DaimlerChrysler AG unveiled a diesel-powered concept car this week that it said would meet tough emissions standards, according to news reports and a press release from the company. The Mercedes-Benz bionic car, premiered at the company's Impact on America conference, includes diesel technology that will be used in future vehicles made by the automaker to help address federal pollution rules that go into effect in 2007. The bionic car combines aerodynamics and a lightweight construction with a gas mileage of about 70 miles per gallon, the company said. The four-seat, streamlined vehicle was inspired by the boxfish for its aerodynamic and efficient form. Despite its boxy, cube-shaped body, this tropical fish is in fact outstandingly streamlined and therefore represents an aerodynamic ideal. The car features catalytic converter technology that would reduce nitrogen oxide emissions by up to 80 percent, a press release said. The Bionic Car is powered by a 2-liter, four-cylinder, common-rail, turbocharged diesel that makes 140 horsepower. Executives said the fuel economy rating of 70 mpg would be about 30 percent higher than that achieved by a production vehicle. Emissions standards would be met in part with a particulate filter and with DaimlerChrysler's "selective catalytic reduction" system -- the injection of urea solution into exhaust.
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