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To achieve low emission levels, the handicap of the TWC is its light-off characteristic. It achieves a maximum hot efficiency of nearly 100 %, but this requires a temperature in the range of 300 to 450 °C. To improve this time lag after cold start, the TWC needs additional help to reach the targets of future low (LEV) or ultra low emission (ULEV) levels. This paper describes the work on additional devices to reach the ULEV-levels such as: Electrical Heated Catalyst (EHC). Burner Heated Catalyst (BHC) Hydrocarbon Trap (HCT) as external device. Adsorber Coated Substrate (ACS) in the usual converter box. The comparison of these systems was done with a concept car. The low mileage exhaust results demonstrated the principal suitability of all these devices, but there is still much work to be done to meet the ULEV levels with the guaranted durability. The advantages and disadvantages of the systems are discussed, including estimated weight and cost.

The objective was to develop a modem engine to succeed the M 102; 2.6 million of these units were made between 1979 and today making it the most successful Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder petrol engine to date. The new M 111 coordinated production set-up together with the familiar M 104 six-cylinder four-valve engines and the 600 diesel series. Emphasis has been deliberately given to improved torque rather than very high volumetric efficiency. This has made it possible to apply four-valve technology, which was originally only to be found in motor racing, in such a way that ordinary customers can benefit form advantages such as high torque and raised power output, as well as reduced fuel consumption and emissions. Extensive noise-reducing measures in the engine ensure that, despite the higher power output and lower engine weight, noise levels have also been improved.

Secondary air injection after cold start gives two effects for reduced exhaust emissions: An exothermic reaction at the hot exhaust valves occurs, which increases the temperature of the exhaust gas. It gives sufficient air to the catalyst during the cold start fuel enrichment that is necessary to prevent driveability problems. Handicaps for the wide use of air injection include space constraints, weight and price. An electrical air blower was choosen to best satisfy all these requirements. The development steps are described. The result is a three stage radialblower with extremly high revolutions of about 18000 rpm. The system configuration and the outcome are demonstrated on the new C-Class of Mercedes-Benz. The results show emission reductions higher than 50 %, while also satisfying the development goals of noise, volume, weight and cost requirements.