World premiere at Auto China 2013: The new E-Class as a long-wheelbase version

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"Auto China 2013" in Shanghai sets the stage for the world premiere of the long version of the new E-Class. Developed for the growth market in China, it offers 14 centimetres more legroom in the rear. It also sports a finely honed design exuding an overall character of poised refinement and boasts markedly enhanced comfort and a high standard of equipment and appointments. Three petrol engines covering an output range from 150 to 245 kW with automatic transmission as standard provide for dynamic performance coupled with exemplary driving comfort. With these assets, the long version of the new E-Class sets a new standard for the luxury segment.

The long version of the new E-Class radiates status and effortless superiority, meeting the Chinese market's expectations of luxury vehicles more effectively than the comfortable E-Class with standard wheelbase. Measuring 5019 millimetres in length and with a wheelbase of 3014 millimetres, the long version, which is to be built exclusively in China, is 140 millimetres longer overall than the E-Class saloon which is being marketed worldwide. This results in 14 centimetres more legroom in the rear of the five-seater. An exclusively appointed interior conjures up a prestigious and congenial atmosphere. For special convenience, the front passenger seat can also be electrically adjusted from the rear.

Design: two new front-end designs to choose from

In keeping with the entire E-Class family, intelligent modifications to the design provide the long version with a new front end as well as new proportions. When it came to the modifications, the designers followed the new Mercedes design idiom and reinterpreted the classical design values of the brand using the existing basis. The result is a superior and refined, dynamic appearance.

The headlamps have been redesigned and comprise all functional elements with a single headlamp lens. Flowing light elements within the headlamps help to ensure that the essential lines of the "four-eyed" look which is typical of the E-Class are retained. When it comes to light and visibility, the new E-Class sets standards: both the low-beam headlamps and the integrated daytime running lamps feature LED technology as standard.

For the first time, the long-wheelbase E-Class is available with two different front ends: the Sedan features the classic, three-dimensional saloon radiator grille in three-louvre look with the Mercedes star on the bonnet. The Sport Sedan comes with the sporty front end featuring a centrally positioned star to create a distinctive, emphatically dynamic look.

A new feature line and a repositioned three-dimensional trim strip give the long version of the Saloon new proportions with an exciting appearance. A new structural line runs below the feature line from the rear door through to the tail light. This lends the vehicle a longer look. It underscores the side trim, which has been shifted downwards. Overall the E-Class looks more elongated and elegant.

At the rear, the lights and bumper have been revised. The new horizontally structured LED tail lights with new two-tone look emphasise the width and feature a characteristic night design.

Interior: high-quality, prestigious setting

The interior has also been reworked and harmonised with the expressive exterior. High-quality materials and refined, subdivided areas with precise joints and sharp curves underscore the high-quality overall impression of the spacious interior.

A new feature is the two-part trim which stretches across the entire dashboard. It can be selected in two different wood looks (Wood and Ash Tree Black). Also new is the design of the air vents as well as an analogue clock between the two central vents.

The harmonious interior is characterised by the redesigned centre console without selector lever, as well as a new multifunction steering wheel with DIRECT SELECT lever and shift paddles.

Appointments: a high degree of luxury as standard

The long version of the E-Class is being launched in China as the E 260 L, E 300 L and E 400 L. There is a choice of two variants: the luxurious Sedan and the Sport Sedan. The latter features a powerful AMG front and rear apron, new AMG side skirts and AMG wheels. Typical of the AMG brand is the lavish scope of equipment and appointments. Starting with the E 260 L, features include LED headlamps, an electric sunroof, two-zone automatic climate control, PARKTRONIC and COMAND DVD.

New items of equipment are additionally available for other models:

- The 360° camera comprises a close-range system of several cameras to assist in parking and manoeuvring. In addition to the functions of the backup camera, it also enables monitoring of the areas to the side of the vehicle and directly in front of the vehicle, thus helping to avoid inadvertent collisions during manoeuvring.

- All the headlamp functions of the Intelligent Light System (ILS) feature energy-efficient LED technology. These functions adapt the light distribution to the given driving situation, thereby making an important contribution to safe driving.

- The ECO start/stop system reduces fuel consumption and emissions by shutting down the engine automatically when the vehicle is stationary.

Safety: a host of innovations

In addition to the luxurious appointments, the hallmark Mercedes safety standard also sets new benchmarks. Unique features include the PRE-SAFE ® preventive occupant protection system with belt force limiters and side airbags on all outer seats and drowsiness detection with ATTENTION ASSIST. The boot size of 540 litres is also best-in-segment.

Among the highlights on board the E 400 L Sport Sedan are the new or substantially enhanced assistance systems in the Driving Assistance package Plus. These include the following innovations:

- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist can help to take the burden off the driver when it comes to keeping the vehicle in its lane and is also able to follow vehicles in traffic jams semi-autonomously.

- For the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Junction Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians too, and to boost the braking power applied by the driver accordingly.

- The PRE-SAFE® Brake can detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 50 km/h.

- PRE-SAFE® PLUS is able to detect an imminent rear-end collision. The driver of the vehicle following behind is warned by activation of the rear warning lights with increasing frequency. The PRE-SAFE® system then triggers occupant protection measures to reduce the forces to which occupants are subjected. It can also firmly apply the stationary vehicle's brakes in the event of a rear-end collision to prevent secondary accidents.

- Active Lane Keeping Assist can now detect when the adjacent lane is occupied, in particular by oncoming traffic too. When there is the risk of a collision, the system can also prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally, also in case of broken lane markings, by applying the brakes on one side. As such it makes the ideal supplement to Active Blind Spot Assist.

Engine and suspension: onus on maximum comfort

The E-Class L is being launched with a choice of three refined, high-torque petrol engines: the E 260 L BlueEFFICIENCY rated at 150 kW (204 hp) with four-cylinder direct injection and the six-cylinder models E 300 L rated at 180 kW (245 hp) and E 400 L with an output of 245 kW (333 hp). Additional engines will be available in due course – for example the E 400 L HYBRID, which is on display as a show car in Shanghai. All models feature automatic transmission as standard. The transmission control system is self-learning and adapts the shift points to the driver's individual driving profile.

Credits: Daimler AG

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Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks: World Premiere of the New Generation Unimog and Econic

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Today Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks is celebrating the world premiere of a ten-model Unimog lineup (U 216 to U 5024) as well as of several two and three-axle variants of the low-entry Econic special-purpose vehicle. As a result, the era of Euro VI-compliant engines is now also being ushered in for special trucks. The new vehicles will begin to roll off the assembly line in Wörth in September. Following the successful introduction of the Euro VI-compliant models of the series Actros, Antos, Arocs, Atego, Mercedes-Benz is now continuing its Euro VI product offensive with the presentation of the new generation of unique vehicle concepts in Wörth: the Unimog all-terrain vehicle, the Unimog implement carrier, and the Econic. As a result, Mercedes-Benz Trucks and Special Trucks are currently the only manufacturers in Europe to offer Euro VI-compliant products in all categories of the light, medium, and heavy-duty segments, as well as in the special-purpose vehicle sector. The brand has achieved comprehensive compliance nine months before the new emissions standard goes into effect, thus underscoring its leading role as a supplier of environmentally friendly automotive technology.

“In a wide variety of applications, the three new model series impressively demonstrate the leading role that the Unimog and the Econic play in innovation,” says Yaris Pürsün, Head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks. “We’re convinced that the new vehicles will set standards and substantially contribute to the business success of existing and future customers.”

Efficient and economical despite Euro VI compliance

Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks did everything it could to build on the proven model series’ success and further strengthen its pioneering role in the area of environmentally friendly trucks. To do this, the brand invested around €135 million in three completely new and unique vehicle concepts for its Euro VI-compliant product range. The new product lineup introduces the new BlueEfficiency Power medium-duty engine generation in special trucks, now that it has been successfully installed in regular Mercedes-Benz trucks. The four and six-cylinder engines have outputs ranging from 115 kW (156 hp) to 260 kW (354 hp). The state-of-the-art engines combine low fuel consumption with extremely clean exhausts. They make the Unimog more efficient overall, despite the extensive design changes that were implemented to ensure compliance with Euro VI. And in the Econic, the engines even reduce fuel consumption by up to four percent. In addition to being extremely reliable, the new special trucks boast a long service life and long maintenance intervals — features that pay off for the customer.

Efficient assembly process and mass production quality

From the initial draft stage to job number 1, the new-generation Unimog and Econic have been completely made in Wörth. The development department of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks created the vehicles all on its own while at the same time benefiting from the proximity of the mass production operations for Mercedes-Benz trucks. The joint use of the production processes in Wörth ensures extremely efficient assembly operations and a high level of quality assurance. The vehicle concepts of the special trucks are based on the modular principle used for the Actros, Antos, Arocs, and Atego series. For example, the Econic incorporates many components from the new Actros, including the chassis, the electronics architecture, and certain control elements. The broad range of new products was made possible by the close interlinking of series-production operations and the special truck manufacturing facility.

Unimog and Econic: cleaner, stronger, and more efficient

Despite the challenges resulting from the Euro VI standard, the three vehicle ranges were able to further increase the advantages of their concepts. The new generation of the Unimog all-terrain vehicle, the Unimog implement carrier, and the Econic have thus substantially increased their performance and efficiency while also becoming easier to operate. In addition to new engines for all model series, the Unimog all-terrain vehicle boasts a revamped mid-engine concept, and the Unimog implement carrier features a new synergistic traveling drive, an updated cab providing all-round visibility, and new hydraulic systems for implements and performance that make the vehicle significantly more efficient to use. The new Econic further enhances the low-entry cab concept and boasts many ergonomic improvements as a result of its new chassis, interior, and exterior. Despite its unchanged payload, the truck is also much more economical than its predecessor, thanks to reduced fuel consumption and lower costs for repair and maintenance.

About Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks

Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks (MBS) is a separate product unit within Mercedes-Benz Trucks and has its own management board and business responsibilities. As a professional specialist for small-batch production, MBS rounds out the Mercedes-Benz product range with the Econic, Unimog, and Zetros model series. In 2012 the facility in Wörth produced about 3,450 units of these vehicles. As a professional conversion specialist with a plant in Molsheim, France, and a number of conversion partners, MBS also customizes around 10,000 trucks from all model series each year. MBS currently employs about 1,600 men and women at its two locations in Wörth and Molsheim.

Credits: Daimler AG

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The new Mercedes-Benz Atego: Live Premiere from Germany

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Here you can watch the live webcast of the official premiere for the new Mercedes-Benz Atego from Wörth am Rhein, Germany.

Wednesday, 13th March 2013, 12:00 (CET)



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Save the date: The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W 222) debuts 15th May in Hamburg

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A recent official announcement issued to media by Daimler AG executives reveals the crucial detail we have been waiting for so long: after approximately one year of delay, the new S-Class W 222 model series will be premiered on the 15th May 2013 in Hamburg, Germany (not 26th March, as initially reported).

A special celebration event will set the stage for the official entrance of the S-Class into the automotive industry. Prestigious automotive journalists, as well as celebrities and numerous dealer representative from all over the world, are invited to the ceremony to be held in the picturesque harbour city of Hamburg on the river Elbe.

The 2014 model year Mercedes-Benz S-Class (in Europe as well) is also receiving a private preview show in Valencia, Spain, these days, where select authorized dealers and brand executives - in total, around 14500, are getting introduced to the outstanding technological package of the new trendsetting luxury flagship from Stuttgart. Of course, if you were wondering, no electronic devices are allowed, so do not expect any early leaks of the W 222.

One of the most important technical advances that sets the S-Class well ahead of its competitors is the ground-breaking PRE-SAFE system, which has not only become sharper in recognizing potential dangers and avoiding them as much as possible, but also is now incorporating a one-of-a-kind function that recognizes persons walking on street and, when necessary, mitigates an imminent impact with those.

You can learn more interesting facts and see further spy pics of the 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (previous 2013MY) in our 'Specials' section at http://bit.ly/13OTU9m ! Enjoy! :)

Image Credits: Motor Authority

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On track of CLS and Co.: 2013 premiere for CLA and CLA 45 AMG

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The new Mercedes-Benz CLA embodies in a production car the avant-garde design of the Concept Style Coupé which had its world premiere at the Auto China fair this April. The exciting compact mid-range coupé adopts the concept vehicle's non-conformist, provocative and masculine lines. On numerous points of detail the designers have drawn inspiration from the SLS and CLS modern Mercedes classics – examples being the sporty, self-assured front end, the powerdomes on the bonnet or the three-dimensional side design featuring an additional brawny muscle extending over the dropping line from the rear door to the boot lid.

In keeping with its sporty positioning, the CLA is available with high-torque turbo engines rated at up to 155 kW (211 hp), sports suspension and the newly developed 4MATIC. The technical highlights of the new design icon include numerous driving assistance systems, such as advanced COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. In addition to outputting visual and acoustic warnings when an impending danger of a rear-end collision is identified, the latter system is also able to carry out autonomous partial braking if the driver fails to respond to warnings and a danger of collision persists.

Five equipment and appointment packages which vary greatly in character are available to individualise the striking compact mid-range coupé (length/width/height: 4630/1777/1437 millimetres). In keeping with the digital lifestyle of the CLA's social media-savvy target group, smartphones can additionally be fully integrated into the vehicle's display and operating system.

CLA 45 AMG: the most dynamic way to experience the new 4MATIC

As the high-powered top model of the new compact class, the CLA 45 AMG broadens the portfolio of Mercedes-Benz's high-performance brand to offer a fascinating high-performance vehicle in the compact class, too. The newly developed AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine will set new standards in its engine capacity segment: with maximum torque of well over 400 Newton metres and low fuel consumption, AMG is aiming to lead the competition. In conjunction with the specially adapted 4MATIC version for this engine-power class, the CLA 45 AMG will be one of the most dynamic, powerful and efficient four-cylinder series-production compact cars.

Perfect power transmission is ensured in the CLA 45 AMG thanks to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with dual clutch technology and performance-oriented all-wheel drive. The ideal basis for high cornering speeds and exciting, agile handling also comes courtesy of the AMG sports suspension with independently developed front and rear axles, electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance braking system and 3-stage ESP® with "SPORT Handling" mode. The 3-stage stability programme is also applied to adapt the control strategies of the variable 4MATIC system:

- In "ESP ON" mode a safety-oriented driving programme supports the driver with clear-cut self-steering behaviour, i.e. essentially neutral handling characteristics.

- Briefly pressing the ESP® button activates "ESP SPORT Handling Mode". This dynamically oriented driving mode applies appropriate control strategies for later ESP® intervention and increased drive torque at the rear axle.

- Pressing the ESP® button longer activates "ESP OFF". "ESP OFF" should only be used by experienced drivers on cordoned-off race tracks.

After pressing the brake pedal in "ESP SPORT Handling Mode" or "ESP OFF" mode, all ESP® functions are available once again.

Credits: Daimler AG

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World premiere at the 2012 São Paulo International Motor Show: The new SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY"

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World premiere for the new SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" at the 2012 São Paolo International Motor Show: the exclusively appointed special series is aimed at car collectors with a particular penchant for motor racing. The customer sport racing car is being built by hand in a limited edition of no more than five vehicles in Affalterbach. Record DTM champion and AMG brand ambassador Bernd Schneider is involved hands-on in the production process, installing the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine in the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" together with an AMG engine fitter.

The exclusive collector's item is also synonymous with the successful AMG customer sports programme. With a current tally of 36 wins in the 2012 motorsport season and three driver and team titles in the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT Masters and the FIA GT1 World Championship to its name, the racing version of the gullwing model from Mercedes-AMG is also an impressive success story in its own right.

"The world premiere of our special "45th ANNIVERSARY" series of the SLS AMG GT3 at the 27th São Paulo International Motor Show in Brazil is a homage to all Brazilian AMG fans. Firstly because the Brazilian market has witnessed rapid growth for AMG high-performance vehicles in the past five years. And secondly because two of our AMG customer teams are putting in a very good showing in the Brazilian GT Championship and have excellent prospects with their three SLS AMG GT3s," notes Ola Källenius.

Exclusive matt paintwork and "45 Years of Driving Performance" logo

A number of exterior and interior modifications have been carried out for the special SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" model. The body of the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" gleams auspiciously in the new designo magno graphite matt paint finish, for example. To date, this matt paintwork has been exclusive to the SL 65 AMG "45th ANNIVERSARY", which was unveiled to mark the 45th birthday of Mercedes-AMG at the New York International Auto Show in April 2012. The AMG light-alloy wheels in designo magno graphite complement the body's matt paintwork to perfection.

Another eye-catching feature is the striking "45 Years of Driving Performance" logo framed in silver on the GT3 racing car's gullwing doors.The special edition's logo embodies consummate design right down to the finer points of detail: closer inspection reveals the exposed carbon-fibre structure of the gullwing doors under the matt paintwork. The doors, along with the bonnet, mudguards, boot lid, rear wings, front and rear apron, front splitter and rear diffusor, are produced in the particularly lightweight motorsport material CFRP (CFRP = carbon fibre reinforced plastic).

The interior of the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" evokes a functional racing car atmosphere, refined by high-quality, exclusive details: the steel roll-over cage is finished in matt "designo magno graphite" to match the exterior. The racing car's dashboard and centre console sport a matt carbon-fibre finish. Effective contrasts are produced by six-point seat belts in silver.

The collector's item also boasts a seat shell in a high-strength carbon-fibre safety cell on the co-driver's side. A special badge with a "1 of 5" logo on the seats alludes to the limited production run for this racing car. The standard appointments for the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" are rounded off by a high-quality AMG indoor car cover with "45 Years of Driving Performance" logo.

Bernd Schneider as a VIP engine fitter

In keeping with the exclusive exterior and interior equipment and appointments, the engineering under the bonnet is of a similarly exclusive standard.48 year-old racing driver Bernd Schneider is assisting the responsible AMG engine fitter in installing the naturally aspirated AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine. The special AMG engine badge bearing the signatures of Bernd Schneider and the responsible engine fitter attest to this high-calibre duo's handiwork. Customers who acquire one of the rare SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" models also receive an exclusive vehicle certificate signed by Bernd Schneider.

The five-times DTM champion, overall ITC winner from 1995 and FIA GT world champion from 1997 works for Mercedes-AMG as a brand ambassador and an instructor at the AMG Driving Academy. Together with AMG customer sport coordinator Thomas Jäger, as an established expert in the field of SLS AMG GT3 customer sport Bernd Schneider has carried out the majority of the test drives for the racing version of the gullwing model. He also participates in selected races as part of the AMG driver support set-up. Bernd Schneider competed for various AMG customer teams in 2012, including the 24-hour Dubai race, at the Nürburgring and in Spa-Francorchamps.

Vehicle handover directly at AMG headquarters

Handover of the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" takes place directly at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach, where customers are also granted exclusive insights into the AMG world and have an opportunity to sample AMG's hallmark excellent service and support quality. An in-depth introduction to operation of the new vehicle and its engineering and technology is provided in the new 360 square-metre handover hall. In the case of this special GT3 racing car, this instruction is provided personally by AMG brand ambassador Bernd Schneider.

The programme also includes an individual tour of the factory, taking in the AMG Performance Studio, where exclusive series of individual AMG cars and one-off vehicles are developed and hand-made. This is followed by a visit to the AMG engine "Manufaktur" (hand-finishing section), where Bernd Schneider and the AMG engine fitter assembled the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine by hand. On request, the SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" customer can enjoy a race track coaching session as part of an initiation event with the vehicle.

- Price for Germany (incl. 19% VAT): SLS AMG GT3 "45th ANNIVERSARY" € 446,250

First place overall in the Brazilian GT Championship

Two AMG customer teams are competing in the Brazilian GT Championship with three SLS AMG GT3s. After five of a total of nine races, Duda Rosa and Cleber Faria (both BRA) from BVA Racing lead the overall placings. Their stablemates Vanuê Faria / Renan Guerra (both BRA) rank third. Paulo Bonifacio and Sérgio Jimenez (both BRA) from AMattheis Motorsport currently hold fifth place in the championship. The next race in the Brazilian GT Championship will take place on 28 October and the final meeting will be in Interlagos on 16 December.

Success on four continents, exemplary safety standard

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 is the racing version of the SLS AMG which has been designed for customer sport.49 such vehicles for short- and long-distance races have been delivered worldwide to date. In its first season in 2011, the gullwing model quickly established itself as the most successful newcomer of the motorsport year. International customer teams competing on four continents notched up a total of 26 wins. The vehicle's successful run was crowned when HEICO Motorsport won the team rankings at the FIA GT3 European Championship with its two Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3s – the first title for the gullwing model in its first full racing season. In the 2012 motorsport season the SLS AMG GT3 is competing in more than 15 racing series on four continents, including the FIA GT1 World Championship, the FIA GT3 European Championship, the ADAC GT Masters, the VLN Endurance Championship at the Nürburgring and the Blancpain Endurance Series. The triple victory in the 24-hour Dubai race in January 2012 and numerous places on the podium at various short-distance, 4- and 6-hour races demonstrate the SLS AMG GT3's sporty performance in impressive style. So far this season, the car has notched up 36 wins.

The SLS AMG GT3 additionally offers an exemplary standard of safety which is currently unrivalled by any other GT3 vehicle.Mercedes-AMG develops and produces the customer sport racing car in close cooperation with HWA AG. HWA is responsible for development and deployment of the Mercedes AMG C Coupés in the DTM on behalf of and in ongoing consultation with Mercedes-Benz Motorsport.

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

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