Mercedes-Benz is taking more positive action to reach its goal of nixing the use of petroleum by 2015. The company has announced they have expanded their Mannheim operations to increase the range of models with the iconic three-pointed star on the front of their hoods and natural gas engines underneath them. Their natural gas program, which has focused mainly on commercial vehicles since its inception in 1994, will no longer be nick-named KEN, and will now go by the acronym-less title of "Mercedes-Benz Production Competence Centre for Natural Gas Drive" as the use of this fuel is expanded into every segment.

This means that the Econic and E-Class vehicles currently in the natural gas program at Mannheim will be joined by the B-Class and as many as 16 variations of the Sprinter van. Don't look for every other Mercedes you see to be an NGV just yet, though. Although their production has increased exponentially since 2003 and expect the upwards trend to continue, only 5,000 units are expected to be shipped this year. Get all the Mercedes-supplied facts from the press release after the break.

[Source: Daimler via The Financial]

Inside Line's Joanne Helperin discovered first-hand the roadblocks to owning a vehicle powered by compressed natural gas. While acknowledging the Honda GX's eco-friendly fuel system and tax break, she was less impressed the car's range, added cost and lower horsepower. She also voiced concerns over the reduced cargo capacity, weak sound system (no rear speakers) and lack of options.

On the positive side, the Honda Civic GX is the only sedan certified as a Super-Ultra-Low-Emission Vehicle (SULEV) in all 50 states. There is an abundance of natural gas, and owners can purchase a home-refueling station. Owners also get HOV-lane privelidges.

Helperin concluded that while a $15 fillup is attractive, the long-term costs may not add up to the consumer's favor.

[Source: Inside Line]