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Mercedes proves E-Class hybrid tech with unusual test

IN AN impressive display of performance and economy, Mercedes-Benz has completed a lengthy test of its new E300 Bluetech Hybrid saloon by driving it almost the length of the country on a single tank of fuel with a flat-out speed test at either end. With ex-rally driver Mick Linford at the wheel the standard production E300 Bluetech Hybrid began with a full tank of fuel at Newquay Cornwall Airport, the most southerly airport in mainland Britain. Down the main runway it completed an acceleration test to past 62mph from rest in a little over seven seconds and reached 136mph before braking for the end of the runway.

Video: GM's Clay Dean on the future of urban mobility

Clay Dean is the star of a new Faces of GM video, Anticipating the Driving Experience of the Future. The global design director for GM's Advanced Design Group, whose job also entails exploring future transportation design solutions, talks about the need to avoid short-term thinking on urban mobility, as by 2030 60 percent of the world's population will live in cities. As new challenges start to emerge, such as increasing congestion, Dean believes it is time to start thinking about transportation in a completely different way.

Nissan Leaf tours the country

Those who haven't made it to the dealership to test drive a Nissan Leaf can get behind the wheel of the electric car when the carmaker swings through towns across the country on its Drive Electric tour. Started on July 8 in Long Island, the tour is visiting 26 cities from Indianapolis to Austin, Texas. Attendees will learn about driving and owning a Leaf, how the car compares with other vehicles, its fuel efficiency and environmental impact, and how to communicate with the car via phone or computer.