Denso and Delphi help reduce CO2 emission in the new Mercedes-Benz A class. The car has Denso’s starter in its stop-start system as well as Delphi’s common-rail diesel technology. The parts help Mercedes achieve a CO2 low of 98 grams per kilometer in the A180 CDI, down from 119g/km in the comparable previous-generation model.

Denso also provides the car’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). Delphi’s other contributions include the A class’s ignition, engine wiring, signal relay box, eCall antenna, ultrasonic alarm, headlamp leveling control, passive occupant detection system and satellite digital audio reception system.

Mercedes says it has improved the new A class’s handling compared with its predecessor. It did this by lowering the car’s center of gravity by 24mm and lowering the compact car’s seating position by 174mm. In addition, the A class has a four-link rear axle, to provide improved stability and comfort for passengers. The car’s driving forces are absorbed by three control arms and one trailing arm per wheel. Several suppliers make a contribution to the rear axle including: Raufoss Technology, which supplies the spring link; Federal-Mogul, which provides the sealing; and Vibracoustic, which sources the transmission mount. Federal Mogul also supplies the BMW 1-series rival’s pistons, rings and bearings while Vibracoustic is responsible for various bearings, dampers and mounts located on the car’s chassis.

The latest A class is the third generation of Mercedes’ entry model. It was unveiled at the 2012 Geneva auto show and went on sale across Europe last year. Production began at Mercedes parent Daimler’s factory in Rastatt, Germany, in July 2012 using the Mercedes Front-wheel drive Architecture (MFA) , which it shares with the latest B class. Output from the plant will peak this year at more than 185,000 units, according to IHS Automotive forecasts. Mercedes also plans to make the A class together with contract manufacturer Valmet at the Finnish company’s plant in Uusikaupunki.