Mercedes-Benz diesels are the next target - Lawsuit states Mercedes BlueTec diesels pollute in excess in the cold

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It was just a matter of time before somebody went after another German brand regarding diesel emissions. The Volkswagen diesel black hole is affecting the entire German automotive industry. The latest brand under fire is Mercedes-Benz with their BlueTec diesel technology going under the microscope.

What is the problem? Well, the lawsuit states that Mercedes-Benz diesels pollute far more than the legal amount in the cold. The claim is that when the temperature drops below 50 degrees fahrenheit the nitrogen oxide reduction system turns off.

Mercedes reduces emissions with what they call an 'AdBlue' solution:

BlueTEC brings together an array of advanced technologies to create the world's cleanest diesel automobiles. Advanced and highly precise components, from high-pressure fuel injection to a variable-vane turbo, create more complete and powerful combustion. But the breakthrough is an innovative liquid solution called AdBlue. When injected into the exhaust, AdBlue converts the nitrogen oxide emissions into harmless nitrogen and oxygen. And BlueTEC vehicles can use both ultralow-sulfur fuels (now the standard nationwide) or even B5 Biodiesel.

You can see how if this system is not working in certain temperatures it will be a problem:

Mercedes-Benz Genuine AdBlue is composed of urea and de-ionised water. It is injected into the exhaust gasses of selected diesel engines as a post combustion process. Mercedes-Benz vehicles using AdBlue® technology are identified with the ‘BlueTEC’ symbol. AdBlue’s® purpose is to reduce the percentage of harmful NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) found in the vehicle’s emissions. With BlueTEC technology, Mercedes-Benz has been able to heavily reduce exhaust gas emissions while at the same time maintaining the performance of diesel engines in terms of power and torque output.

What is the truth here? We do not know. What we know is the law firm filing suit is the same firm that represents several parties in suits against General Motors regarding the ignition switch issue. Are the attorneys just out for blood (money) here or is there something sinister going on?

Mercedes-Benz has yet to comment officially on the topic.