Daimler achieves EBIT of €917 million in first quarter of 2013

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Daimler AG (stock-exchange symbol DAI) achieved earnings below the prior-year level in the first three months of 2013. The Daimler Group posted first-quarter EBIT of €917 million (Q1 2012: €2,098 million). Net profit amounted to €564 million (Q1 2012: €1,425 million). Earnings per share amounted to €0.50 (Q1 2012: €1.26).

“In the first three months of this year, many markets developed worse than expected for economic reasons, especially in Western Europe. Nonetheless, we maintained our unit sales and revenue almost at the levels of the prior-year quarter and gained market share in many segments,” explained Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, with regard to business developments in the first quarter.

“The response to our new products such as the CLA and the E-Class is excellent, and at Daimler Trucks, our successful product offensive is largely completed with the new Arocs and the new Atego. On the basis of the new products, the ongoing efficiency programs and our assumptions for future market developments, we expect earnings in the second half of this year to be higher than in the first half, due in particular to the launch of the new S-Class,” continued Dr. Zetsche.

“Daimler is now in the middle of the most comprehensive growth offensive in its history. To these ends, we are investing large amounts in products, technologies and markets, which, in combination with the generally weak markets, led to a moderate start to the year 2013 in terms of earnings. But due to the stimulus from new products and the effects of the ongoing efficiency programs, we naturally intend to improve significantly in the coming quarters,” explained Bodo Uebber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG for Finance & Controlling and Financial Services.

The decline in earnings in the first three months of this year is a reflection of both a shift in the regional structure of unit sales and a changed model mix at Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans, as well as a decrease in unit sales by Daimler Trucks. At Daimler Buses, increased unit sales led to an improved operating profit, while the earnings posted by Daimler Financial Services remained almost constant.

The compounding of non-current provisions and effects from the reduction in discount rates led to charges of €47 million in the first quarter of this year (Q1 2012: €170 million). There was an opposing impact from slightly positive exchange-rate effects.

Group revenue at the prior-year level

In the first quarter of 2013, Daimler sold 501,600 cars and commercial vehicles worldwide, and was thus close to the prior-year level (Q1 2012: 502,100).

Daimler’s first-quarter revenue of €26.1 billion was 3% lower than in the first quarter of last year. Adjusted for changes in currency exchange rates, there was a decrease of 1.5%.

The free cash flow of the industrial business amounted to minus €1.2 billion, primarily due to ongoing high expenditure of €1.6 billion for investment in property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. The net liquidity of the industrial business amounted to €10.0 billion at March 31, 2013.

At the end of the first quarter of 2013, Daimler employed 274,555 people worldwide (end of Q1 2012: 274,127). Of that total, 166,265 were employed in Germany (Q1 2012: 168,017), 21,702 in the United States (Q1 2012: 21,520), 14,622 in Brazil (Q1 2012: 14,737) and 11,242 in Japan (Q1 2012: 11,344). The consolidated subsidiaries in China employed 1,743 persons at the end of the first quarter (Q1 2012: 2,269). The headcount changes in China result from the transition of the sales organizations for cars into a non-consolidated joint venture. In addition, employees in sales functions in South Africa, who were previously allocated to the Mercedes-Benz Cars division, are now allocated to the sales organization.

The divisions in detail

Mercedes-Benz Cars posted yet another high level of unit sales in the first quarter of 2013. Total sales by the car division increased to 341,500 units (Q1 2012: 338,300). First-quarter revenue fell by 6% to €14.1 billion. The division’s EBIT of €460 million was significantly lower than in the first quarter of last year (Q1 2012: €1,230 million). Return on sales was 3.3% (Q1 2012: 8.2%).

Earnings reflect a shift in the regional sale structure and a changed model mix. Furthermore, EBIT was reduced by expenses for the enhancement of our products’ attractiveness and capacity expansion, as well as advance expenditure for new technologies and vehicles. Exchange-rate effects were slightly positive.

Unit sales by Daimler Trucks decreased by 6% in the first quarter to 101,400 vehicles and revenue amounted to €7.0 billion (minus 5%). The division’s EBIT of €116 million was lower than in the prior-year period (Q1 2012: €376 million). Return on sales was 1.7% (Q1 2012: 5.1%).

Earnings were affected by the overall negative development of unit sales and revenue, resulting from weak demand in some core markets. Earnings were reduced also by expenses for the development of business in India and China, product adjustments especially in the NAFTA region and Europe, and higher warranty costs.

Unit sales by Mercedes-Benz Vans increased slightly in the first quarter of 2013 to 52,600 vehicles (Q1 2012: 51,200), despite the difficult market environment in Western Europe. Revenue decreased slightly to €2.0 billion (Q1 2012: € 2.1 billion). The division achieved EBIT of €81 million (Q1 2012: €167 million) and its return on sales fell accordingly to 4.1%, from 8.0% in the first quarter of last year.

In a market environment featuring restrained demand and intense competition in the European markets, Mercedes-Benz Vans’ unit sales in the first quarter of 2013 were slightly higher than in the prior-year period. Earnings decreased significantly, however, mainly due to changes in the product mix and the regional sales structure. Advance expenditure for new products, including the launch of the Sprinter Classic in Russia, additionally reduced earnings.

In the first quarter of 2013, Daimler Buses increased its worldwide unit sales by 23% to 6,000 buses and chassis as a result of rising demand for bus chassis in Latin America. The business with complete buses in Western Europe was below the prior-year level. Revenue rose by 3% to €751 million; however, the changed model mix following the repositioning of the North American business system had a dampening effect on revenue growth. The division’s EBIT amounted to minus €31 million (Q1 2012: minus €105 million) and its return on sales was minus 4.1% (Q1 2012: minus 14.4%).

Compared with the previous year, EBIT rose as a result of increased unit sales. Daimler Buses achieved significantly higher shipments of bus chassis, especially in Latin America. Business in Europe developed disparately, however: While demand for city buses recovered somewhat, Daimler Buses recorded lower unit sales of coaches. Exchange-rate effects and the initiated efficiency measures had a positive impact on earnings. Expenditure for the repositioning of the European business system decreased substantially to €4 million (Q1 2012: €36 million).

The business of Daimler Financial Services continued to develop positively in the first quarter. Worldwide, some 253,000 new leasing and financing contracts with a total value of €8.6 billion were concluded, representing growth of 4% compared with the first quarter of 2012. Total contract volume of €81.7 billion at the end of the first quarter was 2% higher than at the end of 2012. Adjusted for the effects of currency translation, contract volume increased by 1%. The division’s EBIT of €314 million was lower than in the first quarter of last year (Q1 2012: €344 million).

This earnings development was primarily due to lower interest margins and normalizing credit risk costs. As an opposing effect, the increased contract volume impacted positively on earnings.

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

Daimler’s share of the net profit of EADS in the first quarter of 2013 amounted to €34 million (Q1 2012: €133 million). The decrease in investment income was also due to the reduction of our equity interest in EADS following the sale of a block of shares in December 2012. The reconciliation also includes expenses at the corporate level of €91 million (Q1 2012: €35 million). The elimination of intercompany transactions in the first quarter of 2013 resulted in income of €34 million (Q1 2012: expense of €12 million).

Outlook

According to current estimates, worldwide demand for cars should grow in the range of 2% to 4% this year, driven primarily by the ongoing strong growth in demand in the United States and the further expanding Chinese market. However, as a result of the continuing economic weakness, a decline is again expected in the Western European market. Demand will thus continue to move around a 20-year low. The German market cannot detach itself from this development and is expected to fall significantly short of the previous year’s level. A decline is expected also for the Japanese market compared with the previous year’s level, which was unusually high as a result of government incentives for car buyers.

According to the current status, global demand for medium-duty and heavy-duty trucks is expected to grow perceptibly in 2013. However, this depends very decisively on the development of the world's biggest market, China, which should experience a perceptible recovery in demand, although the start of the year proved to be below expectations. Demand in North America should stabilize in the coming months, but from today’s perspective, Daimler anticipates market contraction of up to 5%. In view of the continued weak economic environment, the Group expects a drop of approximately 5% for the European truck market. Market volume in Japan could be up to 5% below the prior-year level, whereby the possible effects of the Japanese government’s new economic stimulus package are still difficult to assess. A moderate recovery and market growth of as much as 10% are expected in Brazil, thanks to the improved economic outlook and favorable financing conditions. The Russian market has already returned to near-pre-crisis levels and is expected to grow again moderately in the year 2013. On the other hand, a drop in demand for trucks is expected in India due to the continued below-average economic momentum.

On the basis of the divisions’ planning, Daimler anticipates another increase in its total unit sales in the year 2013.

Mercedes-Benz Carsis consistently moving ahead with its “Mercedes-Benz 2020” offensive. Numerous model changes and new products should ensure that the division achieves yet another record for unit sales in the year 2013. The new models in the high-volume compact car segment are likely to make a major contribution to sales growth. After the successful start of the A-Class and B-Class, the four-door CLA coupe came on the market as the third model based on the new compact car architecture in mid-April 2013. The extensively revised new E-Class sedan and station wagon have also been available at Mercedes-Benz sales and service centers and dealerships since April. As of June 2013, the new E-Class coupes and convertibles will also provide added sales momentum. The electrically driven, locally emission-free super sports car SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive will come on the market in June 2013. Mercedes-Benz Cars expects significant growth in the luxury segment for the second half of 2013, due mainly to the launch of the all-new S-Class. As the most important new model of the year 2013, the new S-Class equipped with trailblazing innovations will set new standards of comfortable and safe driving under the umbrella term “Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive.” In addition, the Mercedes-Benz brand will continue to profit from the market success of the models in the SUV segment in 2013.

The smart brand sees a good chance that the unique two-seater can continue to defy its advancing lifecycle in the highly competitive micro-car segment in 2013 and can achieve unit sales in the previous year’s range once again.

Daimler Trucks expects a slight increase in unit sales in the full year. In the first half of the year, however, the continued weak state of the economy will probably lead to a rather modest or even negative development of unit sales in a number of core markets. The extensive product offensive, which is now largely complete in all relevant regions, should provide a counterbalance to the difficult economic conditions. As a result of this offensive, the division is in a very good starting position: In Europe, unit sales will gain added impetus from a full product range already in line with the stricter Euro VI standards significantly ahead of the date of introduction, with the Actros, the Antos, the new Arocs for the construction sector, and the new Atego. In the NAFTA region, Daimler Trucks will maintain its competitive position with its excellent vehicle offering in combination with strong Detroit components. A convincing sales argument in favor of the Freightliner Cascadia Evolution for example is the optimization of vehicle aerodynamics and powertrain, which yields additional fuel savings of 5% compared to its predecessor, the previous market benchmark.

The Fuso and BharatBenz brands will continue to make an important contribution to sales growth in 2013. In the future, trucks of the Fuso brand will also be produced in Chennai and exported to the Asian markets outside India and to Africa. The Fuso Canter and its hybrid versions, which have also been produced in Europe since 2012, should provide additional demand stimulus. Furthermore, additional models of the BharatBenz truck will be launched in India and the sales and service network will be further expanded. In Russia and China, the division is progressively expanding its collaboration with local partners Kamaz and Foton, and is thus creating the conditions for the further development of those growth markets.

Mercedes-Benz Vans expects to achieve growth in unit sales in full-year 2013. On the product side, this should be assisted by the new Mercedes-Benz Citan and as of mid-2013 by the new generation of the Sprinter. Moreover, the start of local production of the Sprinter Classic in Russia in the second quarter of 2013 should enable the division to continue increasing its unit sales in that growth market.

Daimler Buses anticipates a significant increase in unit sales for the year 2013, with bus chassis likely to account for a higher percentage of total unit sales. The division expects to see a distinct revival of demand in 2013 especially in Latin America. Daimler Buses assumes that its business with complete buses in Europe will follow a stable development at an ongoing low level.

Daimler Financial Services expects further growth in new business and contract volume for full-year 2013.

After the significant increase in the year 2012, Daimler assumes that Group revenue will continue to grow in 2013. In regional terms, above-average growth rates are anticipated in the emerging markets and North America.

On the basis of the planned new models, the increasing effects of the efficiency programs that have been initiated and the assumptions made for the development of important markets, Daimler expects its earnings to improve in the second half of 2013 compared with the first half. Due to the fact that there will be no further equity-method results from EADS in the course of the year, as well as lowered market expectations and the weaker than expected EBIT in the first quarter, Group EBIT from the ongoing business in full-year 2013 is expected to be below the previous year’s level.

Mercedes-Benz Cars anticipates full-year EBIT below the level of 2012. Daimler Trucks and Mercedes-Benz Vans expect to post EBIT from the ongoing business in the magnitude of the prior year, while Daimler Buses should improve on its negative earnings of 2012. In 2014 and the following years, Daimler expects an EBIT improvement for all its automotive divisions and for the Group as a whole. Daimler Financial Services anticipates a stable development of earnings.

From today's perspective, Daimler assumes that the size of its worldwide workforce will remain largely stable compared with the end of 2012.

The items shown in the following table affected EBIT in the first quarters of 2013 and 2012:

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Daimler plans expansion of Mercedes-Benz Cars production network

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The Daimler AG Board of Management has decided to expand the Mercedes-Benz Cars powertrain production network. Following approval by the Supervisory Board, additional capacities for transmission assembly are now planned to be established at the Romanian Daimler subsidiary, Star Transmission. For the production of a new generation of automatic transmissions more than 280 million euros shall be invested in Romania. Overall, the company plans investments of more than 300 million euros there.

Andreas Renschler, Member of the Daimler Board of Management for Manufacturing and Procurement Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Vans, explains: "The expansion of our production network to include an additional location for transmission assembly is designed to perfectly complement our existing capacities. Our goal here is to serve the high customer demand with even greater flexibility in the future."

Additional capacities will be built up in view of the high capacity utilization as well as the lack of space for further expansion of transmission production in Stuttgart. "Star Transmission has been a reliable partner of our German powertrain locations for over 10 years. According to the current planning status and based on our excellent experience with Star Transmission, the preferred option for providing the additionally required assembly capacities in a flexible manner is to expand the activities there," explains Peter Schabert, Head of Powertrain Production and Head of the Mercedes-Benz Untertürkheim plant, referring to the plans for the future production network for transmissions. "Our Stuttgart transmission plant will remain the heart of transmission production for Mercedes-Benz Cars and will act as the center of competence in this production network."

Wolfgang Nieke, Chairman of the Works Council for the Mercedes-Benz Untertürkheim plant and Passenger Car Development: "The plant management and works council agreed two years ago, to set up the production of the new automatic transmission and an assembly module at the Stuttgart-Hedelfingen location. The Board of Management thus reaffirmed its commitment to the in-house production of our transmissions. The second assembly module in Sebes will be supplied from our production location. The increased demand for transmissions ensures the long-term capacity utilization of our transmission production at the Stuttgart-Hedelfingen location."

In order to transfer the Swabian expertise appropriately the Romanian employees will undergo a special qualification program. They spend several months at the Untertürkheim parent plant in quality, maintenance and logistics teams in addition to the production areas.

Daimler subsidiary Star Transmission was founded in 2001. At the moment, the company and the roughly 800 employees at the Cugir location produce components for current Mercedes-Benz car engines and transmissions as well as older generations of transmissions for the spare parts business. The decision has already been made to start production of the 5-speed automatic transmission from the middle of this year at the new location in Sebes until its discontinuation. Starting in 2014, the current generation of front dual clutch transmissions will also be assembled there. This will thus provide additional assembly capacities to complement Stuttgart, where the assembly has been concentrated to date. Subject to the support of the Romanian government for the expansion of the production capacities, it is planned that a new generation of automatic transmissions for cars will also be produced in the new production network involving the locations in Stuttgart (full production including assembly) and Sebes (assembly only) starting in 2016.

The reason for these plans is the expected, continually increasing demand for transmissions in line with the Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy. The Stuttgart-Hedelfingen transmission plant, which is part of the Untertürkheim parent plant from an organizational perspective, is today already at full capacity. All available space has gradually been developed in recent years so that the site – due to its special geographical location in the upper Stuttgart Neckar Valley – has reached its maximum possible expansion level and no meaningful options for further expansion of the facilities exist there.

At the same time, any type of capacity expansion at Mercedes-Benz Cars should also contribute decisively to increased profitability in light of the fierce global competition in the premium segment. This premise naturally also applies for transmissions, which are produced in-house in contrast to the approach preferred by the competition. Overall, the future production network for transmissions is designed to ensure that the required unit figures can – even in the future – be provided in a reliable and extremely flexible manner in line with customer expectations while fulfilling the set cost targets.

About the Mercedes-Benz Cars powertrain production network

The Mercedes-Benz Cars powertrain production network consists of several locations in Germany and is being complemented by international production plants in close connection with the increasing production of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in close proximity to markets and customers. The central location here is the Mercedes-Benz Untertürkheim plant, which produces engines, transmissions and axles in a total of six plant sections. In the past fiscal year, Daimler has invested over 900 million euros here alone in the expansion and conversion of the powertrain plant sections as well as in the startup of new products and production technologies and, as a result of high customer demand, has been able to create 350 new jobs. The company is investing more than 800 million euros at the location in 2013.

The Mercedes-Benz Berlin plant produces engines and powertrain components, while the Mercedes-Benz Hamburg plant is responsible for the production of axles and various additional components. Our subsidiary MDC Power in Kölleda/Thuringia is another important engine production location; it recently received the prestigious "Factory of the Year" award. When it comes to the international locations, the Romanian subsidiary Star Transmission is responsible for the production of engine and transmission components as well as replacement transmissions. Starting this year, the Beijing production location (BBAC – a joint venture between Daimler and the Chinese partner BAIC) in China will start engine production in order to supply local production of Mercedes-Benz cars and vans. Starting in 2014 in the USA, Daimler and Nissan will – as part of the strategic cooperation between Daimler and the Renault-Nissan Alliance – start the joint production of 4-cylinder gasoline engines based on Mercedes-Benz technology at the Nissan plant in Decherd/Tennessee. One of the main customers for these engines will be the future C-Class production at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa/Alabama.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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New Mercedes-Benz Driving Events 2013/2014: Effortless superiority at the wheel, exciting adventures near and far

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The new Driving Events from Mercedes-Benz for the 2013/2014 season offer participants thrills galore and the height of driving enjoyment while honing their driving skills. The comprehensive programme spans the range from driving safety to adrenaline-charged race circuit training and breath-taking trips – according to participants' driving standards and personal expectations. Professional instructors are on hand to help raise driving skills to a new level. The vehicles are provided for the most part by Mercedes-Benz – the latest saloons, coupés, roadsters and off-roaders. The AMG Driving Academy complements this line-up with high-powered, thrilling and inspiring experiences in high-performance vehicles.

Driving training has a long tradition at Mercedes-Benz. Gottlieb Daimler's sons carried out the first driving training courses over 100 years ago. The Mercedes-Benz Driving Events programme for the 2013/2014 season offers much more, comprising 36 different events at 22 selected locations worldwide. The programme spans safety, sports and Eco training – on- and off-road, in the summer and on snow and ice in the winter. The Mercedes-Benz Driving Events offer special highlights in the form of fascinating exclusive trips, on which Mercedes-Benz off-road vehicles tackle the South American jungle, high mountain passes in the Andes, the bizarre landscape of the Atacama Desert or dirt roads in the Namibian wilderness, for example.

Safe driving and effortless superiority at the wheel

Driving safety training forms the core of the Driving Events programme from Mercedes-Benz. There are on and off-road events for both summer and winter. In the summer they take place in Germany on well-known race circuits such as the Nürburgring, the Sachsenring or the Hockenheimring, at disused airfields and challenging, specially prepared practice sites. In the winter, the snow-covered destinations are located in Austria, Switzerland and close to the Arctic Circle in the Swedish province of Lapland with its frozen-over lakes.

On the driving safety training courses the participants are acquainted with typical dangerous situations at on and off-road locations and practice appropriate reactions to the attendant dangers. With this range of training covering virtually every need at reasonable prices – the half-day Compact training for 18 to 25 year-olds costs only 95 euros, for example, while the Basic training for young drivers is available at 295 euros – Mercedes-Benz aims to reach as many drivers as possible. Ultimately, the assured control of the vehicle which is imparted in the training courses benefits not only Mercedes drivers, but all road users. And every accident is one accident too many.

The target group for the various courses is correspondingly diverse, ranging from those who have recently passed their driving test through experienced drivers to professionals. The sole requirement is that the driver must hold a class 3/class B driving licence.

The key driving safety training courses:

- Compact training: on this half-day course, participants find out how an accident can be prevented effectively. Exercises include full brake application combined with an evasive manoeuvre, and a slalom course. Compact training is also available as a reasonably-priced special training event for 18 to 25-year-olds.

- Basic training: as part of this one-day event, the participants learn how dangerous situations can be dealt with safely and confidently with support from active control systems. The demanding programme of lessons includes taking evasive action without braking from 80 km/h, emergency braking and correcting skidding vehicles.

- Advanced training: this extension course provides additional solutions for dealing with hazardous situations at higher speeds – such as emergency braking at 100 km/h or controlling a tail-end skid on a wet bend.

- Perfection training: here exercises are conducted at high speeds. For example, participants learn how to keep their vehicle under control during an emergency lane change manoeuvre at motorway speeds of 130 km/h. In addition, challenging drift exercises on famous race tracks are also on the agenda.

- Eco training: during this half-day event, participants undertake simple practical and theoretical exercises to learn how to reduce fuel consumption by handling their car more efficiently. On average, those who complete the Eco training course subsequently use 15 percent less fuel, without foregoing any enjoyment at the wheel.

- Pro driver training basic and advanced: this event enables professional drivers to enhance their driving skills. The programme includes performing an evasive manoeuvre at 100 km/h in a predefined direction through a set of traffic lights, emergency braking scenarios and correcting a tail-skidding vehicle at motorway speed, for example. Driving practice is complemented by theoretical exercises tailored to the specific profession with trainers who also instruct police task forces.

- Off-road events: at a variety of off-road driving training events participants are able to discover what an off-road vehicle is capable of and how to keep such a vehicle under control both on and off the road. In addition to basic training, additional stages are available such as advanced training, enhanced training and extreme training.

- Winter off-road training events: in the spacious stone quarry outside Kitzbühel, participants are able to get to grips with difficult terrain at half- or full-day training events using G-, GL-, GLK- and M-Class vehicles.

A grounding in motor racing

The programme also includes a Sports training course for highly ambitious drivers. This provides racing enthusiasts with a unique opportunity to experience driving from a racing driver's perspective. They learn how to control vehicles at the critical limits, for example, enabling them to react with greater composure and more prudently in dangerous situations. They also practice finding the ideal line and the optimum braking point. As a brand new feature, participants in the Sports training course now have an opportunity to acquire the national A-class licence.

Thrills and excitement galore

The Fascination Tours focus on experiences that are out of the ordinary. An excursion on smart e-bikes to the Klimahaus in Bremerhaven, for example, where participants can experience all types of climatic zones and explore the secrets of the weather, the climate and climate protection. A quite different but similarly thrilling experience is offered by the "Driving Air Tour", for example, on which participants take to the air in a Cessna or Piper and also get their turn at the controls en route from Wilhelmshaven to Norderney and Emden.

Exciting trips and tours

Travel Experience – another programme from Mercedes-Benz Driving Events. Here, participants discover a world of thrills and adventure with Mercedes. On a trip across the mystical Emerald Isle of Ireland with its legendary scenery, for example. Among the wild animals of Namibia or on a challenging ocean-to-ocean trip across South America.

A new addition to the programme is the G-Class Experience, featuring a trip to famous Schöckl peak, where participants have an opportunity to experience the legendary G-Class test circuit at first hand.

Mercedes-Benz generally provides the cars

Virtually the entire model range from Mercedes-Benz is available for the training courses. The driver training courses, excursions and trips are overseen by instructors who combine extensive driving skills and a wealth of experience with a pronounced ability to explain physical aspects of driving in such a readily comprehensible manner that participants are able to put them into practice in their daily lives.

High-performance experiences with the AMG Driving Academy

The AMG Driving Academy is also offering a diverse and uniquely exciting programme in 2013/2014 with new destinations, new instructors and new AMG high-performance cars.

In response to the great demand for exclusive events, the AMG Driving Academy is internationally active. From Europe to the USA, China, Japan, Russia or India – AMG fans worldwide enjoy the opportunity to experience the thrill of superlative automotive performance. In addition to legendary race circuits such as the Nürburgring-Nordschleife (Germany), Imola (Italy), Laguna Seca Raceway (USA) or Fuji Speedway (Japan), training is also taking place for the first time at the spectacular Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi (United Arab Emirates). The race circuit in Portimão (Portugal) and the completely new Bilster Berg Drive Resort (Germany) will also be used by the AMG Driving Academy for the first time in 2013.

Prominent, high-calibre instructors

All the instructors presenting the courses are experienced figures from the world of motorsport. The illustrious line-up includes DTM championship record holder and AMG brand ambassador Bernd Schneider, the driver of the Official F1™ Safety Car, Bernd Mayländer, AMG brand ambassador Karl Wendlinger and GT drivers Jan Seyffarth and Lance David Arnold. A new addition to the team headed by chief instructor Reinhold Renger is Swiss racing driver Cyndie Allemann. Worldwide, the AMG Driving Academy has 100 instructors on its roster.

Enhancing driving safety with AMG high-performance vehicles

The AMG Driving Academy programmes comprise professional training measures which will enable ambitious sports car enthusiasts to improve their individual control of their vehicles and enhance their active driving safety. All events staged by the AMG Driving Academy feature advanced training methods which ensure a swift grounding in the basics of driving dynamics. Acquainting drivers with both their own limitations and their vehicles' limits in a totally safe manner is also on the agenda. Another key focus is on thrilling driving experiences with exciting AMG high-performance vehicles. The new SLS AMG Coupé Black Series and the new E 63 AMG S-Model with performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel drive are featuring for the first time in 2013. Depending on the type of event concerned, participants either drive their own AMG vehicles or AMG high-performance cars provided by the AMG Driving Academy. Hire cars are also available. A high-calibre supporting programme featuring local culinary delights and professional supervision is an integral part of every event.

From EMOTION to MASTERS

Perfect control of the vehicle coupled with great passion and the utmost in driving enjoyment: the AMG Driving Academy programme covers five skill levels (EMOTION, BASIC, ADVANCED, PRO, MASTERS) and offers the ideal event for every proficiency level. Beginning with lifestyle- and motorsport-oriented events (EMOTION), the programme progresses through an introduction to the given critical limits (BASIC) to intensive race circuit training with data recording and individual coaching (ADVANCED, PRO, MASTERS). The Winter Sporting event in Sweden's Lapland region offers pure, unadulterated fun at the wheel on ice and snow. The SLS AMG GT3 is used as a training vehicle for the highest level - the MASTERS. This thoroughbred gullwing racing car was developed in accordance with FIA GT3 rules. To ensure the most effective learning experience, the MASTERS breaks down into four modules: EXPERIENCE, WARM-UP, TRAINING and COMPETITION.

SUV EMOTION Tour and incentives optionally available

A totally new item in the programme is the SUV EMOTION Tour, which participants undertake in an ML 63 AMG, GL 63 AMG, G 63 AMG or G 65 AMG. In addition to a visit to the plant in Graz (Austria) where the legendary Mercedes-Benz G-Class is produced, a spectacular off-road adventure at the challenging "Schöckl" test site is also on the agenda.

The AMG Driving Academy also arranges complete incentive trips for companies, customers or business partners. These can be tailored to any individual wishes – from guided excursions through circuit training and plant tours to a trip in the SLS AMG GT3 racing taxi.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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

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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.

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Double market launch: the new E-Class and CLA receive outstanding customer response

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Last weekend, two new models from Mercedes-Benz celebrated their market launch in Germany. The dealer premiere of the CLA and E-Class attracted around 270,000 visitors to the showrooms.

"The showroom premiere of the new CLA and the new E-Class was a huge success. Our new vehicles have highly appealed to customers," says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Vice President, Sales & Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. "At the heart of our brand, the E-Class is a key component of our growth strategy, Mercedes-Benz 2020. With the CLA, we are also targetting a whole new, young audience." In the U.S., the CLA arrives on the market this fall. The E-Class sedan and station wagon celebrate the launch in the U.S. and in China in July.

The saloon and estate versions of the new E-Class have been extensively revised as never before. The new CLA is the first compact four-door coupé from Mercedes-Benz and simultaneously sets itself as new aerodynamics world champion with a drag coefficient of 0.22. With more than 3,000 test drives, the interested customers have personally convinced themselves of the increased efficiency of the new engines and the forward-looking safety level of the assistance systems which equip the new models. In the coming days, about 3,300 additional trials were agreed.

The new E-Class and the CLA also met very positive response during the first tests of the media. In February, a total of around 840 journalists experienced the new E-Class at the driving event in Barcelona in person. Around 650 journalists tested the CLA in March in St. Tropez and Marseille.

The first customer was handed over the keys of its brand new CLA four-door coupe at the Mercedes-Benz Customer Center in Rastatt, a cirrus white coloured CLA 220 CDI. "We are pleased we have started delivery of the CLA, the third model of the new compact lineup, to our customers," said Waldemar Epple, Head of Mercedes-Benz Customer Center in Rastatt, at the vehicle handover. After the launch of the B-Class in November 2011 and the A-Class in September 2012, the CLA is the third model of the new Mercedes-Benz compact car generation. With the sporty coupe, Mercedes-Benz specifically targets the "Young Elite Lifestyle" in order to attract new customers to the brand with the star especially in the U.S. . The CLA is the first compact model from Mercedes-Benz to showcase Stateside. The progressive, dynamic appearance of the CLA was acknowledged by international design experts even before its launch and was granted the prestigious "red dot design award" for its outstanding design in March 2013.

The new CLA has been produced at the Kecskemét plant in Hungary since the end of January 2013, where an additional shift will be introduced on Saturdays beginning with the second quarter when required. In order to meet all customer requirements with the E-Class, plant management and works council have agreed for flexible working hours and additional production capacity for the current year in Sindelfingen. This production shifts are temporarily extended during the week with twelve additional Saturdays. The production of sedan and station wagon runs from March 1st. Mercedes-Benz expects significant sales volume pulses for the new E-Class in the second half of this year.

The eight generations of the E-Class have spread over 60 years and have been sold in more than 13 million units, which makes it the most successful Mercedes-Benz fleet volume model series in history. Over 700,000 sedans of the previous generation E-Class were sold since its launch in 2009, while the wagon was bought by more than 100,000 customers since summer of the same year. The E-Class impresses with outstanding comfort and highest safety standards. In July 2012, the E-Class once again took the first place in its category for top class customer satisfaction in the J.D. Power study.

Credits: Daimler AG

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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

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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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Mercedes-Benz Concept GLA: Escape the everyday

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Mercedes-Benz will be showing a compact premium-class SUV at the "Auto Shanghai" motor show (21 to 29 April 2013) in the form of its Concept GLA. The Concept GLA combines dynamic styling with clear benefits for recreational use. Under the bonnet of this new concept vehicle (length/width/height: 4383/1978/1579 millimetres) sits a four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine rated at 155 kW (211 hp) with a displacement of 1991 cc. Its power is transmitted to the road via the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. A new approach is taken here in the form of headlamps featuring laser technology: these not only shine more light on the road, but also function as projectors.

"The Concept GLA marks a new approach for us in the compact SUV segment – this is a sporty and more coupé-like evolution of this category of vehicle", commented Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing. "The Concept GLA is a compact SUV that combines its sporting spirit with the all-round qualities of a tough, leisure-time companion. 'Escape the everyday' is the message that this car conveys to its driver. It also makes clear the further potential of our compact vehicle architecture, which provides the basis for the A- and B-Class models that led the German market in their respective segments in the first quarter of 2013."

Clever use of SUV design cues: the exterior design

Clear evidence of the innovative thinking on the part of the designers that has gone into this concept vehicle is provided by a number of distinctive features. These include the powerful bonnet with its powerdomes and a sporty radiator grille with centrally positioned star. The new-style surround to the star merges elegantly into two horizontal bars. Likewise new are the so-called "softcubes": these are soft, raised pads that help to give definition to the radiator grille and are also to be found on the side sill panels and alongside the exhaust tailpipes.

The distinctive door mirrors, with their twin supporting struts, are fitted with a protective grille. This, like the underride guard at the front, is very much a typical SUV feature. The striking appearance of the Concept GLA is also, not least, the result of its silver Alubeam paint finish.

Seen from the side, too, the Concept GLA conveys a sense of power and confidence. This reinforces the overall design philosophy behind the vehicle with a "dropping line" that extends from the headlamp to the rear wheel arch. The beltline trim rises slightly from the rear door towards the C-pillar. Together with the light-catching contour formed by the curvature of the vehicle flank and the line that rises from the level of the door sill towards the dropping line, this creates a unique interplay of lines that adds to the sense of elegant dynamism. The slim door handles of the five-door vehicle are fully recessed, emerging at the touch of a button. The frameless side windows also emphasise the coupé characteristics of this concept vehicle.

The 20-inch wheels, with their distinctive five-spoke turbine design, are shod in size 255/45 R 20 tyres. These have been specifically created for the Concept GLA: their tread pattern continues the lines of the spokes in an optical illusion that makes the latter appear longer.

The muscular haunches above the rear axle, accentuated by the way the C-pillar is pulled in slightly, extend to the rear over the light clusters, so also emphasising the broad stance of the tail end. The outcome is a powerfully taut arc that nevertheless avoids aggression. This impression is reinforced by the curvature of the rear window and the elegant chrome strip between the rear light clusters. The large roof spoiler is a further eye-catching feature. This follows through very neatly on the structure of the rear roof panelling and provides the housing for the additional brake light.

Further SUV references, such as a load sill guard and a concealing underride fascia panel, are to be found in the area of the rear bumper covering. The twin-pipe exhaust system is evidence of the car's sporty aspirations.

The tailgate features a power closing system that allows it to be opened or closed at the touch of a button. Opening the tailgate with its integrated rear light cluster reveals supplementary lights to warn approaching vehicles of the open tailgate. Further light clusters are housed in the rear cross member between the roof rails.

Perfect craftsmanship: the interior

In terms of its design, the interior reflects a clear alignment with the interiors of the other new compact Mercedes models, reinterpreted here for a sophisticated and exceptionally high-quality SUV. It is dominated by an exciting juxtaposition of leather and dark galvanised aluminium. The four individual seats and the door centre panels are upholstered in natural leather in a rich shade of brown. Both colour and workmanship bring the image of a saddle to mind: all in all, the Concept GLA incorporates more than 20 metres of hand-stitched seams to hold the raw edges of the leather together. The seat cushions, which feature central inlay panels in a high-quality canvas material, display an embossed pattern that continues the saddle theme. An illuminated insert is set into the integrated head restraint of each of the four sports seats.

Grey leather with a graphically applied grain is used on the backs of the front seats, amongst other places, and continues the idea of patterns being continued over from other surfaces. The armrests and centre panels of the door linings are designed as a very clear structural unit.

The instrument panel is constructed in several layers. On top of a leather-upholstered surface sits a framework in a combination of matt and polished aluminium, which provides the necessary support for all the instruments. This is held in place by clearly visible screws, featuring a specially devised design. This unit is protected from dust and dirt by a plexiglas covering that is illuminated from behind, so adding to the impression that the different levels are free-floating. The control buttons for COMAND Online have also been crafted with meticulous technical precision. They are made of plexiglas and painted from the back in black. Pictograms are then etched into the black, also from the back, before being filled in.

The air vents in the instrument panel as well as in the rear represent a further stylistic development of the vents used in the Concept A-CLASS and Concept Style Coupé, and are likewise illuminated from behind. They change colour according to the interior temperature set by the occupants. At a temperature of 22 degrees Celsius they light up in white. If a cooler temperature is selected for the interior, they turn blue, while opting for an influx of warm air switches the illumination to red.

Fibre-optic ambient lighting in the load compartment visually extends the line drawn by the centre console all the way from the instrument panel through to the rear seats. A rectangle of lighting strip inset into the load compartment floor serves to highlight its level surface. Luggage can be secured firmly with a spring-loaded four-point harness, as used in helicopters. A simple handle is used to fold the backrests of the rear sports seats forward to create a level load compartment floor.

Laser light: new-style headlamps project light and images

Film time! The front headlamps of the Concept GLA are each fitted with a laser-beam projector. These not only provide the light to drive by, but are also capable of projecting pictures or films onto a screen or other surface. Any format that can be operated through COMAND Online can serve as a source: pictures or films from a smartphone, the internet, or from a hard drive.

Alternatively, the action can be produced live. The Concept GLA is fitted with two cameras, housed in the front roof rail. And these can be used for far more than just 3D images taken as the Concept GLA drives along: the HD cameras can be removed and, for example, fitted to a mountain bike helmet. An additional lamp unit in each camera ensures that the lighting is right, whatever the situation. As an alternative to the projection option, films may also be viewed inside the car on the COMAND Online screen.

The laser-beam projectors represent far more than simply an academic exercise on the part of the engineers and designers at Mercedes-Benz. As a further enhancement of the head-up display, they could also help to improve road safety: the technology could be used, for example, to project the directional instructions from the navigation system onto the road in the form of arrows – in this way other road users, too, would be able to see where a driver is heading.

Laser and LED technology: the headlamps

It is not only the laser-beam projectors and their visible cooling system provided by rotating vents that make the shimmering blue headlamps of the Concept GLA such an interesting feature. With the "Coming home" function, the blue light begins to pulsate to indicate that the vehicle is ready and waiting for its driver.

While the driving lights are produced here for the first time by a laser beam reflected off a mirror lens, the daytime running lamps, with their characteristic "torch" effect, as well as the indicator lights, consist of LEDs. The indicators take the form of digital chase lighting strips and, as such, represent a further development of the "Mexican wave" design used on the Concept Style Coupé.

Credits: Daimler AG

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