In a world where SUVs are seen as the villain fighting against a greener environment, Mercedes has jumped into the ring to change consumers’ way of thinking. Instead of marketing yet another SUV that does more harm than good, Mercedes has changed the mold to wonderful results.

In its first step to change the perception of SUVs, Mercedes came out with BlueTEC technology. BlueTEC is a technology for diesel fueled vehicles that not only cleans the diesel exhaust, but also improves vehicle mileage. As the exhaust makes its way through a vehicle, it passes through a filtering system. Then, it is mixed with AdBlue additives, which turn the exhaust into Nitrogen and water. The end result is a safer, cleaner operating system for motorists.

When Mercedes unveiled BlueTEC technology, environmentalists were excited. However, while the public was still taking in all of the information that BlueTEC had to offer, Mercedes was quietly working on yet another way to help the environment. Much to the surprise of consumers and environmentalists alike, they managed to outdo themselves by combing both BlueTEC technology and a hybrid system to give consumers the best of both worlds.

Mercedes showed its new model at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show. With its new product, Mercedes proved that it had managed to once again up the ante in the market of SUVs. With the Vision GLK BlueTEC Hybrid, Mercedes threw the gauntlet down with such force that SUV manufacturers across the board are going to have to scramble to catch up.

The Vision GLK BlueTEC Hybrid is a new breed of SUVs. While most hybrid SUVs are doing well to offer 25 miles per gallon, the GLK announced that drivers will enjoy 40 miles per gallon. Up until that point, hybrid SUVs were expected to get an average of 25% better fuel economy. Mercedes turned 25% into a joke.

Mercedes found that by mixing both a hybrid system and BlueTEC technology, fuel economy is greatly improved. Even though the Vision GLK BlueTEC Hybrid is the first in its class, consumers can expect to see more vehicles taking advantage of the dual technology in the future. The GLK has proven to be an astounding vehicle, and it should pave the way for SUVs and other vehicles in the future.

Not only is the Vision GLK BlueTEC Hybrid a great model regarding fuel economy, but it also looks good. It does not have the feel of hybrids of the past. Instead, it would blend in nicely with other vehicles on the road.

Currently, the GLK BlueTEC Hybrid is being labeled as a concept vehicle. That should not give consumers reason for concern, though. The GLK BlueTEC Hybrid is expected to be available to consumers as early as 2009. Mercedes feels confident that the model is ready for the public. As the technology is implemented into more vehicles, it should also become more and more affordable. It could end up being the ride of the future, but right now it is in a class all of its own.

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Filed Under: Green

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