German automakers unite to offer Bluetec in U.S.

Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen have formed an alliance to use the Bluetec emissions treatment system on diesel vehicles sold in the United States. All four companies will use the Bluetec name to market the technology, which was developed by Mercedes and Bosch.

The automakers are expected to unveil several Bluetec-equipped vehicles at the Los Angeles auto show in December, according to Automotive News. Audi will likely use the Q7 to preview the technology, while BMW will use the X5. About half of the companies' cars in Europe are sold with diesel engines. That number is about two percent in America. The automakers are hoping Bluetec can help change that.