The high-torque electric motor used on the Mercedes-Benz B-Class sports tourer will develop more than 100kW to 35kW more power than its predecessor generation, which DaimlerChrysler says will maintain the sporty driving experience expected from such a vehicle.
Additionally, due to a reduction in fuel consumption and a further enhanced storage capacity over previous company models, the operating range has now been increased to almost 250 miles (400km). The component reliability and longevity have also been further improved, the American/German auto maker said.
With this car, we are continuing our highly successful practical tests on an even larger scale, said Dr Thomas Weber, member of DaimlerChrysler’s board of management with responsibility for research and technology and for the development of the Mercedes Car Group.
In 2003, DaimlerChrysler launched the world’s most extensive series of practical tests for the fuel cell in cars, vans and regular service buses. More than 100 fuel cell vehicles are currently in everyday application, providing DaimlerChrysler engineers with information for the ongoing development of this future-oriented technology.
Since 2003, 30 Mercedes-Benz Citaro city buses with fuel cell drive have been in operation in ten major European cities. Three buses are also in operation in Perth, Australia and another three will operate in Peking, China. Several fuel cell powered Sprinter Vans also are currently being used in day-to-day delivery operations with dispatching companies in the US and Germany.
