Following the successful introduction of the first ever diesel-hybrid engine model in Malaysia, 12 journalists from Malaysia and Thailand set off on a challenge to drive the Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok with just a single tank of fuel. The journey covered almost 1,500 km with 22 driving hours.
With the aim to reach Bangkok without refuelling and without compromising on comfort, the journalists travelled through the two countries, making full use of the hybrid driving modes to conquer various road conditions, hot weather and heavy rush-hour traffic. All eight cars arrived in Bangkok utilising less than 80 litres of with the best consumption recorded at 4.3l/100km covering 1486 km with 476km of range to spare.
“We are extremely proud of the vehicle’s performance despite facing several road challenges on the way to Bangkok. This long-distance journey is not only a proof of the outstanding qualities of the innovative hybrid technology when combined with the diesel engine, but also a reinstatement that the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is in fact the most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment,” said Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Despite its economical use of fuel, the 4-cylinder diesel engine of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is rated at 204hp and 500 Nm. The diesel engine combines with an electric motor rated at 20 kW and 250 Nm capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds.
The hybridisation also enhances ride comfort: the car starts and moves off in virtual silence, while the hybrid module also damps any internal combustion engine vibrations. What’s more, complete climate control is available even in start/stop mode.
Mercedes-Benz hybrid technology offers a wealth of extra functions that enhance both comfort and efficiency as well as helping to deliver a special driving experience underpinned by accomplished sportiness. With the ECO start/stop function, the engine switches off when coasting at speeds of upto 160 km/h. It is restarted quickly, smoothly and virtually silently.
When the car is cruising or being driven at a constant speed, the engine control unit shifts the operating points towards an exceptionally low fuel consumption level. Sailing is also possible at speeds below 160 km/h when the combustion engine shuts down wand the desired speed is maintained by the electric-motor alone until the battery needs recharging.
The hybrid drive’s electrical energy is provided by the high-voltage lithium-ion battery specially developed for use in vehicles. Its key characteristics include an output of 19 kW and an energy content of 0.8 kWh, allowing the E-Class to run on electric power alone at up to 35 km/h and for up to one kilometre.
Space-saving installation of the drive in the engine compartment in place of the conventional starter battery means that the generous interior dimensions and the luggage compartment capacity remain unchanged. In addition to serving as an energy accumulator for the electric motor, the lithium-ion battery is also connected via the voltage converter to the 12V on-board electrical system, which supplies power to standard power-consuming devices such as the headlamps and the comfort features.
The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is priced at RM 338, 888 (OTR without Insurance). Price is inclusive of GST.
For more information, kindly log on to www.mercedes-benz.com.my
