Daimler Delivers the First Mercedes-Benz Econic

The first Mercedes-Benz Econic powered by Natural Gas Technology was handed out to the ALDI SÜD group of companies in Mönchengladbach, Germany. We’re talking about a semitrailer tractor with a high roof and a refrigerated semitrailer which is meant for food distribution operations.

According to Daimler, “ALDI SÜD uses the new Mercedes-Benz Econic NGT to supply its branches on the left bank of the Lower Rhine from the central warehouse in Mönchengladbach. Traffic-calming zones, narrow entrances, illegally parked cars, increasing environmental regulations and access restrictions – as well as enormous time pressure – mean that city logistics make heavy demands on both the driver and vehicle.

“A modern distribution vehicle must therefore meet high requirements with respect to load capacity, maneuverability, environmental compatibility and economy. Lower CO2 emissions versus comparable, diesel powered vehicles, CO2-neutral operation when biogas is used as a fuel, zero particulate emissions and a low noise level - all these are the ecological benefits of the Econic NGT. Power is transferred by a six-speed automatic transmission.

“The vehicle meets the stringent EEV emission standard (Enhanced Environmentally Friendly Vehicle), and is therefore entitled to bear the "Blue Angel" environmental emblem,” Daimler said.

By using this vehicle, ALDI SÜD group kills two birds with one stone. On the one hand, the company honors its environmental responsibilities in the areas where it’s active. On the other hand, it saves money by saving fuel and putting to the test the vehicle’s natural gas engine.