Mercedes-Benz E-Class Pioneering Environmental Improvements in Diesel Engines

Mercedes-Benz is unveiling a new family of innovative diesel engines, beginning with its first all-aluminium, four-cylinder diesel unit, the OM 654. The unit will be instrumental in helping future cars meet climate change targets on emissions. Mercedes-Benz celebrates its world premiere in the new E-Class E 220 d in spring 2016.This new engine reduces fuel consumption and engine emissions by 13%, whilst simultaneously improving energy output.

With the OM 654, Mercedes-Benz highlights the importance of optimising internal combustion engines to achieve aims for lower emissions and better sustainability. Diesel automobiles need to play a role alongside hybrid and electric vehicles in meeting targets, especially in Europe, where they are more popular.

Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Daimler Board of Management, with responsibility for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, confirms this, "In our opinion, the diesel engine is indispensable in trucks and cars if we want to further reduce the CO2 emissions from traffic."

Key stats on the new engine at a glance:

• More economical, powerful, lightweight and compact
• First all-aluminium construction of a four-cylinder diesel engine
• Steel pistons with stepped combustion bowls, NANOSLIDE® cylinder coating, fourth-generation common rail injection
• All exhaust treatment technologies configured directly on the engine
• Significantly lighter and more compact: 168.4 kg vs. 202.8 kg (-17%), two-litre displacement instead of 2.15 litres, cylinder spacing 90 mm vs. 94 mm
• Lower noise level and outstanding vibration comfort thanks to a raft of measures

Advantages of the OM 654, cleaner diesel engine

The compact dimensions of the new engine mean that it can be adapted across a wide range of Mercedes-Benz vehicle models. Build and maintenance efficiency will be increased by a standardized interface connecting unit to vehicle. In addition, elements for configuring the exhaust after treatment system are now located on the engine itself, rather than on the vehicle .

The innovative catalyst coatings and insulation measures mean that emissions and heat loss will be reduced, resulting in fuel savings for the driver. There is no need for engine temperature management, meaning optimal operating conditions can be more easily maintained when starting the car in cold temperatures or with a low load, and short journeys will become more environmentally friendly.

How it works

The OM 654 makes use of multiway exhaust gas re-circulation (EGR), combining cooled high-pressure and low-pressure EGR. This reduces untreated emissions and economizes fuel consumption. This engineering means that nitrogen oxides are reduced from gas as much as possible before it enters the exhaust system.