(from DaimlerChrysler Press Release)  At the International Motor Show in Geneva, Mercedes-Benz, the inventor of the diesel engine for passenger cars, is showing the future of the modern diesel engine and its wide range of possible uses. In mid-2005, Mercedes-Benz will become the first automobile brand in the world to equip all of its diesel passenger cars with particulate filters as standard. This
initiative will not only apply to Germany; it will also be in effect in Austria, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

In Geneva, seven gleaming silver show cars, including even purebred sports cars such as the SL- and SLK-Classes, represent the most advanced diesel technology. At the same time, these vehicles are the latest highpoint in the extraordinary development of the diesel.

The new drive in the Vision SL 400 CDI also belongs to Mercedes-Benz’ third generation of CDI engines. To create this system, the engineers took the familiar four-litre V8 diesel and enhanced many of its components while also adding state-of-the-art piezo injectors, new turbochargers and an optimised water/charge-air cooling system. Taken together, all of these measures allow the engine to bring forth its power and torque in an even more harmonious fashion. The SL 400 CDI accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. As such, this diesel sports car justifiably bears the legendary letters “SL”.