Mercedes-Benz SUVs of the future: GLA, MLC, GLC and more to come

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Sports Utility Vehicle will never go old-fashioned or at least not in the next 10 to 15 years. Mercedes-Benz, as inventor of the modern SUV with the first generation M-Class (W 163) back in 1997, has mastered a strategy to increase profitability and revenue, in addition to exploring new fields and attracting new clients towards the brand. The plan is to fill any niche and any gap still left empty with all-rounding models such as crossovers and SUVs in almost all classes and size categories.

The portfolio of Mercedes-Benz is already heavily filled with various SUVs to suit different tastes. The GLK is the dynamic lifestyle to travel around in big cities, the M-Class is the all-time leader and the most faithful business partner, the GL-Class is suitable for those who want to set themselves apart from the crowd and admire true luxury and sheer elegance, the G-Class is for the adventurous client looking for off-road excitement, whereas the R-Class is a one-of-a-kind proposal in the automotive industry, combining the attributes of a modern station wagon, a van and an all-terrain vehicle into a VIP shuttle body of a crossover.

Five distinct models, each having their targeted customer group and clearly defined role, is still not enough, according to the plans we have found out. Mercedes-Benz mulls over several new additions to the fleet in the next years. The first to come out is the all new GLA, company's first compact SUV. Entitled Cross Activity Vehicle (CAV), the new model has already been previewed at the Auto China 2013, where Mercedes-Benz unveiled the Concept GLA. The serial version comes in September at Frankfurt and will basically be fairly similar to the showcar, like the A-Class and CLA-Class in their respective cases. The muscular, yet very dynamic and coupe-ish silhouette, combined with the higher ground clearance and the multiple appointments, will certainly translate into a boost of sales right from the market release of the X 156.

MLC, company's first Sports Utility Coupe, is next on the list. The C 292 project will become reality as soon as late 2014, with production starting at Tuscaloosa the following year. The new MLC-Class will get the underpinnings from the M-Class, but engineers will further tweak the platform to make it sportier and more responsive. Styling will be totally different, with the new rakish roof line setting the model apart from the standard SUV in the lineup. The four-door/four-seat architecture will add a dose of practicality and exclusiveness. The latest breakthroughs in ride management, assistance technology and telematics will find their onto the new SUC from Mercedes-Benz: the upgraded COMAND Online with touchpad, the Head-Up Display, the enhanced ATTENTION ASSIST, the Night View Assist Plus with improved person/animal recognition, the new generation 4MATIC and the state-of-the-art ON&OFFROAD Package available as an option. Most engines to power the new MLC will be brand new. If the petrol choices will consist of efficient BlueDIRECT V6 and V8 units, the diesel version will carry the BlueTEC badge. As the MLC is an upscale niche model, the baseline variant will be the MLC 250 BlueTEC with 211 hp, followed by the MLC 300 with 252 hp and the MLC 350 BlueTEC with 258 hp. Further, the MLC 350 with 306 hp might still be kept for a while, whereas the MLC 400 will reach 333 hp. The range-topping models will be the MLC 500 with 435 hp (or 455 hp) and the MLC 63 AMG with 557 hp coming towards 2016.

In 2015, one year after the 205 series for C-Class is unveiled, the second generation GLK is slated to showcase during spring. The new X 205 will be a complete departure from the current boxy model. A different philosophy will make the GLK look modern and youthful, with barely any direct linkage to the G-Class like the current model has. The new mid-sized SUV will be underpinned by the new MRA rear-wheel-driven platform that will be accomodated to receive the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, which shall be available on most versions except for the entry-level GLKs. From 2016, an SUC will also join the portfolio. The future GLC will follow the footprints of the MLC, which means a coupe greenhouse fitted to a four-door body. The GLC-Class will share the technical equipment with the new GLK, which also borrows its systems and engines from the new C-Class. While AMG models are still in doubt, the new GLK 400 and GLC 400, both boasting a maximum output of 333 hp from a 3.0-litre V6 BlueDIRECT engine, will be the available high-end variants. The new straight-six petrol powerplants with bi- or tri-turbocharging are prone to debut in around three years from now, so probably the current "V" units will then be replaced for the GLK and GLC as well, together with a power boost up to around 360 hp.

We have previously reported on the so-entitled GLG mini-sized city SUV. It seems rumors are intensifying and this all new, retro-styled crossover harking to the G-Class is closer and closer to production form. Last year's ENER-G-FORCE study revealed at the LA Auto Show in November might hint at the design direction adopted for the GLG. Anyway, the new lifestyle crossover will have a total length of exactly 4 meters and will use the MFA chassis, in an adapted variant, from the new GLA. 4MATIC will be an option, otherwise front drive will be the standard architecture for the GLG. The engines will consist of efficient Daimler-Renault developed powerplants; the anticipated 3-cylinder low displacement diesel and gasoline units could also power the GLG beginning with 2017. An AMG version is ruled out at the moment, as the GLG 250 4MATIC with 211 hp and the 7G-DCT automatic gearbox is simply more than enough for the needs of the targeted clients. If it ever gets greenlighted, the baby G-Class should hit streets by mid-2016.

We also suspect Mercedes-Benz is looking at the possibility of releasing a top luxury class SUV in the new S-Class portfolio. With over five meters in length, a high-grade design and bespoke technology from the W 222 generation, the new top 4x4 car should be entitled GLS and concur other exquisite opponents such as the future Bentley and Rolls-Royce SUVs. If such a model gets the approval of the executive board of Daimler AG, then we could witness the appearance of the GLS on streets around 2017 or 2018.

It is still unclear whether Mercedes-Benz will axe the R-Class or it will release a new generation of the model after 2015. Past reports were indicating the future R-Class will be strongly based on the next generation E-Class (W 213) scheduled to bow in around two years. The car would retain the wagon body, but also get more dynamic, appealing and garnished with the latest technology.

This is, all in all, the sketch of the new outlook for the future at Mercedes-Benz. Along with the standard high-volume models like the C-Class and E-Class, the SUV/SUC range will ensure a substantial growth for the Stuttgart-based constructor in the following years. As a consistent part of the Mercedes-Benz 2020 strategy, through which the Germans target the top position in the premium automotive industry by the end of this decade, the new lineup of niche vehicles must be close to perfect, if not fully perfect, to succeed in a world with ever more competitors.

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

Future Talk – How utopian is the future?

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Under the slogan “Future needs Utopia” experts from Daimler discuss at the Future Talk in Berlin visionary ideas with external specialists from different fields. Among them are Philipp Hübl, Professor of Theoretical Philosophy at the University of Stuttgart, Tobias Wallisser, Professor of Architecture and Innovative Construction and Spatial Concepts at the State Academy of Fine Arts in Stuttgart and co-founder of the Laboratory of Visionary Architecture and Martina Mara from the Ars Electronica Futurelab in Linz, Austria.

Professor Dr. Herbert Kohler, Vice President Group Research and Sustainability and Chief Environmental Officer at Daimler AG points out: “As part of our culture of innovation, we want to provide an impetus for visionary thinking. Future Talk offers us the opportunity – outside our own four walls – to enter into a dialog with avant-garde thinkers and discuss our ideas. We are convinced that innovations are only effective if they follow a clear vision for the future. Therefore, it is important to comprehend social trends and developments at an early stage and sift out the relevant aspects for an automobile manufacturer. This includes topics such as the changing user behavior of the customers as well as new opportunities and challenges due to increasing connectivity of the vehicle. That is the only way to develop successful product and business ideas and design them appropriately.”

It's time for a new Utopia

There is no future without a past: Alexander Mankowsky, Futurologist at Society and Technology Research Group at Daimler AG and Professor Philipp Hübl open the Future Talk in Berlin by presenting influential utopian ideas from the past and discuss the necessity of future visions for societal evolution.

“We sense some kind of discomfort in society about the current lack of clear direction,” says Alexander Mankowsky. “It is time now for new utopias – in fact desirable ones. We are always trying to bring together the ideas of our creative thinkers and the expectations of society. Of course, mobility is our core competency. Besides, authenticity is always vital – you cannot have meaningful technical visions without social and cultural environments in which they can be realized.”

Philipp Hübl continues: “Political and social utopias in the past failed largely because they went against human nature – whereas the technical visions usually came true. Anyone who wants to predict how people will live in the technological society of the future must understand what defines the very nature of a human being, independent of random or enforced circumstances or trends.”

The science of future research looks for the constant in an ever changing world. But especially the social and societal aspects represent a challenge, because they are the most complex due to the endless parameters, so Hübl. There is the desire for authenticity, genuineness and uniqueness as well as the search for the idyllic environment with plants, food, water and light as a ‘perfect world’ and retreat. At the same time mobility applies today as a metaphor for life, for experience, travel and independence. In the end, Hübl proposes the question if we could endure several visions simultaneously, or maybe we actually do not want to choose one.

From the visions of the past to the mobility of the future: Holger Hutzenlaub, Head of Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Germany and smart Design, presents the results of a Daimler future workshop. The pictorial worlds developed at the workshop show possible scenarios for future mobility and ways of making cars even more useful. The four scenarios, Giving Back to the City, Double Purpose, Mobile Revolution and Carchitecture, look at different strategies for shaping the world of tomorrow.

Giving Back to the City: follows a philanthropic approach

The idea of 'Giving Back to the City' came about because of the way people perceive cars which are often seen as the 'bad guys' – for example when it comes to parking. Thus, the task was: how can we create a more positive perception of cars? What additional functions must cars have in order to offer people benefits above and beyond transportation? There is no doubt that cars are becoming more and more intelligent – they are fitted with a vast amount of sensory systems and technology. 'Giving Back to the City' is a philanthropic approach that aims to use these technologies to create benefits for the wider community.

Cars increasingly become data hubs that assimilate and process large amounts of data from the surrounding area, as well as contributing information themselves. They are developing into robots with their own intelligence and the capacity to act. A parked vehicle, for example, could signal to children that a road is safe to cross or, if they are lost, even point them in the right direction. When crossing a traffic lane, a car could send signals to the traffic infrastructure allowing other vehicles to slow down. ‘Virtual crosswalk’ could make it possible to safely cross a road at any point.

The modern ‘living in transit’ requires more flexible shopping opportunities. Large screens on the sides of cars could display products that a passer-by could order, as if in a virtual shopping zone. At the same time, these screens could serve as advertising pillars, providing information on the current location or saying something about the vehicle's owner. Access to the digital world and unlimited communication would be possible without a smart phone 24 hours a day no matter where you were.

Martina Mara also sees cars in the future as autonomous self-directed, social agents - with many senses for what happens in their environment. The ‘MoveBot’ performs more and more as an intelligent information robot that is active on its own in the city of the future. Beyond that the autonomous, social car of the future could be connected with other service robots in our everyday life. One opportunity regarding Martina Mara would be a complete merger: according to current requirements the robot could clean the transparent smart-material-facades or serve as transportation.

“The gap between man and machine is getting smaller and smaller and robotic systems react more and more as social partners. Living together with an autonomous machine could make life of following generations much easier,” says Martina Mara and adds: “Such a vision of the future could also evoke uncertainty, perhaps even eeriness. To accept autonomous technologies as friendly species, we should have our needs for control and personal freedom in mind when it comes to their design.”

In a human-robot co-existence from a socio-psychological point of view there is certainly to consider the aspect of losing control; something that we human beings usually do not like that much. Will we get along with intelligent, autonomous robotic vehicles moving back and forth and around us? Can we trust them? Do they know more than we do? An autonomous system that decides for itself, its next steps which we as humans cannot predict, could also spread fear. Advices of the spectrum of possibilities and information on the proposed decisions of the ‘MoveBot’ could reduce or even avoid uncertainties.

Double Purpose: your own car becomes public

Cars are either private or public today. The car - a protective space where we can listen to music as loudly as we like, where we can laugh, cry and swear without any inhibitions. The car - an oversized bag with all the important and not-so-important things that we carry around with us. Compare that with the anonymity of the rental car – cleaned after every journey and devoid of any personal touches.

Behind ‘Double Purpose’ stands the vision of an all-in-one solution. Conceptual approach is to combine the various uses of vehicles without making compromises: once you have driven your own car to work, you make it available as an autonomously driven taxi or car-sharing vehicle, generating extra income. The interior can easily be modified so that the car can be used as a public vehicle without compromising its function as a private one. After its use as a public vehicle, the car is simply converted back to a standard car by its owner.

“Every society shapes its surroundings to meet its needs,” says Professor Tobias Wallisser. “Privacy plays a key part in that. Private space is a luxury and implies a need for protection and security. At the same time, we look for a sense of togetherness, and closeness to the community. This is paradoxical, but human – as German writer Kurt Tucholsky said in his poem ‘The Ideal’ of 1927: Yes, that´s what I like: a villa in the countryside with a large terrace in front of the Baltic Sea, behind it the Friedrichstraße with a beautiful view, country-chic, from the bathroom you can see the Zugspitze - but in the evening it´s not far away to the cinema.”

People crave for a private, self-controlled retreat area, a place that summarize the privacy space, adds Wallisser. The trend of ‘cocooning’ also sees the home as a fortress, as a bastion of the individual, as a place of tranquility away from the frantic everyday life. Simultaneously digital media provides this place with a constant stream of news from the outside world what brings up the question of whether these rooms are really private.

Mobile Revolution: and the city is changing

The cities of the future will no longer be divided into functional areas such as living, working, shopping, and leisure. This functional arrangement is inflexible and forces city residents to travel long distances. The necessary infrastructure also makes it difficult to find spaces where a ‘life of proximity’ can be enjoyed.

The ‘Mobile Revolution’ approach is based on a city that is not organized by functions but by mobility requirements. This city is divided into rings with different speeds. The inner rings are slower and have shops that can be reached on foot. The outer larger rings are faster and link the small centers so that big city facilities are still accessible. Innovative transport systems will allow the transportation of goods to be routed underground and away from the streets, and people will mainly travel above ground where there is light and fresh air.

The city is changing and transport is changing with it: for long distances on the large city loops, the car offers space – a ‘Mobility Lounge’ that can be used as an office, a comfortable seating area or a sales room. On the inner loops, highly compact single-seaters offer the occupant protection and privacy and help if walking is difficult or shopping too heavy. The ‘Mobile Revolution’ is therefore leading to a system of different mobility devices that combine efficiency with an individualized urban lifestyle.

Carchitecture: combines cars and architecture

Buildings and vehicles have much in common: from construction to use to recycling, they depend on energy and resources. In a building, the energy is for air conditioning, lighting and technical infrastructure such as lifts and escalators. Resources are not only used for the main structure itself but also for technical installations such as heating, cooling, and ventilation. At the present time, these functions are duplicated: both your home and car have heating systems. At the same time electric cars have energy storage which is missing in the building. The vehicle, however, has little space for energy generation.

This is where ‘Carchitecture’ comes in. Developing car design so that they can incorporate mobile and immobile elements could prove a worthwhile strategy in future. The link between a house and a car is energy: the energy flow is made possible through electric power in cars and the intelligence of energy houses in the future. The connection between the house and car is symbiotic in nature: the car is an energy accumulator on wheels, the house is a supplier and receiver of energy. So, in future, an electric vehicle could replace the installed heating system for a building.

Interdisciplinary dialog is our goal

Visions are necessary to drive forward the debate in society on mobility and the design of urban living space. Future Talk at Daimler explores the complete spectrum from idealistic ideas on future mobility and the associated challenges, to possible solutions and mobility concepts. The company is sharing its visions with innovative thinkers from various disciplines. Daimler, the inventor of the car and an innovator in individual mobility, continues to demonstrate its commitment to shaping the future of mobility.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

REPORT: Future smart lineup to include cabriolet and crossover offerings

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The forthcoming generation of smart models will start coming out towards the end of next year. Apart from the standard fortwo and fortwo+2 choices, the mini-class brand of Daimler AG will make room for two niche versions that are expected to sell like hot cakes: an open-top and a crossover.

As you happen to already know, Mercedes-Benz has partnered Renault to write the next chapter in the smart story. A new rear-drive platform perfectly fitted for shared use under both the future Twingo and the new smart two-door/four-door models is currently in advanced stages of development. This means the future smart and Renault mini models will also share a series of specially developed, 3-cylinder petrol and diesel engines featuring low displacement and extraordinary efficiency, as well as special transmission systems.

Sticking to our topic, the cabriolet and the compact "SUV" under the smart brand are slated to be unleashed in 2015 and 2016, respectively. The future convertible will be inspired by the for-us study presented at Detroit and Geneva in 2012, while the other will follow the trails of the forstars concept showcased last year at Paris.

The street-legal products will be very similar in terms of styling to the show-bound cars and will boast smart's brand new design philosophy. The perforated grille and the tubular LED lights will be present trademarks on the future models. While the smart cabrio displays a two-door architecture and a lowered ride height for more dynamism, the smart "SUV" will boast larger proportions similar to those of Nissan Juke (whom it will supposedly share a modified powertrain with), four doors and a bespoke 4x4 traction system, offered as an option on high-end variants. Besides the standard version, a sporty 3-door smart SUV with fun factor and resembling the forstars concept car is also very likely to be greenlighted for serial production.

Note: smart forstars and smart for-us pictured.

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz readying new versions for the A-Class and CLA-Class

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Mercedes-Benz is reportedly mulling over two new variants to expand its premium compact class portfolio. The attention is focused towards the flagships of the lineup, the A-Class (W 176) and the CLA-Class (C 117), which are said to receive new additions in about two years.

With striking visual elements and intelligent technologies, the A-Class and CLA are just the right models to build up on a consistent range of compact vehicles. First to come is the new A-Class 3-door hatchback (C 176), expected to debut in early 2014 - apart from the number of doors, the model will not be aesthetically different compared to its 5-door sibling.

Towards the end of 2014, Mercedes-Benz will add a new iteration in the CLA family - the Shooting Brake variant. Internally codenamed X 117, the future CLA Shooting Brake follows the trail of the bigger CLS Shooting Brake and proposes the same, stylish coupe form enclosed in a practical 5-door body. The new Merc will also be optionally available with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system - the CLA 45 AMG SB boasting 354 hp will also be unveiled shortly after the launch of the standard-spec model.

During 2015, Mercedes-Benz will reveal the all new A-Class Cabriolet. The need for an open-top compact car is obvious given the competition already has similar models in the same segment. The so-dubbed A 176 model will feature an electrically retractable soft roof, to save important kilos, and a uniquely styled rear end to meet the new top-less architecture of the vehicle. Chances are an A 45 AMG Cabriolet version will also arrive as we approach 2016.

A last-minute report claims Mercedes-Benz will preview its upcoming GLA-Class urban crossover this year in April, at the Auto Shanghai motor show. Like the Concept A-Class and Concept Style Coupe, the presumed Concept GLA-Class will display an attractive progressive styling visibly close to the series production model.

Image Credits: stern.de / Theophilus Chin

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

PREVIEW: Daring Mercedes-Benz ENER-G-FORCE showcar could hint at future SUV direction

Don't Copy From This Blog...

For the ninth time, the LA Auto Show starting at the end of November in the USA will be host of the famous Design Challenge competition, where talented stylists working for important automotive constructors are showcasing their outstanding ideas on the car of the future. This year's theme is: Highway Patrol Vehicle 2025.

Mercedes-Benz will take part in the event with the project that pictures the police patrolling SUV of 2025: the ENER-G-FORCE. The prototype does not exist solely on paper, but has also been transposed into a 1:1 model, that we look forward to see unveiled on the stage of the American salon alongside other major premieres.

We cannot simply label this as "just another concept". The ENER-G-FORCE concept car has been penned by a team of enthusiastic designers from the Advanced Design Center in California, led by Hubert Lee, a young and talented artist. Even though the styling of the car is crazy and will never make it to series production (at least, not in this form), we wonder if this otherwise mind-blowing study could signal future additions to the SUV lineup of Mercedes-Benz.

First of all, the general shape is rugged, but the modern interpretation also adds sort of harmony of interesting curves that blend very well with the whole architecture. The good ol' daddy G-Class served as inspiration, and you can sense that even in the name, which highlights the magical letter G. After 2015, when the current manufacturing contract with Magna-Steyr expires, there's a real possibility the G-Class could be discontinued from 2016 onwards. But, there are also chances the partnership is extended up to 2020 or, more or less fantastic, a worthy, modern successor, in fact a second generation G-Class, could come into force. The ENER-G-FORCE is looking to be a very attractive opportunity to begin with in the development of the next G-Class series.

Secondly, Mercedes-Benz wants to diversify its portfolio of compact niche models and rumors about a possible baby G-Class model coming in around two years have been appearing pretty often lately. If it ever sees the light of day, the GLG, because that's the rumored title for the car, will be developed on company's MFA platform and display a boxy, yet highly modern and appealing exterior design. Definitely, the anticipated GLG will be a car that aims to stand out of the crowd and have that all-so-desired "wow factor". And, last but not least, the young clients will be impressed by these attributes, because this is the main public this compact SUV is addressed to. As in the other, the ENER-G-FORCE could be a highly valuable resource for some crazy and dramatic design experiments that immediately impress when admired.

Look for further official details on the Mercedes-Benz ENER-G-FORCE in the next period while we approach the press days of the 2012 Los Angeles Motor Show. Stay tuned to www.mercedesgla.blogspot.com to find out the hottest stuff on this topic!

Image Credits: Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

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

Don't Copy From This Blog...

In order to become leader in the premium automotive industry by the end of 2020, Mercedes-Benz has developed a solid growth plan which aims to offer new opportunities and the highest level of quality for the customers in search of a luxury vehicle. Despite the recent profit margin and prospect rectifications for the ongoing year and for 2013, as well as the uncertainty expressed by some of the investors at Daimler AG, the Stuttgart-based constructor is secretly mastering a complete portfolio of cars, in every class and covering any unfilled market niche. Apart from the compact model offensive, Mercedes-Benz will also start launching a comprehensive range of coupe vehicles in the medium, business/executive, high-luxury and SUV segments.

The German automotive constructor will start the renewal of its 2-door model portfolio with the 2013 E-Class Coupe, coming next year towards spring. The facelift generation of the C 207 will get a brand new visual identity, new safety systems and updated telematics, as well as more powerful engine in the high-end area: the E 350 BlueDIRECT V6 with 333 hp and the E 500 BlueEFFICIENCY with 435 hp. There's still no word about a possible E 63 AMG performance version with V8 BITURBO power.

The next to come is the future S-Class Coupe (C 217) variant that is replacing the outgoing CL-Class (C 216) and tipped for world premiere in 2014. We have already about this car in a recent article, so we are not insisting too much on it. The entire technology pack comes from the forthcoming S-Class sedan (W 222), so expect a great level of safety and connectivity aboard the 2-door model. The design philosophy will combine classic elements preserved from the predecessors with a futuristic styling combining progressive and organic shapes and lines.

In around two years from this moment, Mercedes-Benz will also mark the launch of company's first Sports Utility Coupe (SUC) vehicle under the MLC moniker (C 292). The new addition to the family will be assembled at Tuscaloosa plant in the USA, being the fifth model to be built at the Alabama-located facility alongside the C-Class, M-Class, GL-Class and R-Class. The body will sport 5 doors, but the general design will be inspired by the sleek silhouette of the real Mercedes-Benz coupes. A rakish roofline, dropping dramatically towards the rear end, and an eye-catching progressive styling will convert the future MLC into a complete looker. Prior the official unveiling, we expect Mercedes-Benz to tease the series model with a concept showcar in early 2014.

The SUC family will further grow in 2015 with the advent of the middle class contender: the new GLC, in fact the GLK Coupe. The model will emphasize a dynamic design, similar in terms of general details to the bigger MLC. While we do expect at least minimal 4x4 capabilities from the 4MATIC system, the land where the GLC will feel at home is the road, either in the cities or outside them. Most certainly, the new all-wheel-drive powertrain, derived from MRA rear-driven platform of the future C-Class 205 series, will be tweaked to deliver sensational driving performance, with an accent on the sharp stability, agility and behaviour predictability.

There is also a possibility the engineers from Affalterbach will develop high sports variants for the MLC and GLC. Then, the future MLC 63 AMG and GLC 63 AMG could be scheduled to bow nearing 2016 and they should use V8 engines with direct injection and bi-turbocharging. Around 550 hp for the C 292 and near 480 hp for the other Merc.

Similar articles:

PREVIEW: Mercedes-Benz aims at BMW X6 with the new MLC

The new 2015 Mercedes-Benz SUV coupe previewed at the Tuscaloosa plant

Daimler to Produce Additional Model at the Mercedes-Benz Tuscaloosa Plant (USA)

PREVIEW - 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLC

PREVIEW: Future Mercedes-Benz compact SUVs - Further information

PREVIEW: New trademark filings paint an interesting future for Mercedes-Benz

Image Credits: Autobild

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

Official: Future 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet (A 205) gets approved for serial production

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Speculation over a possible convertible version of the C-Class have been on since 2008, just one year after the market release of the current 204 model generation. At that time, we were bringing to your attention the possibility that Mercedes-Benz would launch this variant together with the advent of the revised lineup (read more HERE). However, it was not the case when the C-Class Facelift arrived on the market in 2011, as the Germans concentrated on developing an all new C-Coupe, that was regarded as a better option to boost sales given the difficult economic situation.

The big change is about to happen with the release of the future 205 model series, as Steve Cannon, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, recently confirmed during an interview. Towards the end of 2014 or in spring 2015, we will see the addition of the new member to the mid-class family of vehicles. The C-Class Cabriolet (probably, internally tipped as the A 205) will sport a dynamic and very youthful exterior design, unlike any other Mercedes-Benz model from the past. Moreover, as in the case of the Coupe (C 205), the interior will receive an attractive layout, with lots of gadgets, new comfort and assistance technologies and increased connectivity through state-of-the-art telematics.

The introduction of the upcoming C-Class Cabriolet will sort things out in the Mercedes-Benz model portfolio, as the medium-sized range will have its own complete lineup with up to five different variants (including the GLK) in addition to helping the E-Class Coupe and Cabrio (currently, engineered on a modified technical platform comprising more C-Class components than E-Class ones) become evenly integrated into the future E-Class 213 generation, bound to arrive during 2015.

Details are few at the moment, but some rumors suggest that the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet (A 205) will boast four comfortable seats that are to be protected, upon request, by a fully automated, electrically-manouevred segmentary steel folding roof.

As the first camouflaged test prototype should appear any time soon given the approach of the winter season, stay tuned to Mercedes-Benz-Blog to be the first to know to hottest gossip on the new top-less C-Class!

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

EBSF: the future of public local transport comes a step closer

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Four years of project work, 48 partners, 7 demonstration projects and a total budget of around 26 million – these are just some of the statistics generated by the European Bus System of the Future, or EBSF for short, which is the biggest road-related transportation project to be funded by the European Commission to date. On 15 October 2012, the International Association of Public Transport (in French: Union Internationale des Transports Publics, UITP) - as the body designated to lead and coordinate the EBSF project - presented the results of the individual EBSF projects, or so-called "Use Cases", to the press in Brussels.

As a comprehensive, widely networked research project for the design and development of an innovative, high-quality European bus system of the future, four years ago the EBSF project took on the goal of demonstrating the capabilities of a new generation of urban bus networks and creating the basis for an integrated systems approach (vehicle, infrastructure, technology, operation) with takes future passenger requirements into account. Project members in seven European countries have painstakingly assessed and compiled the data from the demonstration projects. EvoBus GmbH participated in two projects.

Project: passenger information systems

One of the demonstrator vehicles created as part of the EBSF project was based on a Mercedes-Benz Citaro articulated bus. The vehicle incorporated ideas from a sub-project concerned with passenger information and communication systems. The Citaro G was used for nine months between 2011 and 2012 by the Bremerhaven Public Transport company on route 502.

Using a host of visual features both inside and out - such as a door entry and exit system controlled by LED lights using traffic light colours, a seat identification system or externally aligned monitors, and also information systems in the interior - the responsible project managers hoped to gain an insight into whether and how passenger flows could be managed more specifically and rapidly. It was also hoped that the newly designed area opposite doors 2 and 3 would shed light on the flow of passengers. Here fixed seating or spaces devoted purely to pushchairs or wheelchairs were dispensed with, and in their place an open space with folding seats and leaning areas was created. Another goal of the trials, which were conducted in real regular service conditions, was to ascertain the best information channels and best content to use to address passengers, tourists or tour groups. A comprehensive host of additional equipment (WLAN, GPS amplifier, 240 V sockets) was designed to enhance the appeal of regular service buses, and also to provide information on whether such features could generate new target groups or even strengthen the appeal of regular service buses for existing users.

Insights from the passenger information systems project

Nine months of regular service operation have provided a very clear picture of the practical application of such systems. While follow-up work still has to be carried out on some ideas, others have proved suitable for immediate implementation. The design of space using leaning areas and folding seats was in fact so well received that the Bremerhaven Transport Authority has already applied the idea by retrofitting the design to many of its vehicles. Newly acquired vehicles will basically help to continue to implement the idea. Another success was achieved in the area of passenger information systems. Two-thirds of the fleet have already been fitted with 20-inch monitors. The mixture of infotainment, news reports and transport connection information proved so popular among passengers that the transport operator sees this as a significant measure for increasing the appeal of the bus service. Although passengers did not consider a lot of the additional equipment such as WLAN, 240 V sockets and the seat identification system to be absolutely essential, such measures were nevertheless viewed positively within the context of modernity. The same applied to the innovative exterior design and the door entry illumination system: the latter was viewed by users more as a decorative or design element, and no particular change in entry or exit behaviour was noted during the test phase.

European driver's cockpit project

As part of the project for an ergonomically optimised European bus driver's cockpit, the EBSF project explored driver issues. The project examined in detail what parameters would have to be established in order to create a standardised European driver's cockpit, similar to what has been achieved with the VDV 234 guidelines in Germany.

Apart from the ergonomic aspects, factors such as the driver's personal needs, safety considerations and compliance with European regulations were looked at. The test series was carried out at the Fraunhofer Institute for Transportation and Infrastructure Systems in Dresden, based on a variety of statistical data (in terms of sex, age, height) and using test subjects (active drivers) from Rome, Dresden and Gothenburg. The test series comprised interviews, analytical data collection (e.g. measuring the selected seat and cockpit settings), test drives and observations made in the 3D simulator, as well as a follow-up survey of the test drivers. The newly designed driver's cockpit (mock-up) enabled the test drivers to try out a wide variety of adjustment options. This helped to ensure that the individual needs of the drivers were taken into account: whether it was a case of adjusting the instrument panel, the steering wheel or the driver's seat suspension system. It also guaranteed that all possible physiological factors - large, small, male or female - would meet with the same levels of driving and working comfort in the cockpit. As part of the test drives, the drivers "drove" along virtual regular service routes through Dresden and Rome in a specially developed driver's cockpit in a 3D simulator.

Insights from the European driver's cockpit project

Despite the different requirements imposed by a variety of European cities, it was still possible to explore real needs in a synthetic environment. In conjunction with the driving simulator, the static driver's cockpit (mock-up) enabled realistic minimum and nominal dimensions to be defined and typical sequences of movements and ergonomic standards to be determined.

During the subjective assessment of the driver's cockpit mock-up which was implemented, it became clear that in general drivers place a great deal of value on stowage spaces and stowage options. Marked differences specific to certain countries were determined when assessing features relevant to safety (e.g. access protection). The individual adjustment options for the instrument panel, steering wheel and seat were consistently classified as positive. Also assessed as extremely positive by the test drivers was the executed design of both the driver's cockpit and the simulation.

The participants in the project provided some important input into which of the visionary cockpit features could be transferred to a standardised European driver's cockpit, and which specific local features it would be worth including.

Conclusion of the EBSF project

Some 48 project partners made up of vehicle manufacturers, suppliers, operators, official bodies, researchers and consultancies have shaped the EBSF project over a four-year period. Together they were looking for trailblazing, combinable vehicle, infrastructure and operational designs, as well as possibilities for technical harmonisation and standardisation. In addition to the commitment from EvoBus, other manufacturers also provided their visions of the future of local public transport, and ultimately brought them to life by building demonstrator vehicles. Plenty of good ideas – and the EBSF project management is certain about this – will soon be adopted by suppliers and manufacturers, and also incorporated into their development and production processes. Other approaches to solutions, on the other hand, while proving impressive in theory, actually failed when implemented in practice. In some cases such ideas failed due to small technical details, but also due to regulatory circumstances. Yet in fact such "problems" also gave rise to new areas of activity. The EBSF project has shown how effectively and innovatively manufacturers, suppliers and operators can work together when they think and act in a networked way. In view of this, the future of public local transport is likely to be based on a joint decision.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

PREVIEW: Future Mercedes-Benz GLK to be more dynamic and fun to drive

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The present generation of the GLK-Class was specifically penned in a rugged, boxy shape in order to remember the public about its strong link to the classic G-Class. This approach, otherwise successful and unprecedented in the automotive industry, is about to change beginning with 2015, when a new of the GLK is slated to come into force. Early test mules have already been spotted doing some winter testing in Scandinavia at the start of this year.

The new styling language will be far more progressive and youthful, with the car gaining more presence and dynamism thanks to the sportier silhouette. Hardly any edge, but lots of curves and intricate pieces of modern design will compose the looks of the new GLK, which is also expected to grow in size, at least by 5-10 cm in length (to make room for the future GLA compact crossover), and thus be more spacious inside. However, the new X 205 will not be taller compared to the current X 204 series; in fact, it could well be smaller than it is today because of the general shape of the body, which is rumored to be pretty similar to that of a coupe model.

The new GLK will sit on Merc's brand new rear-wheel-driven technical platform entitled MRA, which will be officially premiered on the forthcoming S-Class and then spreaded across the entire lineup and shall also be used by the upcoming C-Class models (W/S/C 205). However, the SUV will get the modified, 4x4 version of this chassis, with the basic model being the only GLK to feature RWD as standard equipment. The latest generation of the mult-awarded 4MATIC traction system will be available for the X 205, benefiting from the 4ETS electronic AWD management system and further technologies that aim to improve the on-road behaviour, the overall dynamical capabilities and deliver sensational performances in off-road conditions.

Most of the powerplants the new GLK will feature are updated variants of the existing engines. Each and every unit in the range will be fitted with BlueEFFICIENCY technology in order to achieve competitive values for fuel economy and CO2 emission levels. Most probably, there will be more diesel choices, but certainly more than one petrol variants as well. BlueTEC is also a possibility and rumors state a hybrid version could also be considered and destined to appear towards 2016 or 2017. The high-end model, the GLK 350, will boast around 350 hp produced by the 3.5-litre BlueDIRECT V6 engine. No plans for an AMG variant of the mid-sized SUV have been divulged so far, but there's a slight chance we see a top performance GLK with near 400 hp through 2017.

Illustration: Autobild

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz hands the V12 business over to Mercedes-AMG GmbH

Don't Copy From This Blog...

In a world dominated by an on-going, ever-present economical crisis that began at the end of 2008, the plans of automotive companies are continuously changing. Mercedes-Benz makes no exception, as in the last 3-4 years, there have been enough rumors stating that the German carmaker took the difficult decision of axing any future V12 model from the lineup, with the remaining ones being kept until their lifecycle would run over.

The prospect was visibly cloudy before Mercedes-Benz came up with the brand new S 65 AMG in 2009 and the CL 65 AMG a year later, and now in 2012 with the all new generation of the SL 65 AMG and the unexpected G 65 AMG. Out of the blue, the situation changed radically in favour of retaining the V12 choices in the model portfolio. Moreso, since this year began, there have appeared several, scattered reports on future 12-cylinder engine powered cars that would carry the Star logo. The rumors quickly shaped up nicely into definite possibilities after it was found out Mercedes-Benz would replace the Maybach brand with several upscale variants of the forthcoming S-Class (W 222), including the S 600 Pullman extended wheelbase premium limousine.

Days ago, it was found out that Mercedes-AMG will take over the V12 job from Mercedes-Benz. This is a strategic and fruitful decision, as the Affalterbach company has the necessary expertise in this field and a long experience in casting out one of the most refined 12-cylinder petrol powerplants in the automotive industry, like the current 6.0 litre version in its two basic form: the M275 with 612 hp and the upgraded M279 with revised engine technology and 630 hp.

For the future models displaying "600" badge, AMG will develop a brand new unit, with a smaller output than the M279, but most certainly high-end performance and efficiency superior to the current 5.5-litre V12 with 517 hp. For its own branded "65" variants, the firm will probably use a massively tweaked and thoroughly updated M279 engine, which should enable them to reach a top value of 650 hp and more than 1,000 Nm of maximum torque. The new Mercedes-Benz models equipped with V12 power from Mercedes-AMG will be officially released starting with 2014. A long waiting, we'd be tempted to say, but it will certainly be for good. Stay tuned to Mercedes-Benz-Blog to find out the latest on this issue!

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

REPORT: Mercedes-Benz working with Tesla on future all-electric B-Class

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Mercedes-Benz has recently launched its integrated 2020 development programme which lists, among many other important points, the construction of new and innovative technologies that help improve efficiency, reduce running costs and offer sustainable mobility. The green dream is to build a practical all-electric vehicle, which should be capable to offer decent performance, comfort and versatility at a decent price.

The second generation of the B-Class, launched in 2011, is the basis for the all new E-CELL model planned for unveiling in 2014. Back in 2009, the German carmaker acquired a 10 percent stake in the US automotive constructor Tesla (more details HERE) and now the two brands will collaborate and share knowledge for the development of this 100% electric compact sports tourer.

Tesla will provide most of the powertrain, including the electric motor and the Li-Ion storage batteries. The forthcoming B-Class E-CELL is not the first fruit of the collaboration between the two partners. The smart fortwo electric drive, that celebrated the market launch in June 2012, is already using technical components from Tesla.

For the parent company Daimler, this 2014 version of the compact MPV, in fact the series materialization of the Concept BlueZERO E-CELL of 2009, will be the third electric vehicle in the portfolio, after the above-mentioned smart model and the SLS AMG E-CELL supercar, coming onto the market beginning with 2013. However, the plans to build a hybrid, gasoline-electric variant for the B-Class with range extender are not completely phased out. Both the Concept BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS showcar and the near-series Concept B-Class E-CELL Plus prototype revealed at Frankfurt last year, form a solid basis for a future serial car which should arrive in 2015.

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SETRA outlines future generation 500 series

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The premium bus brand SETRA celebrated the 60th milestone of its prestigious history during 2011 and is now working at full throttle for the development of the next series of buses and coaches: the 500. The current 400 range has been on the market since 2001 and it was already time a worthy heir would come to the throne. The new generation of people transporters from the Ulm-based company will be officially revealed at the end of 2012, with the entirely revised lineup remaining to be filled with several variants under the three vehicle classes (Top-, Comfort- and Multi-) in the course of the coming years. Among the first body versions to be released we mention the MultiClass 515 NF urban bus and the TopClass 531 DT grand cruiser, according to latest reports. Read more about the future plans of SETRA, as well as about the design philosophy and the technical innovations of the firm headquartered at Ulm, Germany, in the press kit posted below!

SETRA Design Workshop 2012: Evolutionary design distinguishes the Setra brand

Setra customers know that the touring coach they are travelling in meets all legal requirements, boasts exclusive comfort-increasing equipment and brings the driver and passengers to their destination in the highest possible level of safety. This is, in part, thanks to the designers at EvoBus Development, a Daimler brand that has always been known for its uniqueness in the branch, not to mention its unmistakably liberal style; EvoBus are thus able to complement the classic Setra values of comfort, value, quality and customer-oriented variance.

Right from the very first sketch, the top priority of the designers from the Daimler Buses development team is to combine the functionality of a new Setra bus with an extraordinary appearance and thus set the scene for a strong brand presence.

“Our aim is to continue developing the appearance of the renowned Setra brand from series to series, without losing sight of tradition while at the same time building a bridge between what has already been achieved and what it yet to be explored,” explains Mathias Lenz, Head of Design at Daimler Buses. Head of the Design department in Neu-Ulm since 2010, Lenz explains that it is not just a case of being allowed to continue using existing ideas, rather a necessity: “Setra buses represent evolution”. At an early stage of the development, the six designers incorporate form-based ideas into the conceptual design work, thereby turning on its head the universally accepted design principle of “form follows function”, according to which the design is derived from the intended function.

Design work starts with a so-called “package” from the Development department. These clearly defined specifications include, among other things, the dimensional concept and the new technical objectives that must be met by using an effective modular design concept as a large number of common parts guarantees cost-effective bus production, despite a wide range of vehicle variants being available.

A brand which generates passion

In their creative work, not only do the designers incorporate current European legislation concerning safety systems and the reduction of exhaust gases, but also the ideas and requirements of the Setra Sales department. Another top priority here is thus a clear definition of the three relevant target groups: companies, drivers and passengers. Mathias Lenz explains: “While the future operator seeks an attractive, high-performance product with high value retention, the focus of the driver is on reliability and functionality. The priorities of the passengers are comfort and convenience.” It goes without saying that all three look for a safe vehicle whose quality and appearance illicit a sense of pride. After all, the design of the bus represents the Setra brand, which must in turn demonstrate the Setra values in the European bus market as well as generate a passionate response from the industry. The buses from the Neu-Ulm production site thus need to satisfy the current demands of operators and, at the same time, plant a seed for future generations.

In order to be able to answer tomorrow’s questions today, the designers open their eyes and ears to the world, visiting trade fairs and meeting with bus companies and associations. With their flair for future trends, they are able to establish a sound knowledge base. As Mathias Lenz explains, “there are no short-term trends in the bus industry.” Despite having a very independent appearance, every Setra vehicle is harmoniously incorporated into the overall product family. In the first instance, this is achieved by distinctive style features and key elements which communicate the same identity across the entire portfolio, but at the same time, each bus additionally displays a very individual design idiom.

From the sketch to the design freeze

Completion of the design development process takes one year, from the first sketch to the design freeze. Once the design data has been approved by the Management Board at Daimler Buses, the data for the new bus is “frozen” for subsequent development stages and subsequent modifications to the design cannot be made.

During a design meeting lasting several days and generally held at a neutral location outside of the Neu-Ulm Development Centre, the entire team gets started on sketching initial ideas and suggestions. In addition to pencils and paper, the technical specifications and samples from the current product portfolio are all that is available. What results is a multitude of design ideas which the group sort at a later stage. Mathias Lenz: “We basically assemble the initial bouquets from a meadow full of colourful flowers.” Initial discussions with the relevant project managers from Development follow, as well as with the employees from Brand Sales. There are then three final concepts to choose from, which require further elaboration and rendering. Rendering involves the generation of a sophisticated sketch using computer graphics, providing an initial impression of the material, size and shape of the new bus.

This virtual design process grants designers quick and simple access, facilitating speedy verification and alignment of the current data by the relevant development engineers. Mathias Lenz: “As the design of the new bus progresses, this synchronous collaboration within the individual development areas is very important for achieving solid results without any great loss of time.”

This constant exchange takes place from the beginning of every process step, for example, during the tests carried out in the Daimler wind tunnel in Stuttgart-Untertürkheim, where designers and aerodynamic engineers make subtle adjustments to a 1:4-scale clay model which can be easily moulded. The aerodynamic airflow guarantees a reduction in fuel consumption and thus represents an important aspect of economic efficiency. It gives designers the opportunity to create a vehicle “face” with very distinctive features.

Following the subsequent photometric scanning of the model, the data obtained is incorporated into the existing data model.

For a 3D representation, the data models are prepared as a realistic model, which can be rotated in real time and which serves as the basis for the final decision regarding the design freeze.

Basis for tool manufacture

Even after the go-ahead has been given for the design freeze by management at Daimler, minimal changes may still be made in agreement with Testing and Production. The model is also used as a basis for prototype construction, after which the tool manufacture data can be passed on to the relevant suppliers. The work of the designers doesn’t end there, however, with Mathias Lenz and his team involved in all further development processes, from the exterior to the interior, from market presentation to the start of series production.

It is not just the design idiom that plays a central role in the overall design process, but also colour, material, surface finishing and treatment. With these “trim and colour” aspects, the internationally active design team uses their expertise to provide every new Setra touring bus with a clear identity.

SETRA Design Workshop 2012: Unmistakable face

Innovation and tradition are two values that are inseparably linked with the Setra brand. As too is the consistently trendsetting design of the Ulm-based bus manufacturer, which has gone from strength to strength over the past 60 years and is responsible for the unmistakable face boasted by all its vehicles.

It all began with the first German bus with a self-supporting body that left the assembly hall in Ulm’s Weststadt in 1951. The S 8 impressed the experts with features such as a streamlined exterior, modern driver’s cockpit and good accessibility to the engine compartment.
The buses from the 10 model series, started in 1953 (1953 – 1967), also had a round design, however the front and rear were considerably flatter when compared to the S 8, thereby giving them a more compact form. The ventilation and heating systems were operated via a central ventilation duct which guided fresh air into the outermost corners of the passenger compartment. Sliding windows in the upper part of the side glazing and six roof hatches also ensured the vehicle was well ventilated. Only the S 7 model series launched in 1965 had the angular design which appeared two years later as part of the 100 series.

The emphasis on the roundness of the first Setra generations gave way to a more clear and linear design in the 100 series (1967 – 1976), marking a significant change in the bus construction sector. The heating and ventilation system was also upgraded and an air-conditioning system with cross-flow blowers introduced. Due to the high side windows, the standard glass-bordered roof option could be omitted for touring coaches. Further advantages included the full-length luggage compartments, corrosion-resistant, anodised light-alloy components on the window frames, bumpers, front grill and mouldings, as well as the underfloor protection.

The predecessor to the diverse 200 series was the S 200, presented at the International Motor Show in Geneva in 1973. One particularly impressive feature of this super-high-deck touring coach was its bonded glazing. This highlight, doing away with what had always been prominent window pillars, really raised the style stakes for modern bus design and triggered plenty of imitations. The vehicle already featured the innovative cross-flow ventilation system, which saw air entering and exiting the vehicle at the sides above the windows.

The 200 model series (1976 – 1991) boasted a design featuring no‑nonsense clear lines which represented practicality, efficiency and long-term value, while passengers were provided with an unmatched level of interior comfort.

The 300 series (1991 – 2001) represented a new era – also in terms of design. One of the most striking features of the new buses was the pronounced sweeping line behind the cockpit area, as well as the newly developed integrated mirror system that gave this model series its unmistakable face. The mirror arms could be heated and adjusted from the inside, and, despite initially being referred to as “rabbit ears” or “bug antennae”, provided the driver with all-round better vision in conjunction with the optimised A-pillars. This mirror system was immediately adopted by the industry and still inspires many competitors today. Another impressive feature was the ergonomically designed cockpit.

The most striking feature of the 400 model series TopClass touring coach is, without a doubt, the further-developed sweeping lines referred to as “La Linea”, a high-gloss aluminium trim, which stretches all the way to the rear. It is not only a visual highlight, but also conceals the side air inlets for the new cross-flow system. The integrated mirror system from previous models was also revised and moved from the A-pillars to the side walls. Thanks to creative technical thinking on the part of the engineers and artistic input from the design team, it has been possible to introduce a completely new sense of space in these vehicles, with seemingly free-floating luggage racks and indirect ceiling lighting.

Setra milestones and innovations

1893
Karl Kässbohrer sets up in business as a cartwright

1911
Kässbohrer start building buses 

1951
The first self-supporting bus, the Setra S 8, is launched 

1955
At the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Setra introduces independent air suspension on buses for the first time 

Launch of the Setra S 6 at the Geneva Motor Show

1959
First Setra modular system and first articulated bus with self-supporting body in Europe

1964
Setra becomes the first bus manufacturer to fit a retarder as a wear-free braking system 

1967
Launch of the 100 series and series introduction of independent air suspension

1976
The 200 series, featuring the new cross-flow ventilation system, goes into series production. Over the next 15 years, this series will generate a multitude of new developments, including a three-axle high-deck touring coach especially for the US market and the first low-floor bus for rural regular-service operations in Europe

1981
Setra introduces the first double-decker coach, the S 228 DT (Double-deck Touring coach)

1984
ABS introduced as standard on all buses and coaches 

1991
Launch of the 300 series with new integral mirror system and exterior styling, plus ergonomically designed driver cockpit and, for the first time, a multifunction display system as standard 

1992
The Setra S 315 HDH is voted "Coach of the Year 1993" 

1996
The Setra S 315 NF is voted "Bus of the Year 96"

2001
Setra presents the TopClass 400, setting new standards in terms of technology, design and equipment. In the same year, this new generation of touring coaches is voted "Coach of the Year 2002" at the "Busworld Kortrijk" show

2002
Presentation of the S 431 DT double-decker coach at the IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover 

Launch of the S 415 HD in right-hand drive

Sale of the 1000th TopClass 400 vehicle

2003
The S 417 for the North American market is officially launched in February at the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show in Orlando, Florida

The S 415 HD in right-hand drive is shown at a specialist show for the first time at the "Coach & Bus" show in Birmingham in September

Launch of two vehicles in the new-design ComfortClass 400 at "Busworld" in Kortrijk, Belgium
Sale of the 1500th TopClass 400 vehicle

From October onwards, all TopClass 400 and ComfortClass 400 vehicles are fitted as standard with the Electronic Stability Program (ESP)

2004
Launch of the Setra S 415 GT at the 60th IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover 

2005
Early March marks the 50th anniversary of the launch of the Setra S 6 compact bus at the Geneva Motor Show in 1955 

In March, the northern German coach operator Imken Touristik takes delivery of the 3000th TopClass 400 vehicle – a Setra S 415 HD

In June, during an event to demonstrate the reliability and ride comfort of the low-floor bus S 315 NF held at the RVO (regional transport authority for Upper Bavaria) in Berchtesgaden, the 10,000th MultiClass vehicle, an S 315 UL, is handed over to the transport authorities of the town of Ludwigslust in the north-east German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

Coach operator Birkmaier takes delivery of the 1000th ComfortClass 400 coach, a Setra S 415 GT
At the "Busworld" trade show in the Belgian city of Kortrijk in October, the brand launches the first two models in its new generation of rural regular-service buses, the MultiClass 400, in the form of the Setra S 415 UL and the Setra S 417 UL

Launch of the new proximity-controlled cruise control (ART) and Continuous Braking Limiter (DBL) safety systems in the TopClass 400 and ComfortClass 400 touring coaches

2006
In early February, the 1500th Setra coach goes to Belgium. The milestone coach is an S 416 HDH with glass roof 

The 5000th touring coach from the TopClass 400 and ComfortClass 400 series is handed over on 7 March. The vehicle, an S 416 HDH with a glass roof, proximity-controlled cruise control (ART) and 50 comfortable reclining seats, goes to the Swedish tour operator Stigen Buss AB in Stigen

2007
Setra is once again represented at the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show, in New Orleans, Louisiana, this time with two S 417 models from the TopClass 400 generation of touring coaches. The highlight of the show that year is the 500th Setra S 417, which was produced for the North American and Mexican market, and was in fact already sold 

Setra supplies its 90,000th vehicle since the brand came into being in 1951. The S 416 HDH, a model in the TopClass 400 generation of touring coaches, is handed over to coach operator Arnold Reisen in the German town of Dietmannsried, near Kempten im Allgäu, in February

The "Busworld" show in the Belgian city of Kortrijk is the setting for the brand to launch its new Setra TopClass 400 generation of vehicles. Following a comprehensive facelift, these touring coaches now offer considerable improvements in quality, engineering, safety and comfort

Setra supplies its 500th S 431 DT double-decker coach, which goes to coach operator Voyages Demy Cars in Luxembourg. Another milestone vehicle, the 500th S 411 HD touring coach, goes to coach operator Fischwenger in the Austrian town of Strasswalchen, near Salzburg

The Setra Show 2007 is the first to take place in the new Setra CustomerCentre in Neu-Ulm, which is also the home of the company's state-of-the-art DesignCentre

2008
The 10,000th touring coach in the 400 series, an S 416 GT-HD/2, is handed over to the Turkish coach fleet operator Varan Turizm

In August, tour operator Avanti Reisen becomes the first coach company in the world to drive from Germany to China in a touring coach, a Setra S 415 HDH

At the IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show of this year, the brand has ten exhibits from its current product range on show. These include the world premiere of the S 419 GT-HD ComfortClass 400 model 

The low-floor S 415 NF MultiClass 400 bus is voted "Bus of the Year 2009"

Setra supplies its first touring coach fitted with the advanced emergency braking system Active Brake Assist (ABA). The owner of the S 416 HDH from the new Setra TopClass 400 series is tour operator Reisedienst Bölck

2009
At the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show, in Orlando, Florida, Setra launches two versions of the S 417 designed specifically for the US market. At the same time, the 25th anniversary of the brand's sales and marketing activities in the US are marked on the stand with the display of an S 6 from 1955

2010
Setra hands over its 2500th bus from the MultiClass 400 series. The vehicle goes into service with German bus operator Albtal-Verkehrsgesellschaft

The 4000th ComfortClass 400 vehicle is delivered to coach operator Berr in the Upper Bavarian town of Bruckmühl

The facelifted touring coach Setra TopClass 417 is launched at the United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show in Las Vegas, Nevada

The 20th anniversary of the start-up of sales and marketing activities in the former East Germany
At the IAA International Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover, Setra exhibits its current product range, together with a new generation of passenger seats

2011
Setra celebrates a double anniversary: 60 years of Setra, 100 years of expertise in the bus and coach industry. A Special Edition of the TopClass, limited to just 60 units, is launched to mark the occasion 

The United Motorcoach Association (UMA) show in Tampa, Florida, sees the launch of the new Setra ComfortClass 407 touring coach, built to typical American design specifications

The Ulm-based bus and coach brand celebrates its 60th anniversary with a number of events. 2011 also marks a century since the start of bus and coach building in Ulm

Mid-March sees the handover of the 100,000th Setra vehicle since the brand was founded. The TopClass S 416 HDH is a member of the Special Edition which Setra unveiled in its anniversary year

At "Busworld" 2001 in the Belgian city of Kortrijk, Setra launches eight coaches in the current model series, including the ComfortClass Final Edition in the guise of an S 415 GT-HD

2012
The brand delivers its 1000th Setra TopClass 400 double-deck touring coach. New owner is the Austrian Dr. Richard group, Central Europe's largest private bus and coach operator

Electronic Stability Program ESP comes as standard in the US touring coaches from 2012 onwards. The bus and coach brand within Daimler AG attends the UMA Motorcoach Expo in Long Beach with two coaches. The show stand was host to a TopClass S 417 and a ComfortClass S 407

Credits: Daimler AG / Setra S431 dt | Facebook

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More