Merc aims to be a zero hero at Detroit show

Mercedes-Benz plans to reinforce its greenie-friendly credentials at the upcoming Detroit motor show, where it will unveil a trio of 'Concept BlueZero' cars that showcase the company's alternative-fuel technology.

Pictured here is the BlueZero E-Cell, which is a lithium-ion battery-powered hatchback that ostensibly offers a 100km cruising range after a mere two-hour charge.

The car's exterior design language is also significant, as it's believed to be a pointer to the next-generation A-Class and B-Class -- due in 2010/11.

Don't expect the blanked-out grille or semi-concealed rear wheels to feature on the proddie A- and B-Classes, but the BlueZero's profile should pretty much survive the transition to production reality.

The BlueZero E-Cell will be complemented at Detroit show by the hydrogen-fuel-cell-powered BlueZero F-Cell and the BlueZero E-Plus, which uses the Smart ForTwo's three-cylinder turbo engine to charge a lithium-ion battery pack.

The same principle is used by the Chevrolet Volt, and in the case of the BlueZero E-Plus, this set-up is claimed to yield a touring range of 600km.

The F-Cell's hydrogen fuel cell delivers charge to a 90kW electric motor, and a full tank of hydrogen is said to provide a range of 600km-plus.

Although yet to be confirmed by official info emanating from Mercedes-Benz, overseas sources suggest all three concepts will be capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in under 11 seconds.

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