Mercedes-Benz-Blog -- Unmistakable. Unique. Classy. Mercedes-Benz.

Emotion and high performance at its finest: The new C 63 AMG Coupé Austria Edition

2012-02-01T20:44:00.000+02:00

In the summer of 2011, Mercedes-Benz presented the new C 63 AMG Coupé, a stand-alone, high-performance car that appeals to all the senses: unmistakable design is teamed up with a high-performance drive system and dynamic handling. The extensively upgraded C 63 AMG Coupé Austria Edition limited series model boasts exclusive equipment features. The first unit - displaying badge number 1 on the gear selector - recently celebrated the world premiere at the Vienna Auto Show 2012.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine in the C 63 AMG Coupé Austria Edition has a maximum output of 336 kW (457 hp) and peak torque of 600 Nm, delivering powerful traction and first-class performance figures: the Coupé accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

The exclusive features of the C 63 AMG Coupé Austria Edition in detail:

· AMG light-alloy wheels in matt black with high gloss finish
· Fire Opal, Diamond White or Black designo magno night exterior paint finish
· designo leather in solid black colour with red contrasting stitching
· Front seat head restraints with embossed AMG "apple logo"
· Steering wheel in black Alcantara® and red leather with red contrasting stitching
· Gear lever in black Alcantara® with numbered plaque Austria Edition
· Instrument panel and door sill trim in black leather with red contrasting topstitching
· Austria Edition badge on the dashboard
· Entry strips illuminated in red
· Aluminium trim

The new C 63 AMG Coupé Austria Edition can also be equipped with AMG Performance Package, thus emphasizing the great level of individual customization. Available as an option, this package offers a maximum output of 358 kW (487 hp) and improves acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h to 4.4 seconds, with technology transferred from the SLS AMG responsible for the 22 kW (30 hp) increase in output. The forged pistons, connecting rods and lightweight crankshaft adopted from the gull-wing model's high-tech drive system save three kilograms in weight. This reduces inertia and enhances the agility and responsiveness of the high-revving, eight-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine. Visually, the AMG Performance package can be identified by the variable intake manifold in titanium grey under the bonnet, the AMG high-performance braking system with composite front discs and red painted brake callipers all round, the carbon-fibre spoiler lip on the boot lid and the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather with an Alcantara® grip area.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission as standard

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission provides direct and dynamic power delivery. Rather than using a torque converter, it has a compact, wet start-off clutch which reduces the losses associated with conventional automatic transmission and thereby significantly lowers fuel consumption. The Controlled Efficiency "C" mode also plays a significant part in this. By providing earlier and more comfortable upshifts while maintaining the lowest possible engine speed and "soft" accelerator characteristics, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission helps the driver achieve better fuel economy figures.

At the same time, the power transmission, which is exclusive to Mercedes-AMG, excites with its high level of variability and scintillating dynamism: the “S”, “S+” and “M” transmission modes make the vehicle even more responsive and can be selected using the new rotary transmission switch familiar to many from the SLS AMG. Shorter gear shift intervals and higher engine revs assure the ultimate in emotional appeal. The double-declutching function is also activated in the “S”, “S+” and “M” modes, thereby further increasing driving enjoyment. The gear shifts take just 100 milliseconds in “S+” and “M” transmission modes. Using the RACE START function the driver can explore the vehicle's full acceleration capability.

Specific AMG sports suspension for great dynamism and ride comfort

It is not just the engine and power transmission which characterise the C 63 AMG Coupé's dynamic quality – the AMG sports suspension and AMG high-performance braking system are also key here. In contrast to the series production suspension system, the top-of-the-range AMG model has a specially designed three-link front suspension, reinforced multi-link independent rear suspension and a wider track all round. The stiffer elastokinematics, the autonomous axle kinematics with more negative all-round camber and stabilisers with a larger cross-section all give greater responsiveness and greater lateral acceleration. Selective damping with specially modified spring and damper rates optimises both the response characteristics of the springs as well as the ride comfort.

The AMG sports speed-sensitive power steering with direct steering ratio (13.5 : 1) gives excellent road surface contact and makes a significant contribution to the vehicle’s direct, responsive handling. This is complemented perfectly by 3-stage ESP Ò : the Electronic Stability Program gives three individual control strategies at the touch of a button: the ESP Ò button in the centre console allows the driver to choose between “ESP ON”, “ESP SPORT HANDLING MODE” and “ESP OFF”. The AMG high-performance brake system has internally ventilated and perforated brake discs on all wheels: it is characterised by outstanding responsiveness, short stopping distances and excellent fatigue strength.

High level of safety and new assistance systems

With seven airbags as standard, belt tensioners and belt-force limiters for all seats, the C 63 AMG Coupé has extensive safety features. The airbags, which can deploy in milliseconds in the event of an accident, include front airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag on the driver's side, sidebags, pelvisbags and windowbags for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. The side protection system – comprising headbag and sidebag – optimises the level of protection afforded to individual parts of the body.

With numerous driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the C 63 AMG Coupé provides a comprehensive level of driver support and protection. The assistance systems are familiar from the flagship S-Class and the trendsetting CLS, and are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology. They cover frequent accident causes such as driving too closely, fatigue and darkness.

Credits: Mercedes-Benz Austria

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The New Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-27: All the essential data and pictures

2012-02-01T17:40:00.003+02:00

The continuation of our double world-champion driver line-up, further consolidation of our championship-winning engineering team and a subtle, yet deep-reaching technical update of our new MP4-27 car all underpin the world-class strength, experience and ambition that exists at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes ahead of the 2012 FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

This morning’s technical presentation of the MP4-27 at the McLaren Technology Centre showcased a natural evolution of last year’s six-race-winning car and underlined the message that the new season is very much one of growth through strength and continuity.

After finishing second in both the drivers’ and constructors’ championships in 2011, our aim for the new season is to fight for both world titles from the very start of this year’s campaign.

Evolutionary design of MP4-27 masks overhaul of all major systems

While the all-new Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-27 closely resembles last year’s multiple race-winning car, the 2012 chassis has been substantially revised from the ground-up, with all major systems updated or re-designed for the new season.

The most evident visual differences include more tightly waisted rear bodywork, developed to improve flow to the rear of the car, and a revised cooling system, which re-directs the gearbox oil-cooler. Last year’s U-shaped sidepods have also been re-designed – a legacy of the FIA’s new exhaust regulations that redefine the shape of the rear bodywork.

Best driver line-up in Formula 1 retained for third successive season

Maintaining the belief in the validity of strengthened continuity, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes is the only team in Formula 1 whose driver line-up consists of two world champions: Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton.

Between them, they have scored 22 grand prix victories for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes and are the strongest and most consistent driver line-up in the sport. Maintaining the partnership into a third successive season was merely a formality.

Strength drawn from consolidation of engineering and race teams

On the technical front, our exemplary engineering trio Tim Goss (director of engineering), Paddy Lowe (technical director) and Neil Oatley (director of design and development programmes) once more remain at the forefront of the drawing office. For 2012, they will be joined by sporting director Sam Michael, whose arrival coincides with the re-organisation of our trackside personnel roster to ensure both growth and development within the group.

Off-track: the most complete team in Formula 1

Away from the track, the team continues to develop, too: Vodafone McLaren Mercedes last year became the world’s first carbon-neutral Formula 1 team, efficiently managing its carbon footprint and purchasing carbon credits to completely offset its emissions.

As well as continuing relationships of record-breaking length with partners such as Hugo Boss (31 years), TAG Heuer (27 years), Kenwood (22 years), ExxonMobil (18 years), MercedesBenz (18 years), Hilton (eight years) and Vodafone (six years), our new strategic partnership with GlaxoSmithKline continues to gather pace. Development and planning continue on the McLaren GSK Centre for Applied Performance, while GSK’s Lucozade scientists are busy developing a groundbreaking cockpit drinks formula to hydrate our drivers during grands prix in 2012.

Finally, in a year when the world’s spotlight will shine on London and the 2012 Olympics, we’re proud that equipment and technology pioneered at the racetrack by Vodafone McLaren Mercedes and developed by McLaren Applied Technologies will be used by Team GB’s athletes in their quest for Gold this summer.

Following a one-day private shakedown, Jenson will begin track testing of the MP4-27 at Spain’s Circuito de Jerez on Tuesday February 7.

THE BEST DRIVER LINE-UP IN FORMULA 1

JENSON BUTTON (GBR)

- Age: 32
- Date of birth: January 19 1980

F1 highlights:
- Titles: 2009 world champion
- GPs: 208
- Wins: 12 (five for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes)
- Poles: 7
- FLs: 6
- Points: 811

- Websites: www.jensonbutton.com
- Twitter: @jensonbutton

Jenson Button joined Vodafone McLaren Mercedes as the newly crowned world champion at the end of the 2009 season and re-signed a new multi-year deal with the team last autumn.

His runner-up position in the 2011 world drivers’ championship, including victories in Hungary and Japan and a career-best last-to-first final-lap win in Canada, along with nine further podium finishes, underlined his credentials as one of the most respected and complete drivers in Formula 1 history.

The 2012 season will mark his 13th season in Formula 1.

Jenson said:

“With the regulations remaining relatively stable, we’ve really been able to focus on the detail with this year’s car. I still think we had a very fast package last year – it was very strong in certain areas – and our race pace was almost always fantastic, but we’re hoping for a further step forwards in 2012. With Mercedes-Benz, I think we also had the best overall engine and KERS Hybrid package in the pitlane.

“We were also able to continuously develop throughout the year to match Red Bull – and that shows that we have the knowledge, effort and resources to sustain our efforts across the course of a whole season, which can be crucial.

“I know that the whole team is extremely proud of the MP4-27. It may look like a direct evolution of last year’s car, but we’ve analysed every area of performance over the winter and the whole car has benefited from lots of fresh thinking and new ideas in every area. I’m really looking forward to getting behind the wheel in Spain next week.

“I know that everyone will be watching us very closely to see what progress we make during the pre-season tests, but I genuinely believe we have every reason to feel optimistic about the progress we’ve made and our competitiveness this year.”

LEWIS HAMILTON (GBR)

- Age: 27
- Date of birth: January 7 1985

F1 highlights:
- Titles: 2008 world champion
- GPs: 90
- Wins: 17 (all for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes)
- Poles: 19
- FLs: 11
- Points: 723

- Websites: www.lewishamilton.com
- Twitter: @lewishamilton

Lewis Hamilton, 27, made his Formula 1 debut with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes in 2007,
immediately making headlines for his supremely assured blend of speed, wisdom and sheer audacity on the racetrack.

A world champion at the age of 23 and, uniquely, a race winner in all of his five Formula 1 seasons, Lewis remains one of the fastest, most gifted and compelling drivers in F1 history.

At the end of 2011, he threw himself into a series of intense preparations ahead of the new season, training at high altitude in Colorado and at home in Switzerland.

Lewis said:

“The winter has been a great opportunity to recharge – I got away into the mountains, spent a lot of time hiking and running, improving my fitness and starting to prepare for the new year.

“It’s always great to get away from everything; change the scenery. And what’s great about Formula 1 is that you start each season with the baseline completely reset – everybody starts again from zero – and that always makes me so hungry.

“I’ve been keenly following the development of MP4-27 over the winter and I’ve been really encouraged by the results and the data that the engineers have been showing me. I think we already had a very strong base to build upon: Jenson and I won six races with MP4-26 last year and I think we’ve been able to retain all the strengths and the reliability of that design while also incorporating lots of improvements and new ideas into the new car.

“Of course, the biggest changes for 2012 are the modifications to the exhaust regulations – that will reduce the downforce and grip that we had last year, but it just puts the emphasis on the designers to try and claw some of that back in other areas.

“I get the feeling the MP4-27 is going to feel very new and exciting when we get to drive it for the first time.”

MARTIN WHITMARSH
Team principal, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes

“The 2012 season will be an important one for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes: having finished second in the constructors’ championship for the past two seasons, we’re determined to mount a sustained, hard challenge for both world titles.

“Our engineering team continues to develop and grow: while the key names who head the department are well known – Tim Goss, Paddy Lowe and Neil Oatley – it’s the strength in depth within the department that continually impresses. I’m extremely proud of our efforts to invest in and recruit young graduate engineers and to develop and school them in the ways of Formula 1.

“We have a fantastically committed team of individuals, and MP4-27 is the fruit of their labours – it’s a beautiful car, and one we feel is the perfect platform from which to launch our assault on the world championship. While there are clear visual changes to this year’s car, there’s greater change beneath the skin, with lots of fresh thinking applied to every major system. The car is pleasingly complete.

“I don’t think we want for anything from our drivers, either: in Jenson and Lewis, I believe we have the very best line-up in Formula 1 – the perfect blend of experience, speed and aggression. They complement each other perfectly.

“For 2012, we are well aware that Red Bull remains a very powerful and capable operation, and that both Ferrari and Mercedes AMG are ramping up their operational capacity. We have no room to be complacent – what you see today only scratches the surface of what we’re planning to deliver to the track both from an engineering and operational point of view throughout 2012.

“I’m pleased and confident that we’ve left no stone unturned in our quest for performance. Now, our focus invariably turns to the track as we evaluate MP4-27 ahead of the start of the 2012 season in Melbourne on March 18. These will be a fascinating three weeks.”

MP4-27 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

- Chassis: Monocoque McLaren-moulded carbonfibre composite incorporating front and side impact structures
- Front suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pushrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
- Rear suspension: Inboard torsion bar/damper system operated by pullrod and bell crank with a double wishbone arrangement
- Electronics: McLaren Electronic Systems. Including chassis control, engine control, data acquisition, dashboard, alternator, sensors, data analysis and telemetry.
- Bodywork: Carbon-fibre composite. Separate engine cover, sidepods and
floor. Structural nose with integral front wing. Driver-operated drag reduction system
- Tyres: Pirelli P Zero
- Radio: Kenwood
- Race wheels: Enkei
- Brake callipers: Akebono
- Master cylinders: Akebono
- Batteries: GS Yuasa Corporation
- Steering: McLaren power-assisted
- Instruments: McLaren Electronic Systems
- Paint solutions: AkzoNobel Car Refinishes using Sikkens products

Engine

- Type: Mercedes-Benz FO 108Z
- Capacity: 2.4 litres
- Cylinders: 8
- Maximum rpm: 18,000
- Bank angle: 90°
- Piston bore: maximum 98mm
- Number of valves: 32
- Fuel: ExxonMobil High Performance Unleaded (5.75% bio fuel)
- Spark plugs: NGK racing spark plugs specially designed for Formula 1
- Lubricants: Mobil 1 – combining greater performance, protection and cooling
with increased economy and lower emissions
- Weight: 95kg (minimum FIA regulation weight)

KERS Hybrid

- Type: Mercedes-Benz
- e-Motor: Engine-mounted electrical motor/generator
- ESS: Integrated energy storage cells and power electronics
- Power: 60 kW

Transmission

- Gearbox: McLaren-moulded carbon-fibre composite. Integral rear impact structure
- Gears: Seven forward and one reverse
- Gear selection: McLaren seamless shift, hand-operated
- Clutch: Carbon/carbon, hand-operated
- Lubricants: Mobil

TECHNICAL Q&A

Q&A with technical director Paddy Lowe and director of engineering Tim Goss

After a successful 2011 season, what were your main aims with the development of the MP4-27?
Paddy: “Our main objectives for the 2012 season were to optimise downforce despite the changes to the blown floor, and to improve our understanding and utilisation of the Pirelli tyres, which were new to us last year.

Tim: “Although you can’t see it, there’s a lot on this car that’s changed. However, this year has seen more of an evolutionary set of rules, so there’s less of the unpredictability that comes from balancing resources between seasons during a time of greater regulatory change.”

Paddy: “Every year, we sit down and want to design a race-winning car. We didn’t have the quickest car at the start of last season, but we’re doing everything possible to build the quickest car possible.”

What are the key visual differences between the 2011 and 2012 cars?
Tim: “I think the most obvious change is the loss of the U-shaped sidepod, which we pioneered on last year’s car. We reverted to a more conventional sidepod shape for this season because the U-shape was less suited to the new exhaust geometry restrictions. For 2012, the exhaust tailpipes now have to exit along the U-channel – so that particular feature was no longer really viable due to the new geometry restrictions. As a result, we decided to adopt a different approach to the way we feed the rear of the car. We have cleaned up the rollhoop area and now have much tighter rear bodywork.”

Were there any particular challenges in adapting to the new 2012 regulations?
Tim: “The regulations around the exhausts are very prescriptive: the exhausts must now exit within a very tight space at the rear of the car in order to minimise their aerodynamic influence. The final 100mm of the exhausts must be cylindrical – so they can no longer be oval, or flattened – and must be sited at a particular vertical and horizontal angle – between 10 and 30 degrees upwards. That's to direct the exhaust exit away from the floor.”

Paddy: “One of the more satisfying challenges was being able to develop and expand our knowledge of the Pirelli tyres. It’s our second season with Pirelli – 2011 was very much a learning year. We have used our experience from the past 12 months to design the car’s layout, aerodynamics and vehicle dynamics around improved tyre utilisation.”

Have there been knock-on effects to the design of the car due to the exhaust restrictions?
Tim: “They have the inevitable impact on the flow-fields around the rear of the car, yes. In previous years, the exhausts exited directly into the rear corner of the floor; we can’t do that any more so, as you’d expect, that changes the flow characteristics at the rear of the car. The knock-on effect is that all of the aerodynamic devices at the rear of the car have had to be redesigned.”

There have been a few departures from the technical team over the winter – are you comfortable with that?
Paddy: “I always say this, but Vodafone McLaren Mercedes is an extremely broad organisation. Bear in mind that we have 200 engineers working here – and, if those people all stayed in their job for 10 years, then we’d lose 20 engineers a year.

“Actually, we lose far fewer than that. It’s easy to focus on those leaving, but we have just as many people arriving here. Also, we pride ourselves on bringing on new, young and clever guys, helping them get into the business. Inevitably, at some point, a few of those feel the need to fly the nest and join the competition – it’s not something you can avoid. But we’ve got a very strong group of fantastically committed individuals here and we’re proud of the work we’ve all done on MP4-27.”

* Official photos and details courtesy of VODAFONE MCLAREN MERCEDES *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) - more shots + new insight

2012-02-01T16:57:00.000+02:00

Surprinsingly, the first test vehicles used for developing the future generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class hit streets last week. Following the first scoop, new spy shots revealing a heavily camouflaged prototype have constantly emerged on the net since then. The last series reveal a pre-production car that underwent a "facial lifting".

Due in spring 2014 (according to internal sources), the new generation of the C-Class has a daring mission to accomplish: be ahead of every other competitor in the market segment of premium, medium-sized models. In order to do that, the Germans are determined to fight hard and build the best C-Class of all time. It was reported that the W 205 will follow the styling direction given by the impressive F 800 research car and will also be technically enriched with all the latest Mercedes-Benz innovations and technologycal advances.

The new C-Class will sit on brand new underpinnings: the revolutionary Mercedes Rearwheel Architecture, to be showcased on the forthcoming S-Class. The mid-sized limousine is expected to feature a complete engine lineup consisting of frugal petrol and diesel units, as well as alternative variants such as hybrid, electric and maybe fuel-cell. A new range of manual and automatic transmission, including the eagerly-awaited 9G-TRONIC to be premierly introduced on the 2013 S-Class, will transfer power to the rear wheels for the MRA or to all four wheels if 4MATIC traction is chosen. We guess efficiency figures might indicate values below 150 g/km - 100 g/km for CO2 emissions, while the targeted combined fuel consumption may well be lower than 6 litres/100 km. All of these will be possible with the help of the BlueEFFICIENCY package, available for all variants. On the other hand, performance figures could reach around 320-350 hp on the high-end standard versions, whereas the sensational C 63 AMG sports saloon is tipped to display a peak output of around 500 hp thanks to the addition of a twin-turbo V8 powerplant.

Inside, a whole new architecture is currently being mastered by Mercedes-Benz designers. Basic inspiration: the F 800, again. Instead of the interiors one is accustomed when talking about a model produced by the Stuttgart-based carmaker, the C-Class is rumored to boast a very dynamic and rather unprecedented dashboard, to attract new clients towards the brand. The new scheme will comprise new, quality materials and numerous attractive colour combinations and customization programmes. The new @yourCOMAND internet-based infotainment system will operate almost all the functions of the car and ensure a unique communication experience in real time. Besides that, safety will be at its highest possible level thanks to the complete set of airbags, the new generation of the PRE-SAFE crash anticipatory system, the DISTRONIC Plus, the ATTENTION ASSIST and the latest clever assistance systems developed by Mercedes-Benz engineers.

Image Credits: Auto Motor und Sport

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: First 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG going up for auction in the U.S.

2012-02-01T16:53:00.001+02:00

Together with these recent spy pics came the information that Mercedes-Benz plans to auction off the first States-bound unit of the upcoming SL 63 AMG at an official barter held during the Boca Raton Concours d’Elegance in Florida, USA, on the 25th February 2012.

This news update also suggests the sports roadster tweaked in Affalterbach isn't very far away, meaning the first photos and details could be released during the following weeks. Also, by looking at the latest scoops, it's easy to see the new SL 63 AMG is almost finished and readied for the public unveiling, set to take place most likely at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The 5.5-litre V8 unit lies under the hood of this performance model and is capable of delivering a staggering 571 hp peak output and approximately 800 to 900 Nm of maximum torque. These extreme numbers are completed by the AMG styling enhancements which includes, among other appointments, a modified front bumper, a new grille, bigger air intakes all over the body, 20-inch forged wheels with ventilated brake discs, quad exhausts, full leather interior, aluminium and carbon fiber trims.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class spotted in the wintry Sweden

2012-02-01T16:28:00.000+02:00

Every Mercedes-Benz has to experience a good dose of cold weather development, and the 2013 GL-Class makes no exception. The large-sized SUV from Stuttgart has been recently spotted while running on snow-covered roads in Northern Scandinavia. Judging by the amount of camouflage, the future GL will soon celebrate its world premiere, most probably at the New York Auto Show in April, right in time for summer.

When it's unveiled, the 5-meter vehicle fitted with the 4MATIC permanent 4x4 system will be equipped with the company's latest technical achievements in safety and in-car communication. In standard specification, the high-end variant will be the GL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY rated at 435 hp and capable of 700 Nm. The anticipated GL 63 AMG will follow shortly after, towards the end of 2012, and will pack no less than 544 hp out of the 5.5-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. If one opts for the Performance Package, peak output rises up to 571 hp, which is more than enough to transform the "ordinary" GL-Class into an aggresive monster.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

More than One Million A-Class Models of the Current Generation Delivered to Customers

2012-02-01T15:55:00.000+02:00

Mercedes-Benz has handed over more than a million A-Class models of the current generation to customers worldwide since the market launch in autumn 2004. Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales & Marketing: "With the A-Class, 15 years ago Mercedes-Benz established the premium compact car segment. We already sold over one million vehicles of the second generation and with the new A-Class we will again set new standards in the segment and will fascinate our customers once again." At the Geneva Motor Show in March Mercedes-Benz will show the entirely redesigned A-Class for the first time. Market launch will be later this year.

Dr. Schmidt also said: "The new A-Class is the pulse of a new generation of sporty-emotional vehicles with which we seek to open up our brand increasingly to younger customer groups, and develop further market regions. This new model is an essential component of our product offensive in the compact car segment, which we launched with the introduction of the new B-Class very successful last year. "

The first model of the new premium compact cars, the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class, has been delivered since mid-November 2011. It has been received outstandingly well by customers and clearly exceeds the expectations.

Preparations for the startup of the new A-Class are in full swing. Due to the model changeover of the compact cars, production has already been reorganized in large parts. Nevertheless, 97,808 vehicles of the current generation were delivered to customers worldwide last year. In the year before Mercedes-Benz sold 112,586 units of the A-Class. The cars were most popular in the European market, especially in the home market, Germany, where almost half of all A-Class models were sold. The second biggest market is Italy, followed by France and the U.K. The A-Class was introduced at the end of 2010 in China with great success. In 2011, the first year of full availability, Mercedes-Benz delivered 5,100 units to customers there.

Throughout the years the Mercedes engineers have developed numerous innovations specifically for the compact models. The A-Class thus quickly gained a reputation for being a trendsetter and innovation leader. For instance, it was the world's first compact car to get an internationally valid environmental certificate in 2007.

The new compact cars from Mercedes-Benz include, apart from the A- and B-Class, three other sporty, emotional variants, among them a coupé and an SUV. All of the five new compact models are produced in a production network by the Rastatt plant and the new plant in Kecskemét, Hungary. From 2013 on, step by step three of the new models will also be manufactured in China.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Lyon Welcomes Innovative Mobility Service: 200 car2go Ready For Use Beginning February 1st

2012-02-01T15:47:00.000+02:00

car2go Europe GmbH, a joint venture between car2go GmbH, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler AG, and Europcar, the leader in car rental services in Europe, launched today the car2go service in Lyon, France. car2go provides Lyon residents with a fleet of 200 low-emission, self-service smart fortwo micro compact cars. As the world’s first mobility program with maximum flexibility and without fixed rental locations, car2go offers its members an opportunity to spontaneously rent vehicles anytime and anywhere without having to specify a time or place of return in advance.

“Innovative urban mobility solutions like car2go offer a way to help meet the challenges of urban congestion, reducing carbon emissions and improving quality of life,” said Gérard Collomb, Mayor of Lyon and President of ”‘Grand Lyon”. “Following the actions we initiated in 2005 with Velo’v, the first self-service bike sharing system, Lyon is innovating again with car2go, a new approach to car sharing which is complementary to other initiatives enabling our residents to move around town. Choosing Lyon, Europcar and Daimler strengthen the role of our city being one of the European leaders in terms of sustainable mobility.”

“We are excited to make our French debut in a city which is well-known for its innovation in the sector of urban transportation,” said Marcus Spickermann, Chief Financial Officer of the car2go Group. “More than 60.000 customers worldwide are using car2go in their daily lives, and we are convinced that car2go is a perfect fit for Lyon residents too.”

The car2go vehicles can be rented and returned within an operating area of 44 square kilometres covering the Lyon city centre. Members can find car2go vehicles spontaneously on the street, via the internet at www.car2go.com, and with the help of several smartphone applications. The vehicle selected can be unlocked using a personal membership card. At the end of the trip, car2go drivers do not have to bring the car2go back to where the trip started. They can simply leave the car at their destination - at any public parking space and at all Lyon carsharing-stations inside the car2go business area. Parking fees are included in the per-minute rental fee at no additional cost.

Lyon residents can register at www.car2go.com, and at the new car2go shop at Le Terra Mundi – 2 place de Francfort in Lyon. Until February 11th, 2012, Lyon residents can benefit from the special launch discount and save more than 10 Euro by only paying 4,90 Euro registration fee and receiving 60 free driving minutes. For members who register after February 11th, 2012, there will be a one-time registration fee of 14,90 Euro.

Customers pay only for the actual time they use the vehicle, by the minute, with discounted rates for hourly and daily use. The rental prices in Lyon are 0,29 Euro per driving minute, 12,90 Euro per hour and 39 Euro per day (24 hours). During stopovers, which can be used for example while shopping, a special parking rate of 0,09 Euro per minute will be calculated. Fuel, insurance, taxes and parking costs are fully included in the price that furthermore includes mileage up to 20 kilometres. Additional kilometres will cost 0,29 Euro each. Experience shows that the average range of a car2go rental is between 5 and 10 kilometres so the extra mileage costs are only relevant for those members who wish to leave the city and come back.

“The 2010 Europcar’s Transportation and Mobility Observatory showed that 47% of European urban drivers are considering giving up their cars and 61% of them consider that cars available in self service are an attractive mobility option. car2go will provide Lyon people with a fully-flexible service, combined with short term car rental services for a fully comprehensive mobility solution” said Philippe Guillemot, CEO of Europcar Groupe.

Thanks to a cooperation between car2go and the bikesharing service Vélo’v, Vélo’v customers will benefit from the reduced car2go registration fee of 9,90 Euro including 30 free driving minutes at any time.

car2go has already been successfully launched in seven cities: in Ulm and Hamburg (Germany), in Amsterdam (Netherlands), in Vienna (Austria), in Austin and San Diego (USA), and in Vancouver (Canada). The German city of Düsseldorf is going to follow soon – Lyon is the first home of car2go in France. A total of more than 2.000 car2go vehicles are currently on the road and more than 60.000 members have registered for the service worldwide.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Facelift focusing on the exterior - smart fortwo 2012: the new look

2012-02-01T15:41:00.000+02:00

The spring of 2012 will see the smart fortwo making its mark in a striking new look, featuring an upgraded exterior and a fresh leather/fabric mix in the interior. The smart fortwo is available for ordering now. The first vehicles will reach dealers at the beginning of April.

The substantially revamped smart fortwo sports a markedly more dynamic appearance, featuring a larger radiator grille with integrated logo, striking front aprons in a new design, horizontally arranged LED daytime driving lights, muscular side skirts and modified rear aprons. "The way in which the fortwo now displays the smart logo more prominently stands for the brand's new self-confidence," notes smart boss Dr Annette Winkler." The smart fortwo has long become an icon that is a defining feature of urban traffic throughout the world."

The chrome-coloured logo is now positioned directly in the black radiator grille. The air inlets under the number plate have been combined into a single unit, lending the smart fortwo a bolder appearance. The new, optionally available LED daytime driving lights are now arranged horizontally. There is also a choice of three new alloy wheels: the smart fortwo passion comes with a new 9-spoke alloy wheel; two additional alloy wheels fitted with wide tyres and featuring a 3-spoke and 3-twin-spoke design respectively round off the range. The choice of colours comprises seven options, including matt anthracite for the first time. The smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive is now also optionally available in white. In addition to the three soft top colours for the smart cabrio which were previously available from the smart programme (black, red, blue), the smart BRABUS tailor made programme offers six other soft top colours.

While the main focus of this facelift is on the exterior, there are changes inside the car, too. These include a new, high-quality interior package in crystal grey, comprising a fresh leather/fabric combination for the seats, an imitation leather/fabric mix for the door trims and black imitation leather for the instrument panel in combination with a grey knee pad.

The pulse and passion equipment lines are generally more colourful options than the basic pure model. pulse and passion highlight the frame of the front grille and the rear trim strip in silver, for example, while the front spoiler, side skirts and rear apron are painted in the car's exterior colour. The door mirror caps are finished in the tridion colour. On the smart pure, these components are black.

The five lines – pure, pulse, passion, BRABUS and BRABUS Xclusive – are to be retained. Similarly, the smart fortwo will continue to be available as a coupé and cabrio version and with six engine and motor variants. The spectrum ranges from the particularly environment-friendly electric power train in the fortwo electric drive and the efficient micro hybrid petrol engine through the powerful turbo petrol engine to the fuel-efficient cdi turbodiesel. Prices begin at € 10,275 for the smart fortwo 45 kW mhd pure.

Here is an overview of the engine range:

The new model generation for 2012 represents the continuation of a unique success story for smart: as a trendsetter the smart fortwo has been redefining individual urban mobility for more than ten years now. It combines responsibility to the environment and high ecological standards with joie de vivre and a high fun factor. With its compact dimensions the two-seater takes up less road and parking space than any other car around.

More than 1.3 million smart fortwos have been delivered to customers since the first model was launched in 1998. 101,996 smart fortwos were handed over to customers worldwide in 2011 – 4.6 percent more than in the previous year.

The car2go mobility service is also attracting growing numbers of fans. Over 2000 smart fortwos are currently in operation for 60,000 customers in seven cities around the globe. car2go is already successfully up and running in Ulm and Hamburg (Germany), Austin and San Diego (USA), Vancouver (Canada), Vienna (Austria) and Amsterdam (Netherlands). car2go will be launching in Lyon (France), Düsseldorf, Stuttgart, Washington D.C. and other cities in 2012.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Scaffolding trade relies on the Unimog

2012-02-01T15:29:00.000+02:00

Using the Unimog in various trades has a long history as its adaptability is a great advantage in this extremely diversified sector. Among those companies who really appreciate the Unimog is the scaffolding company Schneider Ltd. and its working relationship with this competent all-rounder goes back for about 30 years. Scaffolding erected by this Sonthofen company on churches, hospitals, schools, industrial buildings and mountain railway stations can be anything up to 50 metres high. One of the scaffolding company's key operations is renting out over 40 self-propelling aerial working platforms. This is where the Unimog U 400 comes into its own as it is able to do a really good job with its additional customised implements. The U 400 delivers all the equipment directly to the construction sites, taking even challenging mountain passes in its stride.

Top marks for Unimog after-sales service

Three generations of scaffold-builders at Schneider Ltd have been impressed by the after-sales service provided by Wohlgschaft in Wangen, the Unimog general distributor for the region. In particular the scaffolding company appreciates the Unimog GD's pick-up and delivery service, as well as its servicing of both equipment and vehicles. And Schneider passes on Wohlgschafft's reliability to its own customers by being able to stick to agreed-on dates. This is vital for renting out aerial working platforms and supplying the equipment on the agreed date has to be guaranteed.

The experts at the UGD in Wangen also do the configuration for the high performance U 400 fleet. Two trailer couplings – ball type and jaw type – for various types of trailer, compressed air connections for tricky manoeuvring, winches on the flatbed and implements for winter services ensure that the Unimog is kept busy year-round doing various kinds of work.

As usual, the U 400 product range also cuts a good figure in the scaffolding business with its off-road capabilities, manoeuvrability, handling and comfort, as well as with its narrow outer width of 2.20 metres. The Sonthofen scaffold- builders emphasise that the Unimog is unrivalled in the way it deals with the mountainous terrain and inaccessible construction sites found especially in the Allgäu area. And here the U 400 ensures that scaffold-builder Schneider's principles –punctuality and quality – are here to stay.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

MBUSA announces pricing and equipment for the new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG

2012-01-29T23:26:00.001+02:00

Available in the U.S. in March with a starting MSRP of $95,865 (includes $875 destination charge), the new Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG stands for efficiency and performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience. The estimated combined fuel economy for the high-performance SUV is 16 mpg, marking a 33-percent improvement over its predecessor. The basis for low fuel consumption and top-class performance is provided by the AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine with an output of 518 hp and torque of 516 lb-ft, representing an increase of 15 hp and 44 lb-ft over its predecessor.

The available AMG Performance package boosts the V8 engine's power output to 550 hp and its maximum torque to 560 lb-ft. The newly developed ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM provides active roll stabilization while the AMG-specific design and the broad scope of standard equipment and appointments produce a highlighy attractive overall package.

The new ML63 AMG showcases exceptional new technology. The AMG 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine features spray-guided direct injection with piezo injectors, ECO stop/start system, an all-aluminium crankcase, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air-water intercooling and alternator management. With a displacement of 5461 cc, the eight-cylinder engine generates a maximum power output of 518 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Combined with the AMG Development Package these values rise to 550 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. This difference in power and torque results from an increase in the maximum charge pressure from 14.5 to 18.9 psi.

Both variants of the ML63 AMG enable sports-car performance: acceleration from zero to 60 mph takes 4.7 seconds and 4.6 seconds respectively, while the top speed stands at 155 mph (electronically limited). With or without AMG Performance Package, fuel economy remains unchanged.

Key data at a glance: ML 63 AMG

Displacement - 5461 cc
Bore x stroke - 3.86" x 3.56"
Compression ratio - 10.0 : 1
Output - 518 hp at 5250 rpm/550 hp at 5750 rpm*
Max. torque - 516 lb-ft at 1750-5000 rpm/560 lb-ft at 2000-5000 rpm*
Engine weight (dry) - 449 lbs
Fuel consumption, NEDC combined - 16 mpg combined
Acceleration 0-60 mph - 4.7 s/4.6 s*
Top speed - 155 mph**/174 mph*

* With AMG Performance package
** Electronically limited

Efficient and versatile: AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed Transmission

Power delivery to all four permanently driven wheels is via the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission. Featuring three driving programs and a rev-matching function during downshifts (Sport and Manual Mode), the outstanding gearbox offers amazingly broad scope. In "Controlled Efficiency" (C) mode the ECO stop/start function is active, shutting down the eight-cylinder engine when the vehicle is stationary. The "C" mode also delivers smoother acceleration and transmission characteristics with comfortable, earlier gear changes. Pulling away in this mode usually begins in second gear. A green "ECO" symbol in the AMG instrument cluster indicates to the driver that the ECO stop/start function is active.

In the Sport (S) and Manual (M) modes the ECO stop/start function is deactivated and the engine-transmission combination displays far greater agility. A brief and precise interruption of ignition and injection during upshifting under full load additionally provides for shorter shift times here.

Enhanced efficiency and driving dynamics

As efficiency-enhancing measures, the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7-speed automatic transmission incorporates a new fuel-economy torque converter, bearings designed for reduced friction loss and thermal management system for transmission oil. Axle gears with minimal friction loss, electric steering, an optimized belt drive, on-demand control of all accessory drives and an intelligent lightweight design also helps to reduce fuel economy even further. The new ML63 AMG is 99 pounds lighter than its predecessor despite the increase in power and the more comprehensive range of standard equipment.

As on the previous model, Mercedes-AMG uses a dedicated transfer case for the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive which distributes the engine power at a ratio of 40 : 60 to the front and rear axle in the interests of high driving dynamics. Furthermore, the AMG sports suspension with AIRMATIC Air Suspension, independent damper struts, automatic level control and Adaptive Damping System (ADS) - features for the first time in combination with the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM for active roll stabilization. This system, which is standard equipment on the ML63 AMG features active stabilizers on the front and rear axles to compensate for body roll and cornering. In addition to enhanced agility and responsive handling, the system also improves stability for added safety, especially at higher speeds.

Roll stabilization, damping and suspension adapt instantaneously to the prevailing driving situation, offering both optimum ride comfort and maximum stability. The driver is able to choose at the push of a button between the three suspension modes "Comfort", "Sport" and "Manual". The air suspension system is speed-sensitive, lowering the body at higher speeds to minimize drag while increasing stability.

The AMG-specific elastokinematics at the front axle and the more robust stabilizer bar on the rear axle improve steering precision. The enhanced drive train provides optimum power transmission and hallmark Mercedes reliability. The standard 4ETS electronic traction control system provides for optimized grip in slippery conditions.

AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance braking system

Electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering features speed-based power assistance and helps to save fuel because it only consumes energy when the driver actually moves the steering wheel. The ML63 AMG comes with 20 - inch 5-spoke alloy wheels painted in titanium grey with a high-gloss finish and fitted with 265/45 R 20 high performance tires. Also available are optional 295/35 R 21 tires on 21-inch AMG alloy wheels. The AMG high-performance braking system provides for the shortest possible braking distances and high fade resistance, featuring ventilated and perforated brake discs at all four corners. Sizes are 15.4" x 1.4" (front) and 13.6" x 1.0" (rear).

Specific AMG styling with trim in matte silver chrome

The design of the new ML63 AMG exudes self-confidence, athleticism and power. The AMG bodystyling dominates the front view. Beneath the radiator grille with louvers in high-gloss paint finish and the prominent Mercedes star is a large cooling air intake. Together with the two outer air intakes, the central radiator grille provides for an effective flow of air to the water, engine oil, charge-air and transmission oil coolers. Fitted at the bottom of the AMG front apron is a trim strip in matte silver chrome, which lends breath to the front end while blending with the frames of the daytime running lights and into the side air intakes. Bixenon headlamps offer a premium and exclusive look in combination with the standard Lighting Package. The AMG front skirt is integrated with the distinctive front fenders, which are 0.4 inches wider on either side in order to accommodate the large AMG alloy wheels in elegant fashion. "V8 BITURBO" badges identify the vehicle as the flagship AMG model in the M-Class. AMG illuminated sill panels establish a visual link between the front and rear of the vehicle.

Another eye-catching feature is the AMG rear skirt highlighting the black diffuser. The openings emphasize the vehicle's width, as does the trim strips in matte silver chrome - which reflects the design of the front skirt and frames the AMG sports exhaust system.

In contrast to the other M-Class variants, the ML 63 AMG features two sets of chrome twin tailpipes. Delivering the full and distinctive eight-cylinder AMG soundtrack.

Exclusively appointed, sporty interior

Sporty character and premium quality define the interior of the high-performance SUV from AMG. This is evident in the standard designo premium leather AMG power sports seats offering excellent lateral support, as well as the four-spoke AMG Performance steering wheel. The latter ensures excellent vehicle control with perforated leather grips, aluminium shift paddles and a rim flattened on the bottom. Aluminium trim and the piano-lacquer retractable cover in the center console highlight the interior's dynamic and exclusive flair. The standard designo premium leather upholstery includes contrasting double topstitching and AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats. Dashboard, armrests and door trim are also finished in designo premium leather with double topstitching.

The distinctive instrument cluster with color TFT monitor, AMG welcome logo and AMG main menu is exclusive to the ML 63 AMG.

Other standard equipment includes:

- AMG illuminated door sills in stainless steel
- AMG sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
- COMAND system with hard-drive navigation & SIRIUS real-time traffic & weather
- 10-way power front seats w/door-mounted controls plus driver and passenger memory with 4-way lumbar support
- harman/kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system
- HD radio
- Bluetooth audio streaming
- USB port
- 7" display with central COMAND controller
- 4.5" color instrument cluster display
- Power lift gate
- Multi-color ambient lighting
- Power sunroof w/express open and close
- Heated & active ventilated front seats

The AMG Performance package includes:
- Top speed of 174 mph
- AMG Performance steering wheel with DINAMICA grips
- Increased output +32 hp / 44 lb-ft
- Red brake calipers
- Carbon fiber engine cover

designo is standard equipment

The standard designo features on the ML63 AMG include premium leather upholstery on the AMG sports seats.

This is available in a choice of designo auburn brown, designo porcelain and designo black. Features also include AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the outer rear seats as well as velour floor mats with the designo logo embossed and black designo leather edging. Further choices include designo trim pieces in black piano lacquer and the designo wood/leather steering wheel in black piano lacquer.

Safety of the very highest caliber

In line with the Mercedes-Benz brand philosophy, the 2012 ML63 AMG is based on the Mercedes-Benz concept of Real Life Safety, derived primarily from what happens in a real accident situation. The extremely robust occupant cell and the front and rear crumple zones form an effective basis for the occupant protection system. Nine airbags, activated on demand in accordance with the nature and severity of the accident, can reduce the loads exerted on the occupants. In addition to active safety systems such as the standard Brake Assist (BAS) or the optional BAS PLUS, which can help to prevent an accident or reduce its severity, the new M-Class features further enhanced passive safety measures to help protect pedestrians.

Both active safety and driver fitness are improved by assistance systems already familiar primarily from the S- and E-Class. Standard equipment includes the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the anticipatory safety system PRE-SAFE®, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, as well as ADAPTIVE BRAKE, the ESP® electronic stability program and PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist. Further active assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist are available as additional equipment.

Safety is further enhanced by new standard features such as LED daytime running lamps, fiber-optic / LED tail lamps, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and a driver's side knee airbag.

Credits: Mercedes-Benz USA

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) gets tracked down once again

2012-01-29T23:22:00.001+02:00

Just two days after the first scoops, a set of new captures of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) test mule emerged on the interwebs. Given their dimensions, it's fairly easier to make a preliminary opinion based on the exterior styling of the medium-sized limousine. Although the prototype carries some elements of the outgoing generation, it appears the front fascia, hidden under the heavy black cladding, is pretty much the new one, as well as the tailgate area at the rear. The headlights display a teardrop shape and look similar to those seen of the F 800 concept; in addition, the radiator grille might adopt a more upright, solid design, to comply with the new EU safety regulations. The back end details are less visible to the naked eye, but some '4-door coupe' influence from the F 800 can somehow be depicted. We guess the final car could be quite close to this rendition created by Christian Schulte.

Check out more spy photos after the jump!

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The 2012 F1 Regulation Changes explained by MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS experts

2012-01-29T20:08:00.000+02:00

The Formula One Sporting and Technical Regulations are constantly developing to respond to changes in the sport, improve the show and reduce costs. The 2012 season will be no exception to the rule and thus MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS F1 Team experts express their view on the changes coming up this year. In this episode, they clarify regulations regarding driving etiquette, race suspension, crash tests and safety car.

Driving Etiquette

The regulations say: “Drivers may no longer leave the track without a justifiable reason, i.e. cutting a chicane on reconnaissance laps or in-laps to save time and fuel, and drivers may no longer move back onto the racing line having moved off it to defend a position.”

The expert view - Ron Meadows, Sporting Director: “This is really a formal clarification of how the FIA expect the drivers to behave. There are actually two points… the first is that cutting chicanes or taking short-cuts can be a performance advantage due to running lower fuel levels in qualifying or getting back to the pits faster allowing you to leave your qualifying run later. The second point is aimed at drivers moving twice when racing another car. The FIA are happy for a second movement to defend your position as long as it is not done in the braking zone, and you leave at enough space for the challenging car to go to the outside without running out of track.”

Race Suspension

The regulations say: “There will now be a maximum race time of four hours to ensure that a lengthy suspension of a race does not result in a race that could run up to eight hours if left unregulated. Cars which were in the pit lane when the race was suspended will now be allowed to re-join the cars on the grid in the position they were in at the time of the race suspension.”

The expert view - Ron Meadows, Sporting Director: “The time limit has been brought in so that spectators and TV viewers will know the cut-off point for a race start.

This is a very fair rule as it allows cars that were in the pit lane during a race suspension not to be penalised through no fault of their own. Without this change of regulation, cars in the pit lane would have to join the back of the pack once they had restarted.”

Crash test

The regulation says: “There will be tougher side impact testing and new cars must now pass all required FIA crash tests prior to any on-track testing.”

The expert view - Kevin Taylor, Head of Composites Design: “Clearly the objective of this rule was to guarantee nobody was running an unsafe car in testing. The crash structures are significant aerodynamic parts so the Composite Department had to work extremely closely with the Aerodynamics Department so as to allow maximum development time in the wind tunnel whilst completing the crash test program on time .”

Safety car

The regulation says: “During a safety-car period, all lapped cars will be allowed to unlap themselves and then join the back of the pack, ensuring a clean re-start without slower cars impeding those racing for the leading positions.”

The expert view - Andrew Shovlin, Senior Race Engineer: “During 2010 and 2011 lapped cars were not allowed to overtake prior to a safety car restart. On occasions, particularly near the end of the race, this would result in the leaders getting tangled up with the back markers for the final laps of the race, who themselves were often racing whilst getting a string of blue flags. Good examples were at Interlagos in 2010 and Suzuka in 2011.

This often deprived the spectators of an exciting finish as it allowed some cars to build clear air whilst their competitors were bogged down in traffic. It was also confusing for those watching as the order of cars on track was not the actual race order. For 2012, once the cars have completed two laps under the safety car speed limit, any which are not on the lead lap are allowed to pass the leaders and drive around to the back of the grid.

This will have two important effects, firstly the cars directly behind the safety will line up in actual race order so when the race restarts they are in a position to overtake each other. Secondly, the majority of the field will be on the same racing lap, bunched together and with some of the cars on new tyres. Together with the DRS, this should create exciting racing in the midfield where cars on older tyres will be ahead of cars that have stopped for fresh rubber who are trying to battle their way up the order for points.”

* Official photo and details courtesy of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Naeem Khan Receives "Mercedes-Benz Presents" Title

2012-01-29T19:03:00.000+02:00

Naeem Khan, the designer known for adorning starlets in his luxurious collection of impeccably cut dresses, sophisticated gowns and chic separates, receives the distinguished title of "Mercedes-Benz Presents" designer for Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2012 Collections.

"The admiration we have for Naeem Khan's designs and his exceptional reputation throughout the fashion industry make him the ideal 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' designer," said Lisa Holladay, manager of brand experience marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA. "His highly-crafted embroidered pieces and breathtaking gowns that grace the runways of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week are expressions of his precision and expertise, and we are thrilled to support his show this season."

Naeem Khan dresses many of the world's most stylish women including clients such as Beyonce, Penelope Cruz, Katherine Heigl, Emily Blunt, Taylor Swift, Lea Michele and First Lady Michelle Obama. In 2008 Khan was inducted as a member of the prestigious Council of Fashion Designers of America. Naeem Khan continues to evolve as one of the hottest names in the fashion industry today.

"As a lifetime Mercedes-Benz owner, the honor of being chosen as the 'Mercedes-Benz Presents' designer has a very special meaning to me," says Naeem Khan. "I am thrilled to receive this accolade from a brand that shares the same passion for innovative design and quality craftsmanship that I do."

In its ninth year, the "Mercedes-Benz Presents" program continues to create unique experiences that tie fashion and automobile design together while supporting the growing needs of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week designers. Each season, a designer is chosen that demonstrates an unparalleled talent and a dedication to the use of quality materials, unique style and innovative design, all characteristics that define the three-pointed star. Khan joins a prestigious list of past "Mercedes-Benz Presents" designers including Carolina Herrera, Monique Lhuillier, Badgley Mischka, Narciso Rodriguez, and CHADO Ralph Rucci.

As part of the Presents program, Mercedes-Benz is featuring a display in the lobby of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week showcasing two examples of superb craftsmanship and design: pieces from the Naeem Khan collection and the 2012 ML63 AMG SUV. Just as a fashion designer creates haute couture works of art, Mercedes-Benz creates one-of-a-kind bespoke vehicles out of the highest-quality paints, leathers and trims. The ML63 AMG on display is the ideal example showcasing the perfect combination of pure performance and chic design roaring with 518 horsepower hand-built engine and an ultra luxe leather interior, featuring hand sewn cross-stitching as well as an optional carbon fiber engine cover and red brake calipers, making this vehicle a fascinating fashion statement.

The display will also be the backdrop for an exclusive invite-only Fashion's Night In event on Thursday, February 9th, to kick off Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. Invited guests will take part in a Mercedes-Benz DIY Style Studio to make their own bespoke fashion accessories out of luxe vehicle materials. Naeem Khan will make a special appearance along with event hosts, Nicola Ehrenberg-Uhlig, Head of Conceptual Design Team Color & Trim for Mercedes-Benz, Erica Domesek of P.S. I made this... and accessories designer Paige Novick.

The Naeem Khan runway show is being held on Tuesday, February 14th at 2pm in the Theatre.

Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is taking place in New York City at Lincoln Center from February 9-16, 2012 with more than 80 designers presenting their Fall 2012 collections including Naeem Khan, Diane von Furstenberg, Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang, Michael Kors, BCBGMAXAZRIA, Rebecca Taylor, Reem Acra, Narciso Rodriguez, Nicole Miller, Charlotte Ronson and Betsey Johnson.

For more information about Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center, and for a schedule of shows and events, visit: http://newyork.mbfashionweek.com.

ABOUT Naeem Khan
The Naeem Khan collection consists of impeccably cut dresses, sophisticated gowns and chic separates – all embroidered by hand. Khan was born in India and cultivated his vast knowledge of textiles under the watchful eyes of his grandfather and father, both well known in India for designing intricate clothing worn by the royal families. Khan moved to the United States as a teenager and apprenticed for Halston, where he absorbed the ethos of modern restraint, and the secrets of draping and cutting fabric to create a clean, elegant, timeless silhouette. The Naeem Khan line was launched in 2003 in New York and began selling at Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. Since then the collection has grown to be sold at more than 100 specialty stores across the world.

Credits: Mercedes-Benz USA

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: Another look inside the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222)

2012-01-29T17:35:00.002+02:00

We've seen the dashboard of the W 222 a couple of times last year, but the latest spy shot is the best one so far, quality-wise. Now, a better visual contact with the upgrades of the interior can be made: a revised door panel featuring the controls for the seat functions, a high-tech steering wheel with two spokes and easy-access buttons, a completely digitalised instrument cluster and a bigger display for the new @yourCOMAND infotainment system (both of which are still in a preliminary phase of development) and a classy, fully wood-trimmed center console gathering all the necessary quick-use controls. The four central air vents of the climate control unit and the analog clock sitting between them are other particular features adding to the sophistication level of the new S-Class.

Check out further spy photos captured in Northern Scandinavia after the break!

Image Credits: Autowereld

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: First-ever shots of the future 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205)

2012-01-27T21:17:00.001+02:00

These images come as a nice and unexpected surprise: Mercedes-Benz Research & Development Department have already started work on the future generation of the C-Class (W 205).

The vehicle you see in the spy pics is in fact a test mule for the new medium class model - even though the exterior body comprises parts of the current W 204 C-Class and some design cues of the next generation carefully hidden under camouflage, the underpinnings together with all the secret innovations installed underneath the bodyshell are certainly fully belonging to the W 205. As it's still early for the 2014 C-Class, details are scarce: we do know the new generation will mark a design revolution, heavily influenced by the F 800 Style showcar. General dimensions will go up a bit, to improve passenger comfort, versatility, luggage space and make room in the portfolio for the announced sub-C-Class models. Furthermore, technical novelties could include a new series of powerful and frugal engines, as well as a new rear-wheel-drive platform with better dynamic capabilities and more high-end communication and safety technologies, that are to be partly borrowed from the upcoming S-Class (W 222), expected for late 2012. We are guessing the whole development phase for the W 205 C-Class will take more than two years, so the new generation might be ready for launch in mid 2014.

Image Credits: Autowereld

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: First scoop of the dashboard of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class (C 117)

2012-01-27T20:49:00.002+02:00

Starting summer 2012, Mercedes-Benz will introduce a one-of-a-kind alternative in the compact class: the CLC-Class, industry's first-ever compact 4-door coupe. Inspired by the CLS, the new addition to the lineup of the German carmaker boasts the essential elements that proved successful in the case of its bigger brother: a mind-blowing design consisting of flowing surfaces, intricate styling details and a rakish roof line which contribute to the overall visual coupe effect. Whereas the exterior looks highly individualised, in order to align the new CLC to the range it belongs and reduce costs, Mercedes-Benz designers have somehow sacrificed the style and the uniqueness of the CLC's interior. While we are sure build quality and customization posibilities through the 'designo' programme will score top marks, we can't be very satisfied with the almost total resemblance to the dashboard of the B-Class, as we would have expected a more extravagant approach, due to the fact the CLC is intended to be a niche vehicle. Anyway, last but not least, if UK residents were wondering about if they'd get the new Merc in RHD configuration, the picture above speaks for itself.

Check out more spy shots after the jump!

Image Credits: Autoevolution

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: 'QR-code' camouflaged 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class spotted in Germany

2012-01-27T20:09:00.000+02:00

Following the official confirmation of the A-Class QR Trophy, photographers have ran across a test prototype displaying dozens of QR codes all over the camouflage in Germany. Scanning them offers the great posibility of participating at the special launch event of the new A-Class hatchback this March. Meanwhile, development of the compact car goes on undetered with the winter testing phase happening in Northern Scandinavia.

Check out more photos after the jump!

Image Credits: Autozeitung,Autowereld

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: Mercedes-AMG continues testing for the new all-wheel-drive sports traction

2012-01-27T19:47:00.000+02:00

Mercedes-Benz wants to offer a complete and challenging range of compact-sized models, so alongside the standard A-Class/B-Class and their niche derivates (future CLC and GLC), the Stuttgart-based constructor is set to launch a lineup of hot AMG versions for the compact class.

The forthcoming, Affalterbach-prepped vehicles will showcase a dynamic powertrain based on supercharged 4-cylinder gasoline engine with 320-350 hp and a newly developed all-wheel-drive traction system intended for top sports performance. While there were numerous reports in the past regarding the addition of a B 25 AMG potent MPV, it now appears the prototypes that appeared so far are solely modified B-Class cars fitted with the new 4x4 platform and thus used for testing the new underpinning configuration. Anyway, if the B 25 AMG is not coming at all whatsoever, interested clients will be able to choose between the spicy A 25 AMG and CLC 25 AMG, which are scheduled for release either late this year or early in 2013.

Image Credits: Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Watch the launch of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes MP4-27 Live!

2012-01-26T18:14:00.001+02:00

Excitement is building at the MTC as there’s just a week to go before the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes contender for the 2012 F1 season is unveiled by Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton, and you can watch it all happen LIVE right at McLaren.com!

Live coverage of the event will start on the morning of February 1 from 11am GMT, and you can join in the action by logging on to McLaren.com or watching through our Facebook page.

Jenson Button, Lewis Hamilton and Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team principal Martin Whitmarsh will be among those giving us their thoughts on the new car and the forthcoming season, which starts in Australia on March 16.

So make sure you stay tuned to McLaren.com or facebook.com/vodafonemclarenmercedes for your first glimpse of the MP4-27!

* Official photo and details courtesy of VODAFONE MCLAREN MERCEDES *

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

"The Best Cars of 2012": The M-Class SUV and the SLS AMG Roadster are the best cars in their classes

2012-01-26T13:17:00.001+02:00

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the best car among off-road vehicles, while the SLS AMG Roadster super sports car is the best cabriolet. These are the results of a reader survey conducted by specialist German motoring magazine "auto motor und sport". The SLS has now received the title of "Best Car of The Year" for the third time in a row.

The motoring magazine "auto motor und sport" has been conducting its vote for the "Best Cars of The Year" in ten different categories since 1977. This year around 210,000 readers from 14 European countries, as well as China and Brazil, took part in the longstanding survey to decide the best cars of 2012. When it came to off-road vehicles, the majority of readers voted for the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, thereby acknowledging not only its characteristically distinctive design and variable interior, with that all-important sense of wellbeing, but also its excellent energy efficiency and thus environmental acceptability. In addition, the permanent all-wheel drive system of the M-Class also impressed with its well-balanced ride comfort combined with excellent driving dynamics both on and off road, along with the car's outstanding range and high level of safety. The G-Class picked up second place.

In the case of the cabriolets, the readers of "auto motor und sport" placed the SLS AMG Roadster in pole position, honouring it as the best car of 2012 in its category and as such paying tribute to both its uniquely exciting design as well its exquisite engineering and technology. The super sports car excels with its uncompromising lightweight construction, superior driving dynamics and exemplary safety. These attributes are ensured by a unique technology package consisting of a lightweight aluminium spaceframe body, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine producing 420 kW (571 hp), seven-speed dual clutch transmission and a sports suspension with aluminium double wishbone suspension. This combination guarantees dynamic performance at the very highest level.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Four Reasons I Drive a Mercedes-Benz

2012-01-26T11:03:00.003+02:00

As a child, my parents only purchased Mercedes-Benz cars. This could be why I am so smitten with the brand; it’s in my blood. However, I believe I also have a true fascination and respect for the craftsmanship behind these cars. After years of driving other car brands, I finally took the plunge and purchased my own Mercedes-Benz. I haven’t looked back.

Why do I believe Mercedes-Benz is the single greatest automobile producer in the world?

- Safety: The number one reason why I drive a Mercedes-Benz. They invented the crumple zone and many other innovations which several other car manufacturers are now copying. It’s safe to say that Mercedes-Benz is a leader in car safety. With new features like the PRE-SAFE system, DISTRONIC PLUS, ATTENTION ASSIST and Blind Spot and Lane Keeping Assistance, your car now senses when danger is near and either notifies or assists you in preventing an accident. Truly amazing!

- Looks: It’s undeniable; all Mercedes-Benz body styles are designed to be pleasing to the eye. Elegant and classy, their automobiles are all miraculously timeless.

- Power: I love a car that is safe yet powerful. I am even more in love with a car that can be powerful yet efficient. My Mercedes-Benz is equipped with a 201-hp 1.8L turbo-4 which purrs nicely but only uses about 21 mpg in the city.

- Commitment: You won’t find a car that will last longer. I owned my last Mercedes-Benz for eight years before trading it in. When I traded it, I had experienced no major problems with the car, it still looked great and it held its value very well. I could have kept it longer, but I wanted a new vehicle style.

Most importantly, Mercedes-Benz lovers know these are the greatest automobiles, because the brand has been given a reputation for being sexy and sophisticated; something everyone wants to be associated with.

Guest Post by Lori Hutchison

Lori Hutchison is a teacher and also owns the site Masters in Teaching. In her spare time, she enjoys writing guest blog posts on various topics about life.

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

17 Setra touring coaches for Belgium

2012-01-25T21:13:00.000+02:00

Belgian coach operator Voyages Léonard is giving its fleet of vehicles a facelift with 17 Setra TopClass touring coaches. The coaches form part of an order for a total of 32 new vehicles which the Sales-Lentz Group has placed with the Daimler brand. Luxembourg's largest bus company became the Belgian tour operator's new owner in January 2011.

"We are proud to have been granted an opportunity to support this highly significant cooperation for the region of Luxembourg and Belgium with our vehicles," said Lothar Holder, Setra brand spokesman at EvoBus GmbH, when the first ten coaches were handed over at the Setra customer centre in Neu-Ulm. "This handover also highlights the true partnership and close collaboration which have existed between our brand and Voyages Léonard for over 40 years now."

At the handover ceremony, which was also attended by a large group of employees, tour guides and customers who had travelled to Neu-Ulm to witness the event, the two managers, Daniel and Pascal Léonard, took receipt of five S 431 DT double-decker coaches as well as the company's first high-deck coaches from the current Setra TopClass generation, in the guise of four S 416 HDH coaches and one S 415 HD. With features such as glass roofs and multichannel sound systems, the HD and HDH vehicles offer superlative touring comfort. They additionally all incorporate the most cutting-edge safety systems available on the market. A further seven vehicles are to be delivered in the course of this year.

Founded in 1946, the Belgian company is currently run by the family's third generation, operating in the fields of coach transfer, coach, air and self-drive tours and travel sales. Voyages Léonard currently has a workforce of around 80 and operates a 30-strong fleet consisting exclusively of Setra coaches.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

CLASSIC: 1955 alloy-based 300 SL auctioned off for a staggering $4.62 million

2012-01-25T14:46:00.001+02:00

We are pleased to hear that, after having underwent an exceptional restoration process carried out by specialist house Rudi & Company, one of the rare, 29 300 SLs from the 1950s equipped with a lightweight alloy bodyshell/chassis has recently found an owner. Originally painted in silver grey and displaying a blue leather interior, the car exited the assembly line on April 20th, 1955 and received the chassis no. 198.043.5500208. After the auction organized by Gooding & Company, the Gullwing was sold off for no less than $4.62 million, a lot more than initially expected. It is no wonder why the client spent so much to have the special 300 SL in his own garage: the car is simply shining. The job done by Rudi Koniczek's team achieved the main target of restoring the classic aura of this icon, with a brilliant, careful attention paid to all the minute details.

You might also be interested in reading the following articles:

- Classic car find: a 1955 300 SL Racing with light-alloy bodyshell shows up in California
- CLASSIC: the 1955 alloy-bodied, chassis no.21 300 SL Racing uncovered

Read a detailed story about this specific 300 SL after pressing the jump button!

Vehicle Description

"[The 300 SL Coupe] is the ultimate in an all-around sports car. It combines more desirable features in one streamlined package than we ever imagined or hoped would be possible" – Road & Track Editors, 1955

If not for US importer Max Hoffman and his passion for a sports coupe based on the highly successful W194 series race cars, the Mercedes-Benz immortal 300 SL line would never have come to production.

The racing success of the factory team was having a positive effect on Mercedes-Benz sales in the US. However, without a car clearly related to the race-winning machines, the marketing advantage of the immensely costly racing effort was limited. Accordingly, Mercedes-Benz management approved the 300 SL project after Mr. Hoffman's firm made a commitment to purchase 1,000 of the cars for US distribution.

Integral to the marketing plan for the groundbreaking new sports car was the expectation that the cars would be used for competition by private owners in order to bolster sales in the showrooms, and the factory ensured that the 300 SL was accepted by the FIA for international competition.

As a result, the production Gullwing could be ordered with an all-aluminum body. When chosen, many additional competition upgrades followed suit. A competition camshaft was fitted along with stiffer, shorter springs that lowered the car and enhanced peak performance, while racing-specification tires on wider rims promoted better adhesion. Plexiglass windows and vented brake drums were also featured in the package. The cars were nearly 200 pounds lighter than the standard steel-bodied version. In all, just 29 of these aluminum-bodied cars were ordered and built – approximately 2% of the total Gullwing production.

This Car

Derived for sport, this aluminum Gullwing did not see competitive use. Completed on April 20, 1955, 5500208 was appropriately finished in metallic silver gray over a blue leather interior. The 300 SL was also outfitted with Rudge wheels, the NSL motor and Plexiglas windows per aluminum-build specifications.

On May 27, 1955, the Alloy Gullwing was sent to Rotterdam where it was loaded aboard a Holland America Line ship for transport to New York. Upon arrival, the Mercedes-Benz distributor sent 5500208 to the West Coast for ultimate delivery to Veron Holz of Bonita, California. The new aluminum-bodied Gullwing would have been an extravagant machine on the roads of San Diego in the late 1950s.

Although the early history of this Gullwing is not known, there is no apparent race record for 5500208. In March 1980, the 300 SL resurfaced in San Diego and was sold through a motorcar locator to Hans Dieter Blatzheim of Bonn, Germany. The purchase price was an astonishing $57,000 for an unrestored car, which the seller most likely assumed was steel. The invoice for the purchase still exists, indicating the alloy chassis number 198.043.5500208.

In need of some attention, the Alloy Gullwing made its way to the well-known restoration shop Hill & Vaughn in Santa Monica, California. Phil Hill and Ken Vaughn had gained a reputation for their high-quality restorations and were frequent winners at the Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Disassembly of the car began in April 1980, and the car is accompanied by a significant file of numerous invoices and photographs documenting the work performed by Hill & Vaughn.

The invoices identify the completeness of 5500208, as well as its solid state, which was no doubt a benefit of having spent 25 years in Southern California. Some necessary aluminum work was addressed and the meticulous fitting of the doors, hood and deck lid are thoroughly outlined. Additionally, the engine and gearbox were sent to AMG Motorbau in Germany for rebuilding. Subsequently returned to Hill & Vaughn in early 1982, the project was nearing completion. By mid-year, the car was ready for paint and assembly.

For unknown reasons, Herr Blatzheim requested that 5500208 be packed in a sea container and sent to Germany. The car was loaded and loose parts were thoroughly inventoried before shipment in November 1982.

The completion of the restoration was conducted in Germany, but not before the body was stripped and prepared again for paint. Photos dated October 1983 show the bare aluminum skin in outstanding condition, proving straight and showing good panel fit. Further photo documentation shows the restoration and assembly of the chassis and completion of the car in silver with gray leather.

In May 1984, the 5500208 was sold to Markus Ahr of Germany. During his ownership, work was performed by Daimler-Benz Aktiengesellschaft including a rebuild of the engine. Herr Ahr kept the car well into the 1990s, at which time work was performed by Kienle Automobiltechnik. Photo documentation shows a rebuild of the transmission, rear end, brakes and suspension. Retaining the silver-over-gray finish, detail work was conducted on gauges and other ancillary components and the project was completed in 1998. Not long after, the Alloy Gullwing was sold to Friedhelm Loh, a noted German collector with a passion for significant Mercedes-Benz.

In 2009, Ken McBride of Seattle, Washington, was given the opportunity to buy 5500208. Having had a handful of Gullwings, Mr. McBride appreciated the importance of an Alloy and, for the first time in his many years of collecting, had the chance to own one. Although his collection was significantly diverse, Mr. McBride had always focused on Mercedes-Benz and had acquired a 540 K Special Coupe, a 540 K Cabriolet A and eventually a 380 K Erdmann & Rossi Special Roadster.

After some serious thought, and perhaps a little family persuasion, the Alloy Gullwing was bought for the collection. In the company of a J Duesenberg Murphy Roadster, a Ferrari 410 Superamerica and other significant cars, the 300 SL was more than a notable entry, it was a dream come true for a man who had an Alloy Gullwing high on a short list of cars to own.

In late 2009, Mr. McBride fell ill and the newly acquired Mercedes-Benz took a back seat. At that time, the Gullwing was sent to noted 300 SL restorer Rudi Koniczek at Rudi & Co. for some necessary sorting. Mr. McBride wanted certain aspects of the car corrected, predominantly the shade of silver and the interior. In the months to come, the Alloy Gullwing was stripped to bare metal and repainted in its original silver (DB 180). Necessary body work was conducted and a methodical process was undertaken to ensure proper assembly and fit of the aluminum body. The gray leather interior was removed and the correct blue leather was installed. Some additional mechanical work was conducted, as well as detailing of various components. One deviation from the original was the addition of seat cushions upholstered in plaid, acknowledging the lightweight car's racing alter ego – they are a marvelous touch.

In mid-2011, Mr. Koniczek had finished the restoration but, sadly, Mr. McBride passed away before he could see the final masterpiece. The result was truly spectacular! Shortly after, Mr. McBride's wife Patty and the rest of the McBride family chose to show the Alloy Gullwing at the Kirkland Concours d'Elegance where it rightfully won its class.

The finish of the 300 SL is of the highest level and the car retains a very correct appearance. With a livery that is a tasteful yet bold statement, the quality of the work and attention to detail is obvious and further inspection reveals the purity of this Alloy Gullwing. The original engine remains, correctly stamped NSL, and the body number can be found stamped on the left wheel arch in the engine compartment. Additionally, the Gullwing has belly pans, its chrome Rudge wheels are original, the luggage is properly finished in natural pig skin, the Becker radio is correct, the grille has the proper "curved star" – the list goes on.

Furthermore, this Alloy Gullwing is accompanied by a tool kit, a knock-off hammer, a jack, comprehensive documentation, the Mercedes-Benz Certificate, an owner's manual, an instruction manual, a spare parts catalogue, a service book and Becker radio manuals.

5500208 is a sensation to drive. Its road manners are what one would expect from any beautifully engineered motorcar. The true excitement, however, is when this supercar comes on cam. With abundant power and torque, and precise gearshift, this Gullwing is simply addictive.

In recent years, these ultra-rare, competition- specification cars have come to be recognized by collectors and enthusiasts for what they have always been – truly the best of the best. They are a tiny group of factory-built, lightweight racers, constructed with the express intention of increasing the public visibility of one of the greatest sports cars ever constructed.

Gullwings are routinely acknowledged as favorites in a collection of any size. They are prized for their magnificent engineering and build quality, purity of design and outstanding driving experience. Aluminum-bodied examples – all 29 of which have survived to this day – are very seldom offered for sale.

As one of the most iconic motorcars of all time, it can easily be said that the Alloy Gullwing is the most significant road-going Mercedes-Benz of the post-war era.

Credits: Gooding & Company

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Environmental Certificate for the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class

2012-01-25T13:36:00.000+02:00

B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY produces 16 percent less CO2 emissions than its predecessor

The neutral inspectors at the TÜV Süd technical inspection authority have confirmed the high environmental compatibility of the new Mercedes B-Class, awarding the compact sports tourer the Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062. This certification is based on a comprehensive ecological life cycle assessment of the B-Class, documenting every detail of ecological relevance.

"The new B-Class is the first model of a completely new generation of compact vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. It sets clear benchmarks in two fields which are crucial to efficiency – aerodynamics and the drive system," explains Professor Dr Herbert Kohler, Chief Environmental Officer at Daimler AG. "The high level of environmental compatibility goes beyond reductions in fuel consumption, as the Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062 now confirms."

Mercedes-Benz analyses the environmental compatibility of its models throughout their entire life cycle – from production through their long years of service to recycling at the end of their lives. This analysis goes far beyond the legal requirements. The Environmental Certificate and supplementary information are made available to the public in the "Life Cycle" documentation series, which can be found at http://www.mercedes-benz.com .

Over the entire life cycle of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class – from production and service over 160,000 kilometres to recycling – the new model in the guise of the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY with 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission causes 16 percent less CO2 emissions than its predecessor when the latter was discontinued in 2011. The energy balance shows a similarly positive picture, with primary energy consumption over the vehicle's entire life cycle cut by 14 percent in comparison to its predecessor. This corresponds to the energy content of around 2400 litres of petrol.

The marked reductions in fuel consumption represent a substantial contributory factor here. By way of example, the fuel consumption of the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol model with dual clutch transmission ranges – depending on the fitted tyres – from 5.9 to 6.2 l/100 km in comparison to 7.3 to 7.5 l/100 km for its predecessor (at the time of its discontinuation in 2011). This corresponds to a substantial reduction in fuel consumption of up to 19 percent. These fuel savings are ensured by an intelligent package of measures – the so-called BlueEFFICIENCY technologies. These include optimisation measures in the area of the powertrain, energy management, aerodynamics, tyres optimised for minimum rolling resistance, weight reduction through lightweight construction and driver information to encourage an energy-saving style of driving. An outstanding drag coefficient of Cd = 0.26 places the new B-Class at the forefront of its market segment.

The B-Class already meets the recycling rate of 95 percent by weight which will be mandatory as of 1 January 2015. In all, the B-Class incorporates 75 components representing a total weight of 39 kilograms which can be produced with the partial use of high-quality recycled plastics. This results in a 13 percent increase in the weight of approved recycled components in comparison to the previous model. Typical areas of use are wheel arch linings, cable ducts and underbody panels, which consist for the most part of polypropylene.

There is also an increased emphasis on closed automobile materials cycles: a recyclate is used for the front wheel arch linings, for example, which is produced from reprocessed vehicle components such as starter battery housings, bumper panels from the Mercedes-Benz Recycling System (MeRSy) and production waste from cockpit units.

21 components in the B-Class, representing a total weight of 20 kilograms, are produced using natural materials – an increase of 29 percent over the previous model. Natural materials employed in series production of the new B-Class consist primarily of coconut and wood fibres and honeycomb cardboard in combination with various polymer materials.

The modular body-in-white concept means that the B-Class is designed to accommodate versions with an alternative drive: appropriate interfaces in the body shell enable the main floor panel to be modified and a step to be produced for the "ENERGY SPACE" on the versions with alternative drive. An underfloor compartment covering part of the area under the rear bench seat offers space for alternative energy accumulators.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Special exhibition at the Mercedes-Benz Museum: Timeless - 60 Years of Mercedes-Benz SL

2012-01-24T23:52:00.000+02:00

Before the new Mercedes-Benz SL is launched during spring 2012, a special exhibition dedicated to the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class family is opened beginning Tuesday, 24th January 2012. The exhibition "Timeless - 60 Years of Mercedes-Benz SL" presents the automotive icons release in the six decades of existence - for the first time brought together in one room.

"No other model embodies athleticism and aesthetics as brilliant as the SL - and that for 60 years. The first SL-series today still triggers the same enthusiasm and desire like in 1952 ", says Michael Bock, Head of Mercedes-Benz Classic. "For many of our visitors, the SL is synonymous with Mercedes-Benz, and we are pleased that today we meet the desire of our visitors: the SL family shown together in one exhibition space."

In the 1950s, a very special star was born in Stuttgart: The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class. In the beginning, everything revolved around motorsport. The 300 SL racing sports car (W 194 series, the acronym stands for "super light") was premiered in 1952 as the Gullwing Coupe and Roadster. Its successes in international competitions ignited the spark for the emergence of two series of fascinating cars designed for clients: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL and 190 SL in 1954 explain the tradition of the legendary sports car family.

For the first time, "Timeless - 60 Years of Mercedes-Benz SL" shows this entire sports car family, including the 300 SL racing car (W 194) - the legendary winner of the Carrera Panamericana race in 1952, the 190 SL (W 121) of U.S. astronaut David R. Scott in 1958, the 230 SL (W 113) driven by Eugen Böhringer in the 1963 Liege-Sofia-Liege rally, the SL 55 AMG (R 230), which was the official Safety Car of the 2001 Formula 1 season, and also the newest SL (R 231).

The exhibition consists of an extensive program with guided tours and special events. Further information is available at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center and online at www.mercedes-benz-classic.com/sl .

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY VIDEO: The 2012 Mercedes-Benz A-Class undergoing testing programme in Sweden

2012-01-24T19:48:00.000+02:00

The new A-Class is scheduled to make its first appearance at the Geneva Motor Show in less than two months. Till then, development continues at full throttle in Northern Scandinavia, where prototypes face the harsh winter climate.

Video Credits: WorldCarFans

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class scooped in RHD version

2012-01-24T19:27:00.003+02:00

The GLK (X 204) was revealed in 2008 and, although there were speculations it would hit UK stores around 2010, it was never produced in right-hand-drive (RHD) version. The situation is about to change with the arrival of the facelifted model for 2013.

The latest spy pics show a camouflaged prototype fitted for 'RHD countries', meaning Mercedes-Benz have finally made up their minds and solved the complicated issues of adapting the modified 4MATIC platform of the GLK for the this configuration. Apart from the position of the steering wheel, this version is identical to the standard model. The headlights, the radiator grille and the bumper will be refreshed, in addition to the new tail lamps and the revamped interior, heavily influenced by the C-Class. Moreover, Mercedes-Benz USA will add a diesel option for the new GLK beginning with this autumn. The GLK 250 CDI uses a 2.1-litre 4-cylinder engine rated at 204 hp and is the sixth model to join the diesel fleet for the U.S. market, alongside the E-, GL-, M-, R- and S- classes.

Image Credits: Autobild

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G 65 AMG scooped in Stuttgart

2012-01-24T19:08:00.001+02:00

Automedia's spy photographers have recently spotted a barely disguised G-Class prototype which looked to be the anticipated limited version G 65 AMG. The test vehicle was exiting the Research & Development Centre in Stuttgart when it was 'captured on tape'.

As previously said, this is the last time the Gelandewagen receives a solid update before its production is discontinued after 2015. While the exterior modifications will be mild, the interior will be almost completely rehauled and the 4x4 will also receive a complete technologycal package, including Merc's latest safety, assistance and infotainment systems. The entire range of engines is set to be revised with the constructor's brand new creations: the range-topping G 500 is expected to receive the V8 biturbo BlueDIRECT gasoline engine rated at 435 hp. If we talk about the Big Daddy G 55 AMG, sources state it is destined to use the new 5.5-litre V8 with peak outputs starting from 525 hp up to 571 hp (Performance Package). Caught in the latest shots, the special G 65 AMG super-SUV will sport some crazy tweaks to the powertrain and chassis - the engine under the massive bonnet will most probably be the good ol' 6.0-litre V12, which was lately upgraded to 630 hp of maximum output. According to recent reports, the new G-Class fleet is bound for the official premiere in March 2012, at the Geneva Motor Show.

Image Credits: Autobild

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Riding high with the Unimog U 5000

2012-01-24T18:29:00.000+02:00

The Unimog 5000 meets even the most challenging objectives: it is used between May and October each year to carry the streams of tourists from the Etna cable car station at 2500 metres up to the Torre del Filosofo. Here, at 2935 metres above sea level, is where the hiking trail begins for those tourists who want to be as close as possible to the lava fields. More than 300,000 tourists are drawn each year to Sicily by the prospect of climbing Mount Etna.

The Unimog range, which has been built since 2002 at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth, is the ideal candidate for use in the harsh conditions that prevail on Etna: the only vehicle concept of this type in the world, it guarantees the ultimate off-road capability. A flexible ladder frame, all-wheel drive with differential locks in both axles, which are in fact portal axles, and the central tire inflation system Tirecontrol – every single technical detail plays its part in ensuring that the "Universal-Motor-Gerät", or "Universal Motor Device" – the German version of which provides the acronym that makes up the Unimog name - remains a dependable partner on the rough tracks and ash fields of Europe's highest active volcano.

Transport, maintenance procedures, construction work – full programme on Mount Etna
The extremely versatile Unimog carries out vital duties against a spectacular backdrop: a bus body on the U 5000 provides seats for the tourists, carrying them safely from the cable car station all the way up the steep track. Also in service on Etna is a U1550 L, fitted with the necessary attachments for its task of clearing snow or ash from the tracks. The versatility of the Unimog has also come into its own during the building of a new cable car to replace one that was destroyed by volcanic eruptions.

Award-winning model series with a 60-year history

In 2011, the readers of the specialist magazine "Off Road" voted the series 4000 to 5000 Unimog the best off-road vehicle of the year in the category of special-purpose vehicles. Its use on Mount Etna provides renewed evidence of how worthy of the honour the award-winning Unimog is. The principle areas of application for this model series are in tricky off-road terrain far off the beaten track, for example in situations involving the fire services, disaster control or expedition support, or for service and maintenance work in poorly accessible areas.

The broad scope of its potential areas of operation, the unique vehicle concept and the longevity of the vehicles all help to explain the popularity that the various Unimog model series have enjoyed for over sixty years now. Since production started, more than 380,000 units of the Unimog have been built.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

"iF product design award 2012": Five-fold success for Mercedes-Benz design

2012-01-24T14:33:00.000+02:00

The designers at Mercedes-Benz have picked up yet another prize for no fewer than four models in the form of the internationally renowned "iF product design award 2012". A top-class specialist jury has bestowed the award on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster, and the Concept A-CLASS show car, as well as the smart electric mobility concept, all for their outstanding designs.

First presented in 1953, the "iF product design award" ranks among the world's most important design awards and represents the seal of approval for good design. For 2012 the 24-member jury was again faced with the task of choosing its favourites, this time from more than 2000 candidates. Four models from Mercedes-Benz stood out in particular: the M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster and the Concept A-CLASS show car.

The M-Class won thanks to its characteristically distinctive SUV design and its variable interior with high wellness factor. The open-top SLS AMG Roadster, meanwhile, owes its victory to its exciting lines, which are reminiscent of the legendary 300 SL from the 1950s. The SLK Roadster also dominated the competition with its powerful sports car design, which portrays its outstanding qualities to brilliant visual effect - stylish comfort, light-footed sportiness and exemplary ecology.

With the Mercedes-Benz Concept A-CLASS, the jury acknowledged the birth of a new vehicle generation which provides a glimpse of the expressive design of the future A-Class.

As an overall concept, the trend-setting developments achieved by the automotive brand smart in the field of electric mobility also received the coveted "iF product design award 2012". For its innovative e-mobility concept, smart created one-off vehicles such as the open-top smart forspeed, the smart e-scooter and also the smart e-bike, which is to be incorporated into the smart product line this year.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

New on TRIVIA: Rétromobile 2012 & the Mercedes-Benz Type 320

2012-01-24T13:59:00.000+02:00

After some hibernation and some crucial decisions, Mercedes-Benz-Blog TRIVIA is reactivated and, as in the good times, will be the best place to find out the latest about the prestigious history and heritage of Daimler. From now on, every future article regarding Mercedes-Benz Classic topics and similar stories can be found on Mercedes-Benz-Blog TRIVIA. To make sure more people reach the TRIVIA website, we'll post here a digest whenever an update appears there.

And now back to action:

- 75 years ago, Mercedes-Benz was introducing the new Type 320 at the IAMA in Berlin. This model enabled the carmaker to fill the gap that existed between medium-sized and large-sized vehicle >> READ MORE

- Mercedes-Benz Classic takes part at the Rétromobile 2012 international trade fair in Paris (1st to 5th February) displaying a special exhibition of illustrious racing cars and the 60-year celebration of the SL >> READ MORE

Enjoy reading!

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

A new digital campaign from Mercedes-Benz: The A-Class QR-Trophy

2012-01-20T17:54:00.002+02:00

Mercedes-Benz launches hunt for the QR-code A-Class prototypes

They are hunted by the automotive press, followed by auto enthusiasts around the world and now you can win with them: the test prototypes of Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes-Benz launches an unusual and innovative campaign of digital communication for the new A-Class. Instead of the usual camouflage patterns seen so far, prototypes of the new A-Class used in Germany will be plastered all over with QR codes by the end of February. Whether on streets or in pictures, in the media or on the internet, car passionates can scan the codes and win an exclusive trip for two to the world premiere of the new A-Class in early March at Geneva. From the first week of next month, the free app "The A-Class QR-Trophy" for smartphones will be available for download from the Apple App Store and Android Market. A special webpage dedicated to this game is already available at http://qr-trophy.mercedes-benz.com/ (available in German only, at the moment). Mercedes-Benz' marketing/PR agency Jung von Matt / Alster directed the idea and the implementation of this special contest.

Scanning the QR code on a prototype - regardless of whether on the street, in the media or photos on Facebook, Twitter etc. - automatically creates a URL to access the mobile app. By registrating with the app you have the opportunity to participate in the competition. Various, so-called "badges" (character recognition) are hidden behind the QR codes and thus can be collected within the app.

Altogether there are four different badges. Three of them are turned over to scan the QR code, the fourth will be activated via sharing on social media platforms, and thus requires no QR code. Even with a badge, users can participate in the contest. Each one is valuable and further increases the chance of winning, as the user takes part with any of the four badges in the game.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz Announces Adam Scott Mercedes-Benz Golf International Brand Ambassador

2012-01-20T17:04:00.001+02:00

Mercedes-Benz, the German car manufacturer, is delighted to announce the appointment of Australian professional golfer, Adam Scott, as its new international golf brand ambassador. The 31 year-old Australian has had a hugely successful year, including his best finish at a Major championship when he finished in tied second place at The Masters in Augusta. He also triumphed at the 2011 WGC-Bridgestone International, earning him his first career World Golf Championship.

The Australian is currently ranked 10th in the Official World Golf Rankings. The association with Mercedes-Benz will begin in January 2012, and will entail global TV advertising, global print advertising, international PR and social media.

Scott commented: “It’s a real honour to be involved with Mercedes-Benz – a brand with a reputation which is second to none, and whose values mirror those of golf. The company is a huge supporter of the sport around the globe, partnering three major tournaments; The Masters, The Open, and The USPGA Championship as international automobile partner. Its involvement also impacts the amateur game with The MercedesTrophy, a tournament in its 22nd year, which attracts 60,000 amateur golfers from over 60 countries annually.”

Scott continued: “It’s great to be part of a brand that is extensively engaged not only in the world of golf but also other platforms that fit so well with my personal interests. Its motorsport activities are a given, but its sponsorship of Fashion Weeks across the world are fantastic.”

Mercedes-Benz Global Marketing Director, Lüder Fromm, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Adam Scott to the Mercedes-Benz family – our values of fascination, perfection and responsibility fit perfectly with Adam’s own principles. He has had such a great year, and we believe that he will be a valuable asset to the Mercedes-Benz golf. He’s a new breed of golfer who embodies Mercedes-Benz values both on and off the course – the best or nothing.”

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Unimog U 500 with 4-wheel steering defies heavy snowfall in the Austrian Vorarlberg area

2012-01-20T16:44:00.000+02:00

The Mercedes-Benz Unimog is in all-year-round use in the Austrian Vorarlberg region: snow clearing, road and crash barrier cleaning as well as grass verge mowing duties have been undertaken for many years now with the help of the "Universal-Motor-Gerät", or "Universal Motor Device", commonly known as the Unimog. In early 2012, the tropical cyclone "Andrea" brought particular challenges for the Unimog fleet operated out of the Felsenau depot near Feldkirch/Frastanz, which is responsible for road maintenance services on some two-thirds of the roads in the Vorarlberg region. More than ten metres of fresh snow fell on the Arlberg pass, the most important link between Austria's most westerly region and Innsbruck, taking the highway maintenance authorities by surprise. The situation was similarly dramatic in the Montafon region, over towards the Silvretta high Alpine road, in the Great Walser Valley and on the Flexen route towards Zürs and Lech. The only vehicle up to the task was the 210 kW (286 hp) Unimog U 500 fitted with a Schmidt 105 front-end snow cutter – clearing width 2.60 metres. This combination proved extremely effective in clearing the exceptional volume of snow from the roads, according to Helmut Feuerstein, technical director of the Felsenau depot.

4-wheel steering for exceptional manoeuvrability in snow

The metre-high banks of snow on either side of the road demand precision work from the Unimog's driver. It is in situations like this that the transferable steering system VarioPilot and the 4-wheel steering system really come into their own. With 4‑wheel steering the Unimog becomes considerably more manoeuvrable than it already is, while its turning circle is reduced by up to 30 percent. It means that the snow cutter can clear bends far more quickly these days. Before the advent of 4-wheel steering, it was necessary to begin by cutting extra bays into a bend in order to achieve the necessary curve radius. It was a long-winded process that involved a lot of turning and forward and backward manoeuv res. Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks now offers this unique technology as a variant for Unimog, Econic and all municipal and fire-fighting vehicles.

The Unimog fleet at the Felsenau depot comprises two U 500 models with 4-wheel steering as well as a third U 500. Then there are a U 1000 and a U 130, plus a 29-year-old U 406, known affectionately by the Felsenau team as the "Buffalo". It is apparently indestructible and can be fitted with various attachments and implements to cope with even the trickiest operational situations that can arise on Alpine roads. Working in the heavy snow that fell earlier this year, the six Unimog vehicles were once again crucial to delivering the broad spectrum of activities demanded of the Felsenau fleet.

Best practice example for winter maintenance specialists from across Europe

The exemplary way in which the snow on the Arlberg was cleared – and the cost-effectiveness of this approach for the operator – also became a talking point among Alpine winter maintenance experts from across Europe. A stream of experts with an interest in this field have since made their way to the Vorarlberg to see the benefits of a Unimog with 4-wheel steering being demonstrated on the Arlberg Pass. Even the road maintenance service experts from Andorra, who have been Unimog customers for many years, were persuaded to come along and see for themselves the superior performance of the Unimog with 4-wheel steering. A demonstration of its capabilities on the Arlberg so convinced Andorra's representatives that they immediately placed an order for six Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 500 with 4-wheel steering.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Free app for FleetBoard telematics system now available for buses

2012-01-20T16:28:00.000+02:00

Daimler FleetBoard is the first supplier of telematics solutions to offer a fleet management and driving analysis app for the Apple iPhone and iPad. Operators can use it to control their fleet of buses or coaches at any time and from any location. The trip recorder also makes it possible to display the most recent journey made. The app enables operators to monitor how their vehicles are being used, their drivers' working hours, the fuel consumption of their buses and coaches and the drivers' driving style. It is even possible to show the status of doors and loading ramps. To use the FleetBoard app it is necessary to have a vehicle equipped with FleetBoard, with a FleetBoard service contract. The new FleetBoard app is available for a limited period free of charge from the App Store. The app has already been available for some time now for trucks and vans.

Until now, the telematics system for buses has been known as Omniplus BusFleet. The bus-specific telematics system for rural-service buses, touring coaches and urban buses from telematics provider Daimler FleetBoard GmbH has been available and undergoing further development for some weeks now. Trust is important but, as fleet operators know, transparency is even better - and an indispensable factor if a company is to operate economically and efficiently. The bus-specific FleetBoard fleet management system provides effective support here. Fleet operators are able to take advantage of the FleetBoard app for buses, even if they are out and about themselves.

The FleetBoard system can be fitted ex factory in any fully equipped Mercedes-Benz and Setra bus or coach, or – as also in the case of buses and coaches made by other manufacturers – retrofitted. Several bus and coach companies are already working successfully with FleetBoard and making extensive use of the bus telematics system in their daily operations. "We have more than ten years' experience of working with commercial vehicle fleets. Especially when diesel fuel prices are high, our customers also appreciate the way in which FleetBoard can help make significant reductions in fuel consumption" commented Markus Lipinsky, Managing Director of Daimler FleetBoard GmbH.

Mapping: keeping tabs on buses around the world at all times

The fleet manager can locate the current whereabouts of a vehicle on a digital map that can be called up on any computer with internet access, or track its route at 30-second intervals. It is possible to switch between map and satellite views or to select a combination of both. Mapping can also be used to show important occurrences during the course of the trip, or to display warning and status messages. A geofencing function makes it possible to define specific areas where entry and exit are monitored: as well as providing resource planning information on both the bus and the driver, this is also a significant security feature in the event that the vehicle should be stolen.

Driver analysis: evaluation of driving style and realisation of potential savings
FleetBoard can help a company to optimise its economic efficiency, as the right driving style can reduce both fuel consumption and wear and tear by up to 10%. FleetBoard interprets driver and vehicle-related data, taking the assessment of driving style and the complexity of the route into consideration in the process. The underlying data relating to vehicle speeds, engine speeds, hard braking and other such information provide an objective basis for conclusions about the way the bus or coach is being handled. Such monitoring also provides feedback for the driver as to what measures he can take to improve his driving style and, ultimately and most importantly, to become a safer driver. Internal investigations by Daimler have shown that improving driving style to a score of 9.0 or more can reduce accident rates by up to 90%.

Trip recording: transparency in everyday operations

The data thus accumulated makes it possible to ascertain precisely the times and places at which the bus has been stationary or on the move. The company can get reliable information about whether the doors were open or closed at any particular point. This information can then be used, for example, to deal with customer issues by establishing whether a specific bus was on time and available for boarding at a given stop. Similarly, bus operators are able to produce data showing the use of the access ramp by passengers with restricted mobility.

The driver is able to use preset message buttons to send standardised messages back to the bus depot. In return, the company can also send messages to the display in the bus's instrument cluster.

Time Management: automatic capture and archiving of tachograph data

The time management function facilitates optimum planning of working hours on the basis of drivers' rest periods and remaining driving time. All relevant data can then be transferred automatically into a payroll system. With FleetBoard, the download of driver card data from the bus that is a required by law can be undertaken regardless of the time of day or the location of the vehicle. FleetBoard also allows the remote transfer of mass storage data from the digital tachograph on board the bus. Particularly in cases where a bus is away from its base for longer periods, this can bring significant savings in terms of both time and costs.

Service: evaluation of operating data and optimised maintenance scheduling

All key bus operating data, such as mileage or tank fill level, are displayed via FleetBoard. The system will also send selected warning messages from the vehicle, so allowing any necessary repairs to be made in a prompt and targeted fashion. Further messages transmitted by the vehicle allow evaluation of factors such as retarder use, or how long auxiliary heating systems or air conditioning are being kept on for. This in turn allows conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the vehicle and thus of its economic efficiency and the level of comfort provided. FleetBoard allows fleet operators to plan efficiently for any services that are due, or any time-consuming vehicle checks that need to be made.

The vehicle data are recorded via a standardised FMS interface in the bus and stored in the FleetBoard on-board computer before being transmitted. The transfer of data takes place via GPRS to a central FleetBoard server. Registered FleetBoard users have secure access via the internet to the bus client containing all the data and evaluation results.

About FleetBoard

Daimler FleetBoard GmbH is one of Europe's leading companies in the field of vehicle telematics systems. Systems and services are designed for use by fleet managers, logistics managers and drivers of truck, bus and van fleets of all makes and spanning all sectors of industry. FleetBoard has a proven reputation of many years' standing as a fleet management system that offers improved economic efficiency and transparency. It provides user-friendly technology that assists drivers in their daily work. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler AG, based in Stuttgart, Germany, the company has been tested and certified by DEKRA in accordance with DIN EN ISO 9000:2008.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Quiet and emissions-free driving in the city: Vito E-Cell vans cover 650,000 km in customer use

2012-01-20T15:18:00.000+02:00

Quiet, emissions-free and practical – 100 battery-driven electric Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL vans have proven their worth in customer use in Berlin and Stuttgart. The world’s first van fitted with an electric drive system ex factory has been taking to the roads in the German capital since autumn 2010, and in Stuttgart since the beginning of 2011. The two projects, each with 50 Vito E-CELLs, are intended to run over a period of four years. The final reports scheduled for the end of the promotional period indicate a positive result: the Vito E-CELL is ideally suited to use on inner-city routes. The vehicle has made the vision of emissions-free driving in commercial traffic a reality. A total of 230 Vito E-CELL vans are now in use in several model regions.

Automotive industry, commercial enterprises, energy suppliers and policy makers in successful collaboration

The projects serve to demonstrate how the automotive industry, together with commercial enterprises, energy suppliers and policy makers, can work together to provide crucial impetus to advance electric mobility in Germany. The German Federal Ministry for the Environment and Nature Conservation is lending its support to the Electrification of Mercedes-Benz Small Vans in Development and Production project (EMKEP) in Berlin. In Stuttgart, the Integrated Concept for Sustainable Electric Mobility project (IKONE) is being funded by the German Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development. The two promotional initiatives are part of the German federal government’s second economic stimulus package.

Intelligent charging technology utilises green electricity

Mercedes-Benz and energy suppliers Vattenfall (Berlin) and EnBW (Stuttgart) have begun the implementation of new technologies in vehicles and their charging systems at both locations. The energy suppliers, for instance, have now provided charging stations to operators at their depots. The batteries of Vito E-CELL vans are recharged at these locations outside of operating hours.

Intelligent charging technology is used, based on the Smart Charge Communication Unit (SCCU) in the Vito E-CELL. The technology optimises the CO2 balance of the vans with certified green electricity, or even surplus wind energy (“Wind-to-Vehicle/W2V”). The charging technology can also be programmed to lower electricity tariffs to impact operating costs favourably. Where operators use several Vito E-CELL vans, the charging procedures are graded through a process of local charge management (LLM, in German: Lokales Lastmanagement) to ensure that the grid capacity is not overextended.

Highly diverse areas of application

Mercedes-Benz delivered the first vehicles for field testing to testing partners in Berlin at the beginning of September 2010, and in Stuttgart in January 2011. The areas of application are highly diverse: courier, express and package service providers (KEP, in German: Kurier-, Express- und Paketdienstleister), plant transportation in large corporations, service vehicles for plant maintenance, customer service, and assembly and internal transport within companies. The varied topography was a key factor in the selection of the regions. In contrast to the largely flat terrain of the greater Berlin area, the differences in elevation within the Stuttgart metropolitan area are as much as 350 meters, which presents a real stamina test for the range, recuperation performance and drive properties of the Vito E-CELL.

All-round positive assessment of Vito E-CELL van in daily use by customers and drivers

In both regions, the drivers’ assessment of the Vito E-CELL has been highly positive. Characteristics of drive performance, tractive force, steady acceleration without shifting gears and continuous braking were all rated favourably. Drivers also praised the quiet running. The sole drawback of a quiet drive system is that other road users do not always hear the van approaching; according to driver opinion, this necessitates increased attentiveness and an especially anticipatory driving style.

Range typically not exploited to the full

Initial concerns regarding a too limited range were not substantiated in practice. The vehicles proved capable of covering at least 80 km on a full battery charge, including in winter, which in most cases is a sufficient range. Specifically, this concerns KEP applications with fixed routes, trade companies, supply and municipal companies, and general use within the inner-city environment and within corporate facilities. In a survey conducted during testing in Stuttgart, for example, drivers rated the range of the Vito E-CELL as either good or satisfactory. The fact that the challenging topography of the region fails to limit the on-the-road capabilities of the Vito E-CELL was one of the key findings in field testing.

The charge level of the batteries is a key indicator of range. In Berlin, for instance, this typically fluctuated between 95 and 25 percent of available capacity. This indicates that the maximum range of the Vito E-CELL is seldom fully utilised. Comparatively short charging times of between one and three hours are thus the norm in both regions.

Top speed sufficient, drivers highly motivated

The speed of the Vito E-CELL is electronically limited to 89 km/h to preserve a maximum range. This allows the vans to be driven with ease within the flow of truck traffic on occasional trips on the autobahn. Often, the maximum speed is not reached: in Berlin, for instance, only 30 percent of electric vans were reported to reach top speed on a daily basis. Analyses revealed that, in most cases, the speed of the Vito E-CELL did not exceed 55 km/h in both cities. Speeds were largely in the 15 to 30 km/h range.

Technical design of the Vito E-CELL

The Vito E-CELL is based on the mid-length Vito panel van. With a load capacity of up to 900 kg and an unmodified usable load compartment, the Vito E-CELL is suitable for commercial applications without any restrictions. The bodywork as such remains unaffected.

The electric engine, power electronics, converter and AC/DC charger are housed beneath the bonnet. The electric engine develops 60 kW, with a peak torque of 280 Nm. The power is transferred to the front wheels. The high-performance and durable lithium-ion traction batteries are located beneath the load compartment floor. The nominal voltage is 360 V, with a capacity of 36 kWh.

The maximum speed is limited to 89 km/h to maximise the range, which according to NEDC is around 130 km. This enables the Vito E-CELL to keep pace with the flow of truck traffic on the autobahn. The vehicle accelerates quickly from 0 to 50/80 km/h in just 6.5/11 seconds.

Power supply is via charging stations at fleet depots. The batteries of the Vito E-CELL are charged at a mains voltage of 380/400 V, a process that takes a maximum of six hours. Later, charging will also be possible at a mains voltage of 230 V. Furthermore, the batteries are also charged while the vehicle is under way, through recuperation, in which brake energy is converted into power. Back-up for the Vito E-CELL during the two field tests was provided by the local subsidiaries. Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the Vito E-CELL is also fully integrated into the Star Diagnosis diagnostics system.

Fully fledged safety features, successful crash tests

In contrast to other electric vehicles, the Vito E-CELL is equipped with fully fledged safety features, including ESP. Additionally, the batteries themselves are protected by a crash element. If the airbag is triggered, the high-voltage technology is disabled automatically. The Vito E-CELL has impressively demonstrated its high safety standards in crash tests.

Numerous awards for the Vito E-CELL

The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL has been awarded numerous distinctions by many independent panels, including the “Postal Technology International Award 2010” and “Green Commercial Vehicle of the Year” award. In 2011, the Vito E-CELL was awarded the “Alternative Drive Systems” innovation prize in the “KEP Van of the Year” event, the “Baden-Württemberg Environmental Technology Prize” and the Design Award at the Michelin “Challenge Bibendum”, one of the world’s largest forums for sustainable mobility.

400 Vito E-CELL vans in 2011, further model variants

The greatest distinction achieved by the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL is the demand for the vehicle among customers. In 2011, Mercedes-Benz manufactured some 400 Vito E-CELL vans in its Vitoria plant in the Basque region in Spain. There, the Vito E-CELL is manufactured on the same assembly lines as all other Vito vans. This professional standard of manufacturing is a crucial factor for acceptance among commercial customers.

Mercedes-Benz Vans has produced a series of 2000 E-CELL vehicles since 2011. The popularity of the electrically driven van is set to receive a further boost with additional model variants for even greater practice- and customer-oriented purposes. Since the Vito E-CELL has an EU type approval, no monitoring organisation assessment is required for licensing within the EU, and special directives for high-voltage technology are also not applicable.

Meanwhile, field testing continues in Berlin and Stuttgart. The vehicles are designed for four years of use, with a distance of up to 80,000 km per vehicle. Owing to the high levels of demand and acceptance experienced, it proved possible as early as the testing phase to deploy additional vehicles in other model regions of Germany. A total of 230 Vito E-CELL vans have taken to the road as part of the promotional initiatives, with a distance of approximately 650,000 km covered to date. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz is preparing to deploy the Vito in other regions of Germany, and in most western European countries as well.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Best Goods for Turkish Fruit Wholesale Merchant: 150 Mercedes-Benz Trucks for Delivery of Fresh Citrus Fruits

2012-01-20T15:10:00.000+02:00

Daimler’s subsidiary Mercedes-Benz Türk has reeled in another major sale. By placing an order for 150 Mercedes-Benz Actros 1844 LS trucks, Turkish fruit and vegetable wholesaler Cekok Gida continues to put its trust in the dependability of Mercedes-Benz trucks. The food company relies primarily on Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks, which make up about 90 percent of the firm’s total fleet of more than 240 vehicles. In addition to playing a major role in producing citrus fruits and other products and supplying them to wholesale markets in several large Turkish cities, Cekok Gida exports its high-quality goods especially to the member states of the European Union.

“We’re delighted that Mercedes-Benz Türk has once again posted a major three-figure order for the Mercedes-Benz Actros,” says Wolf-Dieter Kurz, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Türk. “Because Turkey is an essential sales market for Mercedes-Benz Trucks, we want to continue to boost sales here substantially in the future.” Following the sale of more than 200 Actros trucks to the chocolate manufacturer Tören Gida in November 2011, this constitutes another major order for the Turkish subsidiary.

At the symbolic handover of two Actros 1844 LS trucks in Istanbul, Ilhan Cekok, CEO of Cekok Gida, reiterated the reasons for the investment decision and expressed his trust in the brand with the star. “The great service network, low operating and maintenance costs, a high resale value, and especially the excellent partnership with Mercedes-Benz were the decisive reasons why we decided to add more Actros trucks to a fleet that already contained many Mercedes-Benz vehicles,” he said. “The Actros particularly shines with its low fuel consumption and handling stability.”

In his speech in Istanbul, Wolf-Dieter Kurz underlined that Mercedes-Benz Türk puts great emphasis on contributing to the business success of customers like Cekok Gida. “We are working hard to meet the different customer demands in a continuously growing and changing market,” he said. “We are closely monitoring market developments so that we can continue to offer state-of-the-art trucks of the highest quality. We are looking forward to continue to work with Cekok Gida.”

Mercedes-Benz Türk

The Daimler subsidiary Mercedes-Benz Türk was established in Istanbul in 1967. It began producing buses for the Turkish market in 1968. The Aksaray plant launched truck production in 1986. The facilities in Aksaray and Hosdere are key elements of Daimler’s global production network.

Advertorial: Sixt - your top choice for renting a Mercedes-Benz

2012-01-19T20:12:00.001+02:00

Mercedes-Benz is a wonderful car company and if you want to try out several Mercedes-Benz cars a great was to do so is by renting a car. Sixt is a car rental company from Europe and the number one rent a car company in Germany, which has a large selection of Mercedes-Benz to rent from.

Sixt’s rent a car fleet includes the Mercedes-Benz E, C, and M classes as well as SLK and GLK models. Renting a car is a great way to test out a car to see if you like that car. If you are in the USA than check out a Sixt rent a car in Florida, for you can test drive all of these amazing Mercedes-Benz classes. Or if you want to have a Mercedes-Benz while you are on vacation than Sixt rent a car is a great option because it is in over 100 countries with over 4000 rent a car locations. If you want to test out any of the magnificent Mercedes-Benz cars then it all starts with Sixt rent a car.

Matthew Fransioli
Junior SEO Manager @ Sixt

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

A perfect start of the season for AMG Customer Sports: A 1-2-3 for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in Dubai 24 Hours

2012-01-16T16:03:00.000+02:00

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 scored a commanding 1-2-3 in the Dubai 24-hour race (January 12th till 14th, 2012). The Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team claimed victory with Thomas Jäger (GER), Sean Edwards (ENG), Jeroen Bleekemolen (NED) and Khaled Al Qubaisi (UAE). After setting a new distance record of 628 race laps, final driver Al Qubaisi drove the Gullwing with starting number 3 across the finish line. This first place was also the maiden victory for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 in a 24-hour race.

The first of HEICO Motorsport’s Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3’s came home second, two laps down. Driving duties in the car with starting number 6 were shared by Maximilian Buhk (GER), Christiaan Frankenhout (NED), Max Nilsson (SWE), Andreas Zuber (AUT) and Bernd Schneider (GER). Schneider, the five times’ DTM champion and AMG brand ambassador, drove in both of HEICO Motorsport’s cars as a part of AMG’s Customer Sports driver support programme. In the team’s sister car with starting number 16, he had been entered to partner Kenneth Heyer (GER), Andreas Simonsen (SWE) and Rodolfo Gonzalez (VEN). In a dramatic finish, final driver Simonsen managed to bring a small margin home to round out the clean sweep of the podium by finishing third.

The fourth of the four SLS AMG GT3s that were entered for the race also finished among the front-runners. The Gravity Charouz Racing team with Vincent Radermecker (BEL), Loris de Sordi (BEL), Eric Lux (LUX), Gerard Lopez (ESP) and Tomas Enge (CZE) was classified seventh to complete the good overall performance for the Gullwing cars.

All four Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3s put their mark on the Dubai 24-hour race by showing a commanding performance from the very beginning. In the field of the 72 cars, the Gullwings were among the fastest entries right away. Having started from 15th place on the grid, the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon SLS AMG GT3 moved up into the lead for the first time after two hours. Consistently fast lap times also allowed the other Gullwings to move up quickly into the ranks of the front-runners as well.
During the night, the teams from the AMG Customer Sports programme continued their largely trouble-free run on the 5.39 km long Grand Prix circuit, maintaining their fast lap times and partly alternating in the lead. After one third of the race, the Gullwing with starting number 3 finally took over the lead and held on to it until it crossed the finish line.

Thomas Jäger: “This is an optimal result for the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team. It shows in an impressive way how performant and reliable the SLS AMG GT3 is. The driver changes went perfectly and, admittedly, we also had the necessary bit of luck: we didn’t get involved in any collisions, which isn’t self-evident with so many cars on such a short track. I want to thank the entire team for a great performance.”

Marc Schramm, managing director Black Falcon: “We came to Dubai to win. That is what we have said prior to the race and we lived up to it thanks to a strong team performance. As usual, the focus of our strategy was on consistency and that worked out in a fantastic way. Of course, I am also happy with having covered a new record distance of 628 laps. Thanks to the entire team and, of course, also to Mercedes-AMG and HWA for the support.”

Bernd Schneider: “During the night, we had a minor problem, that’s why we stood in the pits for a couple of minutes. Had it not been for that, it could even have been slightly better. To be honest, I now feel a little bit knocked out after having raced with both cars, but the success more than makes up for this. After all, finishing second and third at the same time doesn’t happen every day. Congratulations also to the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team for this well-deserved race win.”

Ola Källenius, chairman of the board, Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “This is a great success! Especially considering that the participation in Dubai was only the fifth 24-hour race for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. Today’s clean sweep of the top three is a great reward for our efforts. I sincerely want to thank our customer teams, drivers and everyone involved. I am looking for a great 2012 motor racing season!”

Most successful newcomer in the 2011 motor sport season

This year's Dubai 24-hour race marks the beginning of the second racing season for the SLS AMG GT3. In its debut year of 2011, the Gullwing became probably the most successful newcomer in the 2011 motorsport season: from March 2011 on 40 race cars were delivered to international customer teams that took part in races on four continents and won a total of 25 races. The success story was crowned by the team title of the FIA GT3 European Championship for HEICO Motorsport and its two Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 – the first title for the Gullwing in its first full racing season.

The race car: performance and safety

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 is the racing version of the SLS AMG for the customer sport. It is designed for sprint and endurance races and is developed and produced by Mercedes-AMG in close cooperation with HWA AG. HWA is responsible for the development and deployment of the AMG-Mercedes DTM racing team on behalf of and in constant consultation with Mercedes-Benz Motorsport. The near-production SLS AMG GT3 provides not only an athletic performance but an exemplary level of safety that is unmatched by any other current GT3 car.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz Classic: New in its full splendour - The oldest SL

2012-01-15T00:07:00.004+02:00

The roots of the SL-Class lie in motor racing: in the early 1950s, Mercedes-Benz developed the 300 SL, W 194 series racing car. It was a unique blend of three ingredients: lightweight construction, aerodynamics and reliability. The original SL was presented to the stunned press on 12 March 1952 on the motorway between Stuttgart and Heilbronn – a surprise coupe absolutely in line with the later great sports successes of the W 194. Because the 1952 racing season was exceptionally successful for Mercedes-Benz. These were the results reaped by the 300 SL that year: second and fourth places at the Mille Miglia, a triple victory at the Bern Sports Car Grand Prix, a double win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a fourfold triumph at the Great Jubilee Prize at Nürburgring and a double victory in the 3rd Carrera Panamericana in Mexico. The brand returned to motor sports – and through the publicity effect, to the international markets – with a great fanfare.

In the Second World War post-era at the beginning of the 1950s, characterised by the reconstruction in Germany, this was a decisively important signal, for great parts of the country still lay in ruins. The production plants and office buildings of the then Daimler-Benz AG were not all fully rebuilt yet, either. However, the incipient “economic miracle”, as the economic revival was to be called, could already be felt. And the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL fitted in perfectly: rising, one could say, like a phoenix from its ashes, it led the way for the brand to return to its erstwhile splendour.

The very looks of the vehicle helped here, for with its slender, elegant matt silver-coloured bodywork and its large Mercedes star in the radiator grille, it embodied high speed even while standing perfectly still. And then there were its gullwing doors, in the case of the very first W 194 series, very short indeed, resembling entry hatches more than actual doors: they lent the racing car a very characteristic aspect – and were instrumental in creating the SL myth. The vehicle with chassis number 2 had these short gullwing doors, making it the oldest SL, and at the same time the only one in existence anywhere in the world today with this particular feature.

Restoration of the 300 SL with chassis number 2

The first 300 SL, the premiere vehicle from 1952, no longer exists; it was property of the factory and was eventually scrapped. However, the second car built, with chassis number 194 010 00002/52 still exists and has remained in the property of the firm ever since it was built in 1951/52. The “/2” embossed on diverse parts bears witness to their genuine nature. This oldest SL in existence was painstakingly restored for the “60 years of the SL” anniversary to be celebrated in 2012. To do this, the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Fellbach examined every single part of the entirely disassembled vehicle and wherever necessary reconditioned the component in line with the highest standards of authenticity and quality. The work was based on one clear principle: to preserve substance and patina in every way; at the same time, as far as possible the vehicle was to look as it did in 1952: thus, the second 300 SL (W 194) ever built shines again in new splendour – while displaying the traces of a long and exciting vehicle life with pride.

In the course of the restoration work, first of all, the space frame, the actual backbone of the vehicle, was measured using the most advanced methods. The result: the dimensional deviations were well within the acceptable tolerance range, even after 60 years. This is where the advantages of Number 2’s individual history become evident. Because although the vehicle was used in racing events in 1952, it was never used as a racing car, only as a training and replacement vehicle, for instance in the Bern Sports Car Grand Prix. And this SL was never involved in an accident, either, which also contributed to its overall very good condition today.

A vehicle with character

The W 194 with chassis number “2” is one of two vehicles built that share a special history: number 1 and number 2 were built by hand in Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s Stuttgart-Untertürkheim racing workshop. The following eight vehicles, which were used mainly in the racing events of the year 1952, were manufactured more rationally in the Sindelfingen factory, for instance using pressed parts for the chassis – without using large-series production methods, though.

In those days it was usual to build racing cars more or less as individual items, because each one was designed directly with its specific task in mind. And during the car’s assembly, too, the basic design was modified again and again in order to seek the very best results. This made a unique specimen of each W 194 in a sense – the first two having a much stronger aura of handcrafted one-of-a-kind specimens.

This special character of Number 2 is visible in many of its components: for instance the welding seams show clearly that they were made by hand. Or for example the exhaust system, the fuel tank, the windscreen washer fluid reservoir and the seat frames are all recognisably individually crafted.

Its lightweight design was a great asset for the W 194. This can be seen in its aluminium-magnesium-sheet metal body, which in this vehicle is very thin. It is also evident in the diverse components that are made lighter by means of perforations, for example the front axle, even the handbrake lever. Every gram is skimped on –and that’s why the expensive material magnesium is used, for instance, on the transmission bell, and the rear axle- and steering gear housings. Other components are consistently made from aluminium, for example the fuel tank, the washer fluid reservoir and the main brake cylinder. And the effort is worthwhile: the ready-to-drive W 194 had an unladen weight of just 1060 kilograms.

The sum total of the effort and sums invested show the W 194 to have been a costly project, i.e. a project with prestige character indeed: the company was prepared to invest at that time in order to regain prestige on the international level through the positive publicity effect of the racing successes. And the plan bears fruit, exactly as expected.

Restoring the bodywork

The restoration of the original bodywork was particularly complex and demanding. It was made from very thin aluminium-magnesium sheet metal and was thus by its very nature delicate. In addition, time has left its marks on it in many places, including the marks of earlier partial restoration efforts. In some places the bodywork was very deformed. The experts now went to work with the objective of returning the vehicle to its original aspect of being all “of one piece”. The experts’ work towards the original restored bodywork took around five months, from May to September 2011. The overall character was preserved. Irregularities on the body surface as well as a left-hand-right-hand asymmetry were retained – the original bodywork was hand-made: this is a part of the vehicle history and this is how it is shown again now.

The engine

The W 194’s engine was derived from the power plant of the Mercedes-Benz 300 (W 186) luxury Saloon. For this reason, the engine block of this SL has the number “186” embossed on it, while the modified cylinder head, on the other hand, bears the number “194”: for its use as a racing car, the engineers boosted the engine’s output to around 170 bhp (125 kW), employing among other things three Solex sports carburettors and a sports camshaft. The sports engine was equipped with dry-sump lubrication and installed in a position canted 50 degrees towards the left so as to be able to fit under the very flat bonnet.

Within the framework of the restoration work, the original engine was completely overhauled. On a modern-day test rig it demonstrated its endurance – it ran for around 10 hours, confirming as it did, the original output specifications. The reconditioning of the two electric fuel pumps, for which today no replacement parts exist, was complex. However, the specialists from Mercedes-Benz Classic were also able to recreate these true to the originals.

The engine also shows the character of Number 2: for example the air filter housing is visibly made-to-measure by hand – and between the housing and the closed bonnet there is not even enough space for a person’s hand.

The assembly

The chassis of the W 194 was completed in the course of several months at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center. Every single component was painstakingly cleaned and examined and, if necessary, reconditioned. The mechanics thus often advanced two steps, only to have to go back one – at times an arduous business. But one that in the end was successful, so that the 1952 racing car was recreated piece by piece anew.

One exceedingly fortunate circumstance was that the vehicle was virtually complete. The large Mercedes star on the radiator, for instance, can be seen to be handmade, as evidenced by the small irregularities it displays. It was polished and reattached, as was the original “300 SL” lettering. The original rear licence plate “W59-4029” still exists, too, while the front number plate was faithfully reproduced. The wooden steering wheel, the gearshift knob, the instruments, the switches: all present and correct. The front axle was reconditioned. It was entirely nickel-plated – a method in use in those days to enable potentially safety-relevant hairline cracks to be easily detected on the racetrack. The rear axle showed, in particular through the state of its mechanical components, that Number 2 had not been subjected to excessive strain, since all the gear wheels were in virtually new condition. The original Alfin brake drums were tested, trimmed and reinstalled; the original riveted wheel rims were clad in Dunlop D8 tyres.

The interior of the W 194 breathes the air of those days. The seat covers, made from the characteristic blue tartan pattern, are new, while the roof lining and the rest of the cover fabric had been preserved in their entirety; they were cleaned and replaced, now gracing the vehicle again. And the aluminium seats under the fabric were also able to be used without excessive work having to be carried out on them. This way the entire interior was recreated – and yet shows the venerable traces of time.

A very special bravura piece was re-creating the body paintwork. The original nitro-lacquer was called “silver bronze”. Today it is no longer available and due to the environmental regulations in force, may no longer be used. Thus, the paint supplier of 1952 now undertook exhaustive research based on contemporary photographic and film material in order to recreate a paint colour as close as possible to the original, producing a precise formula for a water-based paint. With this matt silver paint the W 194 now shines once again as it once did many years ago.

Number 2 was given new window panes. A plexiglas pane is used for the windscreen. The side windows with their air flaps and the rear window are also made from Plexiglas and were provided by the same supplier who made the plastic glazing for this 300 SL in 1952.

Restoration work on the oldest SL in existence took a total of around nine months. But the effort was worth the while: the car is now radiant in all its erstwhile beauty. When the engine of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL with its original licence plate “W59-4029” is started and the vehicle gets swiftly under way, one can well believe that it is able to reach a top speed of 230 km/h – and take its place among the most successful racing cars of the 1950s.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194 series)
Year built: 1952
Number of units: 10
Engine: six-cylinder in-line engine, overhead camshaft, three Solex double carburettors, dry-sump lubrication
Displacement: 2.995 cc
Output: 170 bhp (125 kW) at 5200 rpm
Kerb weight: approx. 1060 kg
Top speed: 230 km/h

Motor sports as initial fuse: the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing sports car, W 194 series (1952-1953)

- The first racing car from Mercedes-Benz after the Second World War
- Combination of series-production technology and innovative lightweight design
- Racing as a coupé and as a roadster
- 1953 racing sports car prototype shows elements of the production sports car

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL was the designation of the competition racing car from Mercedes-Benz with which the brand returned to international motor sports for the first time after the Second World War in 1952. Although this car was not sold to the public, it did light the fuse for the development of the later SL-Class from Mercedes-Benz. The development of the 300 SL began in 1950, when Mercedes-Benz began to think about a return to racing. However, the attempt to reactivate the 1939 W 154 Grand Prix racing car met with failure in Argentina in 1951. So engineers pressed forward the development of the new racing car instead. Some of its components came from the Mercedes-Benz 300 luxury saloon (the so-called “Adenauer Mercedes”).

On 15 June 1951, the Board decided to resume participation in racing events from 1952 on, and gave the final orders for the construction of the “300 Super Light”, as the new vehicle was designated. Later on the suffix was abbreviated – giving the combination SL for the model series. Its M 194 engine was derived from the M 186 engine of the Mercedes-Benz 300 type luxury saloon and the elegant two-door 300 S, having an inclined separation plane between cylinder-head and engine block, an overhead camshaft, large intake valves, combustion chamber in engine block and pistons, a displacement of 3 litres and an output of 115 bhp (85 kW). For its use in the racing car the engineers increased the engine’s output to around 170 bhp (125 kW). The sports engine differed from the one installed in the saloon and coupé not only in its output, but also in its installation position, slanted 50 degrees to the left, and in having a dry-sump lubrication system, which due to the absence of the oil sump, enabled a lower installation height.

Weight savings were hardly possible with the engine and the transmission of the W 194 that was being created. And this was also true of the heavy steel axles also taken from the 300 model. There thus remained only the frame and the exterior skin for any possible weight-savings. Another possibility for enhancing competitiveness was to create a body as aerodynamic as possible. Rolf Uhlenhaut, at that time Head of passenger car research at Daimler-Benz, took up his idea of a lightweight tubular frame again, an idea he had entertained some years before. The designers then carried the concept forward to its logical conclusion, creating a lightweight, extremely torsionally rigid frame consisting of very thin highly-alloyed steel tubes assembled to form triangles, whose tubular elements were only subjected to tensional and compressive forces. The entire frame weighed just 50 kilograms and became the backbone of the W 194. The frame of the 300 SL (W 198), the production sports car presented in 1954, was also derived from this frame.

The coachbuilders in Untertürkheim and Sindelfingen spared no effort with the vehicle aluminium body. Thanks to the canted position of the engine and the aerodynamic profile they strove to create, the car was very low, free of trim right down to the underbody, with an elegant low bonnet line, intuitively round-shaped, with recessed headlamps and wheels entirely covered by the bodywork. The classic Mercedes-Benz radiator shape was replaced by a flat racing car front end analogous to that of pre-war cars. The Mercedes star dominated the radiator grille prominently. The passenger compartment was made as narrow as possible, with a strongly raked windscreen, curving round towards the A-pillars. The large rear window flowed over into the aerodynamic rear end. The result was a relatively small frontal area: 1.8 square metres. A drag coefficient was measured on a 1-in-5 scale model and found to be cd = 0.25, a very good value indeed for those days, and that, even without considering the realistic airflow through the engine compartment.

The doors are a chapter all of their own: in order to bestow on a space frame the desired highest-level rigidity, it has to be as wide as possible in the passenger cell sector. This requirement led to the spectacular and later so famous gullwing doors. These doors, deeply incut into the roof, opened upwards and reached only down to the waistline, resembling hatches more than doors. In order to facilitate access over the high side sill, the bodywork designers had even originally intended to have an access step in the lower part of the vehicle body flank; however, this feature was never realized. At the time, the FIA regulations did not specify the type and direction of opening doors. In spite of this, the stewards got very flustered when the vehicle was presented to them for scrutineering before the Mille Miglia in May 1952. In the run-up to the 24 Hours of Le Mans the doors were extended down into the car’s flanks – to forestall any future protests – thereby assuming their final shape. Now they looked even more like outspread wings, for which reason the car was dubbed “gullwing” by the North Americans and “papillon” (butterfly) by the French. In two races, by the way, the 300 SL participated not in the guise of the “gullwing” car, but with a roadster body.

The interior was fully padded and lined, radiating a level of comfort unusual for racing cars. Speedometer and rev counter were located in the optimum position in the driver’s field of vision, below them and in somewhat smaller format were the gauges for water temperature, fuel pressure, oil temperature, and oil pressure. Even a stopwatch was installed. The bucket-type seats with high side sections were covered with tartan-style woollen fabric; the four-spoke steering wheel was removable to facilitate climbing in.

The archetype of the 300 SL, chassis number W 194 010 00001/52, completed its first test drives in November 1951, on the Solitude racetrack on the outskirts of Stuttgart, on the Nürburgring and on the Hockenheimring. The Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing sport coupé, unusually smooth and, at a height of just 1,225 millimetres, exceptionally low, was presented to the excited and stunned press on the motorway between Stuttgart and Heilbronn on March 12, 1952.

A total of ten W 194 series cars were built for the 1952 season. After the Le Mans race, it was planned to enter the SL in a sports car race on the Nürburgring. In order to make the cars intended for this race as light as possible, they were given a roadster body; a further, narrower car had been set up as a roadster right from the start. To permit the driver easy access, the section of the door extending into the side of the car was retained, and a small windscreen was mounted to deflect air and flying insects. This resulted in a weight advantage of 100 kilograms over the coupé.

The year 1952 was an extremely successful one for the Mercedes-Benz racing department: the results of that year for the 300 SL: second and fourth places in the Mille Miglia; triple victory in the Sports Car Grand Prix of Bern; double victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans; quadruple victory in the sports car race on the Nürburgring. The last big adventure of the season was participation in the third Carrera Panamericana Mexico, an arduous long-distance race over five days and eight stages, 3,100 kilometres across Mexico. Mercedes-Benz accepted the challenge and entered two coupés and two roadsters in this rally, all powered by engines with an output that had meanwhile been boosted to 180 hp (132 kW). Karl Kling with Hans Klenk and Hermann Lang with Erwin Grupp scored a legendary double victory for Mercedes-Benz in November 1952 in this contest.

The 300 SL was reengineered for the 1953 season. The eleventh SL manufactured received the number W 194/11. Its bodywork was now entirely made from magnesium sheet, even lighter than aluminium. In the wind tunnel it gained – especially in its front section – not only a new face, but also a better airflow through the engine compartment thanks to an optimised shape. The engine output rose, too, among other things thanks to petrol direct injection, which boosted the power of the six-cylinder unit to 215 bhp (158 kW). The rear axle was further developed to a low-pivot single-joint swing axle, while the transmission was flanged on the rear axle following the transaxle principle, which made for a more balanced weight distribution. The wheelbase was shortened by 100 millimetres. The vehicle stood firmly on 16-inch wheels, and the use of disc brakes was considered.

This further-developed 300 SL – in-house affectionately called “carpenter’s plane” on account of its front end – did not actually get to race. However, its bodywork with its angular radiator, compact dimensions and ventilation fins as well as its engine with direct petrol injection already showed the genes that were to make the 300 SL production sports car of 1954 so unique. This production sports car was to become the dream sports car of the 1950s and in 1999 was voted “Sports Car of the Century”.

Production figures for Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194)

The New Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG: Efficiency and superlative performance

2012-01-14T23:08:00.000+02:00

The new ML 63 AMG comes with an exciting technology package: the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine features spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors, ECO start/stop system, an all-aluminium crankcase, four valves per cylinder with camshaft adjustment, air-water intercooling and alternator management. With a displacement of 5461 cc, the eight-cylinder engine generates a maximum power output of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 newton metres of torque. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package these values rise to 410 kW (557 hp) and 760 newton metres. This difference in power and torque results from an increase in the maximum charge pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar.

Download the complete press text >> HERE

See further photos after the jump!

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz supposedly prepping exquisite S-Class four-dour cabrio

2012-01-14T22:45:00.001+02:00

Dr. Uwe Ernstberger, project leader for the future S-Class coming out the end of 2012, announces interesting times for Mercedes-Benz beginning with the launch of the new generation of the luxury limousine. In a recent interview to What Car, he declared that: 'We want to broaden the range of the S-Class and we'll have additional variants of that car. The next generation gets a lot of technical features that allow it to improve in extreme ways, so in a way, we need to broaden the range to accommodate that. We can go in more directions with it.' So, it seems the German constructor plans to expand the S-Class lineup with new variants, apart from the SWB and LWB model. We are talking about a coupe replacing the current CL, a Pullman-entitled extended wheelbase saloon to fill the gap left by the discontinuation of the Maybach brand and, lately suggested, a four-dour cabriolet based on the Ocean Drive Concept of 2007. According to latest hints, all of the new S-Class niche versions have already been approved for serial production and are set for reveal starting with 2014.

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

PREVIEW: A digital look at the upcoming Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG

2012-01-14T11:34:00.003+02:00

After the new SL-Class was launched, the team behind BenzBoost got busy with some pictures of it. The reason? They digitally imagined how the new SL 63 AMG sports roadster could look like when it's premiered during summer 2012. And the final result is pretty nice, we have to recognize. To ensure diversity and choice, the photoshopped model comes in various exterior paint jobs, such as deep blue and fire red. Hit the jump button and choose the one that best suits your tastes! Enjoy!

Image Credits: BenzBoost

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz Vito/Viano spied for the first time

2012-01-14T11:22:00.000+02:00

If you happen to be a van freak, an entrepreneur or a care-taking familist, then this news is for you. It's time to start saving money to renew your fleet as spy photographers have lately run across what might be a test mule for the new generation of the Vito/Viano range, slated to debut in 2014. The prototype carried no camouflage what-so-ever, but it displayed an interesting, raised engine bonnet, that may hide a new technology underneath. We can only make a prediction, given the ongoing green car trend: the future Vito/Viano could launch several new alternative drive versions than just diesel and electric as today. F-CELL and hybrid anyone?

Check out more spy shots after the jump!

Image Credits: WorldCarFans

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series plays with snow near Arctic Circle

2012-01-14T11:08:00.000+02:00

The upcoming SLS AMG Black Series is currently undergoing some winter testing programme in Northern Scandinavia, near the Arctic Circle. The furious gullwing is tipped to arrive in the second part of this year and display an outstanding technical package. Practically, this insane sports car will be hardcore in every term - from the modified suspension and dampers, the lowered ride height, the low profile tyres up to the potent V8 engine and the aggressive looks. Talking about power, engineers have decided to stick to the old, but faithful naturally aspirated unit, which they thoroughly modified to deliver a peak output of 650 hp and a maximum torque of at least 700 Nm. Top speed should reach around 325-330 km/h, whereas 0-100 km/h acceleration could take less than 4 seconds. Most probably, the waiting list for the extravagant SLS AMG Black Series will be rather long, despite the estimated price tag of €260,000.

Check out more scoops after the jump!

Image Credits: WorldCarFans

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Lorinser previews the tuning package for the new generation SL-Class (R 231)

2012-01-14T10:44:00.000+02:00

The German tuner Lorinser, specialized in modifying standard Mercedes-Benz vehicles, has recently released an official sketch teasing the tuning package destined for the new SL roadster. Although we don't get any information regarding the engine specification and further special technical upgrades, the styling updates look promising. The forthcoming Lorinser SL (R 231) features a more pronounced front fascia, showcasing a bulged bumper with revised air intakes, as well as accentuated details for the radiator grille and around the intelligent LED headlights. The side parts of the cabriolet will become crisper thanks to the specially designed, dark tinted alloy wheels with a total diameter of 20 inches. As usual in these cases, the interior is expected to boast some exquisite appointments like carbon fiber/metallic dashboard trims, two-tone colour combination and stitched leather upholstery.

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

REPORT: New AMG-branded SLV supercar to bow later this year

2012-01-13T23:06:00.000+02:00

It appears this year will mark the premiere of the first solely AMG-branded sports vehicle - so no Mercedes-Benz star on this one. We found out the new supercar is slated to appear towards the end of 2012 and be slotted below the SLS AMG. According to initial reports, the new model from Affalterbach will wear the SLV title, with the last letter hinting at various variants of the car, like a coupe and a cabriolet and who knows what else. There's hardly any clue about the construction of the upcoming model, but we guess AMG engineers will focus on downsizing in order to improve stability, handling and overall performance. Most probably, the SLV won't get a V8 under its bonnet, but likely a new, supercharged V6 unit rated at over 350 hp. The strange thing is that, up to now, nobody has ever seen at least an intriguing test mule to sustain the beliefs about the new AMG supercar debuting later this year.

You might also want to check out >> PREVIEW - More information on the future mini-SLS supercar

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Daimler and Google deepen strategic partnership

2012-01-12T19:07:00.000+02:00

Today at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Daimler and Google announced a deepening of their strategic partnership to provide Daimler with access to the suite of application programming interfaces (APIs) known as Google Maps API for Business for the use of cloud-based, map-related applications in Daimler vehicles and early access to other new APIs as they are developed. These applications significantly accelerate time-to-market in Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. The existing services, which include the Google Maps and Places APIs, will create an enhanced motoring experience for Mercedes-Benz drivers across the world.

The collaboration will enable Daimler to use Google Maps for their in-car map displays, and significantly improve their ability to quickly and seamlessly integrate useful Google services into Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles. By making innovative Google products available directly within its cars, Mercedes-Benz is able to accelerate the adoption of cutting edge technologies.

Daimler has a strong history of bringing innovative solutions to market. After demonstrating their technological leadership with AMG Performance Media, an in-car telemetry system powered by AndroidTM in autumn 2011 at the launch of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster, Daimler was named “International CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree”.

Ongoing successful long-term cooperation

Google and Daimler have been working in close partnership for many years. In 2007 Daimler was the first automotive manufacturer in the United States to launch the Google “Send-to-Car” functionality in a vehicle. This gave Mercedes-Benz customers the opportunity to easily send destinations from Google Maps to their in-vehicle navigation systems. As of 2011, Mercedes-Benz offers COMAND Online, a telematics system with cloud-based Mercedes-Benz apps that brings Google Street View, Panoramio and local search technologies to most Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. Mercedes-Benz customers also have the opportunity to send individualized routes from Google Maps to their vehicles, as Daimler is first-to-market with the implementation of this Google service. In the second quarter of 2012 all these services will also be available with mbrace2 to Mercedes-Benz customers in the USA.

Android is a trademark of Google, Inc.

Mercedes-Benz at the 2012 International CES in Las Vegas

2012-01-12T18:44:00.000+02:00

"Mercedes-Benz writes a new chapter of the Declaration of Independence"

Networked access to information everywhere and at all times has become an indispensable part of daily life. That also goes for the time one spends in the car. And so consumer electronics and the automobile have become more and more tightly interlinked in recent years, because the objective of the two respective industries was and is the same: independence for the customer. Mercedes-Benz realizes this independence not only through the automobile itself. Rather, innovative telematics and infotainment systems in the vehicle and new mobility concepts afford still greater flexibility and freedom. Mercedes-Benz provides a visionary perspective with the "DICE" (Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience) sculpture.

"Here at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas there are some people who view the automobile as an accessory to consumer electronics. Conversely, at the auto show in Detroit there are many people who view consumer electronics as mere trimmings for the car. Both points of view miss the point: as much as a smartphone can be far more than just a tool for communication, a smart car can be more than just a means of transportation. Precisely at the interfaces between communication and mobility, vast potential for innovation lies dormant, and we intend to tap it," says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Mercedes-Benz satisfies the growing customer need for independence with its telematics strategy @yourCOMAND: the car becomes a mobile communications center that enables driver and passengers to access all modern media and services at any time. Uncoupling from the conventional vehicle development cycles is achieved on the one hand through secure and comfortable integration of the smartphone in the vehicle, and on the other hand through the use of a consistently Cloud-based solution. This ensures that one is always in close touch with the rapid developments in the smartphone and computer world. Mercedes-Benz customers consequently always have access to the latest applications for comprehensive connectivity in their automobiles.

@yourCOMAND builds on four strategic pillars:

- holistic experience,
- natural interaction,
- sensory perfection and
- convenient remote control.

Digital Premium through Augmented Reality

With the DICE (Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience) sculpture, at the CES Mercedes-Benz provides a vision of the interactive, intuitive and simultaneously safe operating experience in premium automobiles of the future. DICE impressively demonstrates how the vehicle becomes an intelligent mobility partner through bidirectional interaction.

"The intelligent car communicates not only with the driver, but also with other transportation modes and its entire environment in order to be able to assess all relevant information for a trip and make practical use of it immediately," says Zetsche.

The complete windshield becomes a brilliant head-up display; the dashboard, a display band. Digital information about the actual vehicle surroundings, points of interest, friends, pedestrians and other vehicles is presented there and a natural interaction by means of gestures is made possible. For this Mercedes-Benz uses a combination of Augmented Reality and natural gesture control to realize a completely new, exciting form of communication between people and their environment.

The interactive logic of the novel control concept is very imitative of intuitive human behavior. Along with functional aspects it now also involves emotional and social aspects and so creates a unique operating and driving experience. For example, when one drives past a club, by a simple movement of the hand one can transmit the music playing there by live stream into one's car. In the same way, local news from social networks, about points of interest, buildings or localities can be retrieved, or news can be left for others.

Vehicles approaching intersections will be virtually superimposed on the windshield to help avoid possibly hazardous situations. To simplify the search for a parking space, mobility concepts like car2go or network information, can be used to proactively identify spaces which will become vacant soon. These are virtually displayed on the windshield, showing the actual environment.

A world first is the context-dependent, place-related presentation of the menu contents "Media", "Social" and "Places" of the infotainment system as information swarm. Under "Social", for example, friends from one's social networks are shown in the 3-D city arranged underneath. The same goes for "Places", where the personal points of interest like restaurants or movie theaters can be stored. 3-D gestures and the swarm permit dynamic and intuitive control.

"Always on" with COMAND Online

Secure and comfortable internet access in the car already is offered by Mercedes-Benz today in numerous models: the multimedia system COMAND Online was introduced last year in Europe. It offers new functions like the innovative Mercedes-Benz Apps, for example Google Local Search including Google Street View and Panoramio, or Facebook. With mbrace2 in future they are available in the USA as well.
And for a sound experience on the highest level, Mercedes-Benz has introduced the new FrontBass system. The automaker thus revolutionizes the reproduction of bass sounds in the automobile – specifically in open roadsters. The unique FrontBass system which is premiering in the new SL and is being presented at the CES uses cavities in the aluminum bodyshell structures in front of the footwell as resonance volume for the bass loudspeakers. The result: crisp basses make a concert hall atmosphere possible even in an open-top car.

Independent, flexible and spontaneous with car2go

Tremendous technological advances and the stronger interlinkage of consumer electronics and the automobile have also made new mobility concepts possible. In particular, the introduction of mobile internet access exploits independence in the area of mobile services for new mobility concepts like car2go, which meet with correspondingly high demand and extend the urban transportation spectrum.

Thanks to the smartphone, not only is constant access to information of all kinds a reality, but also the possibility of communicating at any time, be it through speech input, email or in social networks. Accordingly, car2go allows customers to get hold of a vehicle at any time, whenever they need it.

The vehicles can be located through the internet, can be rented on the spur of the moment, used as long as one likes, and afterwards simply parked again in any public parking space within the city limits. Urban mobility couldn't be more spontaneous and flexible today.

car2go already is operating in seven cities worldwide and is scheduled to start in further cities. In North America car2go has taken up service in Austin, the capital of the State of Texas, in Vancouver, Canada, and in San Diego, California – in San Diego with a pure electric fleet consisting of 300 smart fortwo electric drive, making this America's first and biggest purely electrically operated car sharing fleet.

Always up to date

To make optimum use of consumer electronics' innovative power and fast time to market for the automobile industry, the company has been cooperating closely with this innovative sector for many years. This is because the market for infotainment and telematics systems is decisively influenced by developments in consumer electronics and the mobile telephony market. In 1995 Mercedes-Benz was thus the first carmaker to set up a research and development facility of its own in Palo Alto, California, and since then has a presence in Silicon Valley in the immediate vicinity of Apple, Google, Facebook, Twitter, Pandora, Yelp, Wikipedia and other important players. The collaboration with these companies is based on short communication channels and distinguished by close cooperation and joint product innovations with big customer benefits. The result, achieved in close cooperation with the Development units in Germany, is custom-tailored infotainment and telematics solutions which are optimally integrated into the overall vehicle design and enable customers to continue their digital lifestyle in the vehicle without interruption.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz at the 2012 NAIAS in Detroit: Strong impetus for the new year

2012-01-09T20:04:00.000+02:00

Dynamic start – a super light and highly efficient beginning to 2012

The world premiere of the new SL and two all-new hybrid models took centre stage on the Mercedes-Benz stand at the opening of the 2012 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The new models from Mercedes-Benz delivered a strong impetus for the new automotive year and for the future of the brand as a whole – directly in the wake of the best sales year in company history. For the first time, the all-new SL Roadster is made almost entirely from aluminium and weighs up to 140 kg less than its predecessor thanks to intelligent lightweight design. The result is more agility and dynamic character combined with improved comfort and increased crash safety. The new BlueDIRECT engines are more powerful, yet up to 29 percent more fuel efficient than the engines in the outgoing model. More driving fun with even lower fuel consumption is also on offer from the two new E-Class hybrid models – the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world’s most fuel-efficient full-size car, consuming just 4.2 litres of diesel per 100 km (109 g CO2/km). The gasoline-powered E 400 HYBRID, which will be launched first in the USA, delivers fuel economy of 27 mpg (combined).

“In 2011 we sold more than 1.36 million cars worldwide – more than ever before. 2012 will see us push forward with our product offensive and repeat two things that worked extremely well last year – we will launch another six new models and we will set the bar even higher by making green cars cooler and cool cars greener,” said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, at the NAIAS press conference. To back this up, Mercedes-Benz presented the sixth generation SL. Compared with its highly successful predecessor, the new model offers a considerable boost in sporting character and comfort and sets new benchmarks in the luxury roadster class. Plus, it comes with a full serving of everyday usability.

Classic proportions and outstanding aerodynamics

The stylish luxury sports car has classic proportions with a long hood and a compact cockpit set well back. Finely honed details and air vents with chromed fins from the dynamic tradition of Mercedes-Benz Design add visual emphasis to the SL legend.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche: “There are around 900 million cars on this earth and thousands of models. But there is but a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them – it has class, it has style, it is the embodiment of comfort and luxury. But it combines all of that with an unbelievably sporty and dynamic character.”

Moreover, the new SL boasts outstanding aerodynamics. Alongside the lowest drag coefficient (cd = 0.27 in the SL 350), it also offers the lowest level of wind noise – almost on par with a closed saloon – as well as the very best airflow and noise characteristics with the top down.

“The new SL offers everything that defines an absolutely top-class premium roadster,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing. “It is two things rolled into one – a dynamic sports roadster and a luxurious coupé. Or, as we say, it is both athlete and connoisseur.”

Mercedes-Benz hybrid offensive with the E-Class

With its two new E-Class hybrid models, Mercedes-Benz is turning a new chapter in the brand’s core segment and thereby setting new benchmarks for full-size business saloons. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as both a saloon and estate, sets new records with its efficiency. The world’s most fuel-efficient full-size model boasts exceptional fuel consumption figures (4.2 l/100 km) and outstanding performance. The four-cylinder diesel in the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID delivers 150 kW (204 hp) and generates 500 Nm of torque. The electric motor develops 20 kW and 250 Nm.

The V6 spark-ignition engine in the E 400 HYBRID delivers 225 kW (306 hp) and generates 370 Nm of torque, plus a further 20 kW and 250 Nm from the electric motor. The fuel economy in accordance with American CAFE standards stands at 24 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined.

“This modular hybrid technology opens the way for us to add hybrid models to other model ranges in the near future,” said Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.“With a clear focus on the varying needs of the global markets, we can offer precisely those models that our customers are demanding. Alongside a considerable reduction in fuel consumption, the E‑Class hybrids are very impressive to drive – this is hybrid driving on a premium level.”

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned for the European market, while the E 400 HYBRID will be launched first on the American market and later offered in further countries such as Japan and China.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Daimler AG and Nissan to produce engines together in North America

2012-01-09T17:27:00.001+02:00

Daimler and Nissan will produce Mercedes-Benz 4-cylinder gasoline engines together at Nissan’s powertrain assembly plant in Decherd, Tennessee. Production will begin in 2014, with installed capacity of 250,000 units per year once full ramp–up is achieved. The Decherd facility will produce engines for Mercedes-Benz and Infiniti models.

“This is the newest milestone in our pragmatic collaboration and our most significant project outside of Europe so far,” said Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn. “Localized capacity reduces exposure to foreign exchange rates while rapidly enabling a good business development in North America – a win-win for the Alliance and Daimler.”

The collaboration marks the first production of Mercedes-Benz engines in the North America Free Trade region. The Tennessee plant’s strategic location and logistics links ensure a direct supply of engines starting in 2014 for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, built at Daimler’s vehicle plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

“In the context of our Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy, we have decided that we will expand the production capacities required for this close to the customers. Through the strategic extension of our cooperation with Renault-Nissan we can realize near-market engine production in the NAFTA region on attractive economic terms and make optimum use of synergies arising from the cooperation.” Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Daimler Board of Management and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, said. “Thus we are systematically broadening our manufacturing footprint in this important growth market.”

Nissan began powertrain assembly in Decherd in 1997. Today it manufactures 4-, 6- and 8-cylinder engines for the complete lineup of U.S.-produced Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. The plant also houses crankshaft forging and cylinder block casting operations. In 2011, Decherd produced more than 580,000 engines on a covered area of more than 1.2 million square feet (111,000 square meters).

Project portfolio expands

Daimler and the Renault-Nissan Alliance launched their strategic collaboration in April 2010, including an equity exchange that gives the Renault-Nissan Alliance a 3.1 percent stake in Daimler and Daimler a combined 3.1 percent interest in Renault and Nissan.

The collaboration began with three project pillars:

- Joint smart/Twingo architecture: The project is on track for launch in the early first quarter of 2014. Two-seater smart vehicles will be produced at Daimler’s plant in Hambach, France, and four-seater smart and Renault production are slated for Renault’s plant in Novo Mesto, Slovenia.

- All-new entry-level city van project for Mercedes-Benz: The project is on schedule with expected launch in late 2012.

- Powertrain cross-supply: The Alliance is supplying Daimler with compact three-cylinder gasoline engines to be used in smart and Twingo vehicles and four-cylinder diesel engines to be used in the jointly developed light commercial vehicle and in Mercedes-Benz’s next generation of premium compact cars. Daimler will supply Nissan and Infiniti with four- and six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines from the current and future engine portfolio as well as with automatic transmissions.

Since its founding in April 2010, the collaboration has been gradually expanded. In addition to the announcement this week about North American engine production, the companies had decided earlier to partner on:

- Platform sharing: Infiniti plans to base a premium compact vehicle on the Mercedes compact-car architecture, starting in 2014.

- Zero-emission vehicles: Daimler will provide batteries from its production facility in Kamenz, Germany, and Renault-Nissan will provide electric motors for the use in electric vehicles (smart and Twingo ZE). First releases will occur in 2014.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

smart for-us: The Rule-Breaker - World premiere at the Detroit Auto Show 2012

2012-01-09T17:14:00.001+02:00

America is the land of great automotive freedom, great landscapes, a love of outdoor activities and large pickups for thoroughly enjoying the "American dream. Now smart is countering the "bigger is better" mentality with a surprising new vehicle: the smart for-us study is small, agile and does not need any petrol thanks to its electric drive. This model, which builds on the smart forspeed and smart forvision concepts presented in 2011, will celebrate its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit (14 - 22 January 2012). With its exterior dimensions (length/width/height: 3547/1506/1701 mm) it could almost go unnoticed on the loading area of a typical pickup, and it also anything but ordinary under the body.

smart CEO Dr. Annette Winkler says "We at smart love pick-ups – if they are small on the outside, large on the inside, very safe and extremely comfortable. With the smart for-us a petrol station is no longer required!”

smart is turning the automotive world upside down once again and challenging ideas about what an urban pickup should look like. In a tongue-in-cheek manner the for-us signals that this is the right car for the young and young-at-heart with active lives who attach importance to low emissions and taking up minimum road space. The smart for-us translates the practical loading concept of a pickup to the reality of 21st century urban traffic for the first time. Thanks to the state-of-the-art electric drive with a 55 kW magneto-electric motor the zero-emission smart for-us is agile and lively to drive.

Like car2go, the globally successful car sharing initiative from smart for more flexibility in city traffic, the smart for-us is a mobility concept. Just like the smart fortwo, which has enjoyed success around the world, it has ample room for two people, but it also has space behind for two smart ebikes, which can charge their batteries on the cargo area during the journey. From a trip into town to an outing to nearby nature reserve – the smart for-us safely transports two people and two electric bikes without producing any emissions. The ebikes on the cargo area become range extenders in two respects: thanks to the docking station on the cargo area of the smart for-us their batteries are always charged, and smart for-us drivers can also reach destinations that are out of bounds for cars – for example traffic-calmed zones in the city or isolated park trails.

The exterior: sassy and robust with extremely short overhangs

Even the first glance at the study shows that this smart can do more – yet it remains true to itself. It has a surprising, sassy and robust appearance – but thanks to the visible tridion safety cell and a number of other features it is typically smart. Furthermore, both the interior and the exterior feature a number of charming details which show that the smart designers devoted themselves to the project with the joie de vivre typical of the brand.

Compared with the series-produced fortwo the smart for-us makes a powerful statement and its appearance plays with the martial image of conventional mega-pickups. Nevertheless, it greets the viewer with a friendly yet assertive face. It features convex and sensuously shaped body surfaces. The large brand emblem is proudly sported on the grille, and the front has a pronounced three-dimensional design with an underride guard finishing off the lower part of the front end.
The for-us is raised by 50 millimetres as against the standard smart, and demonstrates that it is perfectly suited to off-road driving, for example to reach mountain bike terrain. In a later development stage the electric drive could be extended in the direction of a 4x4 with two front wheel hub motors.

The longer wheelbase (2480 mm/plus 613 mm) and the track that has been widened by 50 mm on each side also emphasise the robust look of the study. At the same time the extremely short overhangs at the front and rear make it exceedingly compact and provoke supporters of conventional pickups: small is beautiful – even as a pickup.
The smart for-us rolls on Michelin off-road tyres measuring 235/55 R 18. The wing nuts of the central mounts of the three-spoke wheels are an attractive detail: they fold out and then serve as a lever to release the wheel nuts.

The design of the rhombic front and tail lights is very striking and is reminiscent of the design of the smart forvision, which caused a stir at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The outer rings illuminate the indicators and daytime running lamps with a large number of rod-shaped LEDs. The lamps seem to push outwards like arrows – like drops on the cockpit window of an aeroplane as it takes off. The tail lights can even be opened and provide stowage space, for example for the charging cable or drinks cans for sporty bikers.

The tailboard at the rear of the smart for-us is electrically driven. Remote control or touching the integrated touchpad retracts the cargo floor including tailboard by 280 mm, and the tailgate then slides down in a parallel position. The cargo on the 900 mm cargo area is then extremely easy to access.

The high-gloss white metallic paintwork of the smart for-us with the tridion cell in a grey textured finish also builds a bridge to the smart forspeed presented at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, and to the smart ebike. On the other hand, the honeycomb structure of the air inlets takes up an aspect of the smart forvision, which attracted lots of attention at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The subtle colour accents in a warm yellow establish a further visual link to the interior.

The interior: stylish, uncomplicated and highly functional

Sleek, taut surfaces in mother-of-pearl white combined with precisely designed technical functional elements in brushed aluminium – the interior is characterised by contrasts. The white metallised leather establishes a link to the instrument panel, which in turn is related to the body. The headrests featuring metallic leather are a reference to the matt-finish textured paint of the tridion safety cell and – in line with the clean design – they largely dispense with seams. Yellow adds highlights to the interior, for example on the seat belts and seat covers. Leather door trim provides a further high-quality contrast.

Like in the smart forvision, the whole cockpit boasts aerodynamic styling for interior ventilation. The control and display elements are oriented to the driver. Just as the cockpit module divides the instrument panel, the two-spoke steering wheel is open at the top. In place of a conventional rear-view mirror the smart for-us features a smartphone accommodated in a holder on top of the instrument panel support. The driver can see what is happening on the road behind with the help of an integrated video camera.

Stylish, uncomplicated, highly functional and easy to individualise – the two seats in the concept car are typically smart. The seat shells, which are open in the middle, are covered with a soft fabric throw giving them a hammock-like seating feel. Practical: when the seat cover on the passenger side is removed long items can be loaded through the seat of the smart for-us.

The study has yellow seat covers with a deep embossed silver hexagon pattern indicating a progression and thus emphasising the vehicle's dynamism. As the covers can be removed in no time at all, simple individualisation with other throws is conceivable. The seats could even be used as avant-garde seating at home or when spontaneous seating is needed outdoors.

The cargo space has two slits for the front wheels of the smart ebikes. A special docking station in the middle enables the ebikes to be charged whilst being transported on the smart for-us. And bicycle tools or other items can be accommodated in the stowage compartments on the right and left of the load space.

Electric drive: zero-local-emission driving fun

The electric drive of the smart for-us is based on the innovative drive concept of the smart fortwo electric drive, which will be launched from the spring of 2012.
Thanks to the 55 kW magneto-electric motor the smart for-us is agile and lively to drive. With 130 Newton metres of torque it boasts powerful, lag-free acceleration and it can overtake other vehicles with the greatest of ease. The maximum speed exceeds 120 km/h.

The lithium-ion battery has capacity of 17.6 kWh. When completely empty it takes a maximum of eight hours to fully charge the battery at a household socket or charging station on the electricity systems of most countries i.e. overnight.

smart ebike: urban electric mobility on two wheels

There are two smart ebikes on board the smart for-us – perfect for local-emission-free city driving. The colour of the two ebikes, which are based on the production bike to be launched by smart in the spring of 2012, has been matched to the smart for-us. Some of the components, for example the battery housing, therefore come in the highlight colour yellow.

With an unconventional design in line with the style of the brand, functions appropriate for city use and high technology standards that are demonstrated by the extremely efficient and high-performance drive package among other features, the smart ebike has an exceptional position.

High-quality components guarantee dynamic, safe and fun cycling. For example, MT4 disc brakes from Magura are fitted at the front and rear. The smart ebike also features state-of-the-art infotainment: a USB interface is a standard feature and enables various mobile end devices to be connected.

smart's high technological standards are manifested in the extremely efficient and high-performance drive package. As a "pedelec" (Pedal Electric Cycle) the smart ebike is strictly speaking a hybrid: the electric motor – a maintenance-free and brushless rear-wheel hub motor from BionX – switches on as soon as the rider starts pedalling as with a normal bicycle. Muscle power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a durable and quiet belt drive. An integrated three-speed gear hub provides for simple gear changing.

The strengths of the ebike include its agile performance: the rider of the smart ebike decides how much power he wants the 250 watt electric motor to deliver to support his muscle power by pressing a button on the handlebar. There is a choice of four power levels with the fourth and highest level providing maximum pushing power. Depending on the power level selected and the manner of cycling a battery charge can last for more than 100 kilometres.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz at the Detroit Auto Show 2012: The hybrid model offensive

2012-01-09T17:02:00.000+02:00

Mercedes-Benz launches hybrid offensive: The world's most economical luxury-class model

Mercedes-Benz is opening a new chapter in its brand's core segment and at the same time setting new standards for luxury-class business vehicles: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, available as a Saloon and Estate, impresses with new record values when it comes to efficiency. It boasts exemplary consumption levels (4.2 l/100 km[1]) as well as impressive performance: the 4-cylinder diesel engine of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID has 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 Nm. Combined with an electric motor producing 20 kW and 250 Nm, this results in a coherent overall concept. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the most economical luxury-class vehicle in the world.

The V6 petrol engine in the E 400 HYBRID produces 225 kW (306 hp) and 370 Nm, and is also supplemented by a further 20 kW and 250 Nm from the electric motor. The consumption figures based on the American CAFE standard are: City 24 mpg, Highway 31 mpg, Combined 27 mpg.

"With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive. The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models", explains Professor Dr. Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "With a clear focus on the different requirements of the global markets, we are able to offer precisely the models which our customers want. The E-Class hybrids provide a clear reduction in consumption as well as a very impressive driving experience: they represent hybrid motoring at the premium level."

The new models do not require their passengers to have to compromise when it comes to space, however, whether in terms of the interior or the luggage compartment. And there are also additional benefits to the intelligent modular hybrid concept, which represents a comprehensive enhancement of the Mercedes-Benz S 400 HYBRID which has advanced to the position of clear market leader since 2009: no changes to the vehicle body are required, the hybrid module is both flexible and modular, thus allowing its use in other model series, and in addition to diesel and petrol variants there will also be right-hand drive variants. Meanwhile, the extra cost involved here is only moderate. The new hybrid models will be celebrating their world premiere at the Detroit Motor Show (14 to 22 January 2012) and will appear on the market over the course of the year. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned to be launched on the European market, while the E 400 HYBRID will be made available on the American market first, followed by other countries such as Japan and China later.

The philosophy: increase efficiency without compromising comfort or use

The new hybrid models from Mercedes-Benz are part of the company's intelligent downsizing strategy which aims to make conventional models perform significantly more efficiently than ever before – without compromising when it comes to driveability or comfort. As part of this move, rather than focusing primarily on regular consumption, the engineers at the company have been examining exemplary consumption levels in everyday traffic. The notorious safety philosophy known as "Real Life Safety", which similarly highlights gains in safety under practical conditions rather than standard crash test results, is now being paired with "Real Life Efficiency".

Take the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID by way of example: the hybrid model is based on the notoriously economical E 250 CDI, but exceeds it in terms of performance and undercuts in terms of fuel consumption by around 15 percent. The details are as follows:

- E 250 CDI: output of 150 kW, max. torque of 500 Nm, top speed of 242 km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, consumption of 4.9 litres of diesel/100 km, CO2 emissions of 129 g/km

- E 350 BlueTEC: output of 155 kW, max. torque of 540 Nm, top speed of 239 km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.8 seconds, consumption of 6.8 litres of diesel/100 km, CO2 emissions of 180 g/km

- E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: output of 150 kW + 20 kW electric motor, max. torque of 500 Nm + 250 Nm, top speed of 242 km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, consumption of 4.2 litres of diesel/100 km, CO2 emissions of 109 g/km (values for Saloon)

As a result, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is on a par with the E 300 CDI (170 kW/540 Nm) in practical use. However, it undercuts this model in terms of consumption and CO2 emissions by around 35 percent. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID also matches the E 300 CDI when it comes to vehicle weight too.

At the same time, hybridisation also represents an increase in ride comfort: starting up and moving off are practically silent, and the hybrid module also dampens any vibrations from the combustion engine. Furthermore, the vehicle's full range of climate control functions remain available even in start/stop mode.

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID and E 400 HYBRID at a glance:

Motoring: sailing along the motorway

The hybrid technology from Mercedes-Benz provides a whole host of additional functions which enhance comfort and efficiency at the same time, while making an overall contribution to creating a special driving experience with a sense of refined sportiness:

- Stationary vehicle/ECO start/stop function: the combustion engine can already be switched into deceleration mode at speeds below 160 km/h, since ancillary components such as the steering, brakes and air conditioning compressor operate electrically. The combustion engine is restarted quickly, conveniently and almost silently. A special Mercedes feature is the way in which the practical HOLD function interacts with the start/stop system: as soon the HOLD function is enabled (by fully depressing the brake pedal when stationary), the combustion engine also remains switched off when the driver then takes their foot off the brake pedal. Alternatively, when waiting for longer periods, the gear selector lever can be put into position "P" or the parking brake enabled, thus allowing the driver to remove their foot from the brake pedal.

Manoeuvring: parking or turning are for the most part carried out in electric mode

Accelerating: moving off and driving at low loads are carried out in purely electric mode. Accelerating from a standstill is particularly powerful, since the full torque of up to 250 Nm is available from the electric motor

Boost function: the electric motor supports the combustion engine when accelerating, such as when executing an overtaking manoeuvre, by providing additional drive torque

Cruising: at constant speeds, the engine control unit shifts the operating range towards lower specific fuel consumption levels

- "Sailing": the so-called "sailing" function can be used at speeds below 160 km/h. With this function, the combustion engine switches off and the desired speed is maintained primarily by using the electric motor, until the batteries need to be recharged

- Recuperation of kinetic energy (regenerative braking)in deceleration mode or when braking: during deceleration (reduction in speed by snapping off the throttle), the electric motor works as a generator and stores the converted kinetic energy back in the high-voltage battery. If the brake pedal is pressed, the generator output is initially increased proportionally for greater deceleration. Only when increased brake pressure is applied are the wheel brakes additionally called upon. To implement these functions, the new hybrid models have brakes which have been specially adapted for recuperation ("energy recuperation")

Comprehensive road tests using different test subjects have shown that it only takes a relatively short time for additional savings to be achieved as drivers learn to make increasingly deliberate and effective use of such functions. They are supported in their use of the features by the display concept of the hybrid models. The central display provides information on the current energy flow and the charge status of the batteries, as well as a top view of the vehicle, depicting the drivetrain and coloured energy flow. The driver is able to monitor fuel consumption via energy/time graphs.

Consumption: benefits in actual traffic, not just on paper

In urban traffic, with its frequent stationary, deceleration and short acceleration phases, the hybrid drive is able to play to its strengths in particular. This is thanks, on the one hand, to the frequent regenerative braking phases when decelerating and, on the other, to the capability to offer purely electric motoring when approaching traffic lights. The purely electric driving mode can also be used in stop-and-go traffic up to a speed of around 35 km/h and on journeys of up to a kilometre. When stationary, the combustion engine is switched off in most cases.

When it comes to inter-urban motoring, the boost, "sailing" and regenerative braking phases alternate in conjunction with an intelligent displacement of the combustion engine's load point. The actual effect depends on both the route profile as well as the behaviour of the driver.

On the motorway, the boost function takes a back seat in the higher engine speed range. Savings are achieved by the "sailing" function at speeds up to 160 km/h, for example on slight downhill gradients, by displacement of the combustion engine's operating point, electric operation of accessories, and regenerative braking when decelerating.

Extensive road tests on a wide variety of different routes have shown that compared with the notoriously economical E 250 CDI, it is possible to achieve additional significant increases in efficiency with the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID.

The increased fuel efficiency is even more pronounced when the E 300 CDI is used as the comparison vehicle.

The hybrid module: compact, intelligently integrated powerhouse

The hybrid drive unit is an enhancement of the module used in the S 400 HYBRID and is based on the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.

A new element is the lack of hydraulic torque converter. Instead a wet clutch has been added, as also found in a number of powerful AMG models. As a result, the electric motor can be integrated into the transmission unit in such a way that it only requires marginally more installation space than the 7G-TRONIC (+65 mm). The lack of converter allows for a purely electric driving mode as well as the "sailing" function, and also therefore significantly increases the potential for reducing consumption.

The compact electric motor, which is installed in the clutch housing between the engine and the transmission to save space, is a 3-phase AC internal rotor magneto motor, which develops a peak output of 20 kW and a peak torque of 250 Nm at an operating voltage of 120 Volts.

The components: perfectly integrated into the vehicle

The electric energy of the hybrid drive comes courtesy of the high-voltage lithium-ion battery which has been specially developed for automotive use. Its characteristics include an output of 19 kW and an energy content of 0.8 kWh, enabling the E-Class to achieve a speed of up to 35 km/h and a range of up to one kilometre in purely electric mode.

Major advantages over conventional nickel/metal hydride batteries include a higher energy density and better electrical efficiency, together with more compact dimensions and a lower weight. Thanks to space-saving installation in the engine compartment, where it replaces the conventional starter battery, the generous interior space and boot capacity remain unchanged. The lithium-ion battery not only stores energy for the electric motor, but is also connected to the 12-Volt onboard network via the DC transformer to supply power to other standard consumers such as the headlamps and comfort features. The battery system consists of the cell block with its lithium-ion cells and the cell monitoring system, the battery management function, the high-strength housing, the cooling gel, the cooling plate, the coolant feed and the high-voltage connector.

To support cold starting and act as a buffer store for the on-board electrical system, a regular 12 Volt battery is located beneath the luggage compartment, and an additional small backup battery prevents unpleasant flickering of the vehicle lighting and dropouts in the infotainment system in start/stop mode.

By using sophisticated packaging it has been possible to integrate numerous hybrid-specific components, such as the high-power electronics, directly into the engine compartment along with the combustion engine, thus perfectly rounding off the modular principle: the hybrid models can be produced together with the regular versions on the same assembly line, without any specific issues. Another plus point of the overall concept is the scalability and compatibility with other vehicles and engines.

Safety: on a par with previous models

The intelligent integration of hybrid systems without having to make any changes to the vehicle body not only has the practical benefit of enabling full use of the available space. At the same time it also helps to ensure that the same high level of safety can be offered as in their counterparts fitted with combustion engines – something which is particularly important to Mercedes-Benz. The crash behaviour of the vehicles has also been safeguarded accordingly by means of crash simulations and tests.

When it came to the hybrid-specific properties which were relevant to aspects of safety, the development engineers were able to call on the extensive experience gained with the S 400 HYBRID introduced in 2009. The challenge in this area lay in ensuring the greatest possible safety for the electrical components. This safety system already applies in production, includes workshop personnel during servicing and maintenance, and also takes the emergency services into account when passengers need to be recovered following an accident.

Accordingly the hybrid technology of Mercedes-Benz is equipped with an extensive 7-stage safety concept.

1. In the first stage, all of the high-voltage wiring is colour-coded to eliminate confusion, and marked with safety instructions. This prevents assembly errors in production, and makes the regular quality checks easier to carry out.
2. The second stage comprises comprehensive contact protection for the entire system by means of generous insulation and newly-developed, dedicated connectors.
3. As part of the third stage, the lithium-ion battery has been given a whole package of carefully coordinated safety measures. This innovative battery is accommodated in a high-strength steel housing, and also secured in place. Bedding the battery cells in a special gel effectively dampens any jolts and knocks. There is also a blow-off vent with a rupture disc and a separate cooling circuit. An internal electronic controller continuously monitors the safety requirements and immediately signals any malfunctions.
4. The fourth stage of the safety concept includes separation of the battery terminals, individual safety wiring for all high-voltage components and continuous monitoring by multiple interlock switches. This means that all high-voltage components are connected by an electric loop. In the event of a malfunction, the high-voltage system is automatically switched off.
5. Active discharging of the high-voltage system as soon as the ignition is switched to "Off", or in the event of a malfunction, is part of the fifth stage.
6. During an accident, the high-voltage system is completely switched off within fractions of a second (stage six).
7. As the seventh and last stage, the system is continuously monitored for short circuits.

[1] All consumption and performance figures are preliminary figures based on the Saloon model, as at December 2011

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.