50,000 (old) to 125,000 kilometres (new).

DIRECT SELECT gearshift with designer chic and athletic allure

Mercedes-Benz is equipping the new SL with the newly developed DIRECT SELECT gearshift in the centre console – the first vehicle with an automatic transmission to receive this honour. In so doing, the premium brand is establishing a completely new generation of central gearshift for vehicles featuring shift-by-wire (ShW) transmission technology. Its small control lever, reminiscent of a high-calibre joystick, has a driver-oriented position, being installed on the centre console. Its striking design not only underlines the sporty character of the roadster; it also emphasises the high quality of the SL with its exquisite touch and feel, superb ergonomics and unique look.

In addition to an Eco program, the 7G-TRONIC PLUS in the new SL also offers a sports-oriented automatic program. Over and above this, the driver can also select a manual shift program which they operate via the paddles on the steering wheel – which also come as part of the standard specification.

The two automatic programs automatically adjust on a continuous basis in line with the driver’s behaviour. By way of example, if they step on the accelerator pedal more dynamically than before, the shift points automatically move towards more sportiness. In the ECO mode, the shift program is configured differently for lower engine speeds during cruising, thus saving fuel.

In the sportily oriented automatic program, the output is available more spontaneously and it shifts faster. The double-declutching function and active downshifts have been systematically enhanced. During heavy braking, the transmission shifts down considerably earlier, so higher engine speeds make the acceleration which follows easier. The double-declutching function, in which the engine speed is actively raised with an abrupt acceleration, ensures faster and more comfortable downshifting. The concomitant acoustic response underlines a sporty driving style and enhances the unique roadster feel.

In the manual transmission mode controlled using shift paddles on the steering wheel, the engine responds to the throttle over a steeper characteristic pedal curve. Selecting the gear via the steering-wheel gearshift buttons facilitates minimal shift times and emphasises the sporty double declutching. In manual mode, the gear indicator in the instrument cluster moves to a separate section of the colour display, where it shows the seven available gears plus the gear currently selected.







Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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The drive system of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL: Advanced technology made visible

By | Published Sunday, 11 March 2012

With the electric drivetrain system of the SLS AMG E-CELL, Mercedes-AMG GmbH is providing yet another glimpse of its latest development project. The drivetrain has been in development since 2010 as a result of the cooperation between Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth. Four synchronous electric motors located near the wheels, providing a peak output of 392 kW and torque of 880 Nm, help to provide the SLS AMG E-CELL with its exciting driving dynamics. The carbon-fibre transmission tunnel, which also serves as the monocoque housing for the high-voltage battery modules, is structurally integrated into the aluminium body shell and firmly bonded to it. The lightweight fibre composite materials have their origins in the world of Formula 1, among other areas.


A small series-production run of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL is expected to be launched onto the market in 2013. The powerful and locally emission-free super sports car with electric drive is yet another example of the innovative strength and development competence of the AMG performance brand.

The ground-breaking drive system of the technology vehicle boasts some outstanding features: powerful traction is provided by four synchronous electric motors with a combined peak output of 392 kW and a maximum torque of 880 Nm. The four compact electric motors each achieve a maximum rotational speed of 12,000 rpm and are positioned close to the wheels. As a result, compared with wheel-hub motors, the unsprung masses are substantially reduced. One transmission per axle transmits the power.

Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 4 seconds

When it comes to dynamics, the electrically-powered SLS makes a statement: the gullwing model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4 seconds – which almost puts it on the same high level as the SLS AMG with 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 420 kW (571 hp), which can accelerate to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.

Further exciting touches are provided courtesy of the agile accelerator response and the straight-line performance: unlike a combustion engine, torque build-up in an electric motor is instantaneous – maximum torque is available virtually from a standstill. The spontaneous torque build-up and confident power delivery - which does not suffer from any interruption of tractive power - are combined with engine running characteristics which are totally free of vibration.

The key data at a glance:

Max. output - 392 kW
Torque - 880 Nm
0 - 100 km/h - 4.0 s
Energy content - 3 x 16 kWh = 48 kWh

All-wheel drive with torque vectoring enables completely new levels of freedom

Four wheels, four motors – the intelligent and permanent all-wheel drive of the electric SLS guarantees driving dynamics at the highest level, while at the same time providing the best possible active safety. Optimum traction is therefore ensured, whatever the weather conditions. According to the AMG developers, "torque vectoring" involves the individual control of the electric motors, something which enables completely new levels of freedom to be achieved. Torque vectoring is permanently active and allows for selective distribution of forces for each individual wheel. The intelligent distribution of drive torque greatly benefits driving dynamics, handling, driving safety and ride comfort. Each individual wheel can be electrically driven and electrically braked, depending on the driving conditions, thus helping to

- optimise the vehicle's cornering properties,

- reduce the tendency to oversteer/understeer,

- increase the yaw damping of the basic vehicle,

- reduce the steering effort and steering angle required,

- increase traction,

- and minimise ESP® intervention.

Torque vectoring enables optimum use of the adhesion potential between the tyres and the road surface in all driving conditions, thereby extending the critical limits of the vehicle's driving dynamics.

Advanced technology from Formula 1: high-voltage lithium-ion battery

The SLS AMG E-CELL incorporates a liquid-cooled high-voltage lithium-ion battery featuring a modular design with an energy content of 48 kWh. Its development has made use of advanced technology from the world of Formula 1: the battery is the first result of the co-operation between Mercedes-AMG GmbH in Affalterbach and Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains (formerly Mercedes-Benz High Performance Engines). Headquartered in Brixworth, England, the company has been working closely with AMG for a number of years. F1 engine experts have benefited from its extensive expertise with the KERS hybrid concept, which made its debut in the 2009 Formula 1 season. At the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2009, Lewis Hamilton achieved the first historic victory for a Formula 1 vehicle featuring KERS hybrid technology in the form of the Mercedes-Benz KER System.

The high-voltage battery consists of 12 modules each comprising 72 lithium-ion polymer cells. This optimised arrangement of a total of 864 cells has benefits not only in terms of best use of the installation space, but also in terms of performance. The maximum electric load potential of the high-voltage battery is 480 kW, which is an absolute best value in the automotive sector. Another technical feature of this considerable performance is the intelligent parallel circuit of the individual battery modules – this also helps to maximise the safety, reliability and service life of the battery. As in Formula 1, the 400-volt battery is charged by means of targeted recuperation during braking whilst the car is being driven.

High-performance control as well as effective cooling of all components

A high-performance electronic control system converts the direct current from the high-voltage battery into three-phase alternating current which is required for the synchronous motors and regulates the energy flow for all operating conditions. Two low-temperature cooling circuits ensure that the four electric motors and the power electronics are maintained at an even operating temperature. A separate low-temperature circuit is responsible for cooling the high-voltage lithium-ion battery. In low external temperatures, the battery is quickly brought up to operating temperature with the aid of an electric heating element. This helps to preserve the overall service life of the battery. In extremely high external temperatures, the cooling circuit for the battery can be additionally boosted with the aid of the air conditioning system.

"AMG Lightweight Performance" design strategy

The trailblazing body shell structure of the SLS AMG E-CELL is part of the ambitious "AMG Lightweight Performance" design strategy. The battery is located within a carbon-fibre monocoque which forms an integral part of the body shell and acts as the gullwing model's "spine". The fibre composite materials have their roots in the world of Formula 1, among other areas. The advantages of carbon-fibre were exploited by the AMG engineers in the design of the monocoque. These include their high strength, which makes it possible to create extremely rigid structures in terms of torsion and bending, excellent crash performance and low weight. CFRP components are up to 50 percent lighter than comparable steel ones, yet retain the same level of stability. Compared with aluminium, the weight saving is still around 30 percent, while the material is considerably thinner. The weight advantages achieved through the carbon-fibre battery monocoque are reflected in the agility of the SLS AMG E-CELL and, in conjunction with the highly innovative wheel-selective four-wheel drive system, ensure true driving enjoyment.

The carbon-fibre battery monocoque is, in addition, conceived as a "zero intrusion cell" in order to meet the very highest expectations in terms of crash safety. It protects the battery modules inside the vehicle from deformation or damage in the event of a crash.

The basis for CFRP construction is provided by fine carbon fibres, ten times thinner than a human hair. A length of this innovative fibre reaching from here to the moon would weigh a mere 25 grams. Between 1000 and 24,000 of these fibres are used to form individual strands. Machines then weave and sew them into fibre mats several layers thick, which can be moulded into three-dimensional shapes. When injected with liquid synthetic resin, this hardens to give the desired structure its final shape and stability.

Through their experience with the SLR, the AMG Black Series vehicles and in motorsport, Mercedes-Benz and AMG have accumulated more than 10 years of expertise in working with carbon-fibre materials. AMG currently makes the propshaft for the SLS AMG, for example, in carbon-fibre. On the SLS Roadster, the supporting structure for the draught-stop is made as standard as a carbon sandwich structure. This component, with extremely short cycle times in an industrially oriented manufacturing process, already demonstrates what will be possible in the future.

Optimum weight distribution and low centre of gravity

The purely electric drive system was factored into the equation as early as the concept phase when the gullwing model was being developed. It is ideally packaged for the integration of the high-performance, zero-emission technology: by way of example, the four electric motors and the two transmissions can be positioned as close to the four wheels as possible and very low down in the vehicle. The same applies to the modular high-voltage battery. Advantages of this solution include the vehicle's low centre of gravity and balanced weight distribution – ideal conditions for optimum handling, which the electrically-powered gullwing model shares with its petrol-driven sister model.

New front axle design with pushrod damper struts

The additional front-wheel drive called for a newly designed front axle: unlike the series production vehicle with AMG V8 engine, which has a double wishbone axle, the SLS AMG E-CELL features an independent multi-link suspension with pushrod damper struts. This is because the vertically-arranged damper struts in the series SLS had to make way for the additional drive shafts. As is usual in a wide variety of racing vehicles, horizontal damper struts are now used, which are operated via separate push rods and transfer levers.

Thanks to this sophisticated front-axle design, which has already been tried and tested in the world of motorsport, the agility and driving dynamics of the SLS AMG E-CELL attain the same high levels as the V8 variant. Another distinguishing feature is the speed-sensitive power steering with rack-and-pinion steering gear: the power assistance is implemented electrohydraulically rather than just hydraulically.

AMG ceramic composite brakes for perfect deceleration

The technology vehicle is slowed with the aid of AMG high-performance ceramic composite brakes, which boast extremely short stopping distances, a precise actuation point and outstanding fade resistance, even in extreme operating conditions. The over-sized discs – measuring 402 x 39 mm at the front and 360 x 32 mm at the rear – are made of carbon fibre-strengthened ceramic, feature an integral design all round and are connected to an aluminium bowl in a radially floating arrangement.

The ceramic brake discs are 40 percent lighter in weight than the conventional, grey cast iron brake discs. The reduction in unsprung masses not only improves handling dynamics and agility, but also ride comfort and tyre grip. The lower rotating masses at the front axle also ensure a more direct steering response – which is particularly noticeable when taking motorway bends at high speed. The ABS and ESP® systems have been adapted to match the special application spectrum of the permanent all-wheel drive.


















* Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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smart at the Geneva Motor Show 2012

By | Published Tuesday, 6 March 2012

Two world premieres and a European premiere: New developments from smart at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show

smart will be presenting numerous ideas for electric mobility in urban areas at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show – with two wheels and four, with the practical cargo area of a pick-up or the sportiness of a smart BRABUS. The facelifted smart fortwo with a clearly restyled exterior will be a further focus.


The smart for-us translates the practical loading concept of a pickup to the reality of 21st century urban traffic for the first time. With its exterior dimensions it could almost go unnoticed on the loading area of a typical pickup, and it also anything but ordinary under the body. Thanks to the state-of-the-art electric drive with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor the zero-emission smart for-us, which will be celebrating its European premiere in Geneva, is agile and lively to drive.

The spring of 2012 will see the smart fortwo making its mark in a striking new look with an upgraded exterior and a fresh leather/fabric mix in the interior. The substantially revamped smart fortwo sports a markedly more dynamic appearance, featuring a larger radiator grille with integrated logo, striking front aprons in a new design, horizontally arranged LED daytime driving lights, muscular side skirts and modified rear aprons.

New limited series: the smart fortwo sharpred is a real eye-catcher as the intense red of the tridion safety cell and door mirror housing forms a striking contrast to the rest of the exterior in black. The smart fortwo sharpred is available as a coupé and as a cabrio with a 52 kW mhd petrol engine or a 62 kW petrol engine.

From June the further developed smart fortwo electric drive will start winning wide-ranging buyers in more than 30 countries for its innovative and forward-looking drive concept. Driven by a battery supplied by the Daimler subsidiary Deutsche ACCUmotive for the first time the 55 kW electric motor passes the 120 km/h mark. A new sales model makes the introduction to electric mobility particularly attractive: the sale&care model offers customers an opportunity to buy the vehicle at an attractive price and to lease the battery for a monthly fee.

smart will also be presenting the production version of the trendy and environmentally friendly smart ebike at the Geneva Motor Show. Just a few weeks later, from the end of April, it will be possible to order the electric two-wheeler from smart contractual partners in 16 European countries and in Canada. The first models will be delivered in May 2012. The smart ebike will initially be available in two colour variants at an attractive price.

The smart BRABUS electric drive, which will celebrate its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, offers a look ahead at the sporty BRABUS version of the smart fortwo electric drive. In addition to modifications to the exterior and interior styling, its drive has been designed for particularly dynamic and powerful acceleration. Aerodynamic body styling parts, BRABUS sports suspension and BRABUS Monoblock 16/17 inch alloy wheels add to the sporty appeal.

The near-series smart BRABUS ebike study, a further world premiere, can reach a speed of up to 45 km/h, thus offering a further enjoyable way of getting around the city and countryside. This sporty two-wheeler has the features typical of BRABUS - more style, more power and more exclusiveness.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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Local zero-emission driving pleasure for everyone: The new generation smart fortwo electric drive

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The third generation smart fortwo electric drive offers zero local-emission motoring with even more fun behind the wheel. Following the huge success of the second generation, electric mobility will soon be accessible to anyone interested. In the development of the new generation smart benefited from extensive experience and customer feedback gathered worldwide over the past few years. Driven by a battery supplied by the Daimler subsidiary Deutsche ACCUmotive for the first time the 55 kW electric motor passes the 120 km/h mark. From 0 to 100 km/h in less than 13 seconds - even driving on urban motorways is fun. The 17.6 kWh battery enables the lively city car to travel more than 140 kilometres in city traffic without producing any local emissions. A new sales model makes the introduction to electric mobility particularly attractive for customers: the sale&care model offers customers an opportunity to buy the vehicle at an attractive price and to lease the battery for a monthly fee. Before the official start of sales those interested can already reserve a vehicle via smart.com in some countries.


For the further development of the smart fortwo electric drive the company was able to integrate extensive experience and customer feedback from various electric mobility projects. Ever since 1998 the smart has been revolutionising urban mobility like no vehicle before it. Compact, agile, environmentally friendly and stylish – it has evolved from a practical small car to a lifestyle product and has long become a familiar sight on the roads of cities around the world.

With the start of the first electrically driven test fleet in 2007 in London smart also took on a pioneering role in the area of electric mobility when 100 smart fortwo electric drives took to the roads of the British capital – with great success. Today the vehicle is a trendsetter and a synonym for forward-looking battery-electric-driven urban mobility of the future.

One of the largest electric fleets worldwide

With the introduction of the second generation in 2009 the smart fortwo electric drive was ready to take to the roads. The electrically driven avant-gardiste from Stuttgart was introduced in 18 markets. The objective of the second generation was to gather as much experience as possible about how customers use and charge electric vehicles. The huge demand exceeded all expectations. Instead of the planned 1000 vehicles more than 2000 smart fortwo electric drives were produced in Hambach. This means that smart has one of the largest fleets of electrically driven vehicles on the roads worldwide and a trove of customer experience and wishes that have been input in the third generation smart fortwo electric drive.

A higher top speed and better acceleration at speeds above 60 km/h were right at the top of the customers' list of priorities. However, contrary to prevailing opinion the range wasn't the crucial point from the perspective of the test customers. The vast majority of users confirmed the results of surveys which say that people drive approximately 30 to 40 kilometres per day on average in urban areas and they expressed great satisfaction with the range of their smart.

Even better in the third generation

From June the further developed smart fortwo electric drive will start winning wide-ranging buyers in more than 30 markets for its innovative and forward-looking drive concept.

The third generation smart fortwo electric drive is equipped with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor - the first product from the EM-motive joint venture founded together with Bosch - which ensures that it is as agile and lively as ever. With torque of 130 Newton metres it accelerates powerfully and immediately from 0 to 60 km/h in 5 seconds and thanks to better acceleration in the higher speed range it can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 13 seconds as it has much more tractive power than its predecessor. This makes for speedy driving and overtaking. The battery-electric two-seater smart fortwo now also has a higher top speed of more than 120 km/h, putting it on a par with the combustion-engined smart.

A battery supplied by the Daimler subsidiary Deutsche ACCUmotive is fitted in the new smart fortwo electric drive for the first time. With capacity of 17.6 kWh the lithium-ion battery from the joint venture with Evonik Industries provides for more than 140 kilometres of pollutant-free driving fun. In addition to the higher battery capacity clear improvements have been made to the efficiency of the drive system, resulting in a greater range. When completely empty it takes a maximum of eight hours to fully charge the battery at a household socket or charging station on the electricity systems of most countries i.e. overnight.

Quick charging in just one hour

For the greater freedom of quick charging it is possible to optionally equip the vehicle with a quick-charging function. The 22 kW on-board charger enables a completely empty battery to be fully charged in less than an hour. A power cable is needed for this which is used to connect the vehicle to a public quick-charging station or a wallbox at home or work.

smart will offer this in future in cooperation with SPX, one of the world's leading suppliers of technology solutions in the fields of energy and automotive as a global installation and service partner, and with KEBA, a specialist for innovative E-charging infrastructure and wallboxes. If a customer decides to install a wallbox at home or work the smart Sales department will contact SPX. SPX will examine the local conditions, make an offer, and after discussing the cost estimate, arrange for installation of the wallbox from KEBA. The wallbox is standardised and can of course also be used to charge of vehicles from other manufacturers, for example if there is a mixed fleet.

A comparison of the two smart fortwo electric drive generations
Attractive introduction to electric mobility

The smart fortwo electric drive makes the introduction to electric mobility very attractive with a new marketing concept. With the sale&care model customers can buy, lease or finance the vehicle at an attractive price and lease the battery for less than €60 per month plus VAT. This means that the monthly costs for electric driving are no higher than those for a comparable vehicle with diesel drive. The rental costs include regular maintenance and annual servicing of the battery and, if necessary, quick battery replacement. smart also has a solution for all those who want to buy the entire vehicle.

The price for the vehicle with the sale&care model is considerably less than €16,000 + VAT. In view of the low operating costs electric driving therefore represents a very attractive form of individual mobility. National promotion programmes in many countries and mobility benefits such as the use of special lanes or exemption from city congestion charges are further advantages of electric driving. With the attractive sale&care package and the significant technological progress for the third generation smart fortwo electric drive smart offers its customers affordable driving fun for daily use based on the environmentally friendly drive.

Anyone interested can now register on www.smart.comwith no obligation and will receive all the latest news on the new electric smart. Customers in Germany, France, Spain, Italy and the UK who would like to be among the first owners of the new third generation smart fortwo electric drive can already reserve a vehicle in advance online. The reservation programme will start successively in further markets.

Fill up on renewable energies

Electric vehicles cut down greenhouse gases on a sustained basis, especially when they are powered by renewably generated electricity. This is why the company is supplying as much additional energy generated by wind power to the German power network as is needed to run all third generation electric smarts sold in Germany – thus supporting the ambitious climate targets of the EU. Within the framework of this initiative Daimler is deliberately not taking up support measures from the Renewable Energy Act.

A fresh green and even more colours

With a larger radiator grille featuring the electric drive logo, stylish LED daytime driving lights below the headlamps, wider door sills and several modifications to the rear the new model is much more dynamic than its predecessor.
The new E-smart comes in all smart colours and colour combinations that are also available for the diesel and petrol models. The new colour fresh green is a particularly visible manifestation of electric driving fun. In addition to crystal white bodypanels the electric drive design package comprises white alloy rims, a green tridion cell, green mirror caps and numerous green accents in the interior, which form an attractive contrast to the black seats.

Perfectly equipped

As to be expected the new smart fortwo electric drive features extensive equipment. A highlight is the fully automatic air conditioning with pollen filter and pre-air conditioning. As with the second generation, when it is connected to the power network the vehicle can be pre-cooled or pre-heated as required for a programmed departure time. A new feature is the possibility to start the pre-air conditioning via the internet or a smartphone at any time. The standard equipment furthermore includes electric windows, leather steering wheel, leather gear knob, the entry line radio, power steering, 9-spoke alloy wheels and a luggage compartment cover. As with the predecessor model, in addition to the standard solid roof a glass roof and a cabrio version are available. The trip computer – also a standard feature in the electric smart – shows journey information including the remaining range. And like the predecessor model the two round instruments show the charge status of the battery and the energy used and recuperated. In addition, the smart fortwo electric drive can be equipped with a navigation system and a 3-spoke leather steering wheel.

Clever app for infotainment with smartphones

smart is the first car brand to develop its own drive app for the iPhone®. Together with the smart kit and cradle for the iPhone®the popular phone becomes a multimedia trip computer that is optimised for the smart fortwo in terms of function and design. The smart drive app for the iPhone®has all the important features needed whilst driving: phone calls via hands-free system, your own extensive music collection, internet radio and a clever navigation system with a special smart touch. There are also smart extras – for example the Car Finder that will guide you back to wherever you parked your car.

The new smart drive app for the iPhone®is simple to operate, for example thanks to extra-large buttons. The new app makes urban mobility even easier and more fun - the declared objective of the smart philosophy.

Two new elements developed by smart make the two-seater car and the iPhone®a perfect team:

- The smart cradle for the iPhone ® with control unit and microphone serves as a stylish and functional holder. It charges the iPhone ® and also functions as a hands-free system using the loudspeakers of the smart radio for sound output and automatically muting it when phone calls are made.

- The smart drive app for the iPhone ® is the world's first drive app on the market to be developed by a car brand. It combines all the features needed on the road in a single app. All the functions are extremely easy to use thanks to extra-large buttons and extra-large letters.

Always know how far you can go: connected services

The smart drive app for the iPhone®can be tuned with further functions tailored to the smart fortwo electric drive. However, the current charge status or the SmartCharging charge configuration can also be conveniently controlled and managed via a web portal from a home computer or with any modern smartphone.

The Vehicle Homepage offers every third generation smart fortwo electric drive customer a chance to visualise the range on an interactive map with 3D views. All the destinations that can be reached with the current battery charge are displayed. The public charging stations within reach can also be seen at a glance. If a desired destination is further away than the available range the Vehicle Homepage can be used to quickly check the additional battery charge needed. Among other things the depiction of the range considers the topography and the route profile. The intuitive graphic depiction that can be combined with 3D views and satellite images is an attractive feature. Furthermore, the vehicle itself can also become active. Information on the charge status and range can be sent by email or Twitter messages for example. The driver is notified as soon as the desired range can be reached with the current charge.

Intelligent charging

The smart fortwo electric drive can be connected to the internet at home via a standard powerline adapter (Homeplug AV) for SmartCharging. After entering the planned departure time in the vehicle or the web portal the vehicle will be fully charged in a battery-saving and economical way, and pre-air conditioned if required so that it is ready to start. The pre-air conditioning can also be conveniently activated online shortly before setting off. The third generation smart fortwo electric drive also makes charging at public stations easy. With Plug&Charge the vehicle identifies itself as soon as it is plugged into a compatible charging point and the charging process is settled automatically.
Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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World premiere in Geneva - smart BRABUS electric drive: Electric drive reloaded

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The smart BRABUS electric drive that will celebrate its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show (8 – 18 March 2012) shows what the sporty version of the smart fortwo electric drive will look like. It will be available from smart centers in 12 countries from the end of this year. In addition to modifications to the exterior and interior styling, its drive has been designed for particularly dynamic and powerful acceleration. Aerodynamic body styling parts, BRABUS sports suspension and BRABUS Monoblock 16/17 inch alloy wheels add to the sporty appeal.


Zero local emissions yet maximum driving fun: the smart BRABUS electric drive proves that cutting edge urban mobility can be combined with lively agility and a sporty look. The electric motor is based on the state-of-the-art drive technology of the new smart fortwo electric drive with output of 60 instead of 55 kW. The smart BRABUS electric drive delivers maximum torque of 135 instead of 130 Nm, which means that it is almost always the fastest to pull away at traffic lights. The new BRABUS sports suspension makes a decisive contribution to driving fun by bringing the vehicle approximately ten millimetres closer to the asphalt. The sporty character is accompanied by special BRABUS sound to match, generated by a sound module.

The smart BRABUS electric drive comes with a BRABUS sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift as a standard feature. The recuperation can be regulated with the help of the shift paddles. And to ensure minimum interruptions to the fun behind the wheel a quick charging function is available as an option. The 22 kW charger enables a completely empty battery to be fully charged in less than an hour.

The smart BRABUS electric drive has a dynamic look that also signals environmental friendliness: the tridion safety cell and door mirror caps are painted in electric green whilst black dominates on all other body parts – even the front grille. Dark BRABUS headlamps, BRABUS "Monoblock VII" alloy wheels measuring 16" at the front and 17" at the rear, and BRABUS Xclusive aerodynamic body styling parts (a front spoiler and a special rear apron insert with double reflectors) round off the sporty look.

In the interior accent trim parts and contrast components also come in electric green. Numerous BRABUS Xclusive components, including the instrument panel and interior door trim in leather look, leather seats, stainless steel sports pedals with rubber nubs, BRABUS hand-brake handle and BRABUS dashboard instruments (cockpit clock and rev counter) convey a subtly dynamic look.

Sporty smarts are called BRABUS – and have been for ten years already. In 2002 smart and the tuning specialist BRABUS from Bottrop founded a joint company. As early as 2003 the first premium models developed by the joint venture smart-BRABUS GmbH were introduced on the market. The smart BRABUS tailor made individualisation programme has also been received very well by smart fans. With paint finishes in thousands of different colours, leather in 30 basic colours and exclusive design variants, six cabrio soft top colours and the extensive smart-BRABUS accessories
portfolio it enables creative customers to configure a smart in line with their own personal wishes.
* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS GmbH *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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The family of the future drives Mercedes-Benz and smart

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To coincide with their arrival, yesterday the new residents of the “Effizienzhaus-Plus mit Elektromobilität“ were given a smart fortwo electric drive and a Mercedes-Benz A-Class E-CELL. For the next three months the family of four will therefore be able to get around using the battery-electric vehicles without producing any emissions at all. Among other things the project serves to field test state-of-the-art technologies, and this is why the vehicles will use the intelligent charging function "Smart Charge Communication" and an inductive charging option.


Combining zero-emission living and driving with an integrated approach that is suitable for everyday use sounds like a far-off vision of the future. But for the Welke-Wiechers family it will become reality in the next 15 months. Yesterday the family moved into the “Effizienzhaus-Plus mit Elektromobilität“, financed by the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs (BMVBS), which generates more regenerative electricity than it consumes. In line with the project title "My house, my filling station" this surplus energy will be used to charge electric vehicles.

In order to perfectly coordinate the energy generated by the house and the energy needed for the electric vehicles Daimler has equipped the second generation smart fortwo electric drive and the A-Class E-CELL with the intelligent charge management system "Smart Charge Communication" (SCC). Via the vehicle homepage, a website specially programmed for the electric vehicles, the family can monitor and manage the charging process at all times. Furthermore, with the A-Class E-CELL Daimler is also testing the suitability of inductive charging for everyday use.

Intelligent charge management with "Smart Charge Communication"

As the amount of electricity generated by regeneration is subject to certain fluctuations, the interaction between the efficiency house and electric mobility calls for intelligent energy management. Thanks to "Smart Charge Communication" the house and the vehicles can "communicate" with one another and in this way adjust the charging process to the availability of electricity. Data is exchanged via a power line connection established with the charging cable. An interface receives data on the amount of electricity available from the energy management system installed in the house. At the same time, as soon as it is connected to a charging station the vehicle transmits information on the current state of charge and the planned departure time, both of which can be entered via the vehicle homepage or directly in the car. This information is used to calculate which consumers must be supplied preferentially with electricity. The technology also enables several vehicles to be connected without overloading the building connection.

When used by private customers who do not generate their own electricity, the SCC function can adjust the charging process to the electricity price and the availability of "green" electricity depending on the departure time. If the vehicle is charged at a public charging station, the energy costs can also be automatically settled via SCC. The technology has long since passed the research stage. Smart Charge Communication will be integrated as a standard feature in the third generation smart fortwo electric drive, which will be launched on the German market in June of this year. Every customer with a wallbox with a power line connection will then be able to use this function.

The vehicle homepage: all the data at a glance

The most important vehicle data can be called up at any time via the vehicle homepage from a computer or whilst out and about from a smartphone with a corresponding app. The simple and clear menu structure gives a quick overview of the current state of charge and the vehicle range, and also shows the remaining charging time. What's more, charging stations in the vicinity can be displayed. The charging process can also be monitored and the planned departure time can be reset at any time. In addition, in order to conserve the battery during the journey the vehicle can be pre-climatised to a pleasant interior temperature. The vehicle homepage for the 3rd generation smart fortwo electric drive can additionally be used for route planning. As with SCC, a power line connection is a prerequisite for using the vehicle homepage.

In the “Effizienzhaus-Plus“, the family can also display the vehicle homepage on the LCD monitors in the house and select all functions from here.

Inductive charging

Instead of cable contact, with inductive charging the car is simply positioned above a charging coil installed in the floor. The electronics sense the charging coil and then start the charging process fully automatically. Daimler and Conductix-Wampfler tested this technology for the first time in a project funded by the Federal Ministry for the Environment. The modified A-Class E-CELL, which will be used in the “Effizienzhaus-Plus“, can be charged either with a plug or inductively via a magnetic coil in the floor. The automatic activation of the charging process and an assistance system which assists in parking precisely above the charging coil, guarantee the operating convenience expected from Mercedes-Benz.

Brief description of the "Effizienzhaus-Plus mit Elektromobilität"

Within the framework of construction and electric mobility research the Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Affairs (BMVBS) has built a 130m2 family home in Fasanenstraße 87 in Berlin-Charlottenburg, which produces twice as much energy as it uses. The aim of this habitable prototype is to demonstrate that the energy produced by the house can also be used for a family's mobility needs. For this the five car manufacturers Audi, BMW, Daimler, Opel and VW are each providing the test family with electric vehicles for a three month period.

The model project in Berlin combines innovative developments already on the market from the construction and automotive industries and is equipped with state-of-the-art photovoltaics and energy management technology. The project is fully recyclable. In addition to its showcase function for collaborative innovative development of construction and vehicle technology it is also a test laboratory for modern energy management. The “Effizienzhaus-Plus“ is subject to intensive scientific monitoring. The research findings obtained will be made available for the construction of such innovative buildings on a broad scale and the further development of technical systems.

From March 2012 a family selected via a public application process will live in the house for 15 months. The day-to-day life of the test family will also be used to examine the interfaces between man and technology and various research projects will be carried out on the house. Contact, coordination and further information: www.bmvbs.de/effizienzhausplus







Credits: Daimler AG

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World premiere in Geneva: smart BRABUS electric drive and smart BRABUS ebike - Electric upgrade

By | Published Thursday, 1 March 2012

For 10 years already smart BRABUS has stood for dynamism and sportiness. Since 2002 the company founded by smart and the tuning specialist BRABUS from Bottrop have brought top versions of the popular car brand to the market. At the Geneva Motor Show the BRABUS versions of the smart fortwo electric drive and the smart ebike will show what these look like in the era of electric mobility. The dynamic character of both models is not only expressed in their appearance, but also in enhanced performance.


"The smart BRABUS electric drive is our sports car with a green heart", says smart boss Dr. Annette Winkler. "Electric driving in the city is more fun than ever with this 2.69 metre short bundle of power.

"The smart BRABUS electric drive will be available from smart centers in 12 countries from the end of this year. In addition to modifications to the exterior and interior styling, its drive has been designed for particularly dynamic and powerful acceleration. Aerodynamic body styling parts, BRABUS sports suspension and BRABUS Monoblock 16/17 inch alloy wheels add to the sporty appeal.

At the same time the near-series study of the smart BRABUS ebike is celebrating its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show. The two-wheeler can reach a speed of up to 45 km/h and offers a further enjoyable way of getting around the city and countryside. The production version of the smart BRABUS ebike is expected to be available from dealers from the end of 2012.

"Like all smart BRABUS vehicles these two new models follow our philosophy of more style, more power and more exclusiveness", says Bodo Buschmann, CEO of the Bottrop customiser BRABUS. "In addition to classic BRABUS customers they also appeal to smart electric drive customers who attach importance to environmental friendliness and also want even more sportiness and exclusiveness. Or to put it another way: we give the sporty soul a green heart."

Dynamic and powerful acceleration: the smart BRABUS electric drive

Zero local emissions but maximum driving fun: the smart BRABUS electric drive proves that cutting-edge urban mobility can be combined with lively agility and a sporty look. The electric motor is based on the state-of-the-art drive technology of the new smart fortwo electric drive and has an output of 60 kW. The smart BRABUS electric drive delivers maximum torque of 135 Nm, which means that it almost always wins when pulling away at the traffic lights. The new BRABUS sports suspension makes a decisive contribution to driving fun by bringing the vehicle approximately ten millimetres closer to the asphalt. The sporty character is accompanied by a special BRABUS sound to match, generated by a sound module. The smart BRABUS electric drive comes with a BRABUS sports steering wheel with steering wheel gearshift as a standard feature. Recuperation can be regulated with the help of the shift paddles.

The smart BRABUS electric drive has a dynamic look that also signals environmental friendliness: the tridion safety cell and door mirror caps are painted in electric green whilst black dominates on all other body parts – even the front grille. Dark BRABUS headlamps, BRABUS "Monoblock VII" alloy wheels measuring 16" at the front and 17" at the rear, and BRABUS Xclusive aerodynamic body styling parts (a front spoiler and a special rear apron insert with double reflectors) round off the sporty look.

In the interior accent trim parts and contrast components also come in electric green. Numerous BRABUS Xclusive components, including the instrument panel and interior door trim in leather look, leather seats, stainless steel sports pedals with rubber nubs, BRABUS hand-brake handle and BRABUS dashboard instruments (cockpit clock and rev counter) lend the interior a dynamic and exclusive look.

Max. speed up to 45 km/h: the smart BRABUS ebike

The smart BRABUS ebike has the features typical of BRABUS - more style, more power and more exclusiveness. It has a dynamic look with the frame and fork in matt black and components such as quick release skewers, pedals and brake callipers in anodised green providing a striking contrast. The saddle and grips come in green leather. A four-piston brake system is fitted on the front wheel. The matt black four-spoke wheels are made of carbon. Further components that distinguish the smart BRABUS ebike from the smart ebike are Sport Contact tyres, weight-optimised cranks and pedals and the carbon seatpost.

With 500 watts the electric motor is twice as powerful as that on the smart ebike. At the same time it was possible to reduce the weight of the ebike by more than ten percent. This makes for agile performance: the two-wheeler that is liable to registration has a top speed of 45 km/h. The rider decides how much assistance to his muscle power he would like from the electric motor with the throttle grip. There is a choice of four power levels with the fourth and highest level providing maximum pushing power.

Successful joint venture: smart BRABUS GmbH

Sporty smarts are called BRABUS – and have been for ten years already. In 2002 smart and the tuning specialist BRABUS from Bottrop founded a joint company. As early as 2003 the first premium models developed by the joint venture smart BRABUS GmbH - the smart fortwo BRABUS coupé and cabrio - were introduced on the market.
The smart BRABUS tailor made individualisation programme has also been received very well by smart fans. With paint finishes in thousands of different colours, leather in 30 basic colours and exclusive design variants, six cabrio soft top colours and the extensive smart BRABUS accessories portfolio it enables creative customers to configure a smart in line with their own personal ideas.
* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS GmbH *

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