The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is the world's first car to receive environmental certification.

An environmental certificate recognising the S-Class as conforming to ISO standard 14062 has been issued to the vehicle, which has been produced with the environment in mind.

The vehicle's exhaust emissions of nitrogen oxides are up to 85 per cent lower and its hydrocarbons are 75 per cent lower than the current Euro IV guidelines dictate.

When comparing the S 350 to its predecessor, it boasts a nine per cent improvement on fuel economy. Its seven per cent reduction in carbon dioxide levels and a 14 per cent one in nitrogen oxide emissions make it an all-round cleaner car.

In order to qualify for the new environmental accreditation, not only did Mercedes reduce emissions, it also took into account the whole lifecycle of its vehicle.

Experts calculate that overall energy requirements have been reduced by 85 gigajoules in comparison to the previous S-Class, which equates to around 2,500 litres of fuel.

Particular attention has also been paid to the manufacturing process so that only materials requiring minimal energy to manufacture and possessing outstanding recyclable characteristics have been used.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd