Mercedes-Benz Wind Turbine Powers Smart EVs

Mercedes-Benz UK has installed a vertical axis wind turbine at its site in Tongwell, Milton Keynes. The 20m tall, vertical axis wind turbine, one of only six in the country, is specially designed for urban spaces and spins wherever the wind comes from, thanks to its unique helical (twisted) design. Its high-tech carbon fiber blades are designed to minimize noise or vibration.

According to the German carmaker, the electricity generated by the wind turbine in one year will be enough to power electric Smart Fortwos (Smart ed) for 30,000 miles (48,200 km) of driving. As a comparison, this means enough annual electricity to power two average sized homes or an office of 20 people; or to boil water to make around 50,000 cups of tea. -Continued after the jump

Wilfried Steffen, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz UK, said: “Mercedes-Benz is taking the lead by installing this energy saving technology; we hope to inspire other local companies to do whatever they can to reduce their carbon footprint.”