Fuel Efficiency the German Way
Mercedes’ ECO-Start
The ECO-Start could save you mon£y!!!
At Vansdirect we like to save you money. We don’t merely sell cheap vans or more luxury models at great prices. Oh no, we provide money saving tips as well. So, when the details of the Mercedes-Benz ECO-Start landed on our desk (and surfaced to the top of the in-tray) we thought we’d shout about it from the roof tops!
The ECO-Start system is available as an optional extra on all Sprinters which are fitted with their fantastic 4-cylinder diesel engines and manual transmission. Mercedes claims that it provides “an intelligent and low-cost solution to reduce engine idling [...and...] offers a simple, no-compromise solution to improving vehicle running costs and environmental impact.” Bold claims.
The Science Bit
With the ECO-Start is switched on - the only manual part of the process - using a dashboard mounted switch, the system “will automatically stop the engine when the vehicle is stationary, and when certain predefined vehicle conditions are met, after a 2 second waiting period.” This cuts down on engine use and thus cuts fuel costs, CO2 emissions, noise and reduces engine wear. Indeed, Mercedes report an incredible 10% cut in fuel consumption (see their statistics) which means that this optional extra will actually pay for itself and then some.
You don’t need to worry about a thing. Once those pesky traffic lights have turned green and the Ford Transit in front of is out of your way, the engine will automatically restart when you press down on the clutch pedal.
Is it safe?
The good people at Mercedes assure us that it’s a fool-proof system with built in safety features. They list:
- If the vehicle starts to move, the engine is started to ensure that servo assistance for the steering and brakes is maintained. In all other cases the engine does not re-start until the clutch pedal is fully depressed.
- If the battery voltage is low or if an attempt by the system to start the engine has failed, the ECO-Start function is deactivated.
- In addition, the system’s safety logic checks whether the bonnet is closed to make sure that no one can be injured if the engine suddenly starts.
- To avoid cold starts and also overheating, the system only operates at coolant temperatures of between 40°C and 100°C.
- The comfort of the vehicle’s occupants is also taken into account: when the outside temperature is below freezing point, the engine is not switched off.
So What Next?
Why not go for a test drive? Once you’ve decided this is the system for you, simply give Vansdirect a call on 0845 021 0333 or click here for a free call back. Our van prices beat most dealers so the call could save you thousands!
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December 2nd, 2008 at 1:34 pm
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