The Vision GLK Bluetec Hybrid, which will debut at the Geneva auto show next week, mates a 2.2-liter turbodiesel four with a hybrid module for a total of 224 horsepower and about 413 lb-ft of torque, numbers that compare favorably to the 3.0-liter diesel currently doing duty in the M, R, and GL Mercedes lines. By combining a diesel and a hybrid, the GLK concept achieves nearly 40 mpg and accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 7.3 seconds.
Beyond better fuel economy, Mercedes claims the GLK concept will meet American BIN5 and European EU6 standards thanks to AdBlue injection as well as a number of other important, albeit not groundbreaking, touches. The electric motor, for example, functions as both a generator and a starter, making 118 lb-ft of torque on its own. The concept also features regenerative braking using a lithium-ion battery and a stop-start function that turns the engine off when the SUV pulls to a stop at a traffic light.
All environmentally-friendly technology aside, this is still a concept Mercedes is using to spread word about its GLK SUV, which will enter the market in fall 2008. Putting its best wheel forward, the GLK concept wears eye-catching multi-spoke 20-inch light alloy wheels and an alubeam blue paint Mercedes says has an "incomparable depth." LEDs on the front fascia and a polarizing three-bar silver grille let everyone know you drive a compact hybrid SUV. Inside, the special GLK gets an upper dash lined in black leather, lots of aluminum trim, and leather seats in a color recalling the alubeam blue on the outside. Dark blue piped seams complete the package.
We think a diesel hybrid is an excellent idea, especially since Mercedes understands that the technology can be applied to other cars in its lineup. Allright, Mercedes, we've seen the concept. How long until we can drive a production Bluetec hybrid?
All environmentally-friendly technology aside, this is still a concept Mercedes is using to spread word about its GLK SUV, which will enter the market in fall 2008. Putting its best wheel forward, the GLK concept wears eye-catching multi-spoke 20-inch light alloy wheels and an alubeam blue paint Mercedes says has an "incomparable depth." LEDs on the front fascia and a polarizing three-bar silver grille let everyone know you drive a compact hybrid SUV. Inside, the special GLK gets an upper dash lined in black leather, lots of aluminum trim, and leather seats in a color recalling the alubeam blue on the outside. Dark blue piped seams complete the package.
We think a diesel hybrid is an excellent idea, especially since Mercedes understands that the technology can be applied to other cars in its lineup. Allright, Mercedes, we've seen the concept. How long until we can drive a production Bluetec hybrid?
