Mercedes launched its CNG (NGV) powered B Class B 170 NGT. Going on sale in June 2008, it has a 112 HP engine that uses 4.9 kg of natural gas for 100 km, equivalent to 7.4 liters of gasoline (about 32 mpg). The B 170 NGT delivers identical maximum on either gasoline or natural gas. The tanks are located in the rear and beneath the front passenger footwell. reducing trunk capacity by about 25 percent less.

CNG is a popular alternative to petrol and diesel in Europe due to lower prices compared to gasoline or diesel and lower carbon dioxide emissions. Also helping is the growing availability of CNG, with nearly 800 refueling stations in Germany, 600 in Italy, 100 in Switzerland, and 90 in Austria.

Besides obvious savings on CNG and other green fuels, luxury car makers are banking on such technology to change the image of luxury cars known for guzzling fuel.

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