BLACKCDI

Didn't relize that this sort of E class existed till I ran across this:
http://www.worldcarfans.com/2050207.006

I think this is pretty awsome, %50 less in fuel costs With the prices of fuel the way they are right now I dont understand why MBUSA has not introduced this car in US? CDI Diesel is pretty cool too, and I love mine but I hate paying 30c more per gallon for diesel than premium gas I think that's

amdeutsch

Because there is no infrastructure to support it. YOU wouldn't like it because the lack of power. Loading it up with equipment would make it even worse. Etc. Etc. Etc.

BLACKCDI

I agree the power would not be the same, BUT I would just use it for crusing long distances and taking trips on autopilot. And If I have that overwhelming desire to go fast I can just use my BMW 5.0 V12
As far as infrastructure, I am pretty sure you can use a home CNG kit similar to those used to fill up CNG Civics here in US, it taps in to your existng natural gas pipe and basically you have your own natural gas station!
I think there would be a demand.

Diesel Benz

I've heard some options to fill the gas tank at home are coming to Europe even if we have some infrastructure already (country dependent).

I can understand the demand in the US, but wouldn't there be a higher demand for some diesel models that aren't on sale. Of course not a good excuse, why not have both.

Untertürkheim

1. Those numbers are based on German natural gas prices, which are several times higher than in the US (1 kw-hr of resedential use natural gas is about 6 cents in gemany, 1.9 or less in the US), making attractive for the US market, but:

2. Remember that in the US people buy cars based on HP, I think most people want 3x more than they will ever use. Look in the W204 forum at how many people think the C300 / 350 is underpowered. And the 350 has 100 hp more than this engine.

3. So, while I think that this car would be ideal for the US, with nearly free natual gas and super low speed limits (this car can still go 140 mph), it probably will not come here.

Lane from s.c.

Hey, blackcdi, which bmw car is that v12 installed? I have a 850i, 6 speed, I love that car, I assume you have the 8 or a 750. I like those too. I am wanting a cdi for my road trips. I do 40-50,000 a year and the cdi would be great, have a s80 volvo just boring to drive and boring to look at.

Regards,
Lane

BLACKCDI

Hey Lane, I know you are on roadfly for the E31, I post there under ED. I have 850i/A with some mods
I love my CDI it's awesome! You should definetley get one, you will not regret it.

dpc004

Well the infrastructure is starting to catch up to us now, here is a website that maps out where natural gas fueling stations are now located.

http://www.cngnow.com/stations/Pages/information.aspx

This along with "at home" CNG pumps can make these vehicles practical here.