 | | | TÜV recognises Mercedes-Benz commitment to sustainability |
The Mercedes-Benz A-Class and B-Class have received a prestigious accolade in recognition of their commitment to sustainability. Following the S-Class and C-Class , the vehicles have been certified to international standard ISO 14062 “Design for Environment”, signed and sealed by the TÜV.
To comply with the demanding ISO standard, vehicles must meet strict criteria – not only regarding emissions during operation, but from production to disposal. This includes energy and raw materials balance during manufacturing, through the normal working life to final recycling, as well as over 40,000 individual, ecologically relevant processes.
Mercedes-Benz is the only carmaker with products meeting the strict ISO standards. We achieve this by combining innovative drivetrain technology, new production methods and a strategy addressing environmental issues throughout the lifecycle of our vehicles. For example, the Rastatt plant producing the A-Class and B-Class has a modern environmental management system, and has received a number of prizes as a result. Environmentally friendly innovations include obtaining electricity and heat energy with high efficiency from clean natural gas, consistent use of water-based paints with less than 10% solvent and the use of solar energy to heat industrial water.
Mercedes-Benz has driven environmentally friendly product development for many years. In 1993, we introduced a take-back system that set a benchmark for the car industry; take-back of products has only been compulsory for manufacturers since 2007. All our current models are designed to employ re-usable, natural and renewable raw materials as much as possible, and for all components to be recycled easily at the end of the vehicle’s life. In line with the ISO 22628 standard, the total result for the current A-Class is that 85% can be recycled and 95% recovered.
Meanwhile, improvements in engines and bodywork have decreased fuel consumption and CO2 emissions for the A-Class and B-Class. From autumn 2008, new BlueEFFICIENCY technology in the A 160 CDI and the new ECO start-stop function for the A 150 and A 170 will be available. These will contribute additional improvements in efficiency, without compromising Mercedes-Benz hallmark safety, comfort and driving pleasure.
With our long-term strategy and commitment to sustainability, Mercedes-Benz is ahead of the statutory provisions for environmental protection. A technological leader, we remain the only car brand in the world to offer products with the strict ISO 14062 “Design for Environment” certificate. |
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