A number one priority in developing this vehicle was everyday practicality: boot space is respectable at 400 litres, and interior space and payload capacity are the same as for the mono-fuel petrol version of the E-Class. When the gas runs out, the system switches over automatically, even while the vehicle is in motion, to the full-size petrol tank. From the outside too, there is hardly any difference between the E 200 CNG and a regular E-Class model, apart from a slightly larger fuel filler flap.

The bi-fuel natural gas vehicle is based on the E 200 KOMPRESSOR. The 120 kW / 163 hp engine can operate either on natural gas or on unleaded premium petrol. 

The E 200 CNG is currently the most powerful standard-production natural gas-powered saloon car. Supercharging ensures that performance is the same in natural gas operation as in petrol operation (for naturally aspirated engines, natural gas operation reduces power by up to 15%) 

The driver can switch between natural gas and petrol operation at any time using the multifunction steering wheel buttons and the central display in the instrument cluster. When the gas runs out, the engine switches automatically to petrol operation and vice versa. In everyday operation, it is never necessary to switch over manually. 

The clearly defined long-term objective of DaimlerChrysler AG is the introduction of zero-emission fuel-cell vehicles. In a large number of countries throughout the world, natural gas is available in the interim as an alternative fuel until sufficient hydrogen is available from regenerative sources. With the E 200 CNG, Mercedes-Benz is offering a bi-fuel petrol / natural gas vehicle, which is not subject to any operating vehicles. 

Ecological benefits

Natural gas operation cuts carbon dioxide emissions by more than 20% compared with petrol operation. There is also a significant reduction in emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon monoxide (CO), which is particularly important when operating in urban areas. No particulates are emitted. Reactive hydrocarbons (HC), the main cause of smog, are also drastically reduced.

Natural gas is a primary energy resource, which means that it can be used in its natural, cleaned state, without any conversion losses. There are no evaporative emissions or smells when refuelling.

Like the E 200 KOMPRESSOR petrol version, the bi-fuel petrol natural gas version too is fully compliant with the EU4 emissions standard.