Catalyst KT0125 / A1684900614 from Mercedes W168

Catalysts KT0125/A1684900614 are used by the Mercedes brand. The length of the cover is about 45 cm, and the width due to the asymmetrical and irregular shape is over 30 cm. The central, rounded part filled with ceramics is finished on both sides with outlets, which are arranged in an unusual way. Catalysts were installed in the model Mercedes A-class W168.

Model creation W168 is a consequence of the dynamic development of the Mercedes brand. The 1990s were extremely fruitful in terms of expanding sales, especially on the US market. It was necessary to fill the niche, which was created between large limousines that drank gasoline like a sponge, and cars with low power. So the A class was invented, which was supposed to combine good performance with compact dimensions.

The model was demonstrated in 1997 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. It had front-wheel drive, while all previous Mercedes cars had rear-wheel drive or both axles.

What made the vehicle stand out is the unusual construction of the chassis. Despite the small size, the interior was more spacious and practical than in the case of the then competition. It also had one unique feature – it was taller than other models. This contributed to the brand’s problems. The car, like all others, was subjected to the then popular “elk” test, which is a simulation of two fast steering movements when suddenly overcoming a large obstacle. The test is performed at a high speed.

W168 he couldn’t deal with it and fell over. Initially, the test results did not touch the model’s creators, but others achieved similar effects, which strongly hit the reputation of the brand considered reliable. Consumer confidence was badly damaged, so the company had to develop a rescue strategy that would not only improve the image, but also solve the technical problems that led to this and no other result. The crisis team consisted of 30 people who developed a suitable solution that brought success.

Copies that left the production line were returned to the service. It was also decided to install the ESP system, whose task is to stabilize the vehicle and protect against slipping. Several technical changes were also made, such as hardening the suspension, lowering the height, as well as installing low-profile tires. The W168 was the first A-class car to be so equipped. Huge costs were incurred to “unscrew” the situation. It turned out that 1.1 million copies were sold successfully and during seven years of production.

What saved the model from falling, and even contributed to the increase in driver confidence, is to thoroughly explain to customers the reasons for this situation and put a lot of work into fixing technical errors.

Class A was re-styled in 2001. Among other things, its length increased from 3570 to 3605 mm.

Gasoline engines have 1.4 (A 140) liters of 82 hp, 1.6 (A 160) liters of 102 hp, 1.9 (A 190) liters of 125 hp and 2.1 (A 210) liters of 140 hp, four with two cylinder valves. Diesel is with a 1.7-liter turbocharger, direct common-rail injection and four valves per cylinder, available in 60, 75, 90 and 95 HP variants.