Mercedes-Benz-Blog

Paddy Lowe to join MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS on 3 June

2013-05-20T15:31:00.000+03:00

Agreement has been reached between MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS and Vodafone McLaren Mercedes for Paddy Lowe to join the team on 3 June.

Paddy will strengthen MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS in the role of Executive Director (Technical) and will work closely with Team Principal, Ross Brawn; Executive Director (Business), Toto Wolff; and the team’s senior technical management. As Team Principal, Ross Brawn will retain overall responsibility for technical and sporting matters.

Paddy Lowe commented: “I am excited to become part of a highly talented and capable technical organisation. The team has already produced probably the fastest car of the 2013 season while the technical challenges of the new regulations for 2014 will give us the opportunity to maximise the synergies available to a works manufacturer. That is a challenge I am relishing. I have worked closely with Mercedes-Benz for almost 20 years and deeply admire the company’s phenomenal commitment to Formula One. I look forward to much success together in the years ahead.”

Team Principal Ross Brawn commented: “I am delighted to welcome Paddy to the team and to begin working together. He has an excellent record of success in the sport and would be an asset to any of our rivals in the pit lane. It is no secret that every team is facing a significant balancing act between this year and next. But it is perhaps less obvious that we will also see major changes for the 2015 and 2016 seasons, as development progresses with the new generation of car design and Power Unit. To deliver in these circumstances, a successful team needs strength in depth. Paddy’s arrival will further strengthen our organisation and puts us in a strong position for the future.”

~ Official photo and details courtesy of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

F1 Gossip: Mercedes-Benz angry about McLaren switching to Honda from 2015

2013-05-20T15:08:00.001+03:00

For more than 17 years, McLaren and Mercedes-Benz have been almost a single brand in Formula 1. By far one of the most successful technical partnerships in the world of motorsport, the McLaren-Mercedes association enjoyed both victorious and challenging times through its existence.

Several constructors' titles during the long-term agreement and three driver championship prizes with Mika Häkkinen in 1998 and 1999 and Lewis Hamilton in 2008 are among the outstanding milestones of the cooperation between McLaren and Mercedes-Benz.

2014 will be the final year with McLaren-Mercedes on the starting grid, because after 19 years with the Star brand, the Woking-based team decided to go for a new technical partnership with Honda thus reuniting the former glory McLaren-Honda where F1 stars such as Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost made history during the late 80s and early 90s.

The MP4-29 single-seater programmed for next year will be the last McLaren to receive Mercedes-Benz' brand new 1.6-litre V6 turbo engine producing 750 hp (find out more details HERE & HERE), along with the ancillary devices: the transmission and the ERS unit (Energy Recovery System).

Following the official announcement made by Vodafone McLaren Mercedes regarding its future cooperation with Japanese constructor, executives from Mercedes-Benz and and experts from the Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains engine facility in Brixworth, UK, have started fearing about a possible intellectual property breach during the next season from McLaren which would affect the German brand and technically benefit Honda.

In an interview to Speed Week, Toto Wolff, head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, is quoted stating: “It is of course not an ideal situation, if a customer goes away, especially when it's someone like McLaren, which is as long driven Mercedes engines and celebrated great successes with us. This is of course unpleasant, but that's a decision that has taken so the team, and we look forward principle that an additional competitor comes into the F1. Honda is a top brand and as the saying goes: competition is good for business.”

Moreover, asked on the possibility other teams could switch to Honda power, he adds: “No, I think there is anyway only a limited ability to deliver customer teams. For us, this is somewhere between three and four teams, and we are confident that we will launch in the coming years, with at least three teams in Formula 1.”

So, our first speculation regarding the future Telmex McLaren Honda F1 Team have proven to be right, after this announcement and the special branding of the McLaren cars in Spain, who carried the logo of Claro (a sub-brand of Telmex, a telecommunication company controlled by Mexican tycoon Carlos Slim who also financially supports Checo's activity in Formula 1) on their rear wing during Sunday's race.

As an important note, we will continue our updates on McLaren up to the end of the 2014 season, when the current partnership with Mercedes-Benz comes to an end. Hopefully, someday in the future, the two constructors will once again reunite their forces for a long-term alliance.

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

McLaren-Honda: reuniting one of the greatest partnerships in Formula 1 history

2013-05-20T14:29:00.001+03:00

McLaren is delighted to confirm that it will form a new multi-year Formula 1 technology partnership with Honda. From the start of the 2015 season, McLaren's Formula 1 cars will race using Honda engines and energy recovery systems, renewing an association that became one of the most successful and powerful in Formula 1 history during the 1980s and ’90s.

This announcement not only heralds Honda’s decision to take on the challenge of Formula 1 after a six-season absence, but also signals the reappearance of Honda turbo power in grand prix racing. Honda broke new ground in the 1980s by creating a turbocharged engine that was unparalleled in both its output and its efficiency. Those same challenges have once again brought the Japanese manufacturer back to Formula 1 as grand prix racing adapts to the introduction of an all-new 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 formula from next year.

Honda will develop its engines at its R&D facility in Tochigi, Japan, where it has already begun development of its all-new 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 Formula 1 engine.

Today’s announcement further emphasises McLaren’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic, successful and attractive partners for major multi-national corporations.

Since its Formula 1 debut at the 1966 Monaco Grand Prix, McLaren has won an equal number of grands prix (182) as Ferrari – and more than any other Formula 1 team. McLaren has also won the Le Mans 24 Hours race at its first attempt, has taken three Indianapolis 500 victories, and has won a record 43 races in North America’s prestigious Can-Am sportscar series.

Bruce McLaren Motor Racing Ltd was founded in 1963. In McLaren's 50th anniversary year, it is a mark of the depth of trust and respect the company enjoys with its many partners that it has within the past few months been able to confirm the extensions of record-breaking relationships with the likes of Hugo Boss (32 years continuous sponsorship), TAG Heuer (28 years) and Kenwood (23 years) – three brands that shared in the glory of the first successful McLaren-Honda partnership between 1988 and ’92.

In recent decades, McLaren has grown to become an internationally recognised, highly innovative group of high-technology companies, its expertise ranging from high-performance simulation to electronic systems to materials science. That breadth of intelligence makes McLaren a particularly attractive partner for Honda, and will enable the two world-class engineering companies to form a highly impactful technology partnership.

Moreover, the McLaren-Honda partnership rekindles memories of one of the most dominant partnerships in motorsport history: between 1988 and ’92 McLaren and Honda won eight world championships and 44 grands prix, took 53 pole positions and set 30 fastest laps – all in just 80 grands prix.

In 1988, the partnership created arguably the single most successful Formula 1 car of all time: the all-conquering McLaren-Honda MP4/4, which was driven to victory by Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost in an amazing 15 of the season’s 16 grands prix.

It is against that backdrop that McLaren and Honda now commit to building afresh the strongest possible partnership in Formula 1.

Martin Whitmarsh, CEO, McLaren Group, said:
“It’s fantastic news for everyone who loves Formula 1 to be able to welcome Honda back to Formula 1. Together, we’re about to embark on a new and extremely exciting chapter in McLaren’s history.

“Like McLaren, Honda is a company with motor racing woven into the fabric of its heritage. We’re proud and thrilled to be joining forces once more to take on the world in Formula 1. Whilst both companies are fully aware that we’re embarking on a very demanding journey together, we’re hugely committed to the success of the partnership, and we'll spend the next 18 months working together to ensure that we’re fully established and competitive ahead of our first grand prix together in 2015.

“The names of McLaren and Honda are synonymous with success in Formula 1, and, for everyone who works for both companies, the weight of our past achievements together lies heavily on our shoulders. But it’s a mark of the ambition and resolve we both share that we want once again to take McLaren-Honda to the very pinnacle of Formula 1 success. Together we have a great legacy – and we’re utterly committed to maintaining it.

“Honda has built a reputation as a worldwide engineering giant, but its roots, its specialism and its passion lie in the advancement of the internal combustion engine. Throughout its history, Honda has pioneered engine technology in road cars, motorcycles and all-terrain vehicles. Indeed, its experience as a manufacturer of turbocharged engines is unequalled by any other car manufacturer currently competing in Formula 1.

“McLaren and Honda share an unswerving commitment to high-technology, to innovation and to performance. Together we’ll form a lasting partnership that will deliver success on the track, backed up by world-leading R&D and engineering intelligence.

“Finally, it’s appropriate to recognise that until the end of 2014 we’ll maintain a full commitment to our existing and long-standing partner, Mercedes-Benz, for which we retain the utmost respect and with whom we intend to continue to work diligently and professionally. McLaren-Mercedes has so far won an incredible 78 grands prix and four world championships. We aim to cap our long-standing partnership with the same ambition and resolve with which we began it: namely, to keep winning.”

Takanobu Ito, President and CEO of Honda Motor Co. Ltd. said:
“Ever since its establishment, Honda has been a company which grows by taking on challenges in racing. Honda has a long history of advancing our technologies and nurturing our people by participating in the world’s most prestigious automobile racing series. The new F1 regulations with their significant environmental focus will inspire even greater development of our own advanced technologies and this is central to our participation in F1.

“We have the greatest respect for the FIA’s decision to introduce these new regulations that are both highly challenging but also attractive to manufacturers that pursue environmental technologies and to Formula One Group, which has developed F1 into a high value, top car racing category supported by enthusiastic fans.

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Mr Jean Todt, the President of FIA and to Mr Bernie Ecclestone, the CEO of Formula One Group who showed great understanding and cooperation to help realize our participation in F1 racing.

“The corporate slogan of Honda is “The Power of Dreams”. This slogan represents our strong desire to pursue and realize our dreams together with our customers and fans.

“Together with McLaren, one of the most distinguished F1 constructors, Honda will mark a new beginning in our challenges in F1.”

2009 world champion Jenson Button said:
“I’ve already enjoyed a long and successful working relationship with Honda. I first raced a Formula 1 car powered by a Honda engine in 2003, and I was a works Honda Formula 1 driver between 2006 and ’08, winning my first grand prix in Hungary in 2006 in a Honda Formula 1 car, so I know exactly how passionate Honda is about motorsport, and Formula 1 in particular.

“The challenge set by Formula 1’s new technical regulations provides Honda with the perfect opportunity to return to the pinnacle of motorsport. Honda is one of the most experienced and accomplished builders of turbocharged engines anywhere in the world, has always treated Formula 1 as a platform for world-beating technical innovation, and will surely relish the opportunity once again to showcase on a global sporting stage its engine technicians’ unparalleled engineering prowess.

“Equally, I grew up watching McLaren-Honda Formula 1 cars racing and winning around the world – they wrote their own glorious chapter of Formula 1 history, in fact. Even now, picturing those unmistakable red-and-white cars evokes vivid memories of some of the most dramatic and exciting motor racing the world has ever seen.

“McLaren-Honda: I know how much passion, success and pride are encapsulated within just those two words. And that's why I’m so thrilled and excited about what’s not only a fantastic opportunity for the team, but also a great development for Formula 1 fans and the sport as a whole.”

Sergio Perez said:
“I was born in 1990 – the year Ayrton Senna won the second of his three world championships driving for McLaren-Honda – and I’ve grown up always knowing just how much that era lives on in the hearts and minds of motorsport fans around the world.

“Of course, Ayrton is my hero, as he’s a hero to many millions of people living in Central America and South America. So today’s announcement not only rekindles all the fantastic memories of that successful era, but it also starts a new age – which can be even more exciting.

“Honda is one of Formula 1’s greatest ever engine manufacturers. It has had so much success in motorsport, and I believe the time is now right for Honda to be returning to Formula 1.

"But I’d go farther than that. I believe McLaren-Honda was one of the greatest partnerships in world sport, in fact, and everyone in the whole of Formula 1 hugely respects that legacy. That’s why everyone at McLaren and at Honda is so determined to create an era of world championship domination in Formula 1 for a second time.

“As McLaren celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, this announcement looks far into the future. It’s history in the making.”

Jean Todt, President, FIA, said:
"I am very happy to hear about Honda’s important decision to return to Formula 1 with McLaren from 2015.

“The introduction of the new powertrain next year, in the form of a 1.6-litre V6 engine with direct injection and energy recovery, is a very exciting challenge and demonstrates a vision for the future of the sport.

“I am sure that Honda will become a strong contender in years to come.”

Bernie Ecclestone, CEO, Formula One Group, said:
“It is a great pleasure to see Honda back in Formula 1. Their engine technology and passion for motorsport make them a natural Formula 1 contender.”

At a glance, the McLaren-Honda partnership in numbers:

- 5 years of partnership – 1988 to '92
- 80 grands prix starts
- 53 pole positions – a 66 per cent strike rate
- 44 victories – a 55 per cent win rate
- 30 fastest laps – 10 in 1988 alone
- 8 world championships – drivers’ titles for Ayrton Senna (1988, 1990, 1991) and Alain Prost (1989), and constructors’ titles in 1988, 1989, 1990 and 1991
- 3 race-winning engine configurations – 1.5-litre turbo V6, 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V10, 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V12

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

SPY: The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe (C 217) - latest scoops from Germany

2013-05-20T13:55:00.003+03:00

The new S-Class Coupe arrives on the market during summer of 2014 to replace the current C 216 CL-Class. The two-door luxury model will sport a more dynamic and progressive styling compared to the outgoing generation, in addition to becoming even more premium, just like the new S-Class (W/V 222) did.

Street development of the C 217 model series began towards the end of summer 2012, so now the prototypes are quickly approaching the mid-term of the testing program. Entering the final experimental phase (FEP) means we will be able to see more of today's heavily cladded body shape and details. Lately, the C 217 test vehicles have been spotted in Germany and most precisely in Stuttgart, at company's R&D headquarters.

The headlights, featuring LED technology and appealing inner graphics that look impressive at night, will grow in size to also accomodate the radars for the MAGIC BODY CONTROL, also to be transferred from the new S-Class alongside further technical upgrades such as the new MRA rear-driven platform and the Intelligent Drive measures. The centerpiece of the new front end will definitely be the larger and longer radiator grille displaying a single louvre and, of course, the Mercedes-Benz star logo in the middle.

The side profile will display a clean design, with just a few sculptural lines to enhance the elegance of the new S-Class Coupe. The window line will be placed at a higher level, given the muscular shoulders emphasized by the rear wheel arches, and will also feature a slight kink. The door-mounted, indicator-equipped intelligent mirrors will further distinguish the C 217 in the crowd.

Moving backwards, the new LED tail lamps will become thinner and horizontally oriented, pointing to the center-placed star on the boot lid, which also loses the licence plate space that is now moving to the rear bumper - a first for a Mercedes-Benz model. As for the C 216, the new S-Class Coupe will also have a different exhaust depending on the version: the S 500 Coupe with traditional trapezoidal pipes and the S 600 Coupe (caught in these scoops) with exhausts split into half to create a quad design effect.

On the inside, the new S-Class Coupe will sport the sci-fi dashboard premiered on the W/V 222 with its two giant LED screens. Expect a long list of refined appointments just like in the case of the Limousine: hot-stone massage function, illuminated dashboard, AIR BALANCE CONTROL, rear-seat entertainment, Burmester high-end audio system, wood or metal for trimming the dashboard and door panels, as well as leather upholstery in various tones and textures, and even more. Full connectivity will be ensured by the new generation of the internet-based COMAND Online infotainment system, as well as the supplementary touchpad for gesture operating and the Head Up Display for a more convenient windshield display of the main indicators.

The engine lineup will consist of petrol-only units. For all the variants, the new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission will be standard equipment and will take care to send the power towards the rear or to all the wheels (for the 4MATIC model). At the start of sales, Mercedes-Benz will offer at least two variants: the S 500 Coupe with a 4.7 BlueDIRECT V8 powerplant producing 455 hp and the range-topping S 600 sporting a newly-developed, AMG-engineered twinturbocharged V12 engine rated at near 550 hp. Later on, the portfolio will be extended with the addition of the new S 63 AMG Coupe and S 65 AMG Coupe. The first will be offered in both standard version (with 571 hp from the 5.5-litre V8 BITURBO) and S-Model with Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive traction (with 585 hp). The 12-cylinder high-performance S-Class Coupe will remain committed to the rear-wheel-drive configuration, with the engine delivering a massive 650 hp.

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

DTM Brands Hatch 2013: Sunday's Race Report - Robert Wickens claims maiden podium on P3 for Mercedes-Benz

2013-05-20T12:41:00.003+03:00

Robert Wickens (STIHL Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) finished third in the second race of the season at the historic Brands Hatch circuit in Kent. The Mercedes-Benz Junior Team member thus claimed his maiden podium after contesting 13 races in the world’s most popular touring car series. Over the course of the 98 race laps, the Canadian advanced ten places up the field after starting from 13th on the grid. He moved up from fourth to third in a dramatic final twist after fellow Mercedes-Benz driver Gary Paffett (EURONICS Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) was hit with a late penalty.

The Englishman, competing in his home race, took the chequered flag in third position but was subsequently handed a five-second time penalty for having exceeded the speed limit in a sector where the yellow flags were out for the removal of Augusto Farfus’s car from the track. Paffett not only had to yield his podium spot to Wickens but also fell back to sixth.

After finishing third in the opening race at Hockenheim, Christian Vietoris (DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) placed eighth to finish in the points for the second time this season. DTM rookie Pascal Wehrlein (DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) in tenth position secured his first point in the DTM in his second DTM race. Mercedes-Juniors Roberto Merhi (THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) and Daniel Juncadella (stern Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) came home in positions 16 and 20 respectively.

Overall standings: Audi driver Mike Rockenfeller won the race at Brands Hatch and now leads the drivers' standings with 29 points. Gary Paffett (20 points) and Christian Vietoris (19 points) occupy positions four and five respectively. In the team standings, the team of STIHL/AMG Mercedes with Vietoris and Robert Wickens is in third place on 32 points after securing two podium finishes in two races. Mercedes-Benz is in second place in the DTM manufacturers' standings with 56 points.

VIP at Mercedes-Benz: 21,000 spectators attended the second race weekend of the 2013 DTM season at Brands Hatch - among them British Formula 1 stars Jenson Button (Vodafone McLaren Mercedes) and Paul Di Resta (Sahara Force India Mercedes), whose duties included taking other guests for rides around the circuit in a Mercedes-Benz DTM racing taxi.

The next race: The third round of the 2013 DTM season takes place from 1st to 2nd June at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg. This year marks the sixth time that the Austrian circuit will host the world’s most popular touring car series.

Comments after the Race

Robert Wickens (24, Canada, STIHL Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): Third place
„This is my first podium in the DTM and, what’s more, it comes after starting from 13th on the grid at Brands Hatch where overtaking is notoriously difficult. I certainly wasn’t counting on that before the race. My target was just to finish in the points. To make that happen, I knew I would have to get off to a good start and overtake the drivers on the prime tyres. This strategy worked well. I was pleasantly surprised by my race pace and I was even able to go past drivers on options when I was on primes. The middle stint went perfectly for me. I had two excellent pit stops and was able to control my part of the race right through to the end. Afterwards, I was in the middle of an interview when I was told to hurry along to the podium. So after a physically draining 98-lap race, I had to run the full length of the pit lane to the podium ceremony. But it was well worthwhile. It was a great feeling to taste champagne for the first time in my DTM career.“

Gary Paffett (32, England, EURONICS Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): Sixth place
„I just don’t understand this penalty. I came off the accelerator when the yellow flags were out, but how am I expected to lose half a second inside ten seconds? In a championship race as tight as the DTM, every last point counts. I hope that the points we lost today because of this penalty don’t make all the difference at the end of the season. Our race pace and strategy were very good and were enough to get us onto the podium here through our own efforts. Let’s hope we can build on that in the next race at Spielberg.“

Christian Vietoris (24, Germany, DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): Eighth place
„Eighth place is not the result I had hoped for. I had expected more from the race weekend at Brands Hatch after my podium in Hockenheim. My car was really good today, and more would have been possible but for a mistake in qualifying. Unfortunately, Brands Hatch is not a circuit where overtaking is easy, but the bottom line is that I made the best of the situation and even secured some points.“

Pascal Wehrlein (18, Germany, DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): Tenth place
„Securing my first championship point in the DTM in my second race is a decent result, especially when you consider how difficult overtaking is on this track. I moved up ten positions during the race and secured one point – that's not bad going at Brands Hatch. Of course, it would have been better to have started further up on the grid, but this was a good result for me after a tricky qualifying session.“

Roberto Merhi (22, Spain, THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): 16th place
„That was an action-packed race that ended for me, unfortunately, when I received a drive-through penalty. So, despite the car’s good pace, it was impossible to do better than P16. All in all, my weekend was disappointing, and I want to draw a line under it as quickly as possible. In two weeks’ time, we’re off to Spielberg, where I’ll go all-out on the offensive again.“

Daniel Juncadella (22, Spain, stern Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): 20th place
„Unfortunately, that was one of those races that it’s best to forget. From Lap 1 onwards, I was having problems with the car – it felt as if I was driving on ice. Really crazy! It may have been caused by contact on the first corner – we’ll have to analyse the reason why. Obviously, I can’t feel satisfied with 20th position. We’ve had a difficult weekend here, and I just hope that things go better for us in Austria.“

Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport:
„Overnight, it’s as if a minor miracle has taken place – Sunday certainly turned out better for us than Saturday. I would like to see the same thing happen in next weekend’s Formula 1 race, because the situation was the exact opposite on our last outing. This is a good result from a DTM perspective, with all three manufacturers being represented on the podium. Mike Rockenfeller and Audi deserved their victory today, and BMW were also strong this weekend. After the disappointment of qualifying on Saturday, I am satisfied with having four of our cars finish in the Top Ten. Gary powered through from eleventh on the grid, and once again our juniors demonstrated their talent, in particular Robert Wickens who claimed his first ever DTM podium with a fantastic performance. But credit also to Pascal Wehrlein who scored his first point and to Christian Vietoris who drove an excellent race. This is a venue where fortune favours the brave, and today luck was on our side. On a track like this, you need a bit of luck occasionally.“

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

PREVIEW: Next generation C-Class to be lighter, more spacious, more powerful and more intelligent

2013-05-19T15:25:00.004+03:00

The 205 generation C-Class enters the scene next year during spring following the official premiere scheduled for NAIAS Detroit 2014. Planned to be manfuactured in an integrated production network consisting of the Bremen plant (Germany), Tuscaloosa (Alabama), East London (South Africa) and Beijing (China), the new Mercedes-Benz mid-sized premium models will substantially grow in size, in addition to weighing less and offering more in terms of efficiency, driving pleasure and automotive intelligence.

The introduction of the CLA just beneath the current C-Class series is determining a substantial upscale movement of the next generation of the mid-sized portfolio of models. The Limousine (W 205) will be unveiled in January next year at Detroit and will be followed in the course of the year by three new models: the wagon T-Modell (S 205) in spring, the C-Coupe (C 205) during summer and the C-Cabrio (A 205) in autumn.

All the four new models will feature a new platform called MRA (Mercedes Rearwheel Architecture), which also adds almost 10 centimeters to the overall length of the car leading it to 4.70 meters. The wheelbase will also grow, meaning the cabin will be even more spacious than on the present model. Moving the new C-Class closer to the E-Class emphasizes the importance of this high-volume model for the future growth strategy of Mercedes-Benz.

While the W 205 and S 205 will feature a more classic design (with two different faces for the Elegance and Avantgarde equipment lines), the C 205 and A 205 will display a highly dynamic, distinct identity congruent with their sporty character. The design language will consist of progressive lines and shapes, with a striking, hallmark front end boasting bigger headlights with LED technology (set to create impressive inner graphics) and a more upright radiator grille. The laser-based light technology (premiered on the Concept GLA in April) could be launched for the new C-Class towards 2016 and thus offer even more advanced performance compared to the already wide-spreading LED technology.

The underpinnings comprise a completely newly engineered technical platform for a precise driving and maximum comfort. An important highlight is the lightweight construction, making use of composite materials, aluminium and high-strength steel for the construction of the bodyshell and chassis which eventually substantially reduces the kerb weight of the car. Furthermore, the extensive package of assistance systems grouped under the slogan "Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive" will take care to ensure an unprecedented level of safety, predictability and dynamism.

Most of the technical upgrades will come from the new S-Class (more details --> HERE), which the new C-Class also resembles in terms of the design philosophy. Expect a fully revised interior architecture, boasting enhanced functionality, a quality feel and an upscale atmosphere. Connectivity will be brought to a new level thanks to the implementation of the new generation COMAND Online, also borrowed from the brand's luxury flagship. From 2015, the touchpad system and the Head Up Display could also become available in the C-Class after their launch in the S-Class.

Moreover, the new powertrain will be joined by several new and frugal diesel and petrol engine, as well as current efficiency-optimized powerplants. BlueEFFICIENCY package will be available across the entire range and, like in the cases of the A-Class and CLA, Mercedes-Benz will also offer a special, environmentally friendly version for the new C-Class (most likely for the C 180 and C 200 CDI variants). An important piece that also improves fuel economy is the reportedly low drag coefficient (Cd), rumored to be near 0.23 - 0.24 similar to other new models released by the German constructor lately.

Diesels will mostly consist of BlueTEC choices for the range-topping variants (C 250 BlueTEC, C 300 BlueTEC and C 350 BlueTEC). From the 2015 model year, the introduction of a BlueTEC HYBRID version is also possible (C 300 BlueTEC HYBRID), as is the launch of a petrol-based hybrid model (C 400 HYBRID). The high-end model, untill the reveal of the new generation C 63 AMG planned for late 2014, will be the C 400 BlueEFFICIENCY with V6 power and 333 hp. The supersport C-Class will be available for the four body versions and will be powered by an all new 4.0-litre 8-cylinder engine featuring biturbocharging and direct injection and capable of producing near 465 hp. The all new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission will be offered as standard equipment for the range-topping powerplant choices beginning with autumn next year, after the introduction on the E-Class (December 2013) and the new S-Class (mid-2014)

Image Credits: Autobild / Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

DTM Brands Hatch 2013: Saturday's Qualifying Report - Tough round for Mercedes-Benz teams

2013-05-19T11:37:00.002+03:00

Two weeks after the season opener at Hockenheim, the historic Brands Hatch track in Kent plays host to the DTM. Gary Paffett (EURONICS Mercedes AMG C-Coupé), who is contesting his home race, will be starting from twelfth on the grid. The Englishman missed out by 36 thousandths on the third segment of qualifying after posting a lap time of 41.363 seconds. His Mercedes-Benz team-mate Robert Wickens (stern Mercedes AMG C-Coupé / 41.440 seconds) starts from P14 in Sunday’s race.

Placed third in the season-opener at Hockenheim, Christian Vietoris (DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé), finished the first qualifying session in P17 with a time of 41.709 seconds and missed moving into Q2 by 26 thousandths of a second. Roberto Merhi (THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C-Coupé / 41.748 seconds), Pascal Wehrlein (DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé / 41.783 seconds) and Daniel Juncadella (stern Mercedes AMG C-Coupé / 41.787 seconds) will start the second race of the season from positions 20 to 22 on the grid respectively. Less than one tenth of a second separated all four drivers from progressing to the second qualifying segment. The small distances between cars in the first qualifying session are a testament to the highly competitive nature of the DTM: A mere four tenths of a second covered all 22 drivers in Q1.

Looking ahead to the race: The second race of the DTM season gets under way (live on ARD television, beginning at 1:05pm) on Sunday, 1:30pm, at the historic Brands Hatch circuit. Martin Tomczyk (BMW / 41.158 seconds) starts from pole position. The race at the shortest track to feature on the DTM calendar covers 98 laps and a total distance of 189.042km. Gary Paffett won his home fixture last year at Brands Hatch from pole position.

Comments after Qualifying

Gary Paffett (32, England, EURONICS Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): 12th, (41.363 seconds)
„Qualifying was a big disappointment. I took pole position last season and went on to win the race – I would’ve liked to repeat that result this year. The balance of the car did not feel too bad, it was alright. I had no major understeer nor oversteer, but unfortunately, we were not fast enough. On this short circuit, three tenths of a second make a big difference. I extracted the maximum out of the car and was on the limit on every lap. Hopefully, by tomorrow we will have found even more speed in the car, and then we can have a clean and fair race in which I aim to secure as many points as possible.“

Robert Wickens (24, Canada, STIHL Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): 14th, (41.440 seconds)
„It was really tight today; anything could have happened. I would obviously have liked to make it through to Q3, but unfortunately, my lap time wasn’t good enough. We need to investigate the reasons for that. We know that our race performance isn’t bad, and with the introduction of DRS and the new option tyres, it should still be possible to finish in the points tomorrow. Also there is the weather factor: if it starts to rain, that could completely reshuffle the pack and shake everything up.“

Christian Vietoris (24, Germany, DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé):17th, (41.709 seconds)
„My position on the grid for the second race of the season is a disappointment after achieving a podium in Hockenheim, for sure. The team did a great job and I don’t blame them – the car felt good. I missed going through into Q2 by only 26 thousandths of a second, so it was extremely close. Qualifying at Brands Hatch is always like trying to balance on a razor blade; you have to be out on track at the right time and cannot afford to make a single mistake on this short circuit. Qualifying is over and done with and cannot be rerun, so we’ll just have to make the best of things in the race. Of course, I hope to pick up at least a couple of points.“

Roberto Merhi (22, Spain, THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C-Coupé):20th, (41.748 seconds)
„That was a crazy session. We don’t know why we were lacking the speed to get us into Q2. Obviously, I would have wished for a better grid position for this second race of the season. There is hardly any difference in lap times on this short track, which means that even the slightest error is heavily punished. But the race isn’t lost yet. At Hockenheim, Dirk Werner finished on the podium after starting from 20th on the grid. I’ll be trying to achieve something similar tomorrow.“

Pascal Wehrlein (18, Germany, DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé):21st, (41.783 seconds)
„That was hugely disappointing. I tried my best to push, but I couldn’t go any faster. On a track like Brands Hatch, even the tiniest detail can make a big difference, and unless everything clicks into place, you won’t get a good starting position. Even so, I’m not giving up; a lot can happen in the race and I’ll be attacking right through to the finish.“

Daniel Juncadella (22, Spain, stern Mercedes AMG C-Coupé): 22nd, (41.787 seconds)
„The track at Brands Hatch has its pitfalls; you have to position the car just right on the bumps to achieve the maximum. I didn’t manage to do that today. The car didn’t feel as good in the qualifying as it did in practice. We simply failed to get the best out of the tyres, and so I didn’t improve my time. Now tomorrow, I’ll just have to charge up the field from the rear. Hopefully, we’ll see one or two surprises in the race just like we did in Hockenheim two weeks ago.“

Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport:
„Well, putting things in a nutshell, we had quite an unfortunate day and our performance in qualifying was definitely not good enough. On such a short track like Brands Hatch, drivers are normally very tightly bunched, and of course, one must always bear in mind the actual set up that was dialed in – and as we speak, Sunday’s weather forecast does not rule out rain – but that by no means fully excuses today’s poor performance. Now we will have to make the most of the situation and mount an all-out offensive on Sunday. Dirk Werner proved at the start of the season in Hockenheim that it is possible to go from 20th on the grid to finish on the podium. Saturday was not good enough, but that does not mean that we have completely given up hope for Sunday.“

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

TECHNICITY as a responsive online magazine

2013-05-19T00:39:00.002+03:00

Innovation, Technology, Mobility: These are the structural pillars of the Daimler magazine TECHNICITY. On this basis we have relaunched a completely revamped new online presentation of TECHNICITY. The conceptual, graphic and technical realisation gives the website, which has been developed to cater for absolutely every user device, a modern and dynamic character. The flexible content structure has an integrated multifilter which presents the "content stream" on a topic-specific basis. These innovative characteristics make the site equal to future requirements with respect to use-friendliness and interactivity.

This future-oriented format establishes an integrated print-online communication model whose online function provides its international readership with current topics covering urban mobility solutions, technology and innovation processes and developments from Daimler research every two weeks.

At a glance

The intelligently conceived website includes a responsive layout – whatever device is used to access TECHNICITY.DAIMLER.COM, the page layout is automatically adjusted to the relevant screen size and therefore ideally meets both present and future requirements.

Whether articles, news, videos or surveys – all formats are chronologically arranged at a glance in the content stream. Useful feature: In the topic clusters "Clean", "Safe", "Connected", "Urban" and "Visionary", the extensive contents can be filtered individually and by topic using the open and flexible navigation structure. Moreover, a multiple filtering function makes "personalised reading" possible.

About TECHNICITY

TECHNICITY combines important perspectives and trends from the Daimler research and development locations with topics not specific to the company. Urban mobility solutions, corporate technology and innovation processes as well as creativity and innovation trends in science, research and development are placed in a global context.

An international network of acclaimed scientific journalists reports for TECHNICITY on trends and innovations from the major cities and high-growth regions of the world.

TECHNICITY – the magazine for innovation, technology and mobility – supplementing TECHNICITY.DAIMLER.COM as a print version with three annual editions in English and German.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. announces new version of the gaming classic Gran Turismo®: Three of the latest AMG vehicles celebrate their digital premiere in Gran Turismo® 6

2013-05-18T23:59:00.003+03:00

With the combined power of more than 1400 hp, Mercedes-Benz is taking to the starting grid of Gran Turismo® 6 with three of its latest models. All set to provide pure excitement and fascination in the new version of the gaming classic for the PlayStation®3 are three high-performance vehicles from AMG: the SLS AMG GT3 producing over 367 kW (more than 500 hp), the E 63 AMG producing 410 kW (557 hp) and the A 45 AMG producing 265 kW (360 hp). In addition to the three new vehicles, no fewer than 21 further vehicles from Mercedes-Benz which featured in Gran Turismo® 5 will also be taking to the track to set the pulses of gaming fans racing. Gran Turismo® 6 will be celebrating its market launch this holiday season. Details of the game were announced yesterday by Kazunori Yamauchi, Producer and Game Director of Polyphony Digital Inc., on the occasion of the celebrations to mark the 15th anniversary of the popular Gran Turismo® series at Silverstone in England.

"Together with Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. and Polyphony Digital, we are delighted with the unique success which Gran Turismo® has enjoyed over the last 15 years", said Anders Sundt Jensen, Head of Brand Communications for Mercedes-Benz Cars. "We are particularly proud that three of the latest models from our high-performance AMG brand are all celebrating their digital premiere in the latest version of the legendary game series. Mercedes-Benz and Gran Turismo® have a number of things in common. Above all, they share the same vision: to provide their customers – whether in real life or in the virtual world – with the ultimate in driving pleasure."

Globally the PlayStation® 3 racing game has so far sold more than 70 million copies, with version 5 alone being enjoyed by more than ten million gaming fans since November 2010. Mercedes-Benz can look back over a long and successful history as part of this race series. Models from the star brand have been represented in the game since the market launch of Gran Turismo® 2 back in 1999/2000. According to Anders Sundt Jensen: "Both Carl Benz in 1886 and Kazunori Yamauchi, the inventor of Gran Turismo® in 1998 recognised that a car can do more than just take us from A to B. Both lived the automotive dream. Driving a Mercedes or playing Gran Turismo® each therefore reflects a unique experience: unprecedented driving pleasure."

Anniversary wishes from Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz prepared a very special surprise for the guests at the anniversary celebrations in Silverstone. They were able to experience the breathtaking driving performance of the SLS AMG GT3 both live on the race track, courtesy of professional racing driver and AMG Driving Academy instructor Jan Seyffarth, as well as in the virtual world of the games console. The two other AMG models from the game were also on hand for onlookers to admire. The anniversary celebrations were rounded off with an exclusive shuttle service for guests.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG at the 66th Cannes Film Festival: The stars are shining brightly along the Croisette

2013-05-18T23:30:00.001+03:00

Once again, Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG are supporting the Cannes Film Festival with a wide range of activities. Twelve high-performance models from Mercedes-AMG will be adding to the glamour along the Croisette between 15 and 26 May 2013. They are there to provide an exclusive shuttle service, for spur-of-the-moment test drives and as display vehicles. One particularly special star will, in addition, be putting in a sparkling appearance in front of the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc: the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class which, in a parallel event to the opening of the Film Festival, yesterday celebrated its world premiere Hamburg.

The new luxury saloon, which includes such features as a hot-stone ENERGIZING massage function and individual perfume atomisation, will be making its debut on the Côte d‘Azur at the legendary Cinema Against AIDS gala evening in aid of the amfAR foundation, to be held on 23 May at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. Mercedes-Benz is a Signature Sponsor of this star-studded gala, considered one of the most prestigious events held during the Film Festival. As well as the new S-Class, Mercedes-AMG will be presenting the world's most powerful electric super sports car in the grounds of the hotel - the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive. And ensuring that guests arrive in style at the red carpet will be a shuttle service provided by Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG.

Exclusive shuttle services and test drives with AMG vehicles

Each day of the Film Festival, the shuttle vehicles will carry celebrity guests and visitors to "Le Club by Albane" at the Hotel JW Marriott and to the Boulevard de la Croisette for film shoots for the daily show "Le Grand Journal" on French TV channel Canal+, and from there to the red carpet outside the "Palais du Festival". Attracting attention outside the Hotel InterContinental Carlton, directly on the Croisette, will be a display incorporating the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Black Series. A vast LED wall behind the vehicle will share special impressions of the world of AMG with visitors.

And last, but not least, Mercedes-AMG will be offering individual test drives for guests and visitors on each day of the Festival. Participants will be able to take the wheel of one of a range of current AMG models and experience for themselves the AMG brand claim of "Driving Performance" along the twisting coast roads of the Côte d‘Azur. From 15 to 26 May, daily between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., anyone interested can sign up for a test drive outside the Hotel 3.14.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Monaco F1 Grand Prix 2013: Jenson, Sergio and Martin share their thoughts ahead of the sixth race of the season at Monte Carlo

2013-05-18T19:03:00.001+03:00

The tortuous streets of Monte Carlo provide the next challenge for Vodafone McLaren Mercedes on the 2013 Formula One calendar. The Principality’s 3.3km circuit is the shortest and slowest of the season, but it’s also one of the most demanding for man and machine. McLaren has won the Monaco Grand Prix 15 times - more than any other constructor.

The track layout has remained largely unchanged since its inaugural World Championship race in 1950. The inclusion of Armco barriers in 1969 made it considerably safer for competitors and spectators, but the challenge of the race is still as tough as ever. The smallest error can result in a driver’s race ending in the barrier and more than 4,000 gear-changes during the 78-lap race make technical excellence a pre-requisite.

Pirelli will bring their soft and super-soft rubber to the race. Both compounds have been used already this season (the super-soft in Australia, the soft in China), but this is the first time they have been raced together as the prime and option tyres. The low-grip nature of Monaco’s asphalt, combined with the circuit’s average speed of just 160km/h, means tyre wear shouldn’t be as big a factor as it was in the Spanish Grand Prix last time out.

Jenson Button won the race from pole position in 2009, and both he and Checo are aiming to finish in the points this year.

Fast facts: Monte Carlo Circuit

- Race distance: 78 laps (260.520km/161.887 miles)
- Start time: 14:00 (local)/12:00 (GMT)
- Circuit length: 3.340km/2.075 miles
- 2012 winner: Mark Webber (Red Bull RB8) 78 laps in 1hr46m06.557s 147.312km/h)
- 2012 pole: Mark Webber (Red Bull RB8) 1m14.381s 161.654km/h)
- Lap record: Michael Schumacher (Ferrari F2004) 1m14.439s (161.528km/h)

McLaren at the Monaco Grand Prix

- Wins: 15 (1984, 1985, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2005, 2007, 2008)

- Poles: 11 (1984, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2005, 2007)

- Fastest laps: 10 (1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007)

Car 5: Jenson Button

- Age: 33 (January 19 1980)
- GPs: 233
- Wins: 15
- Poles: 8
- FLs: 8

“Monaco is unlike any other racetrack in Formula One. A qualifying lap around there is an exhilarating experience for a driver: you turn into corners on the limit and you kiss every barrier at the exit. To get pole position, as I did in 2009, is hugely satisfying and you need to be inch-perfect for 78 laps in order to win the race. It’s a great challenge.

“The average speed around Monaco is the slowest of the year, but it feels very quick. The track’s quite narrow in places and there are some fast sections. The run up the hill from Ste Devote to Casino Square involves some quick changes of direction, as does the Swimming Pool, and the Tunnel is fast, loud and dark.

“Everyone at Vodafone McLaren Mercedes has been working flat-out since the Spanish Grand Prix. We’re not yet where we want to be in terms of competitiveness, but I’m confident that we can make another small step forward in Monaco. We’ll continue to chip away at the performance of the MP4-28 until it’s capable of challenging at the front; there’s no other agenda for a winning team like McLaren. The aim for Monaco is to get both cars home in the points, as we did in Barcelona.”

Car 6: Sergio Perez

- Age: 23 (January 26 1990)
- GPs: 42
- Wins: 0
- Poles: 0
- FLs: 2

“Monaco is a great challenge for the drivers. It’s the only circuit on the calendar where you have to build up your speed during practice, rather than going flat-out on lap one. You push a little bit harder with every lap, getting a bit closer to the barriers each time.

“But it’s not just the track that makes Monaco special; it’s the atmosphere as well. The grandstands are closer to the track here than anywhere else on the calendar and that gives us a very close connection to the spectators. The huge grandstand between Tabac and the Swimming Pool can get pretty noisy when it’s full, which is great.

“Last year was my first Monaco Grand Prix. I missed out on a World Championship point by one position and I’m looking to change that this year. The MP4-28 is improving, as we introduce upgrades and understand its performance better. It was more driveable in Spain a couple of weeks ago, particularly on light tanks. That will be vital in Monaco because qualifying is very important.”

Martin Whitmarsh - Team principal, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes

“Vodafone McLaren Mercedes has a fabulous record in Monte Carlo. We’ve taken 15 wins – more than any other constructor – through the streets of the Principality and while we’re not yet in a position to challenge for victories this year, we’ll relish the challenge provided by this race and we hope to challenge for more points with both cars.

“Our aim is to continue improving the performance of the MP4-28 in Monaco. The tight and twisty nature of the circuit makes its requirements fairly exceptional, but every kilometer that we complete with the car provides us with useful data because we have a very busy development programme.

“Overtaking opportunities are limited at Monaco, even with the DRS, so qualifying is going to be very important on Saturday afternoon. Both of our drivers know how to turn a quick lap, and Sergio can take a lot of confidence from his excellent performance during Q2 at the Spanish Grand Prix.

“Monaco is one of the jewels in Formula One’s crown. It’s an iconic setting and the race has a lot of history. I’m proud of McLaren’s peerless record in the Principality and would love nothing than to add to it this year.”

A McLaren 50 classic moment
Monaco Grand Prix, 11 May 1975

Given that McLaren has won more races in Monaco than any other constructor, it might come as a surprise to learn that the team had to wait until 1984 to take its first victory in the Principality. The team achieved many successes during the ’70s, but Monaco remained elusive. The team’s best result during that decade was Emerson Fittipaldi’s second place in 1975.

“This place is hard enough in the dry,” said Fittipaldi before the start. “As soon as the rain comes, it becomes a bit of a lottery.”

Rain fell throughout race morning, forcing the entire field to start the race on wet tyres. Emerson, starting ninth, knew he would have very poor visibility amid the spray, but he got away well from the grid and was given an early shot in the arm when Jean-Pierre Jarier crashed out of second place on the opening lap. The incident gained Emmo one position and he soon picked up another when Tom Pryce, running third, spun a few laps later.

Emerson’s race was transformed at half distance, when the track became dry enough to slick tyres. The McLaren mechanics turned his M23 around in record time and by the end of the pitstop sequence he was up to second place and sitting on the gearbox of race leader Niki Lauda. Despite trying to pressure the Austrian into a mistake, Emerson had to settle for second place and came home three seconds adrift of the Ferrari.

Jochen Mass fared well in the sister McLaren, coming home sixth (after starting 15th). He was running fifth with a couple of laps to go, but he was overtaken by the Tyrrell of Patrick Depailler in an audacious passing manoeuvre by the Frenchman.

~ Official photo and details courtesy of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Monaco F1 Grand Prix 2013: Nico, Lewis, Ross and Toto preview the sixth race of the season at Monte Carlo

2013-05-18T18:47:00.001+03:00

Formula One´s most famous race, the Monaco Grand Prix, takes place around the streets of the principality on Sunday 26 May for the 71st time.

• Just three of the past 30 Monaco Grands Prix have been won by a car starting outside the top three

• The race has a very high 80% risk of Safety Car intervention with a total of 14 Safety Car periods in the past ten years

• Last year´s race featured just 25 pit stops for tyres, the second lowest figure of the entire season (after Austin, 24 stops)

• Only three DRS overtakes took place at the last three races combined, and 21 competitive non-DRS passes

Nico Rosberg
“Monaco is always a fantastic weekend and it´s great to race in the city where I live. Knowing that all my family and friends are watching makes it very special and I love being able to drive from home into the paddock on a scooter! The surroundings definitely make Monaco the coolest track on the calendar and the atmosphere over the weekend is great. I have good memories from the race last year after finishing in second place and I hope we can get another good result this time around. At the moment we have a good car for qualifying which helps in Monaco as it´s the most important qualifying session of the year as track position is so important. So that might be helpful for us but there are so many unknowns, especially with the tyres, so we will just have to wait and see.”

Lewis Hamilton
“Whilst there hasn´t been a lot of time since Barcelona, we´ve been working hard to put the disappointment of the last race behind us and focus on the opportunities ahead. Monaco is one of my favourite races of the year and I love driving the streets there. As a driver, you know that you have to perform on every single lap and it´s a challenge that I really enjoy. It´s a real experience to see the barriers flashing past at high speed and I love the fact that the fans can get so close to the track making for a great atmosphere. Perhaps more than at many other tracks, qualifying and getting the best possible track position is crucial in Monaco, but we have to keep our focus on Sunday as well and keep working to improve our race pace. Everyone is working really hard and I know we can get there. We just need to keep motivated and work it out together.”

Ross Brawn
“Monaco is a not usually a race to which teams bring many updates because the track conditions change so much across the weekend. The priority is always to get the drivers comfortable with the unique challenge the circuit presents and to give them a set-up they feel confident pushing to the limit. Both Nico and Lewis have historically been incredibly competitive in Monaco and this weekend will certainly allow their talent to shine. The engineering team will be focused on getting the most from our car on the slow, bumpy layout and there will of course be particular emphasis on achieving tyre consistency and durability. Meanwhile, our work continues back at Brackley and Brixworth to fully understand the reasons for our below-par race performance in Barcelona, in order to develop the right solutions for the upcoming circuits where high tyre usage could once again be a limitation for us.”

Toto Wolff
“Monaco is the most famous race in our sport and a special moment of every Formula One season. The narrow streets will give our drivers the perfect opportunity to display their talents and, historically, the team´s cars have performed strongly there in terms of pure speed. However, it is clear to everybody in the team that, while we have a strong car right now, we are not able to use that performance properly on Sunday afternoon. Although overtaking in Monaco is difficult, we cannot afford to be complacent in terms of tyre management and we will need to do significantly better than we managed in Barcelona in order to score a strong result. We have only scored points with one of our cars at the past three races and this is something we must improve quickly, beginning next weekend in Monte-Carlo.”

~ Official photo and details courtesy of MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

DTM Brands Hatch 2013: Preview

2013-05-18T18:09:00.001+03:00

The DTM travels to England for the second race of the year, just a fortnight after the Hockenheim season-opener. Mercedes-Benz DTM driver Gary Paffett (EURONICS Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) will be contesting his home fixture at Brands Hatch that he won last year.

The circuit: The historic British Brands Hatch circuit will host the DTM next weekend for the eighth time. Racing will take place on the Indy Circuit, which at 1.929km is currently the shortest track on the DTM calendar and features four right-hand and two left-hand turns. At the fastest point on the start/finish straight, DTM cars reach a top speed of over 225km/h. The Brands Hatch DTM race is run over 98 laps, the highest lap total of any race this season.

Celebrity guests at Mercedes-Benz: The two British Formula 1 drivers Paul Di Resta (Sahara Force India Mercedes, winner of DTM races at Brands Hatch in 2009 and 2010 and DTM champion with Mercedes-Benz in 2010), and Jenson Button (Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, Formula 1 World Champion 2009 – powered by Mercedes-Benz) will guest in turn with the Mercedes AMG DTM team on the Saturday (Di Resta) and Sunday (Button) at Brands Hatch. Paul and Jenson will take passengers around the track in the DTM racing taxi and sign autographs for fans.

Comments about the DTM race at Brands Hatch

Christian Vietoris (24, Germany, DTM Mercedes AMG C‑Coupé):

- was on podium for first time in the DTM at Hockenheim season-opener
- achieved a podium in the 2009 Formula 3 Euro Series at Brands Hatch

“Brands Hatch is a great track that I really like. The first turn is, to my mind, one of the Indy Circuit’s special challenges. A lap at Brands Hatch is extremely short, so the slightest mistake is punished immediately. This is especially true in qualifying, and last season, only 0.081 seconds separated the top five drivers in Q3. Me and Martin Tomczyk in fourth and fifth place posted the same time – 41.101 seconds. I achieved my lap time first and consequently progressed further in the quali to secure second place, my best position on the grid in the DTM. After a good start to the season with my maiden DTM podium at Hockenheim, I’m feeling twice as confident in the run-up to Brands Hatch.”

Gary Paffett (32, England, EURONICS Mercedes AMG C‑Coupé):

- won his home race at Brands Hatch last year
- 2013 marks his tenth season in the DTM

“My home win last year at Brands Hatch was one of the most wonderful victories in my DTM career. Winning the race in front of the home fans and many of my friends was a fantastic feeling. My Vodafone McLaren Mercedes team-mate Jenson Button presented me with the trophy last year – so maybe it’s a good omen that my lucky charm Jenson is our guest again at Brands Hatch this weekend. The track itself is a lot of fun and yet at the same time can be a real challenge for drivers. Paddock Hill Bend is one of the best turns that you could ever hope to encounter in a racing car – it’s just incredible. The characteristics of the track are very different as compared to the season-opener at Hockenheim, and I wonder how the new option tyres will shape up under these circumstances and how they will affect the course of the race. I was on the front row of the grid each time in the last two races at Brands Hatch, so hopefully, I can build on that success again this year and fight for victory once more.”

Roberto Merhi (22, Spain, THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C‑Coupé):

- finished in the points for first time at Hockenheim season-opener
- had second fastest pit stop of the race in Hockenheim

“The season-opener at Hockenheim had its ups and downs as far as I’m concerned: I made a mess of qualifying but followed that with my first points-scoring result in the DTM. I would like to pick up a top position both in qualifying and in the race at Brands Hatch, but it won’t be easy, because at Brands Hatch the gaps between drivers will be even smaller than is normally the case in the DTM. During practice, I will just have to concentrate on setting up my THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C-Coupé really accurately with the help of the engineers and try to drive as neatly as possible, both in qualifying and over the 98 laps, without making any errors.”

Pascal Wehrlein (18, Germany, DTM Mercedes AMG C-Coupé):

- progressed to Q3 at very first DTM qualifying
- secured eleventh position on DTM debut

“My DTM debut at Hockenheim has just ended and now we’re off to the second race of the season at Brands Hatch. I know the circuit quite well from my time in the Formula 3 Euro Series, where I achieved a podium last year. The track is short and does not forgive mistakes easily. My first laps in the lead in my first DTM race were a great experience; unfortunately, it was not enough in the end to bring me my first points. That was a shame, but perhaps I can make it up at Brands Hatch this weekend. Overtaking is said to be extremely difficult at this track. Let’s see if things will be different this year with the introduction of DRS.”

Daniel Juncadella (22, Spain, stern Mercedes AMG C-Coupé):

- secured two podiums in the Formula 3 Euro Series at Brands Hatch
- finished his first DTM race at Hockenheim in twelfth place

“I’m satisfied with my DTM debut at Hockenheim. I gained a lot of experience and even led the field for a time. Now I’m looking forward to Brands Hatch, a track that always appealed to me when I was in the Formula 3 Euro Series. The Indy circuit at Brands Hatch may be short but it’s truly awesome. I’ve always been quick at Brands Hatch in the past. I achieved two pole positions there last year in Formula 3. The DTM is, of course, an entirely different class, but maybe Lady Luck will smile on me in my first race in a car with a roof at Brands Hatch.”

Robert Wickens (24, Canada, STIHL Mercedes AMG C-Coupé):

- achieved his best ever grid position at Hockenheim season-opener – fourth position

“After not finishing at the start of the season, I’m itching to get back in my STIHL Mercedes AMG C-Coupé at Brands Hatch to prove that a top-notch result would have been possible in Hockenheim. With P4 on the grid, I’ve shown the kind of speed I can produce. The adrenaline rush of being in the shoot-out for pole position in Q4 for the first time was enormous – I could easily get used to that in the future. Whilst a sketch map of Brands Hatch may look quite simple, it’s a real driver’s circuit that demands the utmost concentration over 98 laps. One single error and the race is as good as lost.”

Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport:
“The first test of the new Sporting and Technical Regulations in the season-opener at Hockenheim gave us all thoroughly exciting and entertaining racing. I am certain that will continue during the coming weekend. Gary Paffett in his home race at Brands Hatch is the focus of interest and would dearly like to repeat last year’s victory. But our ‘young guns’ in the Mercedes-Benz DTM Junior Team made a fabulous impression at the season-opener in Hockenheim, and that is precisely why we are putting our trust in them this season. I envisage that all five of our Mercedes-Juniors will again produce strong performances at Brands Hatch.”

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Buses are gaining momentum: The Citaro Euro VI buses for the City of Trier

2013-05-18T17:47:00.000+03:00

Trier’s public utility company has put three new Citaro Euro VI buses into service. The urban buses equipped with Euro VI exhaust treatment technology significantly improve urban environmental quality thanks to emissions that are 80 percent lower than those of their predecessors. At the same time, the fuel expenses of the transport operator are lower because the new buses use more than 8 percent less diesel fuel. This was substantiated in the "Record Run Buses" economy run conducted in autumn 2012 under the impartial supervision of Dekra.

Daimler Buses has delivered some 350 buses equipped with Euro VI exhaust treatment technology to date. By the end of 2013 more than 1700 Daimler Buses of the Mercedes-Benz and Setra brands equipped with environmentally friendly Euro VI exhaust treatment technology are expected to be on the road.

Milestone in bus development, economic efficiency was top development priority

To comply with the Euro VI emission standards, the buses are equipped with complex exhaust treatment technology. They combine the customary Mercedes-Benz SCR technology of AdBlue injection and oxidation catalyst with exhaust gas recirculation and a closed particulate filter. The completely new engine generation and the complex exhaust treatment technology have reduced emissions to the very margin of detectability and thus represent another step in the advancement of diesel technology.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Preview: AMG Customer Sports in the 24 Hours Nürburgring

2013-05-18T17:34:00.005+03:00

A week prior to the start of the legendary 24 Hours Nürburgring, the race gullwing cars of the different AMG Customer Teams continue to be on the course of success. The second race weekend of the ADAC GT Masters took place in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium. In the first race on Saturday, 11st May, 2013, Maximilian Götz and Maximilian Buhk (both GER) of Polarweiss Racing crossed the finish line second. Their team colleagues Andreas Simonsen (SWE) and Sergey Afanasiev (RUS) ended the race fourth. In the second race on Sunday, 12th May, 2013, both SLS AMG GT3 of Polarweiss Racing won the same positions as already on Saturday – once again, a pleasing second position. The driver duo Götz/Buhk started from the second position and took over the lead already in the first turn, claiming the first position for a long time. A few minutes prior to the end of the race on a drying track, the SLS AMG GT3 was pushed away from its competitors to the second place. In the championship, Götz/Bukh managed to win the sixth position, while their team colleagues Simonsen/Afanasiev won the fourth position. In the team ranking, Polarweiss Racing won the first position.

Podium position in International GT Open in Portimão/Portugal

The second round of the International GT Open was held in Portimão/Portugal. Jan Seyffarth (GER) and Miguel Toril (ESP) from Seyffarth Motorsport ended the race on Saturday, 11st May, 2013 on the sixth overall position and on position three in the GTS category. In the second race on Sunday, 12th May, 2013, Seyffarth/Toril won the 14th overall position after a tyre failure and position nine in the GTS category.

Lead in the Polish GT Championship

Piotr Krawczyk and his SLS AMG GT3 continue to be the leaders of the Polish GT Championship. In the FIA CEZ race on the Austrian Red Bull Ring, the driver of the AMG Customer Team Premium Motorsport Poland came home second on Saturday. A remarkable success for the leading contender in the Polish GT Championship, who had his first race on the track near Spielberg – in addition, on a wet track. In the race on Sunday, Piotr Krawczyk crossed the finish line fourth.

Seven SLS AMG GT3 in 24 Hours Nürburgring

One of the highlights of the season for the AMG Customer Sports Programme takes place on Whit weekend. Seven SLS AMG GT3 will be entered into the 41st ADAC Zurich 24 Hours Nürburgring: Black Falcon enters three cars while ROWE RACING even enters four. All of the race gullwing cars start in the SP 9 class. Due to their good results in the first VLN (Veranstaltergemeinschaft Langstreckenpokal Nürburgring) races, start numbers 22 and 23 from ROWE RACING are already admitted for the top-40 qualifying. As already in 2012, Bernd Schneider and Thomas Jäger will support the customer teams as part of the AMG Support Program and will also actively take part in the race. Lance David Arnold will have his first race as AMG driver this year.

An overview of AMG Customer Teams in the 24-hour race:

- Start number 9, Black Falcon: Bernd Schneider (GER), Jeroen Bleekemolen (NED), Sean Edwards (GBR), Nicki Thiim (DEN)

- Start number 10, Black Falcon: Andrii Lebed (UKR), Andreas Simonsen (SWE), Dennis Rostek (GER), Hari Proczyk (AUT)

- Start number 63, Black Falcon: Vimal Mehta (IND), Kaled al Qubaisi (UAE), Daniel Keilwitz, Christian Bracke (both GER)

- Start number 21, ROWE RACING: Marko Hartung, Kenneth Heyer, Roland Rehfeld, Christan Hohenadel (all GER)

- Start number 22, ROWE RACING: Klaus Graf, Thomas Jäger, Jan Seyffarth, Nico Bastian (all GER)

- Start number 23, ROWE RACING: Lance David Arnold, Alexander Roloff, Jan Seyffarth, Thomas Jäger (all GER)

- Start number 125, ROWE RACING: Michael Zehe, Reinhold Renger, Marko Hartung (all GER), Mark Bullit (USA)

Ola Källenius, chairman of the board, Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “All employees of Mercedes-AMG are very proud of the fact that the AMG Customer Teams Black Falcon and ROWE RACING enter seven SLS AMG GT3 altogether into the 24 Hours Nürburgring. This meaningful and historical race is also an important event for the brand AMG, which has intensively been performing motor sports since its establishment in 1967.That is why we hope that our customer teams will have success in this race. Good luck to all drivers and persons involved!”

Uli Fritz, head of AMG Customer Sports: “This year’s 24 Hours Nürburgring will be challenging for the AMG Customer Teams, as they will have to compete with numerous factory-backed teams. However, Black Falcon and ROWE RACING have been preparing very well for the endurance classic. Both teams have put together a good package with excellent drivers. Several SLS AMG GT3 will start in the front. But one must never forget that there is always a possibility of surprises coming up in the 24 Hours Nürburgring.”

Bernd Schneider, Team Black Falcon and AMG brand ambassador: “The favourites in this year’s 24-hour races have had successes at Nürburgring, however, my first aim is to cross the finish line. Unfortunately, by now I have not been able to finish a 24-hour race on the Nordschleife (“north loop”). Last year, we were on the second place half an hour prior to the end of the race, however, we experienced a tyre failure in the last hour of the race and consequently had to end the race a quarter of an hour prior to the end. This was an extremely bitter experience for us – even though the team was consoled by the sister car’s winning the third position. I hope we are going to be successful this year, because again, we have excellent drivers in the team. Our package has the potential of winning a top-three position. I am sure that a lack of preparation will not be the case, because this year, I succeeded in winning the Dubai 24 Hours and the Bathurst 12 Hour Race.”

Thomas Jäger, Team ROWE RACING and AMG Customer Sports coordinator: “Last year we were on the course of success in the 24 Hours Nürburgring, until we had to give up because of technical problems. In 2013, we hope to have a race without any incidents and if our plan works out, the SLS AMG GT3 vehicles will be candidates for a top-three position. The 24 Hours Nürburgring is the most difficult 24-hour race in the world. We are looking forward to this challenge.”

Lance David Arnold, Team ROWE RACING: “In this year’s 24 Hours Nürburgring I will start in a new team. Together with my strong driver colleagues of ROWE RACING we will have a good chance of repeating our success – at least! As new AMG driver, I am part of ROWE RACING for the first time in 2013. I am looking forward to this new challenge.”

180 cars announced for the endurance classic

650 pilots and 180 race cars were announced for the endurance classic in the Eifel. The race will start on Sunday, 19th May, 2013 on five o’clock in the afternoon.

The finish of the race will take part exactly 24 hours later on Whit Monday. The top-40 qualifying for the start order of the first 20 start rows is held on Saturday, 18th May, 2013 from 5:50 to 6:45 in the afternoon. Motorsports enthusiasts can watch the qualifying and race on www.24h-rennen.de and www.facebook.com/24hNurburgring live. The German TV station Sport 1 will show detailed reports on the endurance race during the whole race weekend. The Top-40-Qualifying will be broadcast live, as well as the start and the finish of the race.

High-performance demonstration of Mercedes-AMG

Mercedes-Benz has a very special event highlight for all Motorsports enthusiasts as framework program of the 24-hour race on Sunday, 19th May, 2013. As part of a high-performance demonstration, four Mercedes-AMG vehicles will go up against Michael Schumacher in a Formula 1 Silver Arrow. The vehicles will start at different times from the Mercedes-Benz grandstand but will cross the finish line simultaneously. The Mercedes-AMGs will be driven by Formula 1 star Nico Rosberg, DTM record-breaking champion Bernd Schneider, ex-Formula 1 and DTM driver Karl Wendlinger and by the official driver of the Formula 1 Safety Car Bernd Mayländer.

An A 45 AMG, driven by Bernd Mayländer, will start first, followed by an E 63 AMG S-Model piloted by Karl Wendlinger, followed by Nico Rosberg in a SLS AMG Coupé Black Series and a then, a SLS AMG GT3 with Bernd Schneider. Finally, Michael Schumacher will set off in a Formula 1 Silver Arrow on the 20.832 kilometres lap around the Nordschleife (excluding grand prix circuit). On this special occasion, the Formula 1 record world champion will be the first driver to cover the Nordschleife in an state-of-the-art Silver Arrow since Juan Manuel Fangio in 1954.

66 SLS AMG GT3 sold worldwide

The SLS AMG GT3 is amongst the best-selling GT3 race vehicles in the world. The Mercedes-AMG GmbH managed to sell 66 cars to customer teams since the sales launch in the beginning of 2011.

Uli Fritz, head of AMG Customer Sports: “As newcomers in the GT3 segment, we initially did not expect to sell 66 SLS AMG GT3 in the course of two years. However, because of its considerable base speed, high reliability, its exemplary ease when it comes to reparations and attractive prices of spare parts and ware parts, our race gullwing car has convinced customer teams around the globe. Meanwhile, the SLS AMG GT3 starts in more than 22 race series on five continents and has firmly established itself in the race scene. Alone in Asia, we have eight cars starting in the meanwhile. We hold on to our philosophy of merely practicing Customer Sports with the SLS AMG GT3, no factory entries. Our focus lies on providing the AMG Customer Teams the best support possible.”

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz launches campaign for its dream cars

2013-05-18T15:26:00.001+03:00

“Mercedes-Benz dream cars” is a combined concept for the Stuttgart-based manufacturer’s sales and marketing activities around its coupé, cabrio and roadster model series. The campaign is currently being rolled out in its core markets. The dream cars include the new E-Class coupe and cabrio models, the SLK and SL sports cars, the CL as well as the CLS and the CLS Shooting Brake. Selected classics such as the SL Pagoda or the SE Coupé round off the portfolio of the Mercedes-Benz dream cars.

“We have always made automotive dreams come true. ‘Mercedes-Benz dream cars’ is intended to underline this as a new umbrella term,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales and Marketing. “Those models in particular are what make the Mercedes-Benz brand so exciting.”

Approximately 133,000 of these dream cars were sold worldwide in 2012. The aim is to increase model sales further during 2013. The E-Class cabrio and coupe are set to play an important role when they take to Europe's roads from 1 June 2013 onwards.

Adaptable communication activities around the globe

Advertising and marketing tools featuring a standard design, and which can be used in various different ways worldwide, are to be stepped up. Markets will have access to a “dream car toolbox” containing print visuals and moving image material. There are also dealer communication modules and event guidelines to assist dealers in implementing point-of-sale events. This gives all markets the flexibility to respond to their specific target audience. In Germany, the print ads will run from mid-May 2013. A concurrent radio campaign starring the E-Class cabrio and coupe will invite listeners to “dream car weeks”. Special formats like the 2014 Mercedes-Benz calendar will also be entirely dedicated to the dream car theme. Long-term, this extensive package of activities will not only ensure that the dream cars fully live up to driver expectations, but also contribute to the Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy.

Rising demand for dream cars

In Germany, the E-Class coupe and cabrio have proved to be the most popular vehicles in their segments for the third time in succession. Demand in the UK and the United States – the biggest sales market – is even greater than in the home German market. Worldwide, some 75,000 customers have opted for an E-Class cabrio since the market launch of the current model series in 2010. Meanwhile, more than 132,000 units of the coupe version have been sold since it was unveiled in 2009. The majority of both cabrio and coupe customers select a paint finish in obsidian black. Diamond white metallic is the second most popular colour. When it comes to optional extras, customers value entertainment and comfort above all: around two-thirds of customers choose the COMAND multimedia system and more than four-fifths order AIRSCARF neck-level heating for their E-Class Cabrio.

In the roadster segment the Mercedes-Benz SLK was the global segment leader last year, with 31,800 new cars sold. Most SLKs in 2012 went to owners in Germany, followed by the UK and the United States. Besides the PARKTRONIC system ordered by 90 percent of customers, the most popular extra equipment include AIRSCARF neck-level heating and a navigation and entertainment system. Furthermore, over four-fifths of SLK buyers opted for leather equipment in black. The top paint colour choices for the SLK are tenorite grey, palladium silver and iridium silver.

Now in its sixth generation, the iconic Mercedes-Benz SL sports car continues to be as popular as ever. From the current model series 10,700 units were sold in 2012, three times as many as in the previous year. The SL’s history dates back 60 years to the 300 SL racing sports car of 1952. Today, one in every two SL models goes to an owner in the United States. Germany and Japan are other major sales markets. Proving that no other vehicle in its class unites sportiness and comfort like the SL, the vehicle has won a 2012 “Automotive Brand Award” for its outstanding design. The highest of accolades for vehicle body construction was also received in 2012 in the shape of the “EuroCarBody Award”.

The unique concept behind the CLS Shooting Brake last year saw Mercedes-Benz establishing an entirely new segment. In terms of design idiom and equipment, this model fulfils every customer requirement. An American cherry wood load compartment floor, for example, helps to create an exclusive yachting ambience. In February, the CLS Shooting Brake was awarded the 2013 Design Trophy in the Estate Class category for its exciting design. The jury also voted it the most beautiful car of all and therefore the overall champion. Just under 37,000 units of the CLS and CLS Shooting Brake were delivered to customers in 2012, making it number one in its competitive class. Since the CLS debuted in 2003, over 240,000 of the vehicle have been sold.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Innovation made in Silicon Valley: Mercedes-Benz presents new features of its Digital DriveStyle App at Google I/O

2013-05-18T13:47:00.002+03:00

Google I/O is an annual developer conference featuring highly technical, in-depth sessions, and showcasing the latest from Google’s product teams and partners. This year's conference, which has taken place annually since 2008, will showcase Mercedes-Benz and its latest integration of Google services in the car.

In one of its SL models, Mercedes-Benz will be demonstrating the Drive Kit Plus, a system which in combination with a smartphone and a special app enables the seamless integration of the smartphone into the vehicle's infotainment architecture. And with the Digital DriveStyle App developed by Mercedes-Benz, the main functions of the smartphone can be organised under the headings Social, Media and Places and called up on the vehicle display – and also accessed safely and conveniently while driving via the COMAND controller or by using the voice based intelligent personal assistant. The Drive Kit Plus is available as an accessory for virtually all current Mercedes-Benz model series.

Digital DriveStyle App makes use of Google's Places API

In the concept version of Digital DriveStyle on display at Google I/O, Mercedes-Benz is demonstrating the capabilities of Google's Places API with four new features.

"Faster search, everywhere you go": Whether it’s a street address or nearby restaurant, find your destination faster with the Google Places Autocomplete API, which predicts the most likely destinations as you type.

"Preview destinations on-the-go": Explore landmarks, parks, and storefronts from around the world with 360-degree Street View imagery and Google+ Local photos.

"Know the hottest spots in town": Radar View uses the Google Places API Radar Search and Heatmaps to guide you to the center of the action by visualizing areas with high concentrations of night clubs, restaurants and shopping centers.

"Get live traffic conditions": integration of Google’s traffic service, providing a color-coded overlay of real-time traffic conditions on a Google Map.

Digital DriveStyle App due to be updated in the first half of 2013

These features are still expected to be integrated into the Digital DriveStyle App in the first half of 2013. Customers who already own a Drive Kit Plus and are using the app can obtain an updated version via the App Store. This avoids customers having to visit their Mercedes-Benz dealer or workshop to be able to use the new services.

While the majority of the product as demonstrated at Google I/O will be released to the public, Mercedes-Benz is additionally previewing a proof-of-concept feature whose market introduction plans have yet to be determined: a City Guide using Places API Radar Search to visualize the concentration of various features (nightlife, shopping, etc) as a graphical overlay on a Google Map.

Mercedes-Benz at the centre of innovation

Back as early as the beginning of the 1990s, Mercedes-Benz recognised the importance of having a presence in the innovation centre of Silicon Valley – and as a result in 1995 became the world's first automotive manufacturer to open a research site in Palo Alto. Today, Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America, Inc. (MBRDNA) has around 140 employees, the largest workforce of all of the automotive manufacturers located in Silicon Valley.

The Digital DriveStyle App has been fully developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz, with all of the functionality and design having been worked on by MBRDNA. The integration of Google content is a result of the close cooperation between the developers from Mountain View. This has been made possible thanks to a partnership between Google and Mercedes-Benz, announced at CES 2012.

The Drive Kit Plus, which enables the smartphone to be connected to the vehicle, was developed by Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH. Additional information on the Digital DriveStyle App and the Drive Kit Plus is available online at: http://drive-kit-plus.com.

Glossary

- Smartphone integration: the Drive Kit Plus currently enables Apple's iPhone 4/4S to be integrated into a vehicle. Integration of the iPhone 5 is being worked on and should follow later this year.

- Digital DriveStyle App: an application programmed by Mercedes-Benz which outputs the smartphone's main content (currently the iPhone 4/4S) on the vehicle display so that it can be accessed safely and conveniently while on the road – via the COMAND controller and/or by using the voice based intelligent personal assistant (currently Apple's Siri). The app is available free of charge through iTunes via the following link: https://itunes.apple.com/app/digital-drivestyle-app/id518868239?mt=8.

- Drive Kit Plus: the Drive Kit Plus is a hardware cradle which enables the smartphone to be connected to the vehicle. The Drive Kit Plus can be ordered ex factory for Mercedes-Benz A-Class models. A retrofit solution is also available from Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH for virtually all current Mercedes-Benz model series.

- Places API: A Google product providing accurate local search for points of interest, including business and address data, around the world. API stands for "Application Programming Interface".

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Available now from your authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer: Genuine accessories for the new E-Class

2013-05-18T12:39:00.001+03:00

The Genuine Accessories range from Mercedes-Benz for the new E-Class Saloon and Estate comprises over 140 high-quality and practical products. The main focus is on advanced multimedia systems and elegant, sporty products from Mercedes-Benz Sport Equipment.

Mobility today is about more than just getting from A to B. With the multimedia products from the Genuine Accessories range, the driver of the new E-Class is mobile on the World Wide Web, too:

The Mercedes-Benz InCar Hotspot brings the internet to the E-Class. This is a special wireless router which uses a data-compatible SIM card and the vehicle's roof aerial to establish a wireless internet connection even when the car is on the move. A WiFi-enabled device of some sort (laptop, tablet computer, mobile phone, MP3 player) is all that is required.

The Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone®, in conjunction with the "Digital DriveStyle" app developed in-house by Daimler, allows seamless integration of iPhone® models 4 and 4S into the E-Class ^[1] . Highlights include Siri voice control, the advanced navigation solution from Garmin® with internet-based real-time traffic information, Google® online POI search including Street View™ and 3D map view as well as the real-time location sharing system Glympse®. Additional functions include Facebook®, Twitter® and AUPEO!™ Personal Radio, as well as internet radio covering national and international stations.

The Mercedes-Benz telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP) also incorporates a host of multimedia functions. Featuring an integrated UMTS module connected directly to the vehicle's exterior aerial, it provides COMAND Online with a fast, stable and secure internet connection.

The iPad® rear integration Plus docking station offers an ergonomic and safe means of installing Apple® tablet PC models in the rear of the vehicle, whereby all their customary functions are maintained. First-class entertainment in the second row is also made possible by the Rear Seat Entertainment System, which comprises two 17.8 cm displays with integrated DVD player, USB and SD card slot, infrared headphones and infrared remote control.

Genuine individualisation with Mercedes-Benz Sport Equipment

Mercedes-Benz Sport Equipment is the label under which Mercedes-Benz offers a range of elegant yet sporty individualisation products. The following highlights have now been added to the range for the new E-Class:

The front-apron spoiler lip emphasises the vehicle's width and lends the front end an apparently lower centre of gravity. The spoiler lip is made of dimensionally stable polyurethane. The primed add-on part, which does not have to be registered in the vehicle documents, can be painted by your authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer in the colour of your choice and duly fitted.

The 5-twin-spoke wheel lends the new E-Class an elegantly sporty look, thanks to its matt black and high-sheen finish. The new wheel from Mercedes-Benz Sport Equipment is available in size 8.5 J x 19 ET 48 for the front axle and 9.5 J x 19 ET 48 for the rear axle.

An unusual night-time appearance is provided by the illuminated Mercedes star ^[2], available for vehicles with a centrally positioned star. Fibre-optic cables and LED lights illuminate the central star on the radiator grille when the car is locked and unlocked by remote control and when doors or the luggage compartment are opened.

Everything with you, wherever you go: Carrier systems and roof boxes

The large luggage compartments of the E-Class Saloon and Estate have traditionally made these vehicles a popular choice for families. Their transport capacities can be further increased with Genuine Accessories:

A collapsible rear-mounted cycle rack for the trailer coupling is available, for example, enabling the transportation of two or three bicycles. As a practical feature, an ingenious pull-out mechanism allows continued use of the luggage compartment. Those who prefer to transport items on the vehicle's roof can combine the Alustyle basic carrier (Saloon) or the Alustyle Easy-Fix II basic carrier bars (Estate) with the very light New Alustyle cycle rack, for example.

Genuine roof boxes by Mercedes-Benz are available in three sizes. The models with a capacity of 330, 400 and 450 litres can be opened from either side. The 3-bolt system on the lockable transport containers provides effective protection from would-be pilferers.

The Genuine Accessories for the new E-Class and the new Accessories catalogue are available from authorised Mercedes-Benz dealers now. Further information is available at www.mercedes-benz-accessories.com/e-class and www.mercedes-benz-accessories.com/e-class-movie.

Highest standards of quality and safety

The product range from Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH meets the same stringent standards of quality and safety that Mercedes-Benz also demands of its vehicles. All products are subject to a meticulous preselection process, exhaustive approval procedures, regular checks and strict manufacturing tolerances. The internal standards applied by Mercedes-Benz are far more exacting than the statutory requirements.

[1] not in conjunction with SPLITVIEW

[2] available from the 3rd quarter of 2013

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Complete coverage of all the hot topics

2013-05-18T11:01:00.000+03:00

Meeting of two flagships: The Airbus A380 as the backdrop for the world premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2013-05-17T11:54:00.000+03:00

Wednesday evening, Mercedes-Benz presented the S-Class in a special event. At the Airbus A380 delivery centre in Hamburg-Finkenwerder, the new Mercedes-Benz flagship met up with the world's largest and most advanced passenger aircraft, the Airbus A380. As "Germany's most valuable package", the star of the event had previously been flown from Stuttgart to Hamburg in an Airbus A300-600 freighter operated by DHL – just in time to celebrate the world premiere with around 750 international guests from politics, industry and the media.

On an LED video screen measuring some 200 square metres, the guests were able to witness the new S-Class being unloaded and driven across the runway to the launch pavilion equipped with multimedia facilities – flanked on each side by current Mercedes models. 15 cameras recorded the event and broadcast the images around the world via an outside broadcast truck. 96 loudspeakers and 20 kW of sound output ensured that every word was heard.

The choice of the A380 Delivery Center as the location for the world premiere was no accident. Like the A380, the new S-Class will set new standards in luxurious travel. "Rather than being about safety or aesthetics, power or efficiency, comfort or dynamism, our aspirations were 'the best or nothing' in every respect. No other car stands for the Mercedes-Benz brand promise more than the S-Class," said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

2000 square-metre pavilion for the launch celebration

As a logistical tour de force, Mercedes-Benz had a launch venue constructed where Airbus customers from Europe and the Middle East normally take delivery of their new A380, with a multimedia presentation stage, S-Class showroom, product display, VIP lounge and extensive backstage areas for technical facilities, logistics and catering. This included a kitchen for five German Michelin-star chefs, who opened a unique "ten-star restaurant" on the evening of the premiere to celebrate the S-Class.

Constructing the temporary building took around 14 days, employing up to 100 personnel from various trades each day. A total of 160 semitrailer trucks delivered the necessary materials: more than 500 tonnes of steel, 4000 square metres of wood, 400 spotlights, 96 loudspeakers and an LED video wall measuring 28 metres in width and seven metres in height.

The additional power supply with 3000 KVA of output required 25 kilometres of newly laid cables, 40 distributors and its own generators. Sound quality, for example during the live appearance of the international star Alicia Keys, was not only ensured by the precisely positioned loudspeakers, but also by 26 output signal channels and a mixing console with 168 input channels. 400 spotlights with 130 electric motors in around 1000 metres of traversing rigs shed the best possible light on the S-Class.

The new S-Class: Luxurious travel at the highest level

The new Mercedes-Benz flagship model is the epitome of a modern luxury saloon. The S-Class is an exclusive first-class office along the lines of a business jet, as well as a haven of relaxation with the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle and individual interior fragrancing.

"Our completely newly developed S-Class establishes a never-before-seen dimension in luxury, comfort and efficiency in a saloon, and raises the standard of safety equipment in automobiles to a new level. More than ever, this makes it synonymous with luxury and innovation in automotive engineering," says Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

"The Taste of Luxury": Mercedes-Benz opens "Ten Star Restaurant" for one night only

2013-05-17T11:46:00.001+03:00

The stars were out in force at the Airbus facility in Hamburg-Finkenwerder for yesterday's world premiere of the new S-Class when for one night only Mercedes-Benz opened a globally unique "Ten Star Restaurant" in the Airbus A380 delivery centre. Five German star-rated chefs specialising in different culinary styles were on hand to indulge the approximately 750 international guests from the worlds of politics, industry and media with a variety of culinary specialities. The gourmet creations were served up at several live cooking stations by chefs Juan Amador, Douce Steiner, Tim Raue, Matthias Schmidt and Wahabi Nouri, and formed the crowning touch to the evening's 'flying menu'.

With some unique dishes specially arranged for the world premiere, the chefs brought a further touch of refinement to the launch of the new Mercedes-Benz luxury saloon - a vehicle which is an exclusive first-class mobile office and a centre of well-being, all rolled into one. And just as the new S-Class is once again setting standards in terms of luxurious automobility, all five of the chefs are characterised by their exceptional culinary skills.

Juan Amador: veal cheeks in curry sauce, coconut jelly and mango mayonnaise

Well known and highly praised for his avant-garde compositions and flavour contrasts, three-star chef Juan Amador surprised guests with veal cheeks in curry sauce, coconut jelly and mango mayonnaise. Born in Swabia and with a German/Spanish background, he is regarded as one of the most innovative chefs around. He specialises in classic French haute cuisine as well as in the techniques of molecular gastronomy. In his own creative studio, the 44-year-old chef develops new cooking methods, researches completely new aromatic combinations, and also redefines or completely reinterprets familiar dishes. He earned his first Michelin star at just 25 years of age. He runs the "Amador" restaurant in Mannheim, which is currently rated with 18 points by the Gault&Millau gourmet guide.

Douce Steiner: diced turbot in lemon sauce with green asparagus tips and sorrel

Douce Steiner, the first German female chef to earn two Michelin stars, served diced turbot in lemon sauce with green asparagus tips and sorrel. Hailing from southern Baden, she is well known for her love of vegetables and herbs – and also famous for her light sauces. In 2007 she took over the "Hirschen" hotel and restaurant in Sulzburg, in the Margravian region of southwest Germany, from her father, under whom she also served as an apprentice. In 2011, the 42-year-old was named "Rising Chef of the Year" by the Gault&Millau gourmet guide. Two years later she earned her second star with her light, Mediterranean-inspired style.

Tim Raue: wasabi langoustine

Two-star chef Tim Raue, from Berlin, delighted guests with an Asian dish - wasabi langoustine. The current edition of the Gault&Millau guide describes the work of the 39-year-old chef as a "love affair with Asia". His dishes are characterised by the careful composition of spices and aromas from China, Japan and Thailand. Deeply rooted in the traditions of Asia, Raue's creations reflect an intense sense of harmony and a strong balance between sweet, sharp, sour and salty highlights. With 19 points, he is one of the few chefs to come close to the maximum score in the current Gault&Millau guide for his restaurant "Tim Raue".

Matthias Schmidt: frozen cress with sorb purée and mustard caramel

31-year-old Matthias Schmidt from Frankfurt am Main is one of the leading creative chefs from the younger generation. As a bold chef, he has earned a reputation which stretches way beyond the boundaries of the banking metropolis. This is because he has turned his back on classic haute cuisine and now works only with (organic) regional products. As part of his approach he opts for little-known products which are not often found in high-end gastronomy, such as sorb and few-flowered leek. His recipe for success lies in the use of often hand-picked ingredients used in his typically innovative style, full of contrasting flavours, to create high-quality, top-class dishes. For the S-Class he created frozen cress with sorb purée and mustard caramel. The two-star chef runs the "Villa Merton" restaurant in Frankfurt. The Gault&Millau guide has awarded the chef's ground-breaking cuisine 17 points.

Wahabi Nouri: Frisian shoulder of ox braised in ras el hanout with celeriac polenta and pickled mirabelle plums

Wahabi Nouri was born in Casablanca and has a reputation as something of a wizard when it comes to the finest culinary delights. As such he charmed the guests at the premiere with Frisian shoulder of ox braised in ras el hanout with celeriac polenta and pickled mirabelle plums. His imaginative dishes are considered to be works of art. They are based on classic delicacies from French cuisine, which the 43-year-old chef combines discreetly yet emotionally with influences from his Moroccan homeland, as well as some modern twists. In 2002 he opened the "Piment" restaurant in Hamburg and one year later earned his first Michelin star. In 2010 he was named "Chef of the Year" by the Gault&Millau guide.

World premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz luxury saloon in Hamburg

The S-Class gourmet creations of the top chefs

Five of the best German chefs brought a further touch of refinement to the world premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class in Hamburg with some unique gourmet creations.

Juan Amador: veal cheeks in curry sauce, coconut jelly and mango mayonnaise

4 veal cheeks
butter freshly ground white pepper
50 g butter
20 g purple curry
20 g beetroot granules breadcrumbs
hazelnut oil Maldon salt
curry paste
50 g nut butter
80 g dried honey bread

Curry sauce

1 dsp chopped shallots
1 tsp purple curry
200 ml red Banyuls wine
ground arrowroot Maldon salt
1 dsp chopped garlic
30 ml red wine vinegar
500 ml veal jus butter

Coconut jelly

1 l coconut milk 4 gelatine leaves
1 pinch Maldon salt 10 g agar agar
1 pinch sugar

Mango mayonnaise

400 g mango purée
200 ml olive oil
6 g lota (Textura)

Preparation

To make the curry sauce: gently fry the shallots and garlic in a little butter. Sprinkle over the purple curry powder and deglaze with the red wine vinegar. Add the Banyuls and allow to simmer until syrupy in consistency. Add the veal jus, bring to the boil and simmer to reduce by a half, then pass through a sieve and thicken with a little arrowroot.

To make the coconut jelly: bring the coconut milk to the boil with the salt and sugar. Stir in the agar agar, bring to the boil then remove immediately from the heat and sieve before stirring in the softened gelatine. Pour into 2 cm-deep moulds and allow to cool. Before serving, mix the jelly with a little argan oil in a thermomixer to form a smooth cream.

To make the mango mayonnaise: bring the mango purée to the boil and stir in the lota, then add the olive oil to the warm mixture using a hand-held blender until an emulsion is formed. Keep warm. Vacuum-seal the veal cheeks individually with a little hazelnut oil and immerse in a water bath at exactly 60°C for 12 hours.

To make the curry paste: melt 50 g butter and 50 g nut butter in a pan. Add the purple curry, breadcrumbs and beetroot granules. Season with salt and keep warm.

Remove the veal cheek from the bag, season with salt and pepper and fry briefly on each side. Coat with the curry paste, sprinkle with a little Maldon salt and serve.

Douce Steiner: diced turbot in lemon sauce with green asparagus tips and sorrel

Turbot

4 x 60 g turbot fillet salt and pepper
1 dsp vegetable oil
1 dsp butter
1 sprig lemon thyme

Season the fish and fry on each side in the vegetable oil until golden; roast for about 3 minutes in the oven at 180°C, then add the butter and thyme and baste continuously for about ½ minute. Serve with the lemon sauce.

Lemon sauce

2 shallots, finely chopped
2 lemon grass stalks, crushed and roughly chopped
3 saffron threads
2 dsp lime-infused olive oil
½ l chicken, fish or vegetable stock
3 lemons, grated zest and juice
6 sprigs lemon thyme
50 g cold butter
freshly ground salt and pepper
1 tsp pink pepper, crushed

To make the lemon sauce: gently fry the shallots, lemon grass and saffronn in the lime-infused olive oil. Add the chicken stock and the grated lemon zest and simmer until reduced by about a half. Add the thyme and simmer for a further 1-2 minutes. Pass the mixture through a sieve and return the liquid to the pan. Add the lemon juice and butter, season to taste with salt and pepper. Whisk thoroughly just before serving. Sprinkle with the pink pepper as a final touch.

Green asparagus tips and sorrel

Trim 4 spears of asparagus and boil for approx. 5 minutes with salt, sugar and 1 dsp butter, then rinse in cold water so it retains its lovely green colour. Just before serving, halve the spears and fry quickly in a dsp olive oil. Place on top of the fish, which should already be on the plate with the lemon sauce, and scatter with the sorrel.

Tim Raue: wasabi langoustine

Langoustine

4 langoustine tails
2 dsp cornflour
Wasabi mayonnaise
7 dsp Japanese mayonnaise
1 dsp wasabi powder
2 dsp freshly grated wasabi root
1 dsp lime juice
4 tsp green rice

Dressing

80 ml Nuc Nam fish sauce
50 ml rice vinegar light (Marukan)
50 ml lemon squash (e.g. Rose's)
3 dsp finely diced carrot
3 dsp finely diced mango
1 dsp chopped coriander stalks

Toss the langoustine tails lightly in the cornflour and place in the refrigerator for 4 hours. Fry in hot fat (160°C) for 3 minutes.. Blend the wasabi powder with the lime juice, then stir all other ingredients into the mayonnaise. Fry the rice in hot fat at 160°C for a few seconds, place on kitchen paper to drain, season lightly with salt. To make the dressing: mix all liquid ingredients together, then add the carrot, mango and coriander. Serve chilled.

Matthias Schmidt: frozen cress with sorb purée and mustard caramel

The sorb, also known variously as the service-tree, checker tree or sorb apple, is a wild fruit tree related to the rose.

Sorb purée

300 ml apple-quince mead
400 ml glucose
4.5 g dried woodruff
600 ml parsley root juice
35 g garden cress
250 g Boskoop apples
250 g Povida apples
3 g agar agar
3 leaves gelatine
150 g ripe sorb apples
Mustard caramel
60 g sugar
30 g mustard seed

Boil the quince mead with the glucose, add the woodruff and leave to steep for 24 hours and then pass through a sieve. Blend the cress, the parsley root juice and the woodruff mixture together in a mixer until the cress is completely liquidised. Freeze the resulting mixture.

Extract the juice from the Boskoop apples, bring to the boil and pass through a fine cloth. Core the Povida apples, chop finely and allow to soften in the hot Boskoop apple juice. Add the agar agar to the hot mixture, boil for one minute and then add the softened gelatine. Blend everything together to a smooth purée. The sorb apples should be so ripe that they are completely brown and can be pressed through a fine sieve to separate out the flesh of the fruit. Mix the two purées together.

Allow the sugar to caramelise until golden yellow; add the mustard seed and then remove the mixture immediately from the pan onto a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Allow to cool before cutting into small pieces with a knife.

Wahabi Nouri: Frisian shoulder of ox braised in ras el hanout with celery polenta and pickled mirabelle plums

Frisian shoulder of ox

ox shoulder, approx. 1.5 kg in weight
2 pimientos
1 clove ½ cinnamon stick
2 onions ras el hanout spice mixture
15 g ginger
1 bay leaf
0.5 l white wine zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
250 ml veal stock salt

Chop the onions roughly and allow to marinate for at least three days with all the other ingredients. Sear the meat, season with salt and ras el hanout; add the onions and continue to cook gently. Pour over the marinade and allow to braise for about three hours at 80°C until tender. Remove the meat and place on one side to cool. Sieve the sauce to remove residue and simmer to reduce to the desired consistency. Warm the meat through in the sauce.

Celery polenta

½ head of celery
50 g parmesan
250 ml chicken stock
100 g polenta
100 ml milk
20 ml olive oil

Extract the juice from the celery and immediately bring this liquid quickly to the boil before passing through a fine cloth. Mix this stock with the remaining ingredients to create a soft polenta, then refine with grated parmesan and olive oil.

Pickled mirabelles

100 g mirabelle plums
50 g sugar
50 ml water
25 g white balsamico
salt
2 g agar agar

Halve the mirabelles and bring to the boil with the remaining ingredients, with the exception of the agar agar. Allow to steep and remove any stones. Add the 2 g agar agar and bring to the boil; allow to cool, liquidise and sieve.

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Glossary - Terms and innovations from A to Z

2013-05-16T23:54:00.000+03:00

ACTIVE BODY CONTROL (ABC): subfunction of the suspension system MAGIC BODY CONTROL. The Mercedes-Benz ABC suspension has four suspension struts with hydraulic cylinders to set the force individually in each suspension strut, thus all but completely eliminating the lifting, rolling and pitching motion of the vehicle body. Various acceleration sensors send information about the current driving situation to the control unit which, in turn, compares this information with the data received from the pressure sensors in the suspension struts and the level sensors on the axle links. Based on the results of this comparison, the system calculates control signals which are then converted into precisely measured oil flows by servohydraulic values at the front and rear axle.

Active Blind Spot Assist: this radar-based system alerts the driver if it detects another vehicle in the blind spot when changing lanes. If the driver ignores the system's warnings and comes dangerously close to the vehicle in the adjacent lane, Active Blind Spot Assist intervenes by applying the brakes at the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle so as to create a yawing movement that can avert a collision.

Active Lane Keeping Assist: intervention to correct unintentional lane changes even with a broken line. The new improved version of the Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also able to intervene should the driver inadvertently cross a broken line when there is a risk of a collision. The system uses the information from the radar system to detect when the adjacent lane is not clear. The radar system has been supplemented by a sensor at the rear, which works in unison with the other sensors in the front and rear bumpers. The Active Lane Keeping Assist is not only capable of recognising critical situations such as overtaking vehicles, parallel traffic and parking vehicles, it can also respond effectively to oncoming traffic. If the system detects the risk of a collision, not only does it cause the steering wheel to vibrate in pulses as a tactile warning for the driver, it intervenes with a lane-correcting brake application on one side via the ESP®. It thereby forms the ideal complement to the Active Blind Spot Assist.

Active multicontour seats: these multicontour seats with a dynamic function continuously adapt to the driving situation. Depending on the steering angle, lateral acceleration and road speed, the air cushions in the side bolsters are pneumatically inflated to ensure maximum lateral support even when the style of driving is extremely dynamic.

Active Parking Assist: automatic manoeuvring into and out of parallel and end-on parking spaces. The Active Parking Assist is designed for automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces. The driver moves the vehicle by manually pressing the accelerator or releasing the brake. What's more, the system is now also able to manoeuvre out of parallel parking spaces again all by itself with automatic steering and brake control, assuming the vehicle was parked there automatically previously.

Adaptive Damping System Plus (ADS PLUS): fully automatic, electronically controlled system that adjusts the damping at each wheel to meet current requirements. Fitted as standard.

Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus: if the camera-based Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus picks up oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead, it adapts the light distribution according to the specific situation when the main beam is on. A mechanism in the headlamp module masks the portion of the LED headlamps' cone of light where there are other vehicles to prevent their drivers being dazzled. Possible backglare caused by increased use of the main beam and highly reflective signs at the side of the road is also detected and eliminated by dimming the headlamps accordingly. Consequently, the driver can simply leave the main-beam headlamps on at all times and use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users. The system is active at speeds above 30 km/h when travelling on roads without street lighting in the dark.

AIR-BALANCE package: with improved filtration, perfume atomisation and ionisation, this optional extra fulfils three functions at once. With the help of a fine-particle activated charcoal filter integrated into the air conditioner housing, the air is filtered even more efficiently than in the standard model. The customer is able to perfume and individualise the interior with a high-quality fragrance. An ioniser is used to ionise the air for a cleaner, fresher atmosphere.

AIRMATIC: full air suspension system specified as standard for the S-Class. Continuous adjustment of the level allows the spring travel to be maintained whatever the vehicle load. The vehicle level is also controlled automatically depending on the vehicle speed. It is lowered by up to 20 millimetres when the speed exceeds 120 km/h, thus reducing aerodynamic drag and improving driving stability thanks to the vehicle's low centre of gravity.

BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: for the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist can help to avoid not just rear-end collisions with vehicles directly in front, but also imminent crashes with cross traffic at junctions. If the anticipatory system detects a hazardous situation of this type based on the amalgamated data from the brand new stereo camera and the radar sensor system, it prompts the driver to start emergency braking by activating visual and acoustic warnings. If the driver presses the brake pedal too tentatively, as is often the case, BAS PLUS will step in by automatically boosting brake pressure for effective emergency braking, even applying the brakes at full power if necessary. The system is active at speeds up to 72 km/h.

BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake: the BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake functions have been supplemented by pedestrian detection. In addition to this, autonomous braking as a result of vehicles in front has undergone a major enhancement. By "fusing together" the data from the stereo camera and radar sensors, it is now possible to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle. Visual and acoustic warnings are given when a hazard is spotted. If the driver then reacts by braking, the braking power will be boosted by BAS PLUS as the situation requires, right up to full brake application. Should the driver fail to react, the PRE-SAFE® Brake will trigger autonomous vehicle braking. The PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection is active up to 72 km/h, and is able to prevent accidents with pedestrians at speeds up to 50 km/h. The operating range of the autonomous braking function for stationary vehicles has been optimised so that rear-end collisions can likewise now be avoided at speeds of up to 50 km/h.

Beltbag: This inflatable seat belt strap can lower the risk of injury to rear passengers during a frontal impact by reducing the loads acting on the ribcage. Should the crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact, the airbag control unit will trigger deployment and inflation of the beltbag. A gas generator then inflates the multi-layered belt strap with Velcro seams to nearly three times its normal width. The resulting larger surface area is able to better distribute the force acting on the seat occupant, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

Climatised seats: together with the perforated leather, four fans in the seat cushion and two fans in the backrest ensure uniform relative air humidity where the occupant's body meets the seat. For the first time, so-called reversing fans are used in the climatised seats. Here the rotational direction of the fan, and therefore the airflow within the seat structure, can be reversed. This enables the surface temperature of a heated-up seat to be reduced much faster.

COMAND Online: this brings the internet into the car. The following functions are supported: WLAN HotSpot integrated into the head unit as standard, unrestricted browsing on the internet, read/write SMS/email, Mercedes-Benz services, Internet radio, Live Traffic Information.

Crosswind Assist: helps the driver as it can substantially reduce the effect strong crosswinds have on the vehicle's straight-line stability.

Cushionbag: this airbag is located under the seat cushion upholstery, but on top of the plastic seat shell. When the seat is reclined, it prevents the occupant from sliding beneath the seat belt (so-called submarining) in an accident, as it raises the front section of the seat cushion upholstery.

Data fusion: highly sophisticated sensors and the necessary networked algorithms provide the foundation for innovative new functions. Data fusion enables the algorithms for the varying systems to amalgamate the visual information from the stereo camera with the readings from the radar sensors. Many of the assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz work in this way, fusing multiple or complementary data sources to ensure more reliable operation.

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot: the DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control is a driver aid designed to keep the vehicle at the desired distance from another vehicle in front, even in stop & go traffic. This basic radar-based function has now been enhanced by the addition of Stop&Go Pilot, which helps drivers to stay centred in their lane by generating the appropriate steering torque when travelling on a straight road and even in gentle bends. The stereo camera recognises lane markings as well as a vehicle driving ahead, and relays this information to the electric steering assistance system. When driving at slow speeds, e.g. in congested traffic, the Stop&Go Pilot can use the vehicle ahead as a means of orientation, even when there are no clear lane markings visible. The system's design is so refined that the sensors can detect whether the driver's hands are actually on the steering wheel. If they are not, a visual warning is issued first. Should the driver fail to react, a warning signal sounds and lateral lane guidance is deactivated. The system can be activated at speeds up to 200 km/h. A green steering wheel symbol appears in the instrument cluster to indicate when the Stop&Go Pilot is operating while DISTRONIC PLUS is activated.

Double cupholder: the use of Peltier technology enables drinks to be warmed or cooled over a longer period. The thermo-cupholders are integrated into the Business centre console in the rear.

Electromechanical Direct-Steer system: this combines speed-sensitive power assistance with a variable ratio across the steering angle range. The power steering assistance provided by the rack and pinion steering gear is controlled on-demand and therefore contributes towards efficiency.

ENERGIZING massage function: Working together with physiotherapists and psychologists, the seat specialists at Mercedes-Benz have developed a unique massage function on the hot-stone principle. This is based on 14 separately actuated air cushions in the backrest, as well as an integrated warming function. There is a choice of six massage programmes, two of them using the warming function.

Energy-transparent vehicle: method developed by Mercedes-Benz to detect the possibilities for efficiency optimisation in even the most minute component. An exact and meticulous examination of the flow of energy throughout the vehicle (tank to wheel) helps the development engineers to optimise every single assembly that has an impact on fuel consumption, right down to individual wheel bearings.

Executive seat: electrically adjustable rear seat with a backrest angle of 19 to 43.5 degrees on the front passenger side, available as an optional extra for the long-wheelbase version. Even in the reclined position, the cushionbag prevents the occupant from sliding under the seat belt in an accident.

FLEXRAY data bus: serial communication technology in the car with extremely high data transfer rate, used with ROAD SURFACE SCAN.

Frontbass system: this is the first time that Mercedes-Benz has used this system in a saloon car. The woofers are installed in the firewall, and use the almost 40-litre space in the cross-members and side members as a resonance chamber.

Hot-stone principle: a massage technique traditionally widespread throughout the world which has been developed further in recent years to enhance relaxation and the sense of wellbeing. The spine is covered with stones heated to up to 55 degrees C and massaged.

Individual Entertainment System in the rear: the new S-Class is the first vehicle worldwide to offer a genuine multi-user system for entertainment functions. This means that there is independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any of the four seats – i.e. radio, TV, internet, navigation, DVD player and USB-connected devices. Realised with the help of a MOST bus system.

Infrared headlamps: two separate light sources in the headlamp assemblies light up the road ahead with invisible infrared light. Used for the Night View Assist Plus.

Lightweight index: this index defines the torsional stiffness in relation to the vehicle's size (footprint) and weight. To this end, all the relevant node areas have been optimised and systematically reinforced with respect to force distribution.

Live Traffic Information: internet-based traffic information in real time.

Long-range infrared camera: detects relevant objects (pedestrians and animals such as deer, horses, cattle) at a distance of up to 160 m as a thermal image, enabling it to control the warning function. Used for the Night View Assist Plus.

Luxury seats: electrically adjustable rear seats with a backrest angle of 19 to 37 degrees, available as an optional extra.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL: innovative suspension system available as an option for the eight-cylinder models, featuring the ACTIVE BODY CONTROL and ROAD SURFACE SCAN subfunctions.

MAGIC VISION CONTROL: although not visible as a spray jet, this adaptive screen washing system uses conventional washer fluid to ensure a clear view. The innovation lies in the way the fluid is conducted to the windscreen in order to clean it. This is done by means of water guides integrated on both sides along the wiper blade – one on the left and one on the right – with minute laser-cut spraying holes. Via these channels, the innovative system always supplies washing fluid to the windscreen discreetly, precisely where it is needed: just in front of the wiper blade lip, according to the direction of movement of the wiper.

Mercedes-Benz emergency call system: in combination with COMAND Online the new S-Class features the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system. When COMAND Online is connected to a mobile phone and an accident occurs, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system automatically alerts an emergency call centre within minutes. After airbag or belt tensioner activation, the precise GPS position of the vehicle and its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) are sent to a special emergency call centre by SMS, the location data being sent in parallel using the DTMF (dual tone multifrequency) process.

MOST bus system: the Individual Entertainment System in the rear is connected via a fibre-optic cable, a so-called MOST bus system (Media Oriented Systems Transport). Access to the sources from any seat is possible via the MOST ring, which operates at a transfer rate of up to 150 Mbit per second.

Multicontour seats: these relieve strain on the spine and can be precisely adjusted to suit the ergonomics of the driver and passengers. To this end the pressure of the variable air chambers in the backrest side bolsters and for the backrest contour in the lumbar area can be predefined.

Multi-level functionality: dazzle protection for following traffic. The brake lights and indicators are operated at varying intensities depending on the current driving state and ambient brightness levels (day/night).

Night View Assist Plus: alerting to pedestrians and animals. The new Night View Assist Plus system is capable of detecting pedestrians and animals in potentially hazardous positions in front of the vehicle. In particularly relevant situations (in darkness, in unlit surroundings at speeds over 60 km/h) it automatically switches the instrument cluster display from the speedometer to a crystal-sharp night view image to alert the driver. Any pedestrians or animals detected ahead are clearly highlighted in colour in this image. The spotlight function is additionally used to repeatedly flash pedestrians in the warning zone in these situations by means of a special module in the front headlamps. This attracts the driver's attention to the source of the danger at the same time as warning the person on the side of the road. Animals purposely are not flashed since their reaction to light is unpredictable. These functions are now available in urban areas, too. Infrared headlamps, a long-range infrared camera, a short-range infrared camera and a spotlight function are used to provide the various functions.

PRE-SAFE® Impulse: at an early phase of the crash, before the resulting deceleration starts to increase, the front occupants are pulled against the direction of impact and pulled deeper into their seats by their seat belts. By the time the accident enters the phase when loads peak, the extra distance they are retracted by can be used while dissipating energy in a controlled fashion. Pre-acceleration and force limitation allow the occupants to be temporarily isolated from the effects of the crash, significantly reducing the risk and severity of injuries in a frontal collision. With PRE-SAFE® Impulse, the seat belt can be retracted by pyrotechnic means at all three belt anchorage points, and released again with controlled force. The fundamental difference compared with conventional belt tensioners is that the force for retracting the belt strap is maintained for a much longer time. The deployment logic fires the seat belt system's belt tensioners progressively depending on the seriousness of the accident. In this way, the tensioning force can be adapted as required.

PRE-SAFE® PLUS: occupant protection for an imminent impact from the rear. PRE-SAFE® PLUS offers an extension of the familiar occupant protection measures in situations where traffic behind poses a danger. A radar sensor in the rear bumper monitors the traffic behind the vehicle and can detect the risk of a rear-end collision. The system warns the driver of the vehicle behind by activating the rear hazard warning lights at a higher frequency than normal. If the vehicle is stationary, if the danger of a collision persists PRE-SAFE® PLUS will keep it firmly braked. Minimising the forward jolt in this way can greatly reduce the strain placed on the occupants, such as the risk of whiplash injuries. Firmly applying the vehicle's brakes can help to prevent secondary accidents too, such as running into a vehicle in front, for example, or colliding with pedestrians or other road users at junctions. Immediately before impact, the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures, including the reversible belt tensioners, are deployed.

PRE-SAFE® Rear package: activates occupant protection measures in hazardous situations. These include tensioning the seat belts and raising the luxury and Executive seats to the upright position, as well as closing the windows and sliding sunroof. In conjunction with PRE-SAFE® PLUS, also activation of occupant protection when a rear-end collision threatens.

Radar: sensor technology for picking up relevant obstacles. New improved versions of the short-range and long-range radars combine with a new multi-mode radar to detect relevant obstacles such as vehicles or people in defined areas in front of, next to and, now, behind the vehicle, too. The system employs 2 x short-range radars at the front (range 30 m, detection angle 80°), 1 x long-range radar at the front (200 m, 18°) with medium-range detection (60 m, 60°), 2 x short-range radars on the sides at the rear (30 m, 80°) and 1 x multi-mode radar at the rear (30 m, 80° and 80 m, 16°). The algorithms for the varying systems amalgamate (data fusion) the radar readings with the visual information from the stereo camera. Many of the assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz work in this way, fusing multiple data sources to ensure more reliable operation.

Rear seat safety: Mercedes-Benz sets new standards with special safety measures for passengers in the rear. This includes seat belt buckle extender, beltbag and cushionbag. See also PRE-SAFE® rear package.

ROAD SURFACE SCAN: subfunction of the suspension system MAGIC BODY CONTROL making the S-Class the world's first car able to detect bumps on the road ahead. The "eyes" for the ROAD SURFACE SCAN function are provided by a stereo camera fitted behind the windscreen, which scans the road up to 15 metres ahead of the vehicle and delivers a precise image of the road contours. Based on the camera pictures and driving status information, the control unit constantly calculates the best control strategy for overcoming unevenness such as prolonged bumps.

Seat belt buckle extender: an electric motor extends and retracts the belt buckle automatically. In this way, any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax can be reduced so that passengers are secured more firmly in both sideways and lengthways direction. Fastening seat belts in the rear has also been made simpler: the seat belt buckle emerges when the rear doors are opened, and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot.

Short-range infrared camera: shows in conjunction with the infrared headlamps a sharp greyscale image of the area in front of the vehicle in the instrument cluster display. Used for the Night View Assist Plus.

SPLITVIEW: the driver and front passenger are able to see different content on the central display at the same time. The Comand Online system forms a mixed image from two separate display images (e.g. TV and navigation). This is then separated in the high-resolution central display by means of prisms, enabling different screen content to be shown for the driver and front passenger depending on the viewing angle.

Spotlight function in the front headlamps: in particularly relevant situations (darkness, unlit road, speed over 60 km/h) flashes any pedestrians detected with the help of the controllable light module. Used for Night View Assist Plus.

Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera (SMPC or stereo camera for short): just like the Multi-Purpose Camera (MPC) fitted previously, the stereo camera is positioned behind the windscreen in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror. However, the camera features two "eyes" that produce a 3D view of the area up to around 50 metres in front of the vehicle while monitoring the overall situation ahead for a range of up to 500 metres. In this way, the camera is able to provide data for processing by various systems. Intelligent algorithms perform a visual evaluation of this three-dimensional information in "6D-Vision" (detection of position and movement of relevant objects in three dimensions in each case) in order to detect and carry out spatial classification of both vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs and road markings within a large field of vision. Used for example for BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist and DISTRONIC PLUS with Stop&Go Pilot.

Stop&Go Pilot: supports the driver in stop-and-go traffic with steering intervention. Subfunction of DISTRONIC PLUS.

Traffic Sign Assist with wrong-way driver warning function: a new Traffic Sign Assist, which builds on the capabilities of the previous Speed Limit Assist, represents yet another contribution to accident prevention from Mercedes-Benz. The system is now also able to recognise many supplemental signs, but also no-overtaking zones and the lifting of these zones, and can even alert drivers to access restrictions. The camera on the inside of the windscreen continues to pick up speed limit signs, including those on overhead gantries and in roadworks, for example. The camera's data is cross-referenced against the information in the navigation system and can be displayed in both the instrument cluster and the map view. If the camera fails to spot any road signs showing a speed limit or a speed limit is lifted, the legal speed limits based on the navigation data are shown instead, such as a maximum speed of 100 km/h on country roads in Germany or 50 km/h in built-up areas. Supplemental signs are also recognised and displayed according to situation (e.g. "in the wet"). No-overtaking zones and the signs signalling their end are also registered and displayed, while in the case of signs imposing access restrictions, through the wrong-way driver warning function an acoustic warning is additionally emitted together with a visual warning in the instrument cluster.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Heritage - S-Class technology milestones

2013-05-16T23:40:00.000+03:00

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class and its predecessors have always stood for innovative automotive engineering. Over the years, they have continually brought new features to the market which have then found widespread acceptance. Here is a brief overview of the special features in each model series.

Mercedes-Simplex 60 PS (1903 to 1905)

- State-of-the-art high-performance engine: large-displacement four-cylinder unit with overhead intake valves

- Highly efficient honeycomb radiator

- Long wheelbase and low centre of gravity

Mercedes-Benz Nürburg, W 08 (1928 to 1933)

- First series production Mercedes-Benz car with an eight-cylinder engine

- Luxurious and spacious Pullman body

- Overdrive transmission as an option (from 1931, in conjunction with increased displacement)

Mercedes-Benz 770 "Grand Mercedes", W 07 and W 150 (1930 to 1943)

- First series production Mercedes-Benz car with an eight-cylinder supercharged engine

- Dual ignition system with two spark plugs per cylinder (high-voltage magneto ignition and battery ignition)

- Overdrive transmission (five-speed manual transmission from 1938)

- Oval tubular box frame (from 1938)

- De Dion rear axle (from 1938)

Mercedes-Benz 320, W 142 (1937 to 1942)

- Smooth-running six-cylinder engine

- All-synchromesh four-speed transmission, with remote action gear from 1939

- Wide range of bodies: saloon, Pullman saloon (with exterior case from 1939), streamlined saloon, several cabriolets

Mercedes-Benz 300, W 186 and W 189 (1951 to 1962)

- Sophisticated six-cylinder engine with overhead camshaft

- Manually-controlled intake manifold fuel injection (from 1957)

- Patented safety conical-pin locks prevent doors from springing open in an accident

- Electrically-operated torsion bar suspension to compensate the height of the rear wheels under heavy loads

- Heating with blower(s) as standard

- Air conditioning as an option (from 1958)

- Power-assisted steering as an option (from 1958)

Mercedes-Benz 220, W 187 (1951 to 1954)

- Sophisticated six-cylinder engine with overhead camshaft

- Patented safety conical-pin locks prevent doors from springing open in an accident

- Heater with blower as optional equipment

Mercedes-Benz 220 a/220 S/220 SE, W 180/W 128 (1954 to 1959)

- Integral body construction

- Improved spaciousness and comfort thanks to modern unitary structure

- Front suspension subframe

- Single-joint swing axle with low centre of rotation

- Brake drums with "turbocooling"

- Separately adjustable heater and blower as standard for driver and front passenger

- "Hydrak" automatic hydraulic clutch as an option (from 1957)

- Manually-controlled intake manifold fuel injection (220 SE, from 1958)

Mercedes-Benz 220 b to 300 SE/300 SE long, W 111/W 112 (1959 to 1965)

- Safety passenger compartment with crumple zones (front and rear)

- Padded steering wheel and interior appointments designed so as to reduce injury hazards in accidents

- Conical-pin door lock with two safety catches

- Disc brakes (300 SE, from 1961)

- Dual-circuit braking system (from 1963)

- Four-speed automatic transmission (from 1961)

- Air suspension (300 SE, from 1961)

- Long-wheelbase version available (300 SE, from 1963)

- Central locking system as an option (300 SE long-wheelbase)

Mercedes-Benz 600, W 100 (1963 to 1981)

- Powerful, large-displacement V8 engine

- Four-speed automatic transmission

- Dual-circuit braking system with disc brakes

- Air suspension

- Power steering

- Central hydraulic system for seat adjustment, opening and closing doors, windows and luggage compartment

- Electronically-controlled heating and ventilation system

Mercedes-Benz 250 S to 300 SEL 6.3, W 108/W 109 (1965 to 1972)

- Safety steering system (from 1967)

- Hydropneumatic compensator spring at the rear axle

- Air suspension (300 SEL, 300 SEL 6.3, 300 SEL 3.5)

- Top-of-the-range 300 SEL 6.3 model with an output of 250 hp (184 kW), powerful V8 engine and sports-car performance (from 1968)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 116 (1972 to 1980)

- Officially known as the "S-Class" for the first time

- Integral safety concept

- Four-spoke safety steering wheel

- Tank above rear axle to protect it from collisions

- Safety door handles

- Generously sized headlamps and turn signal lamps

- Tail lights with anti-soiling design

- Side windows with anti-soiling measures

- ABS (anti-lock braking system) as an option (from 1978)

- Cruise control as an option (from 1975)

- Double wishbone front axle with zero scrub radius

- Coupled-link axle with anti-squat control (450 SE, 450 SEL, 450 SEL 6.9)

- Automatic transmission with torque converter as an option (standard for 450 SE, 450 SEL, 450 SEL 6.9)

- Hydropneumatic suspension with level control (450 SEL 6.9, from 1975)

- First luxury class saloon with a diesel engine, first series production passenger car with a turbo-diesel engine (300 SD, from 1978)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 126 (1979 to 1991)

- Bodyshell with fork-arm structure, the world's first series-production car to fulfil the criterion of the asymmetric head-on collision (offset crash)

- Low drag coefficient cd = 0.37

- New V8 engines with light-alloy block

- Closed-loop catalytic converter as an option (from 1985) or as standard (from 1986)

- Electrically adjustable steering column as an option (from 1985)

- Driver airbag and belt tensioner for front passenger as an option (from 1981)

- Front passenger airbag (from 1988)

- Automatic locking differential as an option for the six-cylinder models (from 1985)

- ASR (acceleration skid control) as an option for V8 models (from 1985)

- The most successful high-end, luxury Mercedes-Benz saloon

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 140 (1991 to 1998)

- Petrol engines with four valves per cylinder and variably adjustable intake camshafts

- First Mercedes-Benz series production car with a twelve-cylinder engine, the brand’s most powerful passenger car engine up to that point (600 SE, 600 SEL)

- Premium-class diesel 300 SD available for the first time on the world markets

- Systematically designed for a high level of recyclability

- Total avoidance of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)

- Electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission (standard for V8 and V12 models, from 1995)

- Speed-sensitive power steering

- Double-glazed side windows for maximum noise comfort

- Automatic climate control with activated charcoal filter and CO/NOX-sensitive sensors as standard (S 600) or as an option

- Electrically folding exterior mirrors

- Power closing for doors and boot lid as an option

- Headlamps with variable-focus reflectors

- Electronics linking via CAN-bus

- Seat belts with automatic height adjustment

- Sidebags for driver and front passenger (from 1996)

- Adaptive Damping System ADS as an option

- Electronic Stability Program ESP® as standard (S 600, from 1995) or as an option (S 420, S 500, from 1995)

- Brake Assist BAS (from 1996)

- PARKTRONIC electronic parking aid as standard (S 600, from 1995) or as an option (from 1995)

- Auto-Pilot-System APS navigation system as an option (from 1995)

- TELE-AID emergency call system as an option (from 1997)

- LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system as an option (from 1996)

- Xenon headlamps with dynamic headlamp range control as an option (from 1996)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 220 (1998 to 2005)

- Lightweight body with weight-reducing materials mix (high-tensile steel, light alloy, plastic)

- Aluminium crash boxes in the front end and rear structure

- Drag coefficient cd = 0.27

- Automatic cylinder cut-out system as standard (S 600) or as an option (S 500)

- 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with electronic control (S 430, S 500, from 2004)

- AIRMATIC air suspension with electronically controlled Adaptive Damping System

- Active Body Control suspension as an option (standard for S 600)

- Additional turn signal lamps integrated into the exterior mirrors

- Automatic headlamp mode

- COMAND control and display system with dynamic navigation as an option

- Windowbags

- Rear sidebags

- Passenger-side airbag with two-stage gas generator

- Belt tensioners and belt force limiters in the rear

- Laminated glass side windows

- Multi-zone automatic climate control with individual control at each seat depending on the sun's position

- Luxury seats with ventilation and dynamic multicontour backrest as an option

- DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control as an option

- KEYLESS-GO access and drive authorisation system‑as an option

- Bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic headlamp range control as an option (from 2002, standard on the S 600)

- PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection‑system (from 2002)

- V8 diesel engine with light-alloy block (S 400 CDI)

- 4MATIC all-wheel drive as an option (S 430, S 500, from 2002)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 221 (2005 to 2013)

- Drag coefficient cd = 0.26

- First car with an Environmental Certificate

- 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with electronic control and DIRECT SELECT steering wheel gearshift

- Active Body Control with crosswind stabilisation as an option (standard for S 600)

- ADAPTIVE BRAKE system

- Adaptive brake lights

- Brake Assist Plus as an option

- Further development of DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control (with braking to standstill) as an option

- PRE-SAFE® Brake with autonomous partial braking (from 2006) or autonomous emergency braking (from 2009) as an option

- Advanced COMAND system with Controller on the central tunnel

- SPLITVIEW display as an option (from 2009)

- Parking Assist as an option

- Panoramic tilting/sliding sunroof as an option

- Active Night View Assist as an option

- Blind Spot Assist as an option (from 2007, Active Blind Spot Assist from 2010)

- Lane Keeping Assist as an option (from 2009, Active Lane Keeping Assist from 2010)

- Adaptive Highbeam Assist as an option (from 2009)

- Speed Limit Assist as an option (from 2009)

- First luxury class vehicle with hybrid drive and lithium-ion battery (S 400 HYBRID, from 2009)

- First S-Class with a four-cylinder engine (S 250 CDI, from 2010)

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Multimedia features - Communication centre and concert hall

2013-05-16T23:25:00.000+03:00

A completely new multimedia generation with intuitive operation and particularly tangible functions thanks to visualisation and animations celebrates its debut in the new S-Class. Other innovations include the multi-user system, which allows independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any seat. The new S-Class is also the first saloon car to be equipped with the unique Frontbass system as standard. With this system, the interior space in the bodyshell's cross-members and side members is used as a resonance chamber for the woofers. A 3D surround sound system is available on request.

Several hundred developers worldwide contributed to the new Mercedes-Benz multimedia generation, compiling more than 30 million lines of programming. The centrepiece of the new COMAND Online system is the Intel Atom, a processor whose performance fully equals that of components in the latest laptops.

As a completely new feature, the developers have made the individual functions of the communication systems more tangible with on-screen visualisation and animations (see "Control and display concept" section). The user is also able to adapt what is shown in the central display to their own requirements. With the exception of the navigation map (which always fills the complete display area), the central display is divided into a main area (2/3 on the right of the screen) and an additional area (1/3 on the left side of the screen). In standard configuration the additional area shows supplementary information about the selected main application, e.g. if the radio function is active, the artist and song title are shown, or the current channel in the case of TV.

It is also possible to permanently show preferred contents in the additional area (except when the full navigation map is active). One can select a small navigation map, fuel consumption display, data connection display or entertainment information, for example.

In addition to this improvement in operating convenience, numerous new functions extend the multimedia options available, and transform the S-Class into a communication centre or a concert hall as required.

The interactive presentation of content is a prominent new feature of the navigation function. The new navitainment functions include an animated compass, the "Driveshow" for passenger information as in an aircraft, and the display of Google Maps on the head unit and in the rear. Information on the traffic situation is shown with hatched lines (rather than with vehicle silhouettes as before). Thanks to real-time traffic information, the navigation system is also better informed about the situation on the roads. Traffic data are now provided by the "Live Traffic Information" service. Unlike the previous data sources TMC and TMCpro, whose data are received by radio, "Live Traffic Information" uses a fast internet connection and is therefore particularly up-to-date.

As another new feature, a key word search can be used to enter destinations: only a few letters need to be entered, and the system will automatically display a choice of appropriate town/street combinations and possible points of interest. The letter combinations or key words can even contain spelling mistakes.

Example: if the driver enters STUT and BAD, the system will suggest 'Stuttgarter Strasse' in Bad Friedrichshall, 'Badstrasse' in Stuttgart and the 'Freibad Möhringen' swimming pool in Stuttgart. The entered key words are visually highlighted in the display of search results.

In the radio function the favourite stations can now be saved to an individually organised preset list for all wavebands (DAB, FM, AM) rather than to a general autostore function. Individual stations can then be called up using the favourites function. The "Song tagging" function is likewise useful: songs just played in the vehicle can be flagged and then downloaded to a mobile device via iTunes and the internet connection.

The player is now able to recognise mixed tracks, i.e. video and audio files. Videos are shown as a preview in a small, animated area, and can be enlarged to full-screen format. The function "Play similar titles" suggests songs similar to the one currently playing, accessing the CD, Music Register or a connected source. Also new are the Coverflow display, the album cover search and the Picture Viewer as a slideshow.

"Telephone module with Bluetooth®" is standard equipment with the COMAND Online system. This supports the connection of the mobile phone to the vehicle via a standardised Bluetooth® interface. In addition "Convenience telephony" can be ordered as an optional extra by way of a pre-installation using a universal phone interface, whereby the mobile phone can be connected via a cradle in the centre console. Suitable cradles for various mobile phones are obtainable from Mercedes-Benz Accessories.

"Business telephony in the rear" with a hands-free function is optionally available for passengers in the rear. Connection of the mobile phone to the rear unit is likewise via Bluetooth®. Pre-installation with a universal phone interface is also possible for the rear. The telephony via the COMAND Online system is networked with the "Business telephony in the rear". Calls can therefore be conveniently transferred between the driver and the rear, and functions such as call waiting or conference are also available. Business telephony is operated via a Bluetooth® handset integrated into the rear and featuring a convenient touch display. This allows functions such as seat adjustment to be operated intuitively.

The most important new functions at a glance

Equal rights for every occupant: the entertainment features

The new S-Class is the first vehicle worldwide to offer a genuine multi-user system with Individual Entertainment System in the rear. This means that there is independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any of the four seats – i.e. radio, TV, internet, navigation, DVD player and USB-connected devices.

The driver control function for all the seats is another new feature. The driver is able to route any audio or video source to the display and headset of any passenger. At the touch of a button the driver is also able to have one of the audio sources in use played via the onboard loudspeakers.

The multi-user system was technically realised by connecting the COMAND Online system with Individual Entertainment System in the rear via a fibre-optic cable, a so-called MOST bus system (Media Oriented Systems Transport). Access to the sources from any seat is possible via the MOST ring, which works with a transfer rate of up to 150 Mbit per second. For the COMAND remote control function, digital radio technology is used for the first time instead of infrared technology. This makes operation throughout the vehicle possible from any position.

The well-proven SPLITVIEW system for the driver and front passenger has been retained. The COMAND Online system forms a mixed image from two separate display images (e.g. TV and navigation). This is then separated in the high-resolution central display by means of prisms, enabling different screen content to be shown for the driver and front passenger depending on the viewing angle. The driver and front passenger therefore see different images – the passenger can watch television, for example, while the driver is following the navigation instructions.

Together with the DVD changer, headset and Comand Online remote control, SPLITVIEW is part of the "Individual Entertainment" system. The "Individual Entertainment System in the rear" meanwhile comprises a second DVD player (in the centre console for the five-seater, in the parcel shelf for the four-seater), two high-resolution 10.2-inch displays, radio remote control and two wireless headsets.

With Frontbass and up to 24 loudspeakers: the sound systems

The innovative Frontbass system developed by Mercedes-Benz‑and used for the first time in a saloon car is a feature common to all the audio systems: the woofers are housed in the firewall, and use the almost 40-litre space in the cross-member and side member as a resonance chamber. Since woofers no longer have to be fitted in the doors, the acoustically disturbing vibrations typical of this configuration are eliminated. The mid-range speakers in the doors are relocated upwards. This improves the soundscape and allows additional stowage space in the doors.

As alternatives to the standard sound system with ten loudspeakers, two very high-quality audio systems are available which were developed together with the high-end audio specialist Burmester: Burmester® Surround Sound system and Burmester® High-End 3D‑Surround Sound system.

The features of the three sound systems at a glance

The systematic use of analogue diplexers in the medium and high frequency ranges ensures an extraordinarily expressive and natural sound. Bass, mid-range, treble, volume, balance and fader can be individually adjusted. The listening experience can be enhanced even further with the Surround function or sound optimisation for the front and rear seats.

Three-dimensional in-car sound: Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound system

The optional Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound system offers a unique visual and acoustic experience. The tweeters in the mirror triangles of the front doors are a particular visual highlight. They rotate through 360° when the head unit is turned on, moving ten millimetres towards the passengers in a spiral motion. This movement aligns the tweeters to give the optimum sound impression. This system is also visually distinguishable from the Burmester® Surround Sound system by three overhead speakers and special door speaker covers.

The Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound system makes for an outstanding listening experience, with the best possible sound settings for every seat and, for the first time, three-dimensional sound as standard in a luxury saloon car. This 3D surround sound is created with the help of special Burmester algorithms and three speakers integrated into the headlining. This combination of analogue and digital technologies produces an extraordinarily expressive and natural sound – the Burmester "feel-good sound".

If the ambience lighting is switched on, the two tweeters are illuminated in one of the seven available colours. The same applies to the overhead console, which is also elegantly emphasised by the ambience lighting and accommodates two of the three overhead speakers.

The Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound system provides its unrivalled listening experience by virtue of 24 high-performance speakers and 24 separate amplifier channels with a total output of 1540 watts. At the same time an intelligent combination of analogue and digital amplifier technologies leads to a particularly fine and natural sound together with high performance reserves. While sophisticated analogue filter settings allow the best possible fine reproduction in the mid-range and treble frequencies, the digital amplifier - despite its compact dimensions - masters the highest dynamic peaks. The result is outstanding sound resolution and fine acoustic detail, combined with impressive impulse reproduction. This provides a rounded, warm and substantial sound experience founded on an impressive bass range.

The new, three-dimensional listening experience provided by the 3D Surround Sound system and created by the Burmester speakers integrated into the vehicle roof is unique. In addition to the two speakers in the overhead console, another speaker is accommodated in the overhead control panel. A 3D algorithm was developed specifically for the new S-Class‑to create the unique listening experience made possible by these overhead speakers. The aim of the developers was to add a subtle spatial effect to the outstanding listening experience.

Apart from 3D Surround, four other preset sound modes can be selected to suit every taste and audio source:

- Pure: audiophile sound reproduction with no additional effects, for unadulterated musical enjoyment

- Live: appealing, dynamic sound background akin to live music

- Easy Listening: milder sound background for relaxed listening over longer periods

- Surround: virtual surround sound

3D-Surround: three-dimensional listening experience provided by the overhead loudspeakers

Using the so-called VIP setting, the sound quality can be optimised for any of the four seating positions. This function has been carefully configured for each of the sound modes shown above.

The sophisticated sound compensation (VNC) has also been developed further. This ensures that the best possible sound impression is maintained despite changes in driving noise. VNC guarantees maximum listening pleasure at all times – whether on the motorway or in town.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class: Suspension - The world's first suspension system with "eyes"

2013-05-16T23:11:00.002+03:00

The new S-Class is the world's first car to be able to detect bumps on the road ahead. If the ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects such unevenness by means of the stereo camera, MAGIC BODY CONTROL sets up the suspension in advance to deal with the situation. This innovative suspension system is available as an option for the eight-cylinder models. Standard equipment for the new S-Class includes an enhanced version of the full air suspension system AIRMATIC with continuously adaptive damping control.

The front axle features four-link suspension. Its key characteristics include two individual links (torque strut and spring link) in the lower link plane. The transversely situated forged-aluminium spring link carries the spring strut. The anti-roll bar is connected directly on the steering knuckle, while the forward-sloping torque strut is made of forged aluminium.

A wishbone located high above the lower link plane performs further wheel location functions. This link is also made of forged aluminium, as is the steering knuckle which connects the upper and lower link planes. The fourth link is the track rod which forms part of the rack-and-pinion steering system. The transversely situated steering gear is located in front of the wheel's centre.

The arrangement and design of the wheel location components offer favourable characteristics for the axle kinematics: the kingpin inclination is close to the wheel centre. This provides for large longitudinal force leverage, thus minimising sensitivity to tyre imbalances and fluctuations in braking force.

The lower front axle components, the steering gear and the engine mounts are linked with an assembly carrier. This integral carrier, made from high-strength sheet aluminium, is directly bolted to the body.

Due to the unsurpassed wheel location qualities, the S-Class features multi-link rear suspension attached to a subframe. Consistent lightweight construction minimises the weight of the unsprung masses. Four of the five wheel-locating links are made of forged aluminium, as is the hub carrier. The spring link that carries the spring strut is made of single-ply sheet aluminium. In the standard configuration, the rear axle with air suspension features a torsion-bar stabiliser which is directly connected to the rear axle carrier.

AIRMATIC: enhanced comfort and driving dynamics

The standard-fit full air suspension system AIRMATIC with continuously adaptive damping control allows the spring travel to be maintained whatever the vehicle load by means of continuous level adjustment. The vehicle level is controlled automatically depending on the vehicle speed. It is lowered by up to 20 millimetres when the speed exceeds 120 km/h. Consequently, aerodynamic drag is lowered and, thanks to the low vehicle centre of gravity, directional stability is enhanced.

The AIRMATIC system with continuously adaptive damping control that featured on the predecessor model has been modified in many respects: new air suspension bellows with reduced breakaway torque make for even better ride comfort as they do not stiffen as much at low amplitudes and larger frequencies. The spring travel on the rear axle has been increased, thus improving absorption capacity if excitation is high. To further reduce tyre noise, the air suspension struts on the rear axle are decoupled from the body.

The lower control panel on the centre console allows the driver to raise the vehicle level by 30 millimetres on poor road surfaces or when confronted by a tricky garage entrance, for example.

Further improvements have likewise been made to the adaptive damping system. This fully automatic, electronically controlled system adjusts the shock absorbers on each wheel as required. As before, the single-tube shock absorbers are equipped with a valve each for the compression and rebound stage, while there is a new feature in the shape of continuous damping adjustment. This means that the optimum operating point can be selected every time based on various data such as acceleration, vehicle level or vehicle speed. A button on the centre console allows the driver to select a sportier setting as an alternative to the comfort-oriented default setting.

The different AIRMATIC levels at a glance

If certain vehicle speed thresholds are exceeded or not reached, the normal vehicle level is restored automatically.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL: the world's first suspension system with "eyes"

The new S-Class is the world's first car to be able to detect bumps on the road ahead. The MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension system available as an option for the eight-cylinder models includes ACTIVE BODY CONTROL (ABC) and the new and innovative ROAD SURFACE SCAN function.

The "eyes" for the ROAD SURFACE SCAN function are provided by a stereo camera fitted behind the windscreen, which scans the road up to 15 metres ahead of the vehicle and delivers a precise image of the road contours. Based on the camera pictures and driving status information, the control unit constantly calculates the best control strategy for overcoming unevenness such as prolonged bumps.

The vehicle can therefore adjust the damping of each individual wheel to a tauter or softer setting in advance and increase or reduce the load on the wheel by means of an active hydraulic system. The suspension is adapted to a given situation within fractions of a second, and body movement can be reduced considerably. This results in a hitherto unprecedented level of ride comfort. Because ROAD SURFACE SCAN is camera-based, it can work throughout the day if visibility is good, the road structure is suitable and even at speeds of up to 130 km/h.

In the Active Body Control system from Mercedes-Benz, the four spring struts are equipped with hydraulic cylinders (plungers) to adjust the force in each spring strut individually. This means that the system can almost completely compensate for lifting, rolling and pitching of the body. The control unit receives information on the current driving situation from various acceleration sensors and then compares these data with those from the pressure sensors in the spring struts and the level sensors on the control arms. The system then computes the control signals for the servo-hydraulic valves at the front and rear axle to ensure precisely metered oil flows.

Once oil flows into the plunger cylinders, this modifies the tracing point of the steel springs integrated into the spring struts, generating the necessary force to counteract the body movements. Thanks to a constantly available hydraulic pressure of up to 200 bar, ABC is able to stabilise the body within fractions of a second.

The ABC has undergone major modifications for the new S-Class: the wheel damping is now continuously adjustable, the spring strut response has been improved and the pump efficiency has been further enhanced. A digital interface connects the control unit and the sensors, while the fast FlexRay bus connects the control unit and the vehicle electronics. Processing power is more than double that of the previous system.

Steering: electro-mechanical Direct-Steer system and steering assistance

The new S-Class comes with an electro-mechanical Direct-Steer system as standard. As well as a more precise and also more comfortable steering experience, the steering system has a major impact on overall efficiency, since it only requires energy when the vehicle is actually being steered.

In the new steering system, the steering gear and the supporting servo-motor form a single compact unit and are mounted on an extremely rigid and low-weight integral support frame made of aluminium which is positioned in front of the wheel's centre line. The steering gear is designed as a Direct-Steer system, which means that the steering ratio becomes noticeably more direct over the steering angle. This enhances the vehicle's handling and agility substantially.

The steering assistance function can help to stabilise the vehicle. An assistance steering wheel torque is determined depending on the driving conditions, and this is set accordingly by the electric steering assistance.

The function never overrules the driver but, instead, indicates the direction in which to steer to stabilise the vehicle. In the event of oversteer, the steering assistance system prompts the driver to countersteer via the steering wheel until the vehicle has stabilised again.

If the vehicle is braked on a road surface with different friction (µ-split) on the left and right, there is a yaw impulse which turns the vehicle in the direction of the high friction. The steering assistance system prompts the driver to turn the steering wheel in the appropriate direction to compensate for the yaw caused by the different friction.

Brakes: large discs, a wealth of assistance functions

Large brake discs at the front and rear provide the technological basis for safe and reliable deceleration using the ADAPTIVE BRAKE electronic brake control system. Depending on the engine installed, the disc diameters are up to 370 millimetres at the front and up to 360 millimetres at the rear. The S-Class features an electric parking brake as standard. A combined floating calliper with electric parking brake function is used on the rear axle.

With the ADAPTIVE BRAKE, the S-Class offers a wealth of assistance functions. One example of this is the practical HOLD function: after braking to a standstill, briefly pressing the brake pedal a little further is all that is required to activate this function. The car is then held by the brakes, even if the driver's foot comes off the brake pedal. The HOLD function is deactivated automatically when the car moves off.

If the driver's foot moves abruptly from the accelerator to the brake pedal before an emergency stop, the brake system increases the pressure in the brake lines and brings the pads into contact with the brake discs so that maximum braking power is available as soon as the driver hits the brake pedal. This priming of the brakes allows the system to assist the standard-fit Brake Assist system.

ADAPTIVE BRAKE also has safety benefits in the wet: the system briefly applies the brakes at regular intervals to wipe the film of water from the brake discs and ensure that the brakes are able to perform at their peak. The finely metered brake pulses are imperceptible to the driver. This automatic brake drying function is always activated when the windscreen wipers have been operating for a certain length of time.

Finally, ADAPTIVE BRAKE assists the driver when starting on an uphill slope. When the sensors detect that the Saloon has stopped on an uphill slope, Hill Start Assist is activated automatically, briefly holding the brake pressure at a constant level so as to prevent the car from rolling backwards.

The ESP® Dynamic Cornering Assist offers improved safety in critical cornering conditions. If the ESP® sensors detect an understeering tendency, the ESP® performs specific braking intervention on the side of the vehicle which is on the inside of the bend. This gives rise to gentle rotary movement of the vehicle around the vertical axis.

Crosswind Assist: strong gusts no longer a scare

Crosswind Assist helps the driver as it can substantially reduce the effect strong crosswinds have on the vehicle's straight-line stability.

In vehicles without ABC, the negative effect of the crosswind is compensated for by braking on one side of the vehicle activated by ESP® in the ADAPTIVE BRAKE, which is already being used by the Active Lane Keeping Assist/Blind Spot Assist. In vehicles with ABC suspension, crosswind stabilisation is achieved by means of targeted wheel load changes by adjusting the ABC dampers.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.