Saturday, October 13, 2007

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with an ECO-Start System


It is evident that an idle engine does not consume fuel. This fact has made it possible for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter to decrease fuel consumption and amount of pollutant emission to the atmosphere. If the engine runs at idle speed and the car is in a stall position at neutral for more than three seconds the engine is automatically disconnected. As the driver depresses the clutch pedal again, the system starts the engine.

The ECO-Start system really provides for an essential opportunity to save fuel: sometimes (depending on the drive style and car flow density) the driver can decrease fuel consumption at almost 20%. In average, economy makes 5% to 8%. The system is the best solution for a large city taking into account frequent stops in endless jams and at street-traffic control lights.

The safety is ensured by the most up-to-date electronics. If the car starts moving the engine runs immediately to provide for correct operation of steering boosters and a break system. In any other case, the engine does not run until the clutch pedal is depressed home. If a battery charge is not sufficient or an attempt to start the engine failed, the ECO-Start system is disconnected. To be absolutely sure that nobody can be injured at an unexpected engine start, the control system checks if the engine hood is closed.

If necessary, the driver can disconnect the ECO-Start system himself using the button on the dashboard.

To exclude a cold start, on the one hand, and engine overheating, on the other hand, the system is active only at a cooling liquid temperature of 40°C to 100°C. Passengers’ comfort is also taken into account: if an outdoor temperature falls up to zero, the engine will not be disconnected.

The ECO-Start system is available worldwide and good for any Mercedes-Benz Sprinter modification with a diesel engine and manual gearbox.

No comments: