What is BLUETEC? The BLUETEC Package

BLUETEC is a modular exhaust treatment package that can be aligned with different vehicle and engine types — and legal requirements — in a manner that ensures it meets the most stringent emission limits. The first BLUETEC element consists of engine and combustion optimization measures designed to achieve the lowest possible raw emissions during cylinder combustion. This was one of the key preconditions for the development of the two BLUETEC variants that are now used to reduce nitrogen oxides in exhaust gas to a minimum.

The second BLUETEC component is the oxidizing catalytic converter that comes with all Mercedes-Benz diesel models. Oxidizing catalytic converters reduce emissions of carbon monoxide (CO) and unburned hydrocarbons (HC). Component number three is the maintenance-free particulate filter that has been standard in all Mercedes-Benz diesel cars in many countries since the summer of 2005. This filter, which reduces particulate emissions by up to 98 percent, meets current U.S. standards. Its emissions levels are significantly lower than those required by the current EU4 standard and on a par with the limits specified in the future EU5 standard.

The fourth and youngest BLUETEC element involves systems for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions. Mercedes-Benz Cars developers use two different solutions here, depending on the vehicle model and market requirements: an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue injection or an improved nitrogen oxide storage catalytic converter with SCR technology.