Showing posts with label auto china 2012. Show all posts
Showing posts with label auto china 2012. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

DENZA Unveils All-Electric Show Car at Auto China 2012 in Beijing

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DENZA unveiled its new all-electric vehicle show car at Auto China 2012 in Beijing. The battery-driven vehicle that defines a new level of sophistication in the Chinese New Energy Vehicle (NEV) segment is the result of the partnership between BYD and Daimler.

Auto China 2012 marks the first appearance of the DENZA brand at a motor show. It is also the first landmark event since the official launch of the brand, which took place in Shenzhen in March this year. The arrival of DENZA marked the first strictly NEV brand in the Chinese market.

“Even before the birth of DENZA, Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology Co., Ltd. (BDNT) has created a very special ‘first’: When Daimler and BYD made their partnership official in the spring of 2010, they founded the first joint venture in China dedicated solely to New Energy Vehicle. The Joint Venture is making extremely positive progress with the first prototypes of the future production model already out on the streets,” said Ulrich Walker, Chairman of the Board of Directors of BDNT and Chairman and CEO of Daimler Northeast Asia. “We are very much on track with the plans for our DENZA vehicle.”


Over 200 engineers and experts from both companies have gathered and combined their strengths at BDNT’s base in Shenzhen. BYD is providing its expertise in battery technology and e-drive systems, as well as their experience in bringing electric vehicles onto the roads of China. Daimler is contributing more than 125 years of excellence in automotive design and know-how in vehicle architecture, safety and quality.


The concept car unveiled today, a full electric battery-driven model, was designed, and will be built and sold in China. “We are reaching out to those who believe that state-of-the-art technologies and beautiful concepts can blend together into the perfect mobility solution without compromising on safety and comfort, to provide both a modern and green urban lifestyle,” remarked BDNT COO Arno Roehringer while introducing the car at Auto China 2012. “We are creating DENZA not only for the people of today, but also for inspiring our next generations.”


“We brought traditional Chinese elements forward into the next generation with a priority on ergonomic design and some futuristic innovations,” said CEO Lian Yubo, on hand to point out some of the features of the car to the gathering of auto media and various dignitaries. “The rear seating area was designed to feel as much as possible like a lounge area. The lounge character really comes out through the reclining rear seats integrated into the design.” He went on to describe the chrome inside and out, the wood and copper features in the interior, and the ambient light system that runs all throughout the cabin making night driving more pleasant without compromising safety.


The exterior chrome can be illuminated to provide perfected visibility and safety. It is visually integrated with the battery storage area, which succeeds better than most EVs at keeping the batteries out of passengers’ way. Combined with the rear-hinged rear doors, the DENZA concept car is easily accessible, with no awkward battery-related steps to clear while entering or exiting the vehicle.


The DENZA booth at Auto China is carefully designed to reflect the strengths of the car, as well as the values of the company. The main feature is a large white ribbon which flows all around the booth, defining its dimensions and the character of the interior. The sense of movement – like a car on the road - is reinforced by the actual movement of the light in the LED strip along its rocker panel. The LED light is the identical blue found in DENZA logo and in the body paint of the car. This “DENZA blue” color represents the company’s twin conceptual foundations of environmental responsibility and cutting-edge technology.


On DENZA


China is the home of DENZA because of its potential as an NEV market. With its expanding middle class, increasing urbanization, open-minded consumers, and a supportive government determined to reduce their reliance on crude oil, central government expects the number of NEVs in China to rise from its current level of 10,000 to 5,000,000 by 2020 according to the latest NEV industrialization plan. With the launch of its new concept car, and a production model slated for release in 2013, DENZA is “on track”.


Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Two Mercedes-Benz world premieres at Auto China 2012: the Concept Style Coupé and the new-generation G-Class

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With two extraordinary world premieres, Mercedes-Benz cast a broad arc in Beijing from the brand’s unique tradition to its dynamic future. The new‑generation G-Class made its debut here today under the motto “Forever young”. With even more comfort and safety and modern engines, the off-road icon reaffirms its premier position among off-road vehicles that has brought it global success for the past 33 years. This is underscored by the new G 63 AMG with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine and standard ECO start/stop function. The highlight of this year’s Mercedes appearance in the Chinese capital is the Concept Style Coupé. The close-to-production study offers an insight into the next member of the new Mercedes-Benz compact car family. The Concept Style Coupé is a clear statement of avant-garde design in the form of a sporty coupe for the mid-size segment. The series-production version is scheduled for market launch next year under the model name CLA.

The four-door Concept Style Coupé is a style rebel – non-conformist, provocative, masculine. “The design is expressive and powerful,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “It makes a very clear statement. This is the car against which sporty mid-size vehicles will be measured in future.” In keeping with its dynamic look, the Coupé study offers a host of technical highlights, including the new four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 155 kW (211 hp), 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Inside the Concept Style Coupé, a new quality benchmark is set by fine materials together with outstanding craftsmanship. The dashboard upholstered in white nubuck leather offers a rich contrast to the anthracite Alcantara® on the upper surface of the dashboard. On the sports steering wheel, suede delivers exceptional grip, while all chrome trim pieces and controls have been anodised in black for the first time. The surfaces around the HMI operating unit shimmer in gleaming black anodized aluminium. The four integral seats with integrated head restraints come from the sport version of the new A-Class.


Sporty, fascinating and “always on”


While travelling, passengers can be “always on”. This is made possible by COMAND Online together with Mercedes-Benz apps developed especially for use and operation while driving. Internet surfing is also freely available when the vehicle is at a standstill.


Dieter Zetsche: “It is our stated objective to attract new Mercedes fans in new markets and market segments. That can be achieved only with fascinating products like the Concept Style Coupé that we are launching next year under the name CLA. And the promise that we kept with the new A-Class also applies to the Coupé – the forthcoming CLA will transfer the fascination of the study into series production.”


Targeted expansion of the Mercedes-Benz product line-up


Mercedes-Benz is conducting a targeted expansion of its product line-up with new models like the CLA. “That”, says Dr. Zetsche, “Is the key to the success of our ‘Mercedes-Benz 2020’ strategy, with which we want to be number one in all relevant categories of the premium segment by the end of this decade – and that includes sales volumes.” That the brand is on the right course is evident in the current results – in 2011, Mercedes-Benz returned the best sales figures in its corporate history, followed in 2012 by further sales records set in all three months of the first quarter.


In China, Mercedes-Benz will continue to strengthen its role as an active and successful player in the economy. Dr. Zetsche:
“We will further expand our local production capacity and thus sustainably increase our market presence in China. By 2015, we want to have doubled our current local production capacity to more than 200,000 vehicles per year. Together with our partners, we will invest around three billion Euros in China over the next few years, thus creating the foundation for sustainable growth on the world’s largest car market.”

Forever young – the new-generation G-Class


As well as the avant-garde newcomer, Beijing also marked the debut of the latest edition of an equally unique Mercedes automobile. Under the motto “Forever young”, Mercedes-Benz presents the new generation of the G-Class, which has been in production now for 33 years.


“The G-Class embodies many significant Mercedes-Benz brand values. Tradition is one of them, as is quality, durability and state-of-the-art technology,” says Prof. Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. The G-Class has been a success ever since it was launched in 1979 – unmistakable, authentic and solid as the proverbial rock. Its outstanding qualities have been recognized by countless awards, including “Off-Roader of the Year” more than twenty times – an honour it received once again in 2012.


G-Class 2011 – best sales figures in seven years


Thanks to its loyal and enthusiastic fan base, the “G” is also a success on the market. With vehicle sales of around 6,600, 2011 saw the forefather of the modern Mercedes off-road family achieve its best sales figures in seven years. The secret of its success lies in the combination of cult status and superior technical characteristics.


State-of-the-art technology and a still unmistakable character


Prof. Weber: “That is why we consciously made very careful updates to the outer appearance of the G-Class, with new LED daytime running lights and exterior mirrors. The inner values of the new generation, however, are enormously compelling – fine materials and perfect ergonomics dominate the interior. The dashboard and centre console have been completely redesigned. Standard features include the modern COMAND Online infotainment system with navigation and internet access.”


The palette of safety features can be augmented by the optional Blind Spot Assist, the PARKTRONIC parking assistant and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control.

Three powerful, efficient and refined engines


In China, the new generation of the G-Class comes to market as the G 500, powered by a refined V8 petrol engine with 285 kW (388 hp) and 530 Nm of torque. In Europe, Mercedes-Benz also offers the G 350 BlueTEC (155 kW/ 211 hp, 540 Nm) with state-of-the-art, clean diesel technology. New in the line-up is the G 63 AMG with eight-cylinder biturbo engine and standard ECO start/stop function, which also makes its debut in Beijing. 


“With 544 hp and 760 Nm of torque, the 5.5-litre V8 has the power of a dragon,” says Prof. Weber, referring to the Chinese Year of the Dragon. “The new engine delivers almost ten percent more torque than its predecessor, yet consumes 13 percent less fuel.” The engine line-up is being expanded by the G 65 AMG with a V12 biturbo engine (450 kW/612 hp and 1,000 Nm of torque), which was also presented at Auto China and makes it the world’s most powerful series-production off-road vehicle.


You might also like to read more detailed topics on the Mercedes-Benz premieres at Auto China 2012:


1. Official world premiere at Auto China in Beijing: Mercedes Concept Style Coupé - the style rebel

2. The new generation G-Class: Forever young

3. The All New Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG: G-Class Summit

4. Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Diamond: The luxury van as a chauffeured vehicle








Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Diamond: The luxury van as a chauffeured vehicle

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Mercedes-Benz will be presenting its Viano VISION DIAMOND superlative show car at the 2012 Beijing Auto Show (April 25 - May 2, 2012). This chauffeured vehicle makes a big impression right from the start with its black radiator grille, chromed grille louvers, and two-tone exterior paint job. A fine, shimmering gold line painted by hand separates the two body colors of black and diamond white, and a painted diamond adorns the B-pillar. The two-tone effect is repeated in the rims of the five-spoke wheels, and the brakes feature the words “Mercedes-Benz” in gold.

The interior underscores the extravagant nature of the model as well. Luxurious appointments in the rear include a special innovative multimedia unit that allows passengers to choose between a business setting or a comfortable ambience for relaxing.

Regulation of sunlight intensity in the interior


The windows of the passenger compartment, as well as the rear window and the glass partition between the chauffeur and the passenger compartment, are all equipped with the Magic Sky Control system, which enables passengers to change the interior lighting conditions with just the push of a button.


This changes the color of the windows, an effect that is made possible by a liquid in the window glass that reacts to differences in electric current. The chauffeur’s area is completely black in color, the seats and door paneling are covered in the finest nappa leather, and leather also covers the instrument panel, the steering wheel, the gearshift, and the A- and B-pillars. The passenger compartment is entirely in porcelain white, from the carpet and the seats to the safety belts and the ceiling.


Champagne glass holders and an automatic Champagne bottle cooling unit


The passenger compartment features two top-of-the-line seating accommodations equipped with heating, cooling, and massage features as well as calf benches and footrests. Between the seats are cup holders and Champagne glass holders for the model’s silver Champagne flutes, which appear at the push of a button. The side paneling has five bottle holders as well. The Champagne bottle retainer is equipped with a cooling system. Eight diamonds embedded in the interior trim refer to the lucky Chinese number eight and underscore the vehicle’s luxurious atmosphere. Additional equipment features include the Bang & Olufsen “BeoLiving Viano” high-end sound system, which can be conveniently operated via two iPad2 or iPhone4 devices. The mobile communication devices can also regulate the interior lighting and control the sound system for the model’s 40-inch screen, which can be used for everything from watching television to surfing the Internet and participating in video conferences.


A special app was developed exclusively for this control feature; the devices are secured in a docking station in the center console.


The screen itself has a black aluminum frame and is situated behind the chauffeur area. The push of a button is all it takes to lower the screen and the partition. An intercom is available for communication between the cockpit and the passenger compartment. The vehicle is equipped with a W-LAN system that enables Web videoconferencing, among other things.



Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Thursday, April 19, 2012

The Mercedes Concept Style Coupé: The style rebel - Official world premiere at Auto China in Beijing

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The heartbeat of a new generation grows stronger all the time: with its Concept Style Coupé, appearing at this year's Auto China (23 April to 2 May 2012), Mercedes-Benz will be making a convincing statement in favour of avantgarde design in the sporty executive coupé segment. The four-door coupé is a rebel when it comes to style: nonconformist, provocative and masculine. Technical highlights include its striking headlamp design featuring innovative indicators, the new four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with 155 kW (211 hp) and the all-wheel drive system 4MATIC.


"The Concept Style Coupé is expressive and powerful in its design", said Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "We are staking our claim very clearly here. This is the model against which sporty vehicles in the executive segment will have to measure themselves in future."


"The almost production-standard Concept Style Coupé sets a new benchmark for avantgarde design in the executive segment", emphasised Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. "Its breathtaking proportions, sinewy fluid surfaces and sculptural lines are the physical expression of our dynamic design idiom."


Following a brief appearance at the Avant/Garde Diaries event in Los Angeles (20 April to 6 May 2012), the Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupé (length/width/height: 4637/1891/1398 mm) will be celebrating its official world premiere at Auto China in Beijing (23 April to 2 May 2012).


Provocative and masculine: the exterior


Its breathtakingly sporty proportions and powerfully dynamic design idiom, featuring the interplay between concave and convex surfaces that is so typical for Mercedes, give this four-door coupé its unmistakable look.


Among its most striking features are the way the bonnet with its powerdomes is set right into the front end assembly, as well as its diamond-look grille, which follows through on design cues set by the Concept A-CLASS. The paint finish of the concept vehicle is in Alubeam – a colour that helps to emphasise the sculptural quality of its lines.


The innovative headlamps of the Concept Style Coupé are reminiscent of the ever wary, almost intimidating eyes of a predatory animal. In standby mode they shine red. The indicators are another special feature: when they are activated, the individual elements light up one after another in a "Mexican wave" effect. 


Three prominent lines give structure to the vehicle when viewed from the side: the front structural edge over the wings flows towards the rear end in a characteristic dropping line. Another, more sinewy line spans the shoulder muscle above the rear axle, while the third line extends upward in a sweeping curve from the front wheel towards the rear. Together, these lines lend more depth and dynamism to the side profile. The ripple design of the prominent exterior mirrors takes advantage of the design freedoms enjoyed by a concept car.


The same is true of the 20-inch wheels, with their very sporty turbine design. Perforated pins on the spokes pick up once again on the diamond-theme of the radiator grille. The Concept Style Coupé features frameless side windows and has no B-pillar.


A large panoramic roof creates a light and airy interior. A metal rib, the shape of which evokes a roll-over bar, separates the roof from the rear windscreen, which in turn flows down to merge smoothly into the tail end. The avantgarde lines of the Coupé are further emphasised by the way the tail lights, with their metallic-red colouring, taper to a sharp point both to the front and toward the rear centre. An integrated dual-flow exhaust system underlines the car's sporty credentials and gives added width to the tail end. A narrow rear diffuser picks up again on the dotted pattern of the diamond grille.


High-grade sportiness: the interior


The interior opens up to reveal taut, expressively sculptured surfaces. A large carbon-fibre trim panel spans its full width, giving it the elegance and distinctively ‘cool’ appeal of a coupé. Standing proud from the instrument cluster are the two tubes, also in carbon fibre and individually glazed. When the indicator is activated, a ring lights up in the tubes.


Flowing back in a long, continuous wave from the instrument panel is the centre console. Embedded in this is an intricately designed fan module for the two rear seats, which also incorporates a stowage compartment.


The world of fashion provided the inspiration for the colour mix of light grey and anthracite. A fresh, sporty touch is added by neon green piping and topstitching, which appear on the instrument panel, steering wheel, seat and door centre panels, amongst other places.


Fine materials combine with high-grade workmanship to set a new benchmark for quality. There has been no stinting on the use of leather, either: the instrument panel is upholstered in white nubuck leather, providing an interesting contrast with the anthracite-coloured Alcantara®used on the upper section of the instrument panel. Suede is used on the sports steering wheel to ensure better grip. All chrome trim elements and control panels now for the first time feature a black anodised finish, as seen on top-of-the-range limited Sports Edition chronograph watches. The surfaces around the HMI control panel have the glossy shimmer of black anodised aluminium.


The four integral seats with integrated head restraints are already familiar from the Sports version of the new A-Class. An electroplated insert in the upper part of the seat adds to the impression of lightness and is illuminated.


The design of the air vents in the instrument panel evokes an aircraft jet engine. As in the Concept A-CLASS they are backlit and change colour according to the temperature set by the occupants for the climate control system. When cool, fresh air is being brought into the car, they are blue, but they light up red when the airflow is warm. At a mid-range temperature setting the vents are illuminated in fluorescent yellow, and thus match the colour of the piping perfectly.


"Always on", even in the car: the multimedia system


With COMAND Online and the various Mercedes-Benz apps developed specifically to be used and controlled while on the move, as well as with the ability to browse the internet when the vehicle is stationary, the occupants of the Concept Style Coupé are "always on" and able to maintain their digital lifestyle at all times.


Mercedes-Benz is firmly convinced that the future lies with cloud computing. The software for the COMAND Online applications is not stored in the vehicle, but runs off the Daimler Vehicle Backend. The advantage is that the system can be updated with new applications "over-the-air" (OTA) through a mobile phone connection, without the car having to be taken into the workshop. The software is thus always up to date, irrespective of the development cycles of either the vehicles or the consumer electronic devices.


Sportiness in tune with the times: the engine


Sporty driving dynamics coupled with exemplary efficiency are the hallmarks of the engine of the Concept Style Coupé. Powerful wheel-hub drive is provided by the 2.0-litre version of the new petrol engine generation with 155 kW (211 hp), combined here with the efficient 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission.


Among the highlights of the four-cylinder engine are its direct-injection system with exhaust gas turbocharging, an enhanced combustion system and extended stratification ranges for lean-burn operation using fast-acting injectors for the multiple fuel injections, and multi-spark ignition according to need.


































Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

 
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