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

Multiple awards for Mercedes-Benz in the "Off Road" reader survey: Peak performance by the G-Class

2012-02-10T16:45:00.000+02:00

After almost 33 years of unbroken production, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class remains unparalleled. This was the opinion of the "Off Road" magazine readers, who voted the G-Class "Off-roader of the year 2012" in two categories – making it a repeat of last year's success for the off-road legend. The G-Class eased to victory in the "Luxury off-roader" category and defended its top spot in the "Classic" category. The new M‑Class, eligible for the first time having been unveiled just last year, achieved second place in the "Luxury SUV" and "Newcomer" categories.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has been a permanent fixture in Mercedes-Benz's model line-up since as far back as 1979 and remains an off-roader par excellence. Its special position as an off-road icon is down to its continuous and systematic further development by Mercedes-Benz over a period spanning more than three decades. Hence the latest-generation G-Class features an impressive mix of state-of-the-art drive technology and high-calibre interior appointments whilst also maintaining its highly valued, hallmark attributes such as extreme robustness and outstanding off-road capability. This is already the ninth time it has won the "Off Road" magazine reader survey, giving it the title "Off-roader of the year" once more.

The "G" family currently has three body variants: short-wheelbase Station Wagon, long-wheelbase Station Wagon and Convertible, which can be combined with either a particularly environmentally-friendly V6 diesel engine featuring BlueTEC technology and with an output of 155 kW (210 hp) and 540 Nm of torque, or a powerful 5.5-litre V8 petrol engine developing 285 kW (388 hp) with a torque of 530 Nm. The flagship G 55 AMG model – available only as a four-door, long-wheelbase Station Wagon – is powered by a V8 supercharged engine developing 373 kW (507 hp) with an impressive peak torque of 700 Nm.

The superstar among off-roaders uses high-performance drive technology and dynamic handling control systems to deliver outstanding on-road and off-road performance. Standard equipment includes permanent all-wheel drive with a low-range ratio, the electronically controlled traction system 4ETS, three differential locks that can be engaged at the push of a button and the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission.

The G-Class Professional model, which won the award in the "Classic" category, is a pared-down utility version with the emphasis firmly on robustness and reliability. It is aimed at extreme professional applications such as rescue services, although private customers also choose this particular classic for tough off-road use.
The new awards are in addition to the almost countless accolades the legendary Mercedes-Benz off-roader has already received, underlining the position of the G-Class as one of the most popular and highly-decorated models on the off-roader scene.

Although the third-generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class was not delivered to its first customers until late autumn last year, it still managed to achieve second place in the "Luxury SUV" and "Newcomer" categories in the latest "Off Road" magazine reader survey. The M-Class impresses with outstanding energy efficiency: on average, the new models consume 25 percent less fuel than their predecessors. The fuel-consumption champion is the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, with an NEDC figure of just 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km).

Further strengths of the premium SUV include exceptional safety and well-balanced ride comfort as well as excellent driving dynamics both on and off the road. What is more, the ML features permanent all-wheel drive, an array of new chassis developments and innovative dynamic handling control systems which further enhance both driving enjoyment and handling safety.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS and MIG BANK agree partnership extension

2012-02-10T16:34:00.000+02:00

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS and MIG BANK are pleased to confirm an extension to their team partnership agreement for a further two years. Founded in 2003 and based in Neuchâtel, Switzerland, MIG BANK is a leading Swiss online trading bank specialising in Foreign Exchange, Bullion and CFDs.

MIG BANK has a history of success by continuous growth and became the largest Swiss bank specialising in online currency. For the 2012 season, MIG BANK branding will feature on the F1 W03 race car, the race suits of Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg, and on the pit crew overalls and team clothing.

Ross Brawn, Team Principal of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS said: “As we continue our preparations for the start of the new Formula One season, we are delighted to announce the extension of our partnership with MIG BANK. After three successful years working together, MIG BANK has been able to utilise the global platform provided by the team and Formula One to raise its profile and strengthen its brand. We look forward to continuing our excellent working relationship together over the coming seasons.”

Hisham Mansour, CEO and founder of MIG BANK commented: “We are extremely pleased to renew our partnership with the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS team and to continue the excellent relationship which started back in 2009. Driven by our common passion for performance and technology, this partnership reflects our forward-looking spirit and illustrates our solidity, continuous growth and dynamism. The Mercedes-Benz brand symbolises quality and innovation, which are values that we share and seek to exemplify globally. By renewing our partnership with MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS, we want to continue to strengthen our brand and keep the momentum building on our successful track record.”

* Official photo and details courtesy of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS *

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

Jerez F1 Test 2012: Complete 3-Day Report (MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS)

2012-02-09T23:56:00.002+02:00

The sharp sound of F1 engines broke the silence of the Jerez circuit on the morning of 7th February and thus the first official test prior to the 2012 season got underway. Most of the teams have already unveiled their new contenders for this years, so they were evaluating the new packages developed during winter. MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS attended the Jerez session with a slightly modified MGP W 02 single-seater, the car the German-British team used during 2011. Certain new components were fitted to the car for an initial evaluation, but the main focus was understanding the new tyre compounds Pirelli have developed for the 2012 F1 season. Apart from Tuesday, MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS topped the timesheets in the last two days, with the officials and drivers feeling pleased about the valuable knowledge regarding the tyres they gathered during the three days. A new series of tests is programmed for Barcelona, on Circuit de Catalunya between 21st and 24th February, where MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS will introduce their new F1 W 03 car.

Check out the full report from Jerez after the jump!

DAY 1

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS began its 2012 testing programme in Jerez today, using the team´s 2011 car, the MGP W02.

- Nico tested during the morning while Michael was in the car for the afternoon
- Both drivers completed a set-up programme which focused on learning about the behaviour of the 2012 Pirelli tyres
- The reliable 2011 car also allowed the team to accumulate valuable mileage on a number of test items for the 2012 season

Michael will continue the test programme tomorrow, with Nico in action again on Thursday.

Nico Rosberg
“We made a very good start to our testing programme today and completed 56 laps this morning. I was driving the 2011 car, so it felt comfortable straightaway. We tested some different things in perfect weather conditions and started learning about the 2012 Pirelli tyres and how they work. I was really happy to be out on track in my Mercedes and I know that, back at the factory, our development of the new car is running according to our plan.”

Michael Schumacher
“After a long break, it feels terrific being back in the car and hitting the circuit again. Our main job was to get a first impression of the tyres for 2012 and to start understanding them. They feel like a step forward, more consistent and comfortable to drive, and the biggest difference is with the rear tyre. Thanks to everybody at Pirelli for their good job this winter. Let´s see what we can learn tomorrow.”

TIMES

DAY 2

Michael Schumacher was at the wheel of the MGP W02 today for the second day of this week’s test in Jerez, completing a total of 132 laps of the Spanish circuit.

- The morning´s programme focused on comparisons and evaluation of the soft and hard compound Pirelli tyres
- Michael then concentrated on a set-up programme with the new tyres in preparation for the debut of the 2012 car in Barcelona.

Nico Rosberg will take over the car tomorrow for the team´s final day of testing in Jerez.

Michael Schumacher
“We made the most of a reliable car today to do lots of laps and learn a lot about the new Pirelli tyres, and how they perform on longer and shorter runs, and with different set-up configurations. It was a good and productive test, full of lots of useful information for the season ahead, and I am now looking forward to driving our 2012 car for the first time at the next test.”

TIMES

DAY 3

MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS concluded its test programme in Jerez today with Nico Rosberg at the wheel of the MGP W02.

- Nico completed a programme aimed at furthering the team´s understanding of the 2012 Pirelli tyres, similar to Michael yesterday
- He completed 118 laps which also allowed the team to put more mileage on 2012 development items on the car
- The team completed 1541 kms this week, gathering comprehensive knowledge of the new tyres with varying set-ups and fuel loads

The team’s 2012 car, the F1 W03, will make its public test debut on Tuesday 21 February in Barcelona.

Nico Rosberg
“I’m happy with the testing that we have achieved here in Jerez, and we learned a lot about the Pirelli tyres and a few other things for the new car. It seems that the tyres are closer performance-wise this year, with the rear tyres also looking a bit stronger. Pirelli have done a good job so far. You can’t really compare the lap times with other teams, but it was interesting to learn a lot with our 2011 car. Now I’m really looking forward to the two Barcelona tests with our new Silver Arrow.”

Ross Brawn
“We have had a productive and busy three days in Jerez this week running the MGP W02 car for the final time. Simultaneously the final preparations have been taking place back at the factory for the first test with our 2012 car in Barcelona. Michael and Nico have been able to complete some valuable mileage this week, and enhanced our understanding of the new season’s Pirelli tyres which will prove very useful once the new car in is on track.”

TIMES

* Official photos and details courtesy of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS *

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

B as in BRABUS: The Exclusive Tuning Program for the New Mercedes-Benz B-Class

2012-02-09T23:05:00.001+02:00

B as in BRABUS: Right on time for the market launch of the new Mercedes B-Class BRABUS offers an exclusive tuning program covered by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty® of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers / 62,000 miles. The program includes sporty-elegant exterior design, alloy wheels with diameters of 17, 18 and 19 inches, a sporty yet comfortable ride-height lowering, and exclusive accessories for the interior. BRABUS engine tuning for the various gasoline and diesel models of the W 246 series is in preparation.

The BRABUS exterior program for the new Mercedes B-Class is characterized by sporty elegance that sets not only visual highlights, but also further optimizes aerodynamics. All components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastics.

The BRABUS front spoiler attaches to the lower part of the production bumper and thanks to its sophisticated shape reduces lift on the front axle. In order to provide the perfect backdrop for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system, the BRABUS designers have developed an insert for the rear fascia that features two custom-tailored cutouts.

BRABUS alloy wheels specially developed for the new B-Class make a significant contribution to the exclusive BRABUS look and to further optimized driving dynamics. Five different designs are available: In the largest version with a diameter of 19 inches the Monoblock E, F, Q and S wheels have been homologated in size 8.5Jx19. In the attached photos the new compact Mercedes is pictured on one side with BRABUS Monoblock F cross-spoke wheels with 'Liquid Titanium' finish and on the other side with Monoblock Q wheels featuring five double spokes, whose sophisticated shapes form five ventilation openings. The optimal tires for these wheels in size 225/35 R 19 in front and 255/30 R 19 on the rear axle are supplied by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli or YOKOHAMA.

For a ride-height lowering by some 30 millimeters BRABUS offers sport springs that were calibrated specifically for use with the production dampers.

While the fully stainless-steel BRABUS sport rear muffler with four chrome-plated tailpipes is available already for all engine variants of the new B-Class, the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra performance kits for the direct-injection gasoline and diesel engines are in the final stages of development.

In the automotive world BRABUS is considered synonymous with individual exclusivity. Naturally the BRABUS interior designers also thought about how to refine the interior of the Mercedes B-Class. What they came up with is as sophisticated as it is fascinating: Driver and passengers are welcomed by bi-color stainless-steel scuff plates with BRABUS logo. Aluminum door lock pins and pedal pads add sporty highlights.

BRABUS gladly fulfills even more extravagant wishes in the company upholstery shop. Whether it is the completion of the leather equipment available ex-factory or the creation of an exclusive ambiance in any imaginable color: The BRABUS specialists transform the interior of the Mercedes B-Class into an exclusive lounge on wheels – by request also with multimedia equipment including an iPad.

* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS *

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

Daimler to pay its highest ever performance participation bonus of €4,100 per employee

2012-02-09T22:52:00.000+02:00

In agreement with the General Works Council, the Board of Management of Daimler AG has set a performance participation bonus for the year 2011 of €4,100 (previous year: €3,150) be paid to each entitled employee. The amount of the annual employee bonus at Daimler AG is always related to the company’s performance in the previous financial year.

In the past jubilee year – “125 Years! Inventor of the Automobile” – Daimler set new records for unit sales (2.1 million vehicles), revenue (€106.5 billion), EBIT (€8.8 billion) and net profit (€6.0 Mrd.). On the basis of these excellent results, the company will pay the highest performance participation bonus in its history.
Wilfried Porth, Board of Management Member for Human Resources and Labor Relations Director of Daimler AG: “Daimler looks back on an excellent year. Our employees made the decisive contribution to that with their outstanding performance and maximum commitment. These exceptional efforts will be given special recognition with our performance participation bonus.”

Erich Klemm, Chairman of the General Works Council of Daimler AG: “Record earnings can only be achieved as a result of a record performance. For this reason, the General Works Council was in favor of an employee bonus also at a record level. The employees showed maximum flexibility with high levels of overtime, Saturday shifts and night shifts, and worked hard to achieve those record figures. We regard the performance participation bonus as appropriate recognition by the company of those efforts.”

The performance participation bonus for the year 2011 will be paid out with the salaries for April 2012. Those entitled to receive the bonus are not only the employees of Daimler AG in Germany paid according to collective wage-tariff agreements, but also apprentices and trainees, students from cooperative state universities and doctoral students.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Daimler excels in anniversary year 2011: Group EBIT from ongoing business up by 24% to record level of €9 billion

2012-02-09T22:48:00.001+02:00

Daimler AG (stock-exchange symbol DAI) today presented its preliminary and unaudited earnings figures for the Group and the divisions in the year 2011. Daimler increased its Group EBIT from the ongoing business by 24% to €8,977 million in 2011 (2010: €7,212 million). Including special factors, Group EBIT rose by 20% to €8,755 million (2010: €7,274 million). Both EBIT figures are new records. Net profit also reached a record figure of €6,029 million (2010: €4,674 million) and earnings per share amounted to €5.32 (2010: €4.28).

Overall, Daimler was able to set several records simultaneously in the anniversary year, “125! years inventor of the automobile.” “The Group achieved its best-ever results in 2011 for unit sales, revenue, EBIT and net profit. All of our divisions contributed to this success,” stated Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. Above all, Mercedes-Benz Cars also set new records for sales, revenue and EBIT. In its long corporate history, the car division has never performed better than in 2011.

“In total, we made the anniversary year also into a year of success for Daimler. This performance shows that with its strong portfolio of cars, trucks, vans, buses and financial services, the Group is strategically very well positioned. We are now putting all of our efforts into continuing this success and achieving our targeted rates of return on a sustained basis as of the year 2013,” emphasized Zetsche.

Financial year 2011

The excellent earnings for the year 2011 primarily reflect the very good situation of unit sales in the divisions. In 2011, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Trucks and Mercedes-Benz Vans significantly increased their unit sales compared with the prior year in the major regions. Daimler Financial Services profited in particular from the lower cost of risk.

Special factors connected with the natural disaster in Japan resulted in total charges for the Group of €80 million. Insurance compensation has been taken into consideration in calculating this figure. Charges were also recognized from the impairment of Daimler’s equity interests in Renault (€110 million) and Kamaz (€32 million).

The special items affecting earnings in the years 2011 and 2010 are listed in the table on page 13 and in the individual divisions.

Daimler sold a total of 2.1 million vehicles in 2011, surpassing the prior-year figure by 11%. All of the automotive divisions contributed to the increase. Group revenue increased by 9% to €106.5 billion; adjusted for exchange-rate effects, there was an increase of 10%.

The net liquidity of the industrial business amounted to €12.0 billion at December 31, 2011 (2010: €11.9 billion).

The generally positive business development led to an increase in the number of persons employed worldwide to 271,370 as of December 31. This was 11,270 more than at the end of 2010. In Germany, the number of employees increased to 167,684 (2010: 164,026).

Due to Daimler’s success in 2011, the Board of Management and the General Works Council have agreed that the workforce’s performance will again be rewarded with a high performance participation bonus: In Germany, each eligible employee of Daimler AG will receive an amount of €4,100 (2011: €3,150) at the end of April 2012.

The shareholders will also participate appropriately once again in the Group’s financial success. In setting the dividend, Daimler aims to distribute approximately 40% of the net profit attributable to Daimler shareholders. In view of the good business development, the Board of Management and the Supervisory Board will therefore propose to the shareholders for their approval at the Annual Meeting to be held on April 4, 2012 that a dividend of €2.20 per share be paid out (2010: €1.85). This represents a total dividend of €2,346 million (2010: €1,971 million).

“In this way, we want our shareholders to participate appropriately once again in our financial success, and we anticipate a continuation of this dividend development in the coming years,” stated Bodo Uebber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG for Finance & Controlling and Financial Services.

Investments for the future

On the basis of the “Road to Emission-free Mobility” initiative, one focus will be on new, extremely fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly drive technologies in all the Group’s automotive divisions. The objectives are to optimize conventional drive technologies, to enhance their efficiency through hybridization, and to develop electric vehicles with fuel-cell drive and battery power. Another focus is on new safety technologies with the goal of avoiding accidents as far as possible and of alleviating the consequences of any accidents that might still occur.

In this context, Daimler therefore increased its research and development expenditure to €5.6 billion in 2011 (2010: €4.8 billion). R&D spending amounted to €3.7 billion at Mercedes-Benz Cars (2010: €3.1 billion) and €1.3 billion at Daimler Trucks (2010: €1.3 billion).

Investment in property, plant and equipment amounted to €4.2 billion (2010: €3.7 billion), of which €2.7 billion was invested in Germany (2010: €2.1 billion). The focus was on substantial capital expenditure on local production facilities, new products and new technologies. One of the main areas at Mercedes-Benz Cars was the expansion of production capacities for the successor to the A-/B-Class at the Rastatt plant in Germany and at the new plant in Kecskemét, Hungary. Daimler Trucks made substantial investments in 2011 in the launch of the new Actros heavy truck.

The divisions in detail

Mercedes-Benz Cars, comprising the brands Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart, set a new record in 2011 with sales of 1,381,400 vehicles (2010: 1,276,800). The division’s revenue rose by 7% to a record of €57.4 billion (2010: €53.4 billion).
The division posted EBIT of €5,192 million, a significant improvement compared with the prior-year result (2010: €4,656 million). Its return on sales was 9.0% (2010: 8.7%).

The increase in earnings resulted primarily from the worldwide growth in unit sales, especially in the mid-sized and SUV segments. Above all in China and the United States, the division was able to boost its unit sales due to its attractive product range. Improved pricing for new vehicles and lower warranty expenses also made positive contributions to earnings. There were negative effects on earnings from increases in prices of materials and higher expenses related to the launch of new models, increased research and development costs and negative exchange-rate effects.

Daimler Trucks increased its worldwide unit sales by 20% to 425,800 vehicles and revenue also rose by 20% to €28.8 billion (2010: €24.0 billion).

The division’s EBIT of €1,876 million was also significantly higher than in the prior year (2010: €1,332 million). Return on sales amounted to 6.5% (2010: 5.5%). The positive earnings development is mainly based on strong growth in unit sales with contributions from all the major regions (the NAFTA region, Europe, Asia and
Latin America). The successfully implemented optimization and repositioning of the business operations of the subsidiaries Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Daimler Trucks North America had sustained positive effects also in 2011, contributing to significant efficiency improvements and thus also to higher earnings. Negative effects on earnings resulted from higher material costs and the advance expenditure for the new Actros. In connection with the natural disaster in Japan, charges of €70 million were recognized. Without these charges and the impairment of the investment in Kamaz, Daimler Trucks would have achieved a return on sales of 6.9%.

Mercedes-Benz Vansincreased its unit sales by 18% to 264,200 vans of the Sprinter, Vario, Vito and Viano model series. Revenue of €9.2 billion was also significantly higher than in the prior year (2010: €7.8 billion).

The division posted a significant improvement in earnings. EBIT increased to €835 million (2010: €451 million) and return on sales improved from 5.8% in 2010 to 9.1% last year. The positive development of earnings resulted from significantly higher unit sales, above all in Germany, the NAFTA region and Eastern Europe. One of the main factors was the excellent market response to the new-generation Vito and Viano models. Higher material costs were more than offset by sustained efficiency improvements and better pricing.

Daimler Buses once again increased its sales of buses and bus chassis, despite difficult conditions for complete buses, to a total of 39,700 units (2010: 39,100). Revenue of €4.4 billion was slightly lower than in the prior year (2010: €4.6 billion).

With EBIT of €162 million, the division did not match the high level of earnings it achieved in the prior year (2010: €215 million). Its return on sales was 3.7% (2010: 4.7%). This earnings development is due to lower unit sales of complete buses in Western Europe and North America, especially in the city-bus segment, in which demand decreased. Higher prices due to the influence of inflation in Latin America also had a negative impact on EBIT. The division’s earnings were positively affected by higher shipments of bus chassis in Latin America (including Mexico) and by exchange-rate effects.

Daimler Financial Services developed very positively in all regions. Worldwide contract volume grew by 13% to the record level of €71.7 billion (2010: €63.7 billion). Adjusted for exchange-rate effects, contract volume grew by 12%. New business increased by 15% to €33.5 billion due to the higher volumes of unit sales by the automotive divisions.

The division significantly surpassed its earnings of the prior year with EBIT of €1,312 million in 2011 (2010: €831 million). Its return on equity was 25.5% (2010: 16.1%). The improvement in earnings was mainly caused by lower provisions for risks, improved refinancing conditions and an increased contract volume. On the other hand, earnings were negatively affected by expenditure related to the realignment of business activities in Germany. Another factor was that additional allowances for bad debts had to be recognized in connection with the natural disaster in Japan.

The reconciliation of the divisions’ EBIT to Group EBIT comprises Daimler’s proportionate share of the results of its equity-method investment in EADS, other gains and/or losses at the corporate level, and the effects on earnings of eliminating intra-group transactions between the divisions.

Daimler’s proportionate share of the net profit of EADS amounted to income of €143 million (2010: expense of €261 million). In addition, an expense at corporate level of €588 million has been taken into consideration (2010: income of €21 million). In 2011, this was primarily related to litigation and the impairment of Daimler’s equity holding in Renault (€110 million). Due to the sharp drop in the stock-exchange price of Renault shares at the end of the third quarter, the shareholding had to be impaired to its fair value.

Outlook

According to current estimates, worldwide markets for motor vehicles should continue to grow this year, with the exception of the Western European markets, which are increasingly affected by the debt crisis. Global registrations of new cars are likely to increase by approximately 4%, whereby the growth will primarily be driven by the Asian emerging markets, the US market and the Japanese market, which will benefit from catch-up effects.

Worldwide demand for medium and heavy trucks in 2012 is expected to be at least at the level of last year. Despite a perceptible growth slowdown, the North American market should prove to be the world’s most important driver of demand, expanding by 15 to 20%. Demand for trucks in Europe will be impacted by the ongoing sovereign-debt crisis and the resulting economic weakness. So at best, demand in that market can only be expected to be about as strong as last year. The Japanese market for heavy and medium-duty trucks should expand once again by 5 to 10% compared with the prior year, thanks to the country’s economic growth, which is benefiting from the reconstruction efforts. Overall demand for trucks in the emerging markets should grow only moderately this year.

Mercedes-Benz Cars assumes that it will be able to further increase its unit sales this year and will grow faster than the total market. Its competitive model range will facilitate growth in traditional markets also under less favorable conditions. The division will also profit from the continuation of very strong demand for its models in the C-Class segment. In the luxury segment, the new generation of the SL will boost unit sales as of late March. With sport-utility vehicles, further growth is anticipated primarily due to the full availability of the new M-Class and as of September 2012 from the new GL. Furthermore, both the new GLK (a compact SUV) and the new-generation G-Class will be launched in June. The new models in the high-volume compact-car segment will also boost growth in unit sales. The new B-Class was already launched in November 2011 and the new A-Class will follow in September 2012.

On the engine side, the new and particularly efficient four-, six- and eight-cylinder engines and the ECO start-stop technology will be introduced in additional models. This will boost unit sales above all with commercial customers. With the help of the new engines and the particularly economical BlueEFFICIENCY models, Daimler was able to reduce the average CO2 emissions of the cars sold in the European Union to 150 grams per kilometer in 2011 (2010: 158 g/km).

Within the framework of the “Mercedes-Benz 2020” growth strategy, the product range will be significantly expanded across all segments in the coming years. In the compact-car segment alone, there will be five models with the three-pointed star in the future, which will increasingly appeal to younger customers as well. At the same time, Mercedes-Benz Cars will expand the top end of its model range – for example with three additional versions of the next S-Class and another SUV version, as well as with models such as the CLS Shooting Break, which will be launched in September 2012 as a completely new vehicle concept. Positive impetus is expected for smart this year from two highlights: The new smart fortwo electric drive will gradually be launched in more than 30 markets around the world, and the smart ebike will also be introduced.

In regional terms, Mercedes-Benz Cars sees further growth opportunities in 2012 above all in North America, as well as in China, India and Russia. Prospects in Western Europe are rather limited, however. But the division assumes that it will be able to further strengthen its position also in this extremely competitive market, due in particular to the expansion of the model portfolio. Fairly stable unit sales are anticipated for the smart brand.

Daimler Trucks also assumes that its unit sales will increase this year. Following the significant growth in 2011, the division intends to continue to grow faster than the total market in Europe. For the Brazilian market, demand is expected to fall at first following the record year 2011, due to the introduction of stricter emission standards.

The recovery of the truck market in the NAFTA region will probably continue. Because of the high average age of vehicle fleets there, the need to invest in replacements is still very high. On the basis of well-filled order books, the division assumes that it will be able to profit from that development to an above-average extent. Rising unit sales are anticipated also in Japan. Reconstruction after the natural disaster is leading to a stronger demand for trucks in that market.

With its activities in Russia, India and China, the division has created the right conditions for further growth in those markets. The final approval of the authorities for the joint venture in China was granted last year, the joint venture in Russia with Kamaz presented the first truck with components from Daimler, and the first plant in India will be opened in April 2012.

In general, the division assumes that it will be able to further improve its worldwide market position in the coming years. Daimler Trucks will be supported by a large number of new models and the flexibility of its global production network.

At Mercedes-Benz Vans, the positive trend of unit sales should continue, aided on the product side by the new city van Citan, which will enable the division to utilize additional growth potential in a new market segment as of this year. Van production in Argentina was changed over to the current generation of the Sprinter at the beginning of the year 2012. As a result, the range of products in Latin American markets is being significantly upgraded. Unit sales in China should be substantially increased by means of local production. As part of this development, in addition to the Vito and Viano models, the joint venture Fujian Daimler Automotive has also been producing the Sprinter since the end of 2011.

Daimler Buses assumes that it will be able to maintain its globally leading position in its core markets for buses above 8 tons with innovative and high-quality new products. However, a slight decrease in unit sales is anticipated in 2012 because of the introduction of Euro V emission regulations in Brazil. Slight growth in unit sales is expected in Western Europe, the stable core market, due to the launch of the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro, a product of outstanding quality.

Daimler Financial Services anticipates further growth for both contract volume and new business in its core business of vehicle financing and leasing. This should be supported in particular by growth in the BRIC markets and by the provision of financial services for the new cars in the compact-car segment. In the area of insurance, the division aims to achieve further growth in the number of policies brokered and in its market share. Strong growth is also expected in the new Mobility Services business unit, into which the car2go mobility concept was integrated in the year 2011.

On the basis of assumptions on the development of major sales markets and the planning of the divisions, the Daimler Group expects that its unit sales will increase again significantly this year, and that its revenue will also continue to grow. Daimler aims to post EBIT from the ongoing business in the magnitude of the prior year. This is based on the assumption of currency exchange rates at close to the present levels.

The following EBIT targets have been set for the divisions:

- Mercedes-Benz Cars: at the prior-year level
- Daimler Trucks: at least at the prior-year level
- Mercedes-Benz Vans: at least at the prior-year level
- Daimler Buses: at least at the prior-year level
- Daimler Financial Services: slightly below the prior-year level

Daimler aims for an annual average return on sales for the automotive business of 9% across market and product cycles. This is based on target returns on sales for the individual divisions, which are to be achieved on a sustained basis as of 2013, of 10% for Mercedes-Benz Cars, 8% for Daimler Trucks, 9% for Mercedes-Benz Vans and 6% for Daimler Buses. The target for Daimler Financial Services is a return on equity of 17%.

In the period of 2012 through 2013, Daimler will invest a total of €21.5 billion in research and development activities (€10.9 billion) and property, plant and equipment (€10.6 billion). That is €3.2 billion more than in the years 2010 and 2011.

In order to achieve its ambitious growth targets, Daimler will require additional employees in all its divisions. In connection with expanding the production capacities, new jobs will be created above all in North America, Asia and Hungary. By developing production capacities abroad, the jobs in Germany are being secured for the long term.

Table: Earnings in both years were affected by special factors, which are listed in the following table:

Credits: Daimler AG

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

At dealers from May 2012 - A sharp mix of colours: smart fortwo sharpred

2012-02-09T22:36:00.000+02:00

The latest edition from smart has been christened sharpred. This smart fortwo is a real eye-catcher as the intense red of the tridion safety cell and door mirror housing forms a striking contrast to the rest of the exterior in black. The smart fortwo sharpred is available as a coupé (from €14,490) and as a cabrio with a 52 kW mhd petrol engine or a 62 kW petrol engine. The exciting special model can be ordered now and the first vehicles of this limited series will reach dealers in May 2012.

The exterior of the smart fortwo edition sharpred is characterised by the striking contrast of elegant black and extravagant red – creating an effect like the red neon sign of an exclusive bar against a black night sky. The bright red paintwork of the tridion safety cell and door mirror housing catch the eye, whilst the rest of the exterior comes in black. The front apron and rear trim panel are grained and the side skirts boast a high-gloss black finish.

The front and rear axles are fitted with wide tyres measuring 175/55 R 15 (front) and 195/50 R 15 (rear). The 15" 3-double-spoke alloy wheels also have a brilliant black finish.

The interior also features striking contrasts with red double stitching on the seats and the instrument panel lending coloured accents. The seats come in black leather and the instrument panel and knee pad have a black leather look. The standard equipment includes the audio system basic and exclusive floor mats.

The special edition is limited to 1800 vehicles. It is based on the passion equipment line, which means that standard features include softouch automatic gear programme, electric windows, air conditioning with automatic temperature control and a panoramic roof with sunblind. Electric power steering, heated seats, a lockable glove compartment, the smart sound system with five loudspeakers, the smart audio system navigation/multimedia and further equipment are optionally available.

Here is an overview of the prices:

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Improved protection for rear passengers - New milestone of technology: active seat-belt buckle

2012-02-09T22:26:00.000+02:00

Active seat-belt buckle is a new innovation for the rear seats which is currently under development by safety pioneer Mercedes-Benz and will shortly go into series production in one of the Stuttgart manufacturer's luxury-segment models. An electric motor extends and retracts the seat belt buckle automatically. In this way, the belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax can be reduced and passengers are secured more firmly in sideways and lengthways directions. Active seat-belt buckle fits in with Mercedes-Benz's integrated safety concept. In keeping with an all-embracing approach to safety, this concept covers all phases of automotive safety: from safety during driving through safety in hazardous situations and protection in the event of an accident to minimisation of the consequences of accidents.

The innovation is typically Mercedes-Benz, improving safety and comfort in one. Fastening seat belts in the rear is also made much simpler: the seat belt buckle emerges from the upholstery when the rear doors are opened and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot. Simplifying use of the seat belt in this manner may increase the percentage of rear passengers who buckle up. The innovation also makes it easier to assist children or people who require help in fastening their seat belts.

Active seat-belt buckle is also integrated in the PRE-SAFE® preventive safety system. This means that whenever PRE-SAFE® becomes active in critical driving situations or when a critical distance from other objects is detected, reversible belt tensioning is also effected in the rear via the active seat-belt buckle function. The restraint system and the passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident situation. Active seat-belt buckle complements the pyrotechnic belt tensioning which has featured as standard on all outer rear seats in Mercedes-Benz vehicles for many years now. This pyrotechnic system is triggered in the event of actual impact.

The Mercedes safety experts have developed active seat-belt buckle using detailed computer models of the human body, as dummies are only able to simulate the human pelvic system along very rough lines.

"Active seat-belt buckle is another element of our 'PRE-SAFE®' concept, which is intended to provide our customers with optimum protection in real accident scenarios," stresses Prof. Dr. Ing. Rodolfo Schöneburg, Head of Passive Safety and Vehicle Functions at Mercedes-Benz Cars. "After all, we aim to offer a high standard of safety not only in all model series, but also in all seats." Active seat-belt buckle has also been developed with an eye on new markets in which the level of occupied rear seats is up to 30 percent – markedly higher than in Europe. "In the rear of premium saloons in particular, passengers tend to sit in particularly relaxed positions in the generous space which is available," explains Schöneburg. "Active seat-belt buckle as part of PRE-SAFE® unlocks the full potential of the on-board restraint systems."

Integration in the vehicle's PRE-SAFE® system

Active seat-belt buckle is a moving belt buckle which can be extended by 70 millimetres and retracted by 40 millimetres via an electric motor. The belt buckle is attached via a cable to a spindle nut which runs on a spindle, translating the electric motor's rotary movement into a linear movement.

The following functions are carried out by means of this movement:

- Seat belt reminder/easier fastening of the seat belt: Active seat-belt buckle is provided with an illuminated insertion slot, attracting the occupants' attention to the buckle. Particularly in the dark, the belt buckle is easier to find and to connect with the seat belt tongue. In addition, the belt buckle is extended by 70 millimetres when occupants enter the rear of the vehicle, to facilitate fastening of the seat belt. In extended state the belt buckle is more readily accessible and it is easier to insert the belt tongue. Both functions are activated when the doors are opened by passengers entering the rear of the vehicle.

- Minimised belt slack: After the belt has been inserted, the belt buckle returns to its original position. This reduces any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax, and the belt fits correctly in the pelvis area.

- PRE-SAFE® function for rear occupants: Active seat-belt buckle is fully integrated in the vehicle's PRE-SAFE® system. Whenever PRE-SAFE® becomes active in critical driving situations or when a critical distance from other objects is detected, reversible belt tensioning is also effected in the rear via the active seat-belt buckle function. The restraint system and the passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident system. In contrast to its extended position to facilitate fastening of the seat belt, the belt buckle is retracted by approx. 40 millimetres. This reversible function increases the belt tensioning on the occupant by up to 80 millimetres. In addition, the belt buckle branches off at a lower point at the occupant's hip. This reduces the risk of the pelvis pushing through under the belt. Securing the occupants more effectively in this way reduces the stress to which they are exposed in the event of an accident. Active seat-belt buckle is set to replace the pyrotechnic belt tensioning which has featured as standard in Mercedes-Benz vehicles for many years now. This pyrotechnic system is triggered in the event of actual impact.

- POST-SAFE functionality: To facilitate the rescue of occupants and to assist rescue personnel or the occupants themselves in unbuckling the seat belts, the belt buckle is extended once again as soon as the doors are opened by rescue personnel or the occupants themselves after the system has detected a crash and verified that the vehicle is stationary, provided that the on-board electrical system is intact. The raised belt buckle position allows better access from inside the vehicle, while illumination of the buckle draws attention to the belt's opening mechanism.

In keeping with Mercedes-Benz's integral safety concept, active seat-belt buckle covers all four areas of automotive safety – "Safe driving", "In the
event of danger", "In an accident" and "After an accident".

Virtual human model as an unconventional development tool

The Mercedes-Benz safety experts have developed active seat-belt buckle with the aid of virtual human models, which provide a clearer picture of what happens to a vehicle's occupants in an accident than crash-test dummies. These digital models simulate not only the human body's outer form, but also its internal structures, such as bones and soft tissue.

"All the crucial biological features of humans – joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones – can only be simulated in very rough terms with dummies," explains Dr Hakan Ipek, expert for virtual human models at Mercedes-Benz. "Some seated positions, such as when a rear passenger is dozing and the belt does not pass over the pelvis in the correct manner, simply cannot be recreated with a dummy," he adds by way of example.

With virtual human models, the biomechanical characteristics of the human body are simulated in detail on a computer, enabling examination of the stress to which the model is exposed in a virtual crash test.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

SPY: Winter work-out for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake (X 218)

2012-02-09T22:09:00.000+02:00

During April this year, Mercedes-Benz is set to launch the all new CLS Shooting Brake, a niche allrounder which announces to combine the elegant design of a coupe with the solid design of a wagon car into one very attractive, stylish and well balanced model. The decision to greenlight the new addition to Merc's portfolio was made after the Concept Shooting Break was officially showcased in 2010 as a preview for the second generation CLS. Baring the X 218 internal codename, the 'shooting brake' will moderately resemble the concept car, meaning no freakish or extreme styling details. The powertrain and all the other bits and pieces come from the 4-door coupe. There's no word on a possible CLS 63 AMG SB variant with up to 557 hp, but the standard "500" version with a total output of 408 hp should be just fine until a final decision is taken. After the jump, besides the usual spy shots, you will also find a spy video featuring the new CLS Shooting Brake while being tried and tested on what seems to be an off-road course. Which tells us one important aspect: the new model could also be equipped with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive platform, just like its 4-door coupe sibling.

Enjoy!

Image/Video Credits: Autoblog, WorldCarFans

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

The Mercedes-Benz Citan – the new urban delivery van from the star brand

2012-02-04T15:52:00.000+02:00

Mercedes-Benz’ new urban delivery van is called Citan. The name was revealed today during a symposium on brand competence and city logistics, which was held at the Mercedes-Benz Design Center in Sindelfingen. The name Citan combines the words “city” and “titan,” thus making it clear that the vehicle is a first-rate specialist for city logistics — one that was specifically developed to meet the tough challenges faced in day-to-day operations.

New van series to boost sales

With the introduction of the new urban delivery vehicle, Mercedes-Benz is adding another production series to its family of vans. The Citan is supplementing the Vario (6.0 to 8.2 tons), Sprinter (3.0 to 5.0 tons), and Vito (2.77 to 3.2 tons) to broaden the range of products in the lower weight classes of the van market, where it will significantly boost sales.

Whereas the small vans segment was still a niche market in the mid-1990s, it has now grown to around 700,000 units in Europe. Mercedes-Benz Vans plans to gain a market share of four to five percent in this segment. Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, is convinced that the Citan will be a big success. “We will take advantage of the trend toward city vans, which our brand will be able to exploit thanks to its attractively priced vehicles and the high quality of our products and services,” says Mornhinweg. “Our typical Mercedes-Benz reliability, 24/7 service, and, last but not least, our great brand image are key selling points as far as our commercial customers are concerned.”

Due to its large number of variants, the new urban delivery van with the star is suited for a broad range of commercial applications. Not only will the Citan be offered as a panel van, a crewbus, and a mixed-use vehicle; it will also be available in a variety of lengths and weights.

The Citan will be launched on the market in fall 2012. The vehicle will be unveiled to the general public for the first time at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover in September.

The Citan — the ideal partner in city traffic

The Citan was developed and tested in line with Mercedes-Benz’ demanding quality standards. The vehicle is correspondingly durable and robust. At the same time, it meets the requirements of customers from the service, sales, and trade sectors, offering them a large cargo space despite the vehicle’s compact dimensions. In addition, the van boasts attributes typical of the brand, such as great quality, economy, safety, excellent handling, as well as high fuel efficiency and correspondingly low CO2 emissions. The drive concept encompasses a broad range of low-emission, fuel-efficient diesel and gasoline engines and includes a BlueEFFICIENCY package. An electric drive version is also being planned.

The Citan’s operation, interior, materials, and workmanship are of the same high quality as in other Mercedes-Benz vans. The new urban delivery van can therefore be justly called the “little brother” of the Sprinter and Vito, to which it is in no way inferior. As is the case with every Mercedes-Benz vehicle, safety plays a big role in the new van, all variants of which come with ESP as standard.

New markets for Mercedes-Benz vans

Mercedes-Benz has greatly expanded its vans business in recent years. In line with the slogan of “Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global,” the brand is not only manufacturing vans in Düsseldorf (Sprinters), Ludwigsfelde (Sprinters and Varios), and Vitoria, Spain (Vitos), but also in the U.S., Argentina, and China.

It is also planning to strengthen its presence in the Russian market through a partnership with GAZ, the leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles in Russia. Over the medium-term, the GAZ factory near Nizhny Novgorod will produce 25,000 Sprinters each year, and do so strictly according to Mercedes-Benz’ quality standards.

Mercedes-Benz already is the undisputed market leader for mid-size and large vans in Western Europe.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Record Sales From the Start: Mercedes-Benz Posts New All-Time High in January

2012-02-04T15:30:00.000+02:00

Mercedes-Benz has started 2012 with record sales for the month of January. The brand sold a total of 86,921 units worldwide, thus exceeding the previous year’s record by another 5.1%. Sales in the Mercedes-Benz Cars division also reached a new high in January by handing over 94,526 passenger cars of the Mercedes-Benz, smart and Maybach brands to customers (+5.8%).

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars: “We continued the positive development from the record year 2011 in January and started successfully into the new year. We intend to maintain this pace over the coming months and are expecting substantial sales growth in the first quarter. The new B-Class in particular is getting an excellent response from customers. The imminent production start-up in Kecskemét means that we will have even more vehicles at our disposal, which will allow us to even better accommodate the high demand.”

In addition to the B-Class, in 2012, the company is expecting further tailwind among others from the sustained high demand in the C-Class segment, continued growth in SUV sales and the launch of the new A-Class and the CLS Shooting Brake.
Dr. Schmidt continued, “This year, we want to exceed our record sales from 2011 and once again plan to achieve the best year in the company’s history.”

In the USA Mercedes-Benz achieved a very strong start into the year with record sales in January. With 20,306 units sold, sales increased by 23.8%. Thus, Mercedes-Benz was the most successful premium brand in January in the U.S. The brand also enjoyed a very positive performance in Canada, where it was the market leader in the premium segment in January. After record sales in the full year 2011, deliveries in January reached a new monthly high with1,773 units (+26.5%). Mercedes-Benz repeated this success in Mexico (+22.4%) and the entire NAFTA region, where the brand increased its sales by 24.0% in January to 22,660 units.

Mercedes-Benz also started with an excellent performance into the new year in its home market. With brand sales of 12,627 vehicles, corresponding a growth of 14.0%, Mercedes-Benz underlined its position as the strongest premium brand in Germany as it did in 2011 as a whole. This development was driven in particular by the high demand for the new B-Class, which led its segment in the new vehicle registration statistics of Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) in January. At 21,578 units, Mercedes-Benz’ sales in Western Europe (excluding Germany) were over previous year’s level (+1.4%).

Due to the excellent sales performance in December 2011 as well as the capacity expansion at BBAC and the associated production downtime, in China some models were just partially available in January. Overall sales (incl. Hong Kong) totaled 14,463 units (-7.0%). As in full-year 2011, Mercedes-Benz generated record sales in the growth markets Russia (+41.7%) and India (+17.0%).

The S-Class sedan was the best-selling vehicle in its segment in 2011. In January, the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz brand developed excellently, too. A total of 5,302 units (+0.4%) were delivered to customers. Also a very positive start to the year saw the C-Class sedan. With 18,235 units sold, deliveries were up 4.3% compared to the first month of the previous year. On the road to success is also the C-Class estate, whose sales in January rose by 10.8%.

The new B-Class also enjoyed a strong January with sales rising by 7.8%. The company expects to see a further sales boost over the coming months with the first of a total of five new compact models. From the second quarter, the B-Class will be fully available in other markets as a result of the additional production in Kecskemét.

Among the SUVs, the new M-Class (+15.2%), the G-Class (+17.1%), and the GL-Class (+9.6%) enjoyed especially positive development. There was even more reason for the new M-Class to celebrate at the start of the year: It was chosen best in its category within the “Best Cars of 2012” awards voted by readers of the German car magazine “auto, motor und sport”. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class took second place.

The smart fortwo started the year with a brilliant increase in its January sales by 13.7% to a total of 7,605 vehicles. Once again, the two-seater was particularly successful in China (incl. Hong Kong), where 1,464 vehicles were handed over to customers. Sales in the U.S. also developed very positively, rising by 38.5% compared to the same period of the previous year. The smart fortwo also enjoyed increased demand in the UK (+52.8%), Spain (+47.4%), and Mexico (+9.0%). In 2012, the smart will get further positive momentum from two highlights: the smart ebike and the third generation of the smart fortwo electric drive.

Mercedes-Benz Cars: Sales at a Glance

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Public transport in Istanbul shifts into a higher gear with a major order for 221 Mercedes-Benz city buses

2012-02-04T15:14:00.001+02:00

The brand with the star shines: A new major order for 221 Mercedes-Benz Conecto articulated buses has been placed by the public transportation provider IETT to update its fleet of city buses in the metropolis on the Bosphorus. The new order allows Daimler subsidiary Mercedes-Benz Türk to strengthen its partnership of over forty years with IETT, more than 50 percent of whose vehicles are Mercedes-Benz products. With its fleet of around 3,000 city buses, IETT is dedicated to providing reliable and environ-mentally friendly passenger transport in the metropolis, Istanbul. IETT, which was established in 1871, operates light rail systems, subways, regular-service buses, and utilizes the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) mobility concept.

Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses, underscores the importance of the three-figured order for the Daimler subsidiary in Turkey, “This latest major order is further testimony to Daimler Buses' dynamic growth in Turkey and thereby contributes to the strengthening of our global presence.” Schick also reiterates Daimler Buses’ claim to leadership, “Every day, we are working diligently to expand our leadership position in the bus sector, and we are delighted by what we have achieved to date.”

At the ceremony for the signing of the contract by Wolf-Dieter Kurz, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Türk, and Hayri Baracli, Managing Director of IETT, the long-standing Daimler customer commented about the follow-up order, “With a tradition of more than 140 years, IETT is generating new momentum for the creation of a modern Istanbul. We are investing in an updated fleet consisting primarily of Mercedes-Benz city buses for public passenger transport in Istanbul. This way, we are making a significant contribution to comfortable transportation in Istanbul.” IETT operates Mercedes-Benz Conecto city buses for regular service operations. For the urban mobility concept Bus Rapid Transit, IETT uses the high-capacity articulated bus Mercedes-Benz CapaCity. By utilizing lanes separate from private transport, BRT is noticeably assisting the relief of city traffic.

The 221 Mercedes-Benz Conecto articulated buses are being produced at the Mercedes-Benz bus plant in Hosdere and will be delivered to the customer until September 2012. The 18-meter low-floor bus can carry up to 160 passengers. The low height of the entrances ensures that passengers can get on and off the bus quickly. The Mercedes-Benz Conecto meets the EU’s environmental standard Euro V with its BlueTec diesel technology, which reduces pollutant and particulate emissions.

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.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Impressive Mercedes-Benz Atego 917 covers one million kilometres of mountain driving

2012-02-04T14:57:00.000+02:00

A million kilometres, accumulated in short-radius distribution work on Austria's Alpine roads – no problem at all for the Mercedes-Benz Atego 917, as our example from the company BS Transport in the Austrian village of Tristach shows. Still with its original engine and never having needed repairs other than as required during regular servicing and maintenance, this truck offers a fine example of the model's economy and longevity.

Its journeys have taken BS Transport's Atego over mountain passes at an altitude of 1800 metres above sea level and along narrow and very steep country roads into the valleys. The company uses the Atego 917 on two daily shifts, five days a week, to deliver goods and parcels for the Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB). Two shifts means 16 hours of driving on high mountain and pass roads and rough gravel tracks to reach sometimes remote communities, covering distances of up to 600 kilometres a day.

The OM 904 LA has proved its mettle in the mountains

The never less than perfectly functioning OM 904 LA engine, with charge air cooling, 4.2-litre displacement and an output of 125 kW (170 hp), has proved its worth over the years. "To this day, it has never suffered an engine failure or needed any major repairs at all", company proprietor Hannes Bundschuh tells us, while his wife Christa, who as managing director looks after the company's finances, confirms this. She is extremely satisfied with the low lifecycle costs of the Atego. "Regular engine oil and air filter changes every 60,000 kilometres – and I'm a real stickler about seeing that these are done - are our very simple secret" confirms company boss Bundschuh.

Over the course of his not inconsiderable experience with many different makes of vehicle, Hannes Bundschuh, who himself trained as a motor vehicle technician at the authorised Mercedes-Benz workshop of Dipl.-Ing. Hans Teissl & Sohn in Lienz, has developed a firm preference for the Atego. He and his brother have been running their freight forwarding company for 25 years now. In his expert opinion: "I can't imagine using any other truck than the Atego for this sort of work. For a comparatively small forwarding agent like us, with just 11 vehicles in total, a vehicle breakdown involving major engine damage could decide over the company's continuing existence." This no-nonsense attitude derives from the fact that the previous vehicle, a Mercedes-Benz LN 817, similarly covered well over a million kilometres, while an Atego 815 from 2004, which is also in daily operation, is already approaching the one million kilometre milestone as well.

Economically speaking, especially in terms of transit traffic through Austria, the East Tyrol region is not exactly blessed with locational advantages. The Felbertauern route, which takes less than one percent of the total goods traffic in the Alpine region, plays only a marginal role and can in no way be compared with major routes such as the Brenner (22 % of total goods traffic), Fréjus (15 %) and Gotthard (14 %). This makes the collaboration with the Austrian Federal Railways all the more important for Hannes Bundschuh. Any general goods arriving at Lienz railway station will be taken over for delivery throughout the surrounding area by BS Transport. Two other major customers who contract out their long-distance transport requirements to BS Transport are Liebherr, which produces its range of cooling appliances in Lienz, and the Karlsruhe-based electrical appliance manufacturer E.G.O., which has a subsidiary at Sillian, a village located in the upper reaches of the River Drau, close to the border with Italy.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

5,000th second generation Tourismo delivered to Omnibus Hauser

2012-02-04T14:49:00.000+02:00

No other Mercedes-Benz coach has achieved sales figures approaching those of the permanently best-selling O303 and certainly none has been as successful in the medium price segment. Its name says it all: we're talking here of the Mercedes-Benz Tourismo. Some 17,500 vehicles have been sold since the start of the O350 series in 1994. The introduction of the second generation in 2006 ushered in a new era for this economical coach. Since then, exactly 5,000 of these best-selling vehicles have been delivered. The milestone vehicle, a Tourismo M, formally left the Mannheim plant on 2 February 2012. At a press conference held to mark the event, Roman Biondi, brand spokesman for Mercedes-Benz buses and coaches at EvoBus GmbH, presented the symbolic key to the Keller family. "This vehicle makes it clear why the Tourismo design is so successful", said Roman Biondi at the presentation. "It gains top marks with its attractive price-performance ratio without looking like an anonymous mass-produced vehicle. Thanks to the wide range of equipment options available, it remains genuinely individual and full of character."

An economical all-rounder

The Tourismo owes its success to a consistent focus on producing a particularly economical and safe coach. Its contemporary styling, typical of the brand, and especially the Mercedes-Benz quality is appreciated by customers such as Hauser-Reisen. For Hauser, the Tourismo fully reflects the typical Mercedes-Benz brand values. "We can fit out the Tourismo to suit our individual requirements and operating needs. Whether it's as an all-round coach for excursions and short trips or as a luxuriously equipped 5-star coach for demanding long-distance travel, our Tourismo is always professionally and smartly turned out. Drivers, tour guides and passengers are all of the same opinion", said Hans Keller, touching on Hauser's own concept for the interior equipment of its Tourismo fleet.

Fittings to satisfy sophisticated demands

Hauser has adapted the Tourismo M bearing the serial number 5,000 to suit the range of tours it offers. The vehicle's interior is dominated by the high-quality seating with 5-star space between seats. 42 Travel Star Xtra (TSX), Luxline upholstered seats create a luxurious and generously-proportioned ambience, re-affirmed by the fully-integrated, high-grade galley occupying the entire rear area. In addition to overhead and floor-level cupboards and two refrigerators, each of 120 litre capacity, the galley also contains a fan oven for ready meals, pretzels and rolls, a microwave, a hot water boiler, a sink, an instant hot water geyser, a hotplate and an espresso and large coffee machine. Velour carpeting covers the entire floor area including below the passenger seats.

On-board entertainment is provided by a radio and video system, including CD/DVD player, plus a selectable navigation display and iPod interface. This allows passengers to receive up-to-date news from faraway Germany on two 19-inch TFT screens. A powerful 39 kW roof-mounted air-conditioning system plus additional driver's station air-conditioning make the Tourismo the ideal vehicle for travel in southern climes. The on-board toilet is optionally available as either a water-flushed or chemically-flushed version proving that Hauser's Tourismo can even operate in minus temperatures when the summer season is over.

Powerful, environmentally-friendly drive system

Hauser-Reisen has opted for the powerful OM 457 LA series 12 litre six-cylinder in-line turbodiesel engine capable of generating 315 kW (428 bhp). Producing maximum torque of 2,100 Nm, the engine meets the environmentally-friendly EEV exhaust emissions standard without particulate filter.

Power is transmitted to the familiar, well-proven Mercedes Benz HO6 hypoid drive axle via the Mercedes GO 240-8 PowerShift automated eight-speed transmission. It is the only specially designed coach transmission in its power category and contributes significantly to reducing fuel consumption. The transmission's eight graduated gears easily cope with different load requirements, from the varied topography experienced on intercity routes to even-surfaced, long-distance motorway journeys. The transmission ensures consistently precise, smooth and rapid gearshifting.

Hauser-Reisen

Based in the South German town of Rottweil, Hauser-Reisen is focused entirely on travel and transport. What began as a bus company pure and simple in 1948 has now grown into a group of companies including a travel agency, an advertising agency and a classic local public transport company. However, the coach side of the business remains particularly important. Hauser-Reisen operates 29 Mercedes-Benz coaches: 13 Tourismos and 16 Citaros. Quality, more than anything else, underpins the coach operation's business strategy. Passengers are looked after by escorts who accompany every coach tour. Drivers receive excellent training and are justifiably referred to as coach chauffeurs. Every season, over 20,000 passengers take up one of the tours on offer. In addition to coach tours to Morocco, Turkey, Greece and northern Spain, Hauser also operates tours to more northerly destinations such as Ireland, England, Scotland, Leningrad and the North Cape. The Mercedes-Benz Tourismo's design has proven to be the ideal match for Hauser-Reisen's varied tour program. As such, this 5,000th coach will be seen on the road throughout the length and breadth of Europe.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Winfried Hassemer to be a neutral intermediary at Daimler

2012-02-04T14:44:00.000+02:00

Daimler has appointed Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Winfried Hassemer as an independent neutral intermediary (ombudsman) for Germany. He took up this position on February 1, 2012 and will receive information on any serious breaches of rules and regulations. “With the neutral intermediary we are expanding the possibilities for external and internal whistleblowers to contact us confidentially and if desired also anonymously, and to report any breaches of rules and regulations,” stated Dr. Christine Hohmann-Dennhardt, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG for Integrity and Legal Affairs. “With Winfried Hassemer, we have gained an extremely well-qualified person for this position. His career as an academic, head of an authority of a federal state, judge and lawyer demonstrates his immense experience and personal integrity.”

Winfried Hassemer, born on February 17, 1940 in Gau-Algesheim, is active as a defense lawyer with the law firm HammPartner. From 1996 until 2008, he was a judge of the Federal Constitutional Court; from April 2002, he was Vice President of the Court. From 1991 until 1996, he was Commissioner for Data Protection in the federal state of Hesse.

Daimler has been steadily developing its compliance program since 2006. The appointment of an independent neutral intermediary is an additional measure and a supplement to the existing whistleblower system. Whistleblower systems are a recognized instrument for identifying violations of regulations. Daimler has had a whistleblower system since 2003.

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Early Reveal: New Mercedes-Benz A-Class uncovered during photo shootout

2012-02-02T09:18:00.001+02:00

It has already been confirmed that the all new generation A-Class is scheduled for the official debut in March, at the Geneva Motor Show. Right at this time, Mercedes-Benz are busy with doing the neccesary press materials suitable for the launch. One of the favourite locations, frequently used in this situations, is the Lanzarote island, located in the Canary Archipelago near Spain. During a photo shootout, a group of bikers from OGOTT went past the film crew and thanks to the fact one of them had a versatile HD camera mounted on his bicycle that was recording action, he managed to capture the first glimpse of a fully uncovered series A-Class model. Even though no one was expecting, the W 176 visually resembles the Concept A-Class quite a lot. The powerful and stylish front fascia, completed by the LED headlamps, the AMG sports package and the hi-tech radiator grille with perforated effects, will certainly represent the centrepoint of attraction.

Check out the entire video after the break!

Credits: http://www.youtube.com/user/OGOTTnl

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

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.

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 .

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.

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.

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.

"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.

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.

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.”

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.

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.

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.