Daimler's to launch a new Mercedes that will reduce CO2 emissions!

Daimler ' is the second largest luxury vehicles makers in the world, is planning to launch a new technology and models that reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. By doing so they are challenging Bayerische Motoren Werke's (BMW) leadership.

As per the media sources at Detroit auto show, Thomas Weber, Development chief, Daimler, on the plan said, "We will attack this year definitely. There is no reason why we should look to others. They have to look to us, we're setting the benchmark."

He added, "Daimler plans to use half of this year's â€š¬ 4.4 billion ($6.4 billion) in research-and-development spending on green technology."

Mercedes-Benz aims to outpace global growth of 3 per cent to 4 per cent in 2010 to take market share from competitors.

Daimler introduced a convertible version of the "E-Class' at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The open-top car, which includes a panel that deflects wind over the heads of back-seat passengers, rounds out the model line, which is one of Mercedes' most profitable. In fact, Daimler is also starting deliveries of the gull-wing SLS sports car this year.

Mercedes-Benz trails only Munich-based BMW in deliveries and also competes with Volkswagen's Audi division, which said it will decide this year whether to build cars at a new US factory.

As per media sources, Mercedes-Benz is targeting BMW's lead in reducing fuel emissions. The carmaker will introduce a new transmission this year that will improve the efficiency and will help to launch so- called start-stop technology that turns off the engine at traffic lights to save fuel. Weber said start-stop will become standard in Mercedes-Benz models starting this year.