Product offensive in the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen: The first units of the new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet produced

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The first cabriolet and the first coupé variants of the new E-Class model series rolled off the factory line at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen. The classic two-door coupé and the four-seater convertible model are among the most popular vehicles in their respective segments. Around 370,000 coupes and 100,000 cabrios of the E-Class have been delivered to customers up to now.

Andreas Kellermann, Head of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen: "In just 45 minutes, our team completed the model change to the new version of the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. A close collaboration throughout the entire process chain from the pressing plant to assembly, including logistics, has made ​​this masterpiece. I am sure that our two new models will be very well received by customers."

About the new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet

The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet features an extensive modernization. The new diesel and petrol engines boast increased efficiency and are all equipped with ECO start/stop function. Intelligent assistance systems like the radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, or the further developed ATTENTION ASSIST, build a superior level of safety. The two sporty members of the E-Class family have a fresh, athletic, striking design and a new, high-class interior. As of June 2013, the coupé and convertible customers are available at authorized dealers.

About the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen

With over 12,500 employees, the Bremen plant is the largest private employer in the region. Currently, the plant produces eight models: the C-Class Limousine, the C-Class T-ModelL and the C-Coupe; the E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet; the GLK, the SLK and the SL in Bremen on the same line. In 2012, the plant has produced over 316,000 vehicles - more than ever before. As a competence center for the new C-Class, which arrives in 2014, the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen also controls the production of the high-volume series in the foreign factories of Tuscaloosa / USA, Beijing / China and East London / South Africa.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Product offensive - A 45 AMG: First high-performance vehicle built at Rastatt

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Start of production for the first high-performance vehicle at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt: after the A-Class and B-Class, the first AMG model in the history of the factory has left the assembly left recently. "The A 45 AMG is the sportiest car that ever rolled off the line here. We are very proud to be constructing high-performance vehicles in Rastatt. The team has exemplary integrated the AMG model into the ongoing production of the A-Class. For us, this milestone marks the start of a new era at the Rastatt site," said Peter Wesp, Head of Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt.

In the development of the A 45 AMG, the experts from Affalterbach have contributed with their extensive experience in motorsport and the construction of powerful high-performance cars. Thus the A 45 AMG will receive the typical AMG DNA and the brand promise of "Driving Performance" perfectly embodied. This is ensured with the implementation of the AMG-specific powertrain with the performance-oriented all-wheel drive AMG 4MATIC, the AMG sports suspension with independent front and rear suspension and the exclusive interior and exterior features. The Rastatt team has smoothly integrated the production of the volumes of the A-Class AMG model together with the AMG counterparts so that the assembly line is shared with the standard A-Class model. The A 45 AMG boasts a maximum output of 265 kW (360 hp). With the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, it sets new standards in its segment. The acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes just 4.6 seconds, while top speed reaches 250 km/h (electronically limited). The high-performance hatchback is designed to appeal to new customers. The target group is between the ages of 30 and mid 40, which is a tad younger than the usual AMG customers.

The A 45 AMG is powered by an AMG 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbocharged engine, which has been launched into production two weeks ago in the MDC engine plant in Kölleda. There, all BlueDirect four-cylinder engines for the A-Class and B-Class are built as well. Especially for the production of the new AMG engines, a new assembly line was set up at the plant according to the traditional AMG philosophy "one man, one engine". From now, the A 45 AMG can be ordered by clients. Starting June, the first units will be handed over to customers.

For the production of the new compact models in Rastatt, Daimler is investing 1.2 billion euros. 600 million euros were invested in a first stage, including the construction of a new body shop. A further 600 million euros follow in 2012 and 2013 for the second stage. These new investments will be including the reconstruction of the assembly line and the corresponding plant structure.

About the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt

The Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant employs about 6,500 people, making it the largest private employer in the region. In 2012, over 200,000 compact vehicles rolled off the assembly line at the site. The new generation of Mercedes-Benz premium compact cars will include, in addition to A-Class and B-Class, three sporty, emotional models, including a coupe and an SUV. The five models of the new compact car will be produced in the production network of the Rastatt plant, and from the end of March 2012, at the newly opened plant in Kecskemét, Hungary. Rastatt is the competence center for the production of the A-Class and B-Class. In late 2013, the compact SUV under the name GLA-Class will enter production stage here.

Credits: Daimler AG

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Premiere: customer takes delivery of first Mercedes-Benz Citaro Low Entry model

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The delivery of the first two Mercedes-Benz Citaro Low Entry (LE) Euro VI models to the company infra fürth verkehr gmbh marks the expansion of the new Citaro family by a total of five Low Entry model variants. Klaus Dieregsweiler, representative for infra fürth verkehr gmbh, took delivery of the symbolic keys to the first Citaro LE from Rüdiger Kappel, brand spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz Buses and Coaches, Germany, at the Mercedes-Benz bus plant in Mannheim on 16 April. The new Citaro LE thus replaces its extremely successful predecessor, while at the same time heralding the introduction of further Citaro Euro VI models.

Growth in the Citaro family

In addition to the Euro VI variant of the Citaro LE, the short variants of the Citaro, namely the Citaro K, and also right-hand drive Citaro models in the guise of the Citaro Solo and Citaro K, are now also available with Euro VI engines. As a result the urban bus family is almost complete, comprising suitable vehicles to meet virtually every possible customer requirement.

Low Entry: passenger-friendly and economical

As the term "Low Entry" suggests, these buses feature a low-floor design from the front section up to and including the centre entrance, and a raised floor behind the centre entrance (door 2). As well as providing a high level of passenger comfort, even for passengers with restricted mobility, this "composite" design also allows the uncomplicated and maintenance-friendly installation of the major assemblies in the rear area.

Tried-and-tested components from low-floor and raised-floor buses

Like its predecessor, the Citaro LE with Euro VI engine combines the advantages of a low-floor bus with those of a raised-floor bus. Both regular-service buses – the Citaro LE and the Citaro – are practically identical up to the area behind the centre entrance door. The low-floor area of the Citaro LE is exactly the same as that of the Citaro rigid bus. At the same time, in the rear section of the passenger compartment, passengers benefit from enhanced ride comfort thanks to the drive axle and transmission being lifted from the rural-service bus and touring coach modular systems. The raised roof also allows standing room at the rear of the Citaro LE. However, the Citaro LE has only been raised where necessary: as the bus features the same front body section as the standard Citaro, the sense of spaciousness is as pleasant and harmonious at the front as it is at the rear. At the same time the Citaro manages to maintain completely its sleek, distinctive exterior lines.

The look of the Citaro LE

Unlike its predecessor, whose side line rose in the rear area, the new Citaro LE is barely distinguishable from the Citaro solo bus. When viewed from the side, the fact that the floor has been raised by 310 mm from the centre of the vehicle is only noticeable as a result of the slightly longer raised roof section extending towards the front. By adopting the front section of the Citaro and not increasing the height in this area, the bus achieves a well-proportioned overall look. The side line has been retained in full. The optionally available roof-mounted air-conditioning system can be fitted in its familiar place, as on the Citaro. Appearance-wise, passengers will scarcely notice any external difference between the Citaro and the Citaro LE. Even the rear is derived from the solo bus. Only the cooling ribs positioned on the right-hand side of the tailgate, and the raised roof transition, are indicative of the LE variant.

A true Citaro - on the inside too

Links with the Citaro family are clearly evident in the passenger area of the Citaro LE, which includes wall-mounted cantilever seats for the urban bus as well as twin seats with aisle-side supporting feet and the classic handrails which curve outwards at the top. The raised ceiling in the rear area exactly reflects the design of the front ceiling area. The cross duct in the transition from the low-floor front section to the raised rear section conveniently accommodates a destination display or a monitor for the rear rows of seats.

While the Citaro LE makes use of the tried-and-tested City Star Eco seating, the rural-service variant of the Citaro LE comes fitted with Inter Star Eco inter-city seats. In the rural-service version, spacious, trough-shaped luggage racks can be fitted from the front end through to the area above the rear axle. The luggage racks also feature grab rails for the benefit of standing passengers. As an option for rural-service applications, service units comprising ventilation nozzles, reading lights and buttons for the passenger stop request system can be integrated into the luggage racks.

As in the previous model, two shallow steps in front of the rear axle, each 195 mm high, lead up to the raised-floor area at the rear. Thanks to the roof being raised by 310 mm here, the feeling of spaciousness at the rear is as pleasant as at the front of the bus. The floor-to-ceiling height in front of the rear platform is a spacious 2.05 m. The raised floor part rises only gently from the second door, and does away completely with steps. This benefits passive safety and makes it easier to clean the vehicle. All the seats in the rear of the bus face forwards, while the rows rise steadily from front to rear like cinema seats. The rear seat bench has sufficient space to accommodate five passengers.

RO 440 rear axle for coach-like ride comfort

Due to the raised floor concept at the rear, the bus is fitted with the RO 440 hypoid axle, a tried-and-tested performer from the Mercedes-Benz touring coach range. The main advantage of the hypoid axle over the portal axle fitted on vehicles with a low floor throughout is the single-stage ratio of the centrally positioned differential, meaning low inner frictional resistance and, as a result, favourable fuel consumption figures and low noise levels. Since there is more installation space available for the rear axle below the raised floor area, an extremely effective suspension system offering coach-like ride comfort can be fitted. The maximum spring travel of the RO 440 axle has increased by 70 percent compared with a portal axle - that corresponds to an increase in travel of 50 mm, from 70 mm to 120 mm.

Powerful Euro VI engines with Power Boost option

The Citaro LE already makes use of the comprehensively revised and extremely economical Euro VI engine series from the Mercedes-Benz Citaro. Forming the basis of the engine line-up is the vertically installed OM 936 six-cylinder in-line engine with a displacement of 7.7 litres. As standard the engine meets the Euro VI emissions standard, and in the recent Record Run Buses 2012 demonstrated the potential to achieve fuel savings of up to 8.5 percent compared with a Euro V engine. The basic engine has an output of 220 kW (295 hp). As an option, a 260 kW (354 hp) variant is also available. The OM 936 works with two asymmetrical exhaust gas turbochargers and two-stage charging, which helps to guarantee a response which is characterised by high levels of torque.

Even better response is promised by the new Power Boost System (PBS). In brief, this technical refinement will be available for the engine rated at 260 kW. The new system is designed to guarantee better "sprint performance" when moving off, particularly on topographically demanding routes. To achieve this, the Power Boost System pumps compressed air from the standard compressed-air system into the engine's intake tract, thereby increasing air throughput in the short term. This in turn results in increased short-term starting torque, which can prove invaluable at bus stops located on inclines.

Like its urban bus counterpart, gear changes are taken care of in the Citaro LE by an automatic transmission, optionally available from ZF or Voith.

The variants of the new Citaro LE

The Citaro LE range comprises two-axle urban and rural regular-service buses. The Citaro LE urban bus is 12 metres long and comes with a choice of two or three doors. The rural-service bus variant in the guise of the Citaro LE Ü (12 metres long) has two entrance doors, while the Citaro LE MÜ (13.1 metres long) is available both with two and three entrance doors. All variants of the Citaro LE are 2.55 metres wide and have a maximum height of 3.315 m at the rear. The Citaro LE urban regular-service bus can carry 101 passengers, while the rural-service bus has a capacity of 83 passengers (plus the driver's seat in each case).

The handover vehicle in detail

In addition to their economical Euro VI engines, the two Citaro LE buses handed over to infra fürth verkehr gmbh also boast a comprehensive package of equipment and appointments. The 50 City Star passenger seats are supplemented with a wheelchair space with grab handle, stop request buttons and a lean-on area with integrated folding seat (mother/child seat), as well as two additional folding seats in the standing platform area opposite door 2. The interior bus-stop name displays consist of two 48 cm (19-inch) TFT monitors in the front and rear of the vehicle. Linked to an integrated on-board information system (IBIS), they are able to display information on the vehicle's progress along the route as well as the next stop. In addition, news items, event notices and advertisements can also be displayed.

In addition to a video monitoring system for door 2, infra fürth has also ordered a reversing camera which can be used not only as a parking aid but also to monitor the area around the rear of the vehicle. The images are transferred to a video monitor in the driver's cockpit. Additional safety equipment includes a fire alarm and extinguishing system in the engine compartment.

About infra fürth verkehr gmbh

The company infra fürth verkehr gmbh is responsible for the entire public local transport system in the city of Fürth. With 8 routes covering a route length of around 1147 kilometres, the transport operator carried around 18 million passengers in 2012. The company's fleet currently comprises 54 vehicles, 48 of which are Citaro models. Among these 48 vehicles is also the milestone 25,000th Citaro, which was handed over to infra fürth verkehr gmbh in a special ceremony in Stuttgart in 2009. The two Citaro LE vehicles with Euro VI engines will be deployed in future on all routes in the Franconian city of Fürth.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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SPY: The 2015 Mercedes-Benz S-Class XL (X 222) spotted for first time

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Alongside the S-Class SWB (W 222) and LWB (V 222) which make their official world debut this year in May, Mercedes-Benz is also planning to reveal an extra long wheelbase model (XL), codenamed X 222 and based on the new S-Class, scheduled to premiere in around a year from now.

The Germans have already began testing their super-sized S-Class in Sweden alongside regular versions. The first spy pics were recently captured by photographers deployed in the area. The rear doors are visibly longer than on standard version seen so far, as is the wider B-pillar.

All in all, the future S-Class XL has an additional 30-40 centimeters over the LWB model, which means around 5.6 - 5.7 meters. It is important to mention this is not the anticipated S 600 Pullman variant, but the replacement for the former Maybach 57 model.

The ultra high-end luxury saloon on the underpinnings of the S-Class and destined to fill the gap left open by the Maybach 62 will arrive around the end of 2016 and will feature a distinctive styling, Guard security equipment, MRA rear-wheel-drive platform and a brand new V12 unit engineered by Mercedes-AMG.

Sticking to the S-Class XL, it will be available with only certain range-topping variants, such as the S 350, S 500 and the future S 600 V12 coming in late 2014 or early 2015. In addition, upon clients' request, the X 222 will also be optionally equipped with the all-wheel-drive 4MATIC traction system for better road performance and overall safety.

We expect the price for purchasing the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class XL to exceed 100,000 euros in Europe. With extra equipment, the final tag could indicate almost 200,000 euros. Clearly, not a car for the masses, but for the wealthy businessmen (and women) in Europe (especially Germany, United Kingdom and Russia) and Asia (China and the Middle East's Arab "petrol" countries).

Image Credits: GermanCarForum / Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Start of production at Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen: The first new E-Class rolls off the line

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On the first day of March, the first new E-Class 2013 generation rolled off the production line at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen. Since the assembly of this model series has begun at Sindelfingen about 60 years ago, the E-Class has been widely recognized as the benchmark in its segment. With over 13 million units sold up to date, it easily is the most successful business limousine in history.

"The start of production for our new E-Class represents a milestone in our growth strategy. With the E-Class we set new standards in the luxury class, to optimally meet our customers' demands," said Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, member of Daimler AG management board in charge with production and procurement for Mercedes-Benz Cars & Mercedes-Benz Vans. "In just 45 minutes, we made the transition from the previous generation to the new E-Class - that is the benchmark."

With the new E-Class, the changeover time between the past and the new model series was significantly reduced - only 45 minutes to ensure that about 2,000 new parts are seamlessly integrated into the new production process. This was made possible by an excellent collaboration between development, planning, logistics and production departments. The entire process chain is located at Sindelfingen and is fully geared to the requirements of the new E-Class: from the pressing plant in charge with the production of the new body panels to assembly and paint finish. In this specific way, the typical Mercedes-Benz top build quality is ensured right from the start.

Dr. Willi Reiss, Head of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen commented: "What our team has done with the launch of the E-Class is great. Only shortly after the release of the new CLS Shooting Brake, we succeeded again in providing a new Sindelfingen top product on the wheels. For this achievement, I wish to thank all the employees involved."

The most visible changes are present on the new front end. The new Elegance and Avantgarde variants are now even more striking and distinguishable. One of the major advantages customers of the new E-Class have is the versatile production process that allows numerous customization options. This means that, throughout the entire life cycle of the model, there will not be any completely identical vehicles. In addition to the new E-Class sedan, the assembly of the the E-Class wagon, E-Class hybrid variants and also the CLS and the CLS Shooting Brake takes place on the same line. Over 500 of some 1,500 jobs were changing the framework conditions for the installation of the new vehicle parts. In total, around 3,400 people were intensively prepared and trained for a period over ten months in advance to the 1st March 2013, the date of transition between the two E-Class model generations.

The new E-Class

With the new E-Class, Mercedes-Benz is not only setting a new standard in the luxury class, but it is also revolutionizing the entire segment. With new and efficient engines, new assistance systems and a new design philosophy, Mercedes-Benz reaffirms its leading position. Both the sedan and the station wagon celebrate world premiere of eleven new or enhanced assistance systems. They combine comfort and safety. The new E-Class also takes a significant step forward in terms of efficiency and ecology with the new powerful BlueDIRECT four-cylinder petrol engines with direct fuel injection. The strong technical package is also reflected in the design. With its new styling, the new E-Class brings efficiency, intelligence and emotion under the same roof.

The Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen

The Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen is the world's largest production facility of Daimler AG and the competence center for passenger cars in the upper and luxury class of the global production network of Mercedes-Benz Cars division. In recent years, the staff of more than 22,000 employees has assembled over 420,000 combined units of the C-Class, E-Class, S-Class, CL, CLS Coupé, CLS Shooting Brake and SLS AMG​​.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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SPY: The 2014 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) - first FEP prototypes hit streets

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The road development for the future C-Class began in late December 2011. Almost a year after, the test prototypes of the 205 series have finally lost their heavy exterior cladding and are now revealing more details in regard to the final design of the premium mid-class model.

The usual conservativeness of the German brand seems to have been blown away in favour of a striking, deeply scary approach. With the new C-Class, Mercedes-Benz reorientates its core values and targets new customers. But to us, in spite of the fact this strategy nevertheless adds a dose of passion and attitude to the future Star model, it may also make the whole car feel a bit incongruent, disproportionate and pretty unMerc. Why? Follow through the next paragraphs to understand our concern.

Straight away, the first impression that draws after seeing these latest shots emphasizing FEP prototypes is the rather dramatic influence from the upcoming S-Class, in addition to the tad more organic styling philosophy. As its lifecycle began approximately a year - a year and a half after the introduction of the range-topping Mercedes-Benz model, it is logical to have certain similarities, but never such plain identical shapes.

While this is is hardly bad for the C-Class, it could be bad for the S-Class, no matter how you put it. It can affect the prestige and uniqueness of the luxury flagship. This attempt to reduce the gap between the two models in terms of exterior looks is unprecedented at Mercedes-Benz and could have been inspired by the competition - where different class models are quite resembling one another (see the Audi A8, A6 and A4, for example).

Other crucial aspect is that the future C-Class seems to be very curvaceous and sloppy - if you ask us, this could spell a greater number of younger clients turning to choose the W 205 over the competitors, but it could also mean traditional customers may feel disappointed and be tempted to look for a better alternative on the other side of the road.

One good thing is the removal of the irrational surfacing profile lines seen on some of the current Merc models - or, at least, this is what our eyes depict at the moment. Instead, a new upper crease running alongside the car, which thus clearly defines the muscular shoulders and highlights the new door handles, was adopted.

We are left a bit speechless by the third volume of the car - the boot section. The overhang is anything but long, while the entire entity is overly rounded and creates the effect of a hatchback, at least when seen from a 3/4 frontal view. The way the boot lid opens and the tail lamps, still hidden under black tape, scream from all over the place: S-Class, S-Class, S-Class.

We saved the best for last, however. The front fascia looks promising, with its larger radiator grille and the headlights moved towards the extremities in order to create an outstanding impression. Inspiration was taken from the S-Class (quite obviously), but there is also a sensible influence from the F 800 Style research vehicle as well. This creates a sense of individuality which perfectly meets the progressive design philosophy the new C-Class will display.

All in all, the future 205 series will add a few important centimeters (we guess up to 4.70 m) to its overall length compared to the present model (4.591 m), as to further accomodate the new CLA (4.63 m) in the lower range. The longer front overhang and the generous surface of the bonnet help deliver a solid attitude but also take their massive toll on the rear end by painfully counterbalancing its short-run proportions.

To summarize, we shall save more impressions for later on, when we are approaching the moment of premiere and more camouflage is shed away. But for now, our point is that the new C-Class is indeed sporting rather strange clothes. While the general feel is that the W 205 C-Class will continue to be an elegant mid-sized saloon for the wealthy ones, the overall roundness of the body could end up offering the car an inconsistent expression that might not be appreciated by some.

Sticking to technical side of things, the new C-Class will abund in state-of-the-art technology. The revolution going on underneath the sheet metal of the body shall match the revolution on the outside. A new rear-driven powertrain called MRA should improve both comfort and, more importantly, driving dynamics - one department Mercedes-Benz has never been the leader, but is now paying consistent efforts to make up for the lost time. Intelligent sensors that can detect the imminence of an accident, that can read road signs or tell the driver when it is time for a coffee break will also equip the new C-Class.

Enhanced efficiency and added performance were the main targets for the new petrol and diesel engines to be found under the hood. The entire lineup will feature ECO start/stop technology and clever BlueEFFICIENCY solutions that reduce fuel consumption and the CO2 level. Together with the otherwise streamlined, aerodynamic silhouette, it shall further decrease those values, while also creating an enjoyable, soundproof atmosphere inside the car.

The new powerplants range from the entry-level C 180 petrol-burning version with 120 hp up to the high-end C 400 model sporting company's brand new 3.0-litre direct-injection V6 unit rated at 333 hp. From the end of 2014, the new high performance C 63 AMG will enter the stage. Power will come from an all new 4.0-litre BITURBO 8-cylinder engine developing a peak output over 450 hp and more than 600 Nm of maximum torque.

Look for the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class (W 205) to be unveiled early next year, with the official world premiere scheduled for Geneva in March. In the mean time, surf through the gallery and don't forget to stay tuned to www.mercedesgla.blogspot.com to be the first to find out the hottest news on this subject! Enjoy! :)

Image Credits: GermanCarForum / Autowereld

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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First Mercedes-Benz CLA Rolls off the Production Line at the Kecskemét plant in Hungary

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Less than ten months after the opening of the Mercedes-Benz plant in Kecskemét, the location has reached the next milestone. With the official start of production of the Mercedes-Benz CLA, the first model exclusively built in Kecskemét is now rolling off the production line as the plant's second product along with the B-Class. On this occasion, plant manager Frank Klein took special pleasure in welcoming Hungarian Prime Minister Victor Orbán and Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Daimler Board of Management and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, who both had also attended the plant's grand opening in March 2012.

In his speech, Dr. Dieter Zetsche explained the background of the product decision: "The CLA is based on the Concept Style Coupe, which we introduced last year. The most frequent comment by far was 'Please put this car into series production.' That's precisely what we are doing now." With respect to the excellent performance of the Kecskemét plant's team, Zetsche said: "More than 40.000 B-Class vehicles built here prove that you know how to build great cars. You are doing a first-class job here at the plant." Zetsche also expressed the company's special thanks to all Hungarian partners in the political, administrative and social areas for the continuous, constructive partnership: "We're on a good way to reach our common goal – Kecskemét is developing as a center of the Hungarian automotive industry."

Plant manager Frank Klein added: "The plant's entire team can't wait to get the CLA to our customers as perfectly as the B-Class cars we build in Kecskemét. We aim to follow up seamlessly on what we achieved in our first, very successful production year of 2012." Last year, the Kecskemét plant had reached the first goal to produce more than 40.000 vehicles as planned, thus making an important contribution to the B-Class' best-ever annual sales (worldwide sales of 145,649 units, more than 11 percent over the previous sales record in 2006).

About the Mercedes-Benz Kecskemét plant

The Kecskemét plant and the Rastatt plant together form the production network for the new generation of Mercedes-Benz compact cars. That network significantly contributes to the overall economies of compact car production and allows the flexible and optimum management of both plant's capacity utilization. The Kecskemét plant was opened in March 2012, less than four years after the initial decision for the location, and has since produced the B-Class, which is also built in Rastatt. State-of-the-art, environmentally sound technology is used at the plant. In the meantime, the number of staff has grown from about 2,500 to more than 3,000, in line with the further development of the plant and the preparations for production of the CLA. The plant is the most attractive employer in the region, not least to due to the high attention given to the qualification of its employees. The pioneering efforts of the plant and its Hungarian partners to establish dual vocational and university education based on the German model further contribute to this. Daimler AG and the Hungarian Government in 2012 also signed a joint partnership agreement to establish and reinforce the region of Kecskemét as a center of the Hungarian automobile industry on a long-term basis.

About the Mercedes-Benz CLA

The CLA is set to establish a new segment, with world-leading aerodynamics (Cd = 0.22), avant-garde coupé design and 4MATIC all‑wheel drive (optional). As a new four-door coupé it follows the idea of the CLS, whose design concept has spawned more than its fair share of imitators since its debut in 2003. With its frameless doors, the coupé adopts the design of the Concept Style Coupé into series production.

The newcomer features a radar-based braking system (COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST) as standard which is able to warn the driver of an obstacle from a speed of 7 km/h and to initiate precision braking when the driver steps on the brake pedal. The new CLA is available for ordering with immediate effect and will be delivered to dealerships beginning in April.

Credits: Daimler AG

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SPY: Mercedes-Benz begins development of the new 2015 MLC-Class (C 292)

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In 2015, Mercedes-Benz will start production for a new model series at the US-based plant Tuscaloosa, Alabama: the MLC-Class will be company's first-ever SUV coupe. Initial photos and details should be officially issued by mid-December 2014, with the official introduction slated for NAIAS Detroit the following year and the market release later on in spring.

Internally codenamed C 292, the new MLC sits on a modified ML-Class chassis. We expect the vehicle will be substantially longer than its brother and also more dynamic and refined. The development stage kicked off recently, with photographers spotting an entire fleet of W 166 test mules for the future SUV coupe being deployed in Germany along with some BMW X6 vehicles, whom the MLC-Class is directly aimed at. First real test prototypes, featuring a finished design hidden under the camouflage, could hit streets in about four months from now.

As seen from the spy shots, the rear wings on the ML models are modified to accomodate the new components of the MLC-Class chassis. The car will be standardly equipped with the 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive traction, tweaked for best on-road performance and a sports ride. The ON & OFFROAD package with integrated management will be offered as an option, like for the ML and GL.

We cannot be very imaginative regarding the exterior design of the C 292. The tons of renditions that appeared since this model was rumored a few years ago might offer just a mild impression, miles different from the real car. Although it is not entirely a coupe (not if you count the number of doors), we expect Mercedes-Benz designers will deliver a spectacular exercise of style and elegance, paying a tribute to the 2-door models of the constructor into a very modern interpretation.

More details --> PREVIEW: Mercedes-Benz starts an aggressive offensive of coupe vehicles

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk

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SPY: A 2014 Mercedes-Benz S 600 V12 prototype spotted in Sindelfingen

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The colleagues from Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog were able to sneak some fresh spy shots of the forthcoming S-Class in Sindelfingen, the main site where the luxury flagship will be assembled beginning with 2013. Although we have uncovered most of the secrets behind the W 222 and we can sketch the exterior design quite accurately, this new set of street captures brings some new details.

If you look closely at the photo we have posted above, you will be able to spot a hint that tells you this is actually the very first S 600 test prototypes spotted so far. If you haven't already noticed, the light-blue coloured S-Class features a half-split exhaust pipe, a featured which is reserved for the V12-powered models solely. In fact, this design signals a quad exhaust configuration, all so necessary to handle the high output and the consequent emissions. When it is unveiled in 2014, the future S 600 V12 will be powered by an all new 12-cylinder engine, engineered by Mercedes-AMG and rated at around 550-560 hp.

Some rumors are pointing out the fact Mercedes-Benz executives could have already given a second thought and are planning to reveal the new S-Class earlier than mentioned before. If we are to believe the official German dealers who state the market launch of the W 222 is scheduled for May next year (with orders being greenlighted from January) for the standard and S 63 AMG variants, then we could have a big surprise at NAIAS Detroit 2013. According to latest reports, the 4MATIC and the HYBRID versions of the new S-Class will be available beginning with the end of next year.

Image/Info Credits: Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog / GermanCarForum

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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First new A-Class model delivered at the Mercedes-Benz Customer Center in Rastatt

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The first new A-Class from Mercedes-Benz goes to a customer from Esslingen. Waldemar Epple, director of the Mercedes-Benz Customer Center in Rastatt (MCC), Germany, handed over the keys for a A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY hatchback in jupiter red exterior paint finish. The vehicle features the "Urban" trim line and the Night Package, which gives it a particularly sporty and expressive character. Recently, the new A-Class won AUTO BILD Design Award 2012 for Germany's most beautiful vehicle.

"Even before the launch, over 50,000 pre-orders for the new A-Class were handed in. Now we have started the compelling delivery of this model - and look forward to meeting many collectors," said Epple.

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class

With the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz sets new standards in the compact segment: very emotional design, dynamic thanks to the powerplants ranging from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), high efficiency with emissions from 98 g CO2/km and the best in class drag coefficient of 0.27. The A-Class also underlines that safety at Mercedes-Benz is no question of price - including the radar-based assistance system COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST as standard equipment. The prices for the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY start at 23,978.50 euros (incl. 19% VAT) in Germany.

The Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt

The Mercedes-Benz Rastatt plant employs more than 6,100 people, and this year added 500 new permanent jobs. The new generation of Mercedes-Benz premium compact cars includes the A- and B-Class models, as well as three sporty, emotional models, including a coupe and an SUV. The five models of the new compact lineup will be assembled in the production network of the Rastatt plant and at the new plant in Kecskemét, Hungary, which was opened up at the end of March 2012. The A- and B-Class, together with the compact SUV, will be built at Rastatt.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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I spy with my little car ... : The first ‘social network’ for automobiles

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Social networks have become a well-established way of exchanging information quickly and easily. Now, one of the largest ever field trials of car-to-X communication (C2X) is set to show how this concept can be adapted in order to increase the road safety and efficiency of motor cars. The trial consists of 120 vehicles that will take to the roads of the Rhine-Main region until the end of the year. Each car has a network link to the others, as well as to the traffic infrastructure, and they will keep each other updated about the current traffic situation. For example, if the tail-end of a traffic jam on the A5 autobahn is hidden behind the crest of a hill, vehicles approaching the problem area can be alerted in good time, allowing the driver to take appropriate action. In situations where drivers have difficulty seeing what’s happening on the road ahead of them, for example on the federal highway B3, C2X technology can help to prevent pileups, e.g. by providing information about an emergency stop to traffic further back, even if the actual brake lights may be hidden by a lorry. C2X systems can also do their bit to make traffic more efficient and thus more environmentally friendly, e.g. by helping to control traffic light systems according to demand, thereby optimising traffic flow. In addition, it can offer a range of convenient functions such as suggested routes to the nearest available car park. That makes C2X communication a key element in the technology of the driver assistance and safety systems of the future.

Research project simTD

The aim of the recently started field trial is to test the systems’ suitability for everyday use in real-life traffic conditions. These experiments are part of the simTD research project headed by Daimler AG. (The name simTD stands for ‘Safe Intelligent Mobility – test field Germany’.) “We are convinced that C2X communication is going to play an important role in the mobility of the future,” said the overall simTD project leader Dr. Christian Weiß, who is in charge of cooperating systems at Daimler Research and Advance Development. “C2X communication allows us to detect objects and hazardous situations far beyond the immediate environment of the vehicle. This is a significant step on the path towards accident-free driving.”

Project simTD (www.simtd.de) is a collaboration between German car makers, automotive suppliers, communications companies, research institutes and the public sector. The project is sponsored and supported by Germany’s Federal Ministries of Economics and Technology (BMWi), Education and Research (BMBF), and Transport, Building and Urban Development (BMVBS), as well as the Federal State of Hessen. For Daimler as a pioneer in the area of vehicle safety, C2X communication and the resulting assistance systems are of enormous importance.

International activities

Daimler is also engaged in C2X communication research in the US. At its site in Palo Alto, California, it is fitting C2X systems to vehicles and carrying out tests. Its US research enables Daimler, as a major global car maker, to address the particular requirements of the American market with regard to C2X communication, and to achieve the greatest possible level of technological harmonisation.

In addition to its participation in project simTD and its US-based research, Daimler’s strong support for C2X communication is also evident from its long-standing involvement in other projects in this area. For instance, the Group initiated pivotal research projects such as NoW (Network on Wheels) and Fleetnet, the results of which have been incorporated into the current C2X testing and its standardisation. Furthermore, Daimler is a founding member of the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium (C2C CC) and is working towards a harmonisation of this technology across Europe with the project DRIVE C2X.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen: First new-generation GLK leaves the Customer Center

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The new-generation of the GLK has now left the Mercedes-Benz Customer Center in Bremen. Andreas Kellerman, manager of the Mercedes-Benz Bremen Plant, gave Stefan Klug from Frankfurt am Oder, the keys of the compact SUV. In addition to the standard equipment, the vehicle also features Active Parking Assist, including Parktronic and the Intelligent Light System. "We are proud of the new GLK," said Andreas Kellermann. "I am confident the new on- and offroad vehicle will be very well received by customers."

About the new GLK

With a new design, exclusive appointments, pioneering assistance systems and efficient and agile engines, the new generation of the GLK underscores its claim to leadership of the compact SUV market segment. The newly designed exterior lends this car full of character greater poise. The GLK 2012 comes up trumps with a range of state-of-the-art assistance systems and comprehensive BlueEFFICIENCY measures such as the standard-fit ECO start/stop function. BlueTEC diesel emission control is available for the compact SUV for the first time, enabling compliance with the EU6 emissions standard.

About the off-road vehicle trail

For those who want to test the ability of the new GLK in offroad terrain, "The Rock" course is available. Right next to the Mercedes-Benz Customer Center, clients can learn, under the guidance of an instructor, about the off-road qualities of the GLK on different surfaces.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Mercedes-Benz Manhattan Flagship Store Celebrates First Anniversary

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The inventor of the automobile is celebrating a one-year anniversary – the opening of its flagship store in Manhattan, which for the past twelve months has served New York City customers with an exclusive experience from its 330,000 square foot dealership on 11th Avenue. The June 21st anniversary, declared official Mercedes-Benz Day last year by Mayor Bloomberg, coincides with the New York launch of a Mercedes-Benz USA initiative to give back to the City by placing 120 coaches in after-school sports programs through its support of the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA.

The Mercedes-Benz brand is no stranger to New York City and, while it opened its doors to the new dealership just last year on Manhattan’s West Side auto corridor, it was almost six decades earlier that Mercedes-Benz introduced the 1954 300SL at the New York International Motor Sports Show. The dealership is now showcasing the recently launched all-new 2013 SL550, the sixth generation of the iconic roadster introduced in New York fifty-eight years ago. To commemorate the milestone, the dealership has created its Diamond Anniversary sales event, which kicked-off on June 17th and will run until June 30th.

Mercedes-Benz Manhattan was built with features to ensure a unique customer experience including an infrastructure with five levels--two of them dedicated to new and certified pre-owned sales, amenities ranging from a gift shop to lounge areas, two separate vehicle entrances for both east and west traffic located on 53rd and 54th streets, a double-helix two-way drive within the facility leading to the service department, which includes a valet and over 70 service bays.

“Our mission at Mercedes-Benz Manhattan is to provide an environment that not only meets customer’s needs – because that’s a given -- but which conveys to people how much we value their business and their time. With a year under our belt, we wanted to mark our anniversary by doing something special for the environment in which we live and do business,” said Blair Creed, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz Manhattan.

Over the past year, the dealership has supported a number of local organizations including hosting a Toys for Tots event attended by hundreds of New York City children who received gifts. On Memorial Day Weekend, Mercedes-Benz Manhattan raised $25,000 for the Tri-State Chapter of Operation Homefront.

The June 21st anniversary coincides with Mercedes-Benz USA and local New York Tri-State dealers’ kick-off of their program to support New York kids through the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA. Mercedes-Benz USA and its dealers have committed $1.3 million to the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation USA to fund a national initiative to train and place 250 coaches in sports-based youth development projects in underserved neighborhoods in five U.S. cities through Coach Across America, Laureus’ delivery partner. Of the 250 coaches who will be deployed nationwide through the program, 120 will be in New York alone.

The first two NYC programs that are receiving support from the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation are Beat the Streets, an amateur wresting program in downtown Manhattan, and Play Rugby in Brooklyn and the Bronx. In addition to their monetary contribution, Mercedes-Benz USA employees and dealers will volunteer their time to play sports with the kids in each program.

Mercedes-Benz Manhattan is open Monday through Friday 7a.m. to 7p.m. and Saturdays 9a.m. to 5p.m. You can visit Mercedes-Benz Manhattan online at mb-manhattan.com.

Credits: Mercedes-Benz USA

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