TecForum 2013: New Assistance Technologies for a New Dimension of Active Safety in Vans

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At the TecForum 2013, Mercedes-Benz Vans presents a range of new assistance systems, offering an initial glimpse of the safety technology of the near future. The Crosswind Assist system for vans will celebrate its world premiere at the event. The Collision Prevention Assist, Blind Spot Assist, and Highbeam Assist will also be available in vans soon, where they will be supplemented by Lane Keeping Assist. This wide variety of new assistance systems underscores Mercedes-Benz Vans’ role as a pioneer in safety technology and as a driving force in van innovation.

Electronic helpers prevent accidents

Although mitigating the effects of accidents is an important concern, preventing accidents from occurring is even more crucial. To make this possible, new assistance systems will provide Mercedes-Benz van drivers with additional support in the near future. A crucial benefit of the new electronic helpers is that they will help prevent many accidents from occurring in the first place. The developers at Mercedes-Benz are convinced that this new dimension in van safety technology will have a very positive effect on accident statistics.

The new van assistance systems are currently in their final stage of development and testing. They will be gradually introduced in the coming months and years, further boosting the already unmatched level of safety in vans from Mercedes-Benz. Depending on the technology, range of application, and model, the new safety systems will be available in Mercedes-Benz vans and delivery vehicles as either standard or optional features. This allows every Mercedes-Benz Vans customer to opt for maximum safety in line with the specific application requirements.

In the development of new assistance systems, the engineers at Mercedes-Benz Vans benefit from their proximity to Group Research and to their counterparts at the car and heavy-duty commercial vehicle units. In addition, Mercedes-Benz maintains close contact with insurance companies so that the new assistance systems will have a positive effect not only on road traffic and accident statistics, but also directly on the customers’ wallet.

World premiere: Crosswind Assist for vans

As another safety technology milestone, the Crosswind Assist is about to celebrate its world premiere in vans. Within the limits of what is physically possible, the system almost completely offsets the effects of crosswind on vehicles. It greatly reduces driver stress, as motorists no longer have to steer against sudden gusts of wind. Crosswind Assist is based on the standard-fitted Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and is activated at speeds of 80 km/h and more.

Crosswind Assist was developed to deal with the special characteristics of vans. Large vehicles with raised roofs and/or long wheelbases for the transportation of voluminous cargo have especially large surfaces on which crosswind can take effect. As a result, drivers have to be prepared to encounter and react to sudden gusts of crosswind when they are traveling through gales, crossing bridges, or leaving the slipstream of a truck.

Automatic braking measures help prevent vehicle drifting

Crosswind Assist greatly reduces driver stress in such situations, as the standard-fitted ESP system features sensors for measuring the yaw rate and lateral acceleration so that it can determine the force exerted by crosswind and gusts. To counteract this force, the automated system brakes specific wheels on the windward side of the van. The resulting rotary and yaw motions cause the vehicle to steer in a corrective manner and prevent it from drifting, which otherwise might have dangerous consequences.

Thanks to Crosswind Assist, vans remain firmly on course, even if they suddenly encounter strong gusts, for example when crossing bridges or overtaking trucks. The system minimizes the effects of wind and aims to prevent the vehicle from moving more than 50 centimeters sideways, even when encountering strong gusts.

The ESP sensors can determine the strength and flow angle of steady and intensifying crosswinds as well as of sudden gusts. The system’s response is also governed by other factors, such as vehicle speed, load weight, cargo location, and the driver’s steering behavior. Should the motorist manually counteract the force of the wind, his or her steering movements will automatically override Crosswind Assist.

The safety system is specifically adapted to each vehicle model and surface area. A control light notifies the driver when the assistant system goes into action, thus informing him or her of the current driving situation.

Collision Prevention Assist: Warns of impending collisions

One of the most dangerous traffic situations occurs when vehicles are too close to one another. Analyses conducted by the Mercedes-Benz Accident Research department have shown that radar-based assistance systems could prevent a significant proportion of rear-end collisions or at least substantially reduce the severity of the accidents.

In response to this finding, Mercedes-Benz Vans will be celebrating another premiere in this vehicle class by introducing the proximity warning assistant. The system is not designed to prevent minor accidents in inner cities at low speeds, but instead to provide protection against severe rear-end collisions. The system warns the driver when the van gets too close to another vehicle and intensifies the alarm if the dangerously short distance is further reduced so that there is a high risk of collision.

The radar-based proximity warning assistant helps drivers maintain a safe distance from vehicles up ahead. A radar sensor in the front bumper continuously measures the distance to any vehicle traveling ahead in the same lane as well as the relative speeds between the two vehicles. On the basis of this data, the proximity warning assistant determines how great the distance should be to ensure safety.

Insufficient braking distance alarm

If the distance from a vehicle up ahead drops to one fourth or less of the required braking distance, the assistance system flashes a light in the instrument cluster to warn the driver. The flashes become more frequent and an alarm sounds if the likelihood of a collision is increasing because the distance continues to drop and the traffic situation remains unchanged. This second alarm stage is triggered about three seconds before impact, allowing the driver to hit the brakes or take evasive action.

Brake Assist pro: Pinpoint emergency braking

Whenever there is danger of a collision, the proximity warning assistant also activates another new system: Brake Assist pro. This adaptive brake assistant calculates the force needed for pinpoint emergency braking so that the remaining distance can be optimally used for braking to prevent a collision. Drivers activate the brake assistant by forcefully stepping on the brake pedal. To ensure pinpoint braking during the braking maneuver, the system can raise or lower the braking force in accordance with the data provided by the proximity warning assistant.

The proximity warning assistant is activated at speeds of 30 km/h or more. The system reacts not only to vehicles traveling up ahead but also to stationary obstacles such as traffic jams.

Blind Spot Assist: Increased safety when changing lanes

Drivers have to be able to make safety-related decisions within seconds when changing lanes in cities or overtaking other vehicles on highways or country roads. All of the vans from Mercedes-Benz are equipped with large exterior mirrors that offer a wide field of vision and, in many cases, are supported by wide-angle auxiliary lenses. Drivers get additional help from Blind Spot Assist, which is also celebrating its van debut. When changing lanes, the system warns drivers if vehicles are traveling in the blind spot.

The new Blind Spot Assist system is activated at speeds of 30 km/h or more. The system uses four short-range radar sensors, which are located on the left and right-hand sides at the height of the lateral rub panels. The sensors are positioned in the area of the B-pillar and the rear corner pillar, from where they scan the adjacent lanes. If the sensors detect a car or motorcycle in the driver’s blind spot while traveling, a red warning signal lights up in the exterior mirror on the side where the vehicle is located. If the safety system detects that the driver wants to change lanes despite the warning, it will also sound an alarm.

Lane Keeping Assist: Warns drivers of lane departures

Unintended lane departures caused by distractions or the driver's inattention are even more dangerous than careless lane changes. In the future, Mercedes-Benz vans will therefore be equipped with Lane Keeping Assist to ensure that drivers receive timely warning of unintended lane changes.

The system features a range of sophisticated technology, including a mounted camera behind the windshield that films the lane up ahead. The camera is connected to an electronic control unit that continuously measures the recorded data in order to identify the lane and the associated markings by analyzing the differences in contrast. If the van is about to cross the lane markings without the use of a turn indicator, the control unit will consider this to be an unintended lane departure and sound an alarm to notify the driver.

Lane Keeping Assist is active at speeds of 60 km/h or more and reacts not only to white lane markings but also to the yellow markings used at construction sites. Drivers can switch the assistance system off when it suits them — for example when driving along narrow and winding country roads. Lane Keeping Assist also helps drivers stay on course in tight areas such as those found at highway construction sites.

Highbeam Assist: Optimal illumination of the road

Optimal vision is a key precondition for safe driving. Darkness poses a particular challenge for drivers, and that's why every Mercedes-Benz van is equipped with large, powerful headlights. In addition, all of the models are optionally available with especially bright bi-xenon headlights.

The new Highbeam Assist system is a first for the van sector. The system switches the highbeams on and off in accordance with the present situation to ensure that the road is optimally illuminated at all times. This not only enables drivers to see curves, pedestrians, and danger zones earlier and more clearly, but also prevents oncoming traffic and drivers up ahead from being blinded.

The system uses a camera mounted to the inside of the windshield. The camera scans the traffic in front of the vehicle. If it detects oncoming traffic or two-track vehicles up ahead, the system automatically switches the headlights from highbeam to lowbeam. Highbeam Assist can distinguish moving objects from stationary ones and leaves the highbeams turned on when the van enters a curve. The safety system switches the headlights back to highbeam once the road is no longer occupied. The camera also registers if the street lights are switched on, in which case it automatically deactivates the highbeams — for example when driving through towns or villages.

Highbeam Assist operates at speeds of 60 km/h or more. The system will be offered for halogen as well as bi-xenon headlights.

Reversing camera: Helps drivers maneuver in tight areas

Among the most frequent van accidents are those caused while maneuvering at low speeds. To help drivers park and maneuver in tight areas, therefore, vans can be equipped with an optional reversing camera. In vans with closed vehicle bodies, the camera is mounted above the rear doors. The image is transmitted to the 5.8-inch (14.7 cm) TFT color monitor of the factory-installed radio.

The camera has a sturdy plastic housing. The camera’s 150-degree viewing angle allows drivers to see the entire area behind the vehicle on the monitor. To assist orientation, the system also displays the horizon and static guide markings.

Mercedes-Benz Vans: Safety as a standard feature

Safety is a standard feature in every Mercedes-Benz vehicle. In the case of the Sprinter, this means that the van has a safe and predictable chassis, a precise steering system, and extremely effective and firm disk brakes on all of its wheels. Adaptive brake lights warn the drivers of pursuing vehicles whenever the van makes an emergency braking maneuver. A lamp burnout control system prevents motorists from driving with insufficient lighting, and a seat belt warning device reminds drivers to buckle up before they depart.

The van is fitted with the latest generation of ADAPTIVE ESP as standard. With its diverse range of capabilities, this system is already doing much to improve safety. The dynamic handling system now encompasses the following features:

- Anti-lock braking system (ABS)

- Acceleration skid control (ASR)

- Electronic brake force distribution (EBV)

- Hydraulic brake assistant (BAS)

- Load Adaptive Control (LAC)

- Roll Over Mitigation and Roll Movement Intervention (ROM/RMI)

- Enhanced Understeering Control (EUC)

- Automatic Brake Disc Wiping for driving in rainy weather

- Electronic Brake Prefill for anticipatory brake preparation in critical driving situations

If the buyer of a Sprinter wishes to have a trailer coupling system or the corresponding mounts, the van also features Trailer Stability Assist (TSA) as standard.

If an accident cannot be prevented despite the Sprinter’s high level of active safety, the van’s occupants benefit from the vehicle’s flexible and energy-absorbing body structure. The driver is safely restrained by height-adjustable three-point safety belts with seat-belt tensioners and belt force limiters as well as by two-way headrests and front airbags.

Optional equipment for customized safety

In addition to having a comprehensive range of standard features, buyers can select additional safety options to adapt the Sprinter to specific application profiles. For example, vision can be further improved by bi-xenon headlights equipped with a static Add-Light system and a cornering light function, as well as by fog lights, a headlight cleaning system, and a heatable windshield.

The rear-mounted camera, reversing warning feature, and PARKTRONIC system help drivers maneuver the vehicle, while the Start-off Assist system (standard equipment in Sprinters fitted with automatic transmission) provides support when starting up hills. The rain sensor with Headlamp Assist automatically turns the corresponding systems on or off. Passive safety is further enhanced by the front passenger airbag (standard equipment in the crew bus), window bags, and thorax bags, while the tire pressure monitoring system ensures that the tires always have the right pressure in vans with single tires.

Mercedes-Benz doesn’t restrict safety-related issues to the driver, as all of its panel vans are standard-fitted with partition walls that completely seal off the cargo area. The latter features numerous strong metal rings for securing the cargo. If desired, this feature can be supplemented with rails in the floor, at chest height, and underneath the roof.

Focusing on the driver’s personal condition as a safety factor

Just as important as the safety technology, is the safety provided by the driver’s personal condition. Drivers can handle dangerous situations more effectively or even avoid them altogether if they feel well and are rested and relaxed. That’s why Mercedes-Benz’s development activities particularly focus on the area behind the steering wheel. Every Mercedes-Benz van has a spacious cab equipped with comfortable, height-adjustable seats that provide drivers with good lateral support. The seat is ideally positioned in relation to the steering wheel, the pedals, and the dashboard.

The instruments are clearly arranged in every Mercedes-Benz, and the switches, buttons, and knobs are easy to reach. No matter how insignificant it may appear, every detail is of crucial importance in critical situations. For example, every Mercedes-Benz vehicle has the illuminated switch for the hazard lights located on top of the center console, where it is clearly visible.

The left and right exterior mirrors have separate, spherically shaped wide-angle lenses or appropriately segregated fields of vision. The mirror casings have been aerodynamically optimized to protect them from griming.

In combination with effective heating and ventilation systems, the vehicles’ high level of ride comfort and low level of background noise make even long trips pleasant. Everyday items can be stowed in numerous cleverly designed compartments. A precise steering system and a comparatively small turning circle also help to ensure maximum safety and relaxed driving.

Research results: Vans less likely than cars to be involved in accidents

Vans and their drivers are often subject to public pressure concerning safety. However, the fact is that vans do not play a conspicuous role in accident statistics. A joint research report recently published by Germany’s Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt), Dekra, the German Insurers Accident Research Organization (UDV), and the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA) showed that when it comes to accidents, vans and cars have similar records.

The report demonstrates that the number of accidents depends on the total number of vehicles and the total distance traveled. In Germany, for example, the number of vans registered as trucks rose from around one million to about two million within 20 years. In addition, vans weighing between 2.8 and 3.5 tons GVW travel approximately 21,000 km each year on average, almost 80 percent more than cars (11,900 km). The research report’s conclusions are probably surprising for some people, as they show that vans are actually less frequently involved in accidents than cars if the number of vehicles and the distances traveled are taken into account.

Proof that assistance systems reduce the number of accidents

The accident statistics associated with individual vehicle series clearly demonstrate the positive effect of assistance systems. This is particularly evident with regard to the gradual introduction of the Electronic Stability Program (ESP) in the first generation of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter around ten years ago. Lane-departure accidents dropped dramatically by 39 percent after the system was first installed in this class of vehicles.

The launch of the second Sprinter generation in 2006 resulted in further big advances such as the introduction of ADAPTIVE ESP, which can detect loads and the vehicle’s center of gravity. As a result, the number of lane-departure accidents declined further by 28 percent. Taken together, these steps have cut in half the number of accidents due to this cause within a few years. After being refined further in recent years, the ESP feature is now being expanded with the new Crosswind Assist system. The resulting third generation of ESP will produce additional benefits.

The same applies to the other assistance systems. For example, researchers at Daimler have conducted extensive tests in which they determined that warning systems reduce the driver’s response time by a vital 0.2 seconds. In addition, they greatly boost the intensity of the driver’s reaction. In Mercedes-Benz vans, new systems such as the proximity warning assistant, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist will therefore help to prevent accidents or at least reduce their severity in many cases.

Mercedes-Benz: A constant pioneer in the development of safety technology

The future assistance systems will continue a strong tradition at Mercedes-Benz, which has always considered safety to be one of its core values. The brand follows the highest possible standards, and its developers are driven by their vision of achieving accident-free driving. That is why Mercedes-Benz vans continuously mark the state-of-the-art in terms of safety technology in their respective segments.

The Sprinter: Exemplary safety from the start, the first with ABS

An outstanding example of this is the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which has always combined great performance with exemplary safety. At its premiere in the spring of 1995, the first generation of the Sprinter takes the industry by surprise with its comprehensive range of safety features. It is an unparalleled combination at the time, including disk brakes on all the wheels, the ABS four-channel anti-lock braking system, the ABD automatic differential brake, a seat belt buckle, and a system for adjusting the belt height in the cab. A driver airbag is also available as an optional feature. The new Sprinter clearly sets new standards.

Model update in 2000: new ABS, speed limiter

As part of a comprehensive model update, Mercedes-Benz boosts safety further in 2000. It makes the driver airbag standard and offers a front passenger airbag as an option. On a bench seat for two people, the airbag also protects the passenger sitting next to the driver. A three-point seat belt is now offered for this middle passenger as well.

The enhanced ABS delivers a better performance, and the automatic differential brake is upgraded, becoming the acceleration skid control system. For the Sprinter, performance does not mean high speeds, so Mercedes-Benz voluntarily limits the van’s top speed to 160 km/h. This is still the case in 2013.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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Five new assistance systems bring even higher levels of safety to Vans with the Star

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With five new assistance and safety systems, Mercedes-Benz Vans is continuing to extend its role as an innovation leader among van manufacturers. The systems include three world premieres for this category of vehicle: Crosswind Assist, Collision Prevention Assist and Blind Spot Assist. They were presented yesterday for the first time by the Stuttgart-based automotive manufacturer as part of a Mercedes-Benz Vans TecForum held at the Boxberg testing ground. The new systems are expected to be introduced in vans with the star in just a few months.

Five new assistance systems – three world premieres

Preventing accidents from happening in the first place rather than mitigating the consequences afterwards – active safety is paramount for Mercedes-Benz Vans. The five new assistance systems will increase the high level of safety of Mercedes-Benz Vans even further.

Crosswind Assist keeps a van safely on course when the wind is gusting strongly. The Collision Prevention Assist alerts the driver if the vehicle gets too close to other moving vehicles on the road ahead or to the end of a queue of traffic, while the Blind Spot Assist warns a driver that is about to change lane that vehicles in the next lane are dangerously close. All three systems are celebrating their world premieres in the van class. Also new are the Lane Keeping Assist and Highbeam Assist.

Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans: "When it comes to safety, we have always enjoyed a pioneering role with our vehicles and are now launching a new era in assistance and safety systems for vans. These systems will support the driver and help to avoid accidents, thereby also ensuring the maximum availability of our vans."

Mercedes-Benz Vans has a long tradition of taking a pioneering role in relation to assistance and safety systems: it was the first brand in this sector to introduce Antilock Brake System ABS in its flagship Sprinter model as early as 1995. This was followed by the Electronic Stability Program ESP in 2002. Further trailblazing advances from Mercedes-Benz Vans came in 2006 with the further development of the system to create ADAPTIVE ESP. This system takes the actual weight of the vehicle and its centre of gravity into account when calculating the control characteristics. Both generations of ESP have led to drastic reductions in accident numbers.

Generally speaking, accidents involving vans happen in very similar ways to those involving passenger cars. This has been evidenced by a recent research report undertaken by, amongst others, accident researchers working on behalf of the insurance companies, and Germany's Federal Highway Research Institute (BASt). When it came to looking at the mileage, the researchers even registered a lower accident risk for vans than for passenger cars.

In developing its new assistance systems, Mercedes-Benz Vans was able to benefit from the unique expertise available in the company's Group Research division as well as from the experience gained by its passenger car and commercial vehicle units. Dr Sascha Paasche, Head of Development at Mercedes-Benz Vans: "We are fortunate in being able to benefit from a very special network and a transfer of knowledge within the Daimler Group. This is just one more reason why we are at the top when it comes to safety engineering."

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

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The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class 2013: Bodysheel construction and integrated safety concept

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I. Body: Focusing on quality and functionality

The body of the E-Class has already proven its exceptional qualities when it comes to safety and comfort. On top of this it offers outstanding aerodynamics and, thanks to innovative production and quality assurance processes, consistently high quality. These characteristics impressed 400 automotive experts in 2009 when they presented the body of the E-Class Saloon with the EuroCarBody Award.

Since the basis of the body has not been changed, the new E-Class also boasts the same outstanding characteristics. These include:

- extremely stiff, rigid passenger cell made of highest grade steel
- high-strength steels
- comprehensive deformation zones in the front and rear areas
- lightweight construction - bonnet, wings and boot lid (tailgate on the Estate) are made of aluminium
- high ease of repair thanks to removable front and rear modules

Also new are the headlamps featuring LED technology – optionally also even available as full LED variants. The advantages of LED technology include:

- long service life
- colour temperature similar to daylight
- energy efficiency, since LEDs require significantly less energy than halogen and xenon lights while offering the same level of light output

HANDS-FREE ACCESS for convenient loading

Also new: as an option the E-Class can be fitted with so-called HANDS-FREE ACCESS in conjunction with the KEYLESS-GO package. Its state-of-the-art technology enables the boot lid to be opened and closed without actual physical contact by simply holding your foot beneath the bumper – a significant increase in convenience when loading and unloading the vehicle. The HANDS-FREE ACCESS feature also prevents hands from getting dirty and also luggage, since otherwise in the meantime one would have to place it down on the ground in order to open the boot.

The E-Class Saloon provides a spacious, illuminated boot. It has a volume of 540 litres, with space for four golf bags for example. The luggage compartment of the Estate is unrivalled in its spaciousness and sets the standard in this segment. Behind the rear seat backrests a volume of 695 litres is available, and with the rear seat backrests folded down this becomes up to 1950 litres. HANDS-FREE ACCESS, EASY-PACK Quickfold with convenience feature or the EASY-PACK folding folding load compartment floor with EASY-PACK luggage compartment comfort box all help to enhance the convenience and usability of the luggage compartment.

Consistent optimum values for aerodynamics and aeroacoustics

The outstanding aerodynamic qualities of the E-Class have also been retained following the design modifications implemented in the new E-Class. Both the Saloon (Cd value 0.26 - 0.28) and the Estate (Cd value 0.29 - 0.31) are at the top of their segment in this area too.

Excellent aeroacoustics effectively contribute to the typically high levels of ride comfort found in the E-Class. Even at high speeds, very little flow noise penetrates into the vehicle interior.

An additional increase in comfort can be achieved with the optionally available acoustic laminated safety glass for the sliding side windows in the front and rear. It creates even higher levels of noise comfort and at the same times affords more protection and safety against breakage.

II. New level of safety: Intelligent assistance systems with a keener eye

What started with the PRE-SAFE® system some ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS has resulted in a new dimension of motoring at Mercedes-Benz: comfort and safety are merged into one, opening up all sorts of new prospects for motorists and car developers alike. Mercedes-Benz refers to this as "intelligent drive". Optionally, the E-Class features a whole host of new or optimised systems on board which help to make motoring more comfortable and safer.

In the main markets, the Saloon and Estate models are fitted as standard with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, a radar-based collision warning system with brake assist systems. It helps to significantly reduce the risk of a rear-end collision. Also forming part of the standard equipment is ATTENTION ASSIST, which is now able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and also inform the driver about his level of fatigue and the amount of driving time which has elapsed since the last break. It also offers an adjustable sensitivity level.

"The intelligent assistance systems of the future will be able to analyse complex situations and recognise potential dangers out on the road with the aid of improved environment sensor systems even more accurately than today," explains Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "Figuratively speaking, the new E-Class doesn't just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision."

Of crucial importance in this respect is the networking of all systems, or "sensor fusion" as the safety experts call it. Mercedes-Benz is continually enhancing the performance capabilities of its assistance systems with the aim of ensuring comprehensive protection, not just for the occupants of a Mercedes-Benz, but for all other road users too.

The new systems hold tremendous potential for either preventing accidents or mitigating their consequences according to Dr Weber: "Take, for instance, the new BAS PLUS assistance system with Junction Assist. The results of our accident research based on the data from the GIDAS (German In-Depth Accident Study) indicate that it could reduce or prevent 27 percent of all accidents at road junctions resulting in personal injury. That equates to some 20,000 accidents a year in Germany alone."

New sensors, new senses, new intelligence

The basis for the innovative functions comes courtesy of highly modern sensors and appropriately networked algorithms. Mercedes-Benz is making a major leap forward with the introduction of the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera (SMPC), or stereo camera for short. Just like the Multi-Purpose Camera (MPC) fitted previously, it is positioned behind the windscreen in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror. It has an aperture angle of 45 degrees and is capable of spatial detection of objects moving crossways ahead and also pedestrians, and calculating their path. The camera's two "eyes" provide it with a three-dimensional view of the area up to approx. 50 metres in front of the vehicle, and it is able to monitor the overall situation ahead for a range of up to 500 metres. In this way, the new camera is able to provide data for processing by various systems.

Intelligent algorithms evaluate this information in order to detect and carry out spatial classification of both vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs within a large field of vision.

Whereas the stereo camera's lenses act as the car's eyes, the radar sensors are its ears, so to speak, and provide additional data. The system of radar sensors comprises two short-range radar sensors in the front bumper with a range of 30 metres and a beam angle of 80 degrees, which are complemented by a long-range radar (200 metres, 18 degrees) including medium-range detection (60 metres, 60 degrees). The data from the camera and radars is amalgamated in a control unit in order to provide the system-specific data for the various functions.

Comfort-enhancing assistance with lateral lane guidance: DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist

The DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control system is a driver aid designed to keep the vehicle at the desired distance from another vehicle in front that is travelling slower than the selected cruising speed. This basic radar-based function has now been enhanced by the addition of Steering Assist, which helps drivers to stay centred in their lane by generating the appropriate steering torque when travelling on a straight road and even on gentle bends.

The stereo camera recognises lane markings as well as vehicles driving ahead together with their spatial positioning, and relays this information to the electric steering assistance system. When driving at slow speeds, e.g. in congested traffic, the Steering Assist can use the vehicle ahead as a means of orientation, enabling semi-autonomous tailback tracking even when there are no clear lane markings visible. As a result, the system is able to further boost driving comfort and substantially ease the driver's workload in many traffic situations.

The new Steering Assist sub-function integrated into the DISTRONIC PLUS system is predominantly based on the new stereo camera. At the same time, the area in front of the vehicle continues to be monitored by two short-range radar sensors and a long-range radar sensor with medium-range detection. The system fuses the data gleaned from both technologies, calculates any reactions required, and then regulates the vehicle's linear speed as requirements dictate by controlling engine power, transmission and brakes, as well as actuating the electric steering for lateral vehicle guidance.

The DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist can be activated as before with a selector lever on the steering wheel in a speed range from 0 - 200 km/h. Any speed between 30 km/h and 200 km/h can be selected as the desired cruising speed. A green steering wheel symbol appears in the instrument cluster to indicate when the Steering Assist is operating while DISTRONIC PLUS is activated. Meanwhile, linear controlling actions (cruise control function) continue to be visualised in the speed display by means of circular segments and the speedometer needle.

Drivers must keep their hands on the steering wheel at all times even when Steering Assist is activated, as the function only works in bends above a certain, speed-dependent radius. Legal considerations also mean there are no plans to introduce hands-free driving. The system's design is so refined that the sensors can detect whether the driver's hands are actually on the steering wheel. If they are not, a visual warning is issued first. Should the driver fail to react to this, a warning signal sounds and lateral lane guidance is deactivated. This does not affect the cruise control function, however, which continues to be operative.

Needless to say, the driver is able to override the Steering Assist at any time. If the driver signals to change lane, for instance, the lateral guidance function will switch into passive mode for the duration of the lane change.

The performance capabilities of the basic DISTRONIC PLUS function have been increased once again. Now, the system is able to brake at a rate of up to 5 m/s² without any intervention from the driver. If the "S" drive mode button is pressed, the rate of acceleration increases, too. Vehicle acceleration is also far more dynamic if the driver signals a wish to overtake by switching on the indicators, assuming the road is clear.

By combining the radar and camera data, DISTRONIC PLUS is also able to detect both vehicles cutting in and vehicles ahead in adjacent lanes and take any necessary action promptly. This can prevent illegal undertaking on motorways and similar multi-lane highways, for example, by adapting the speed to that of vehicles in the outside lanes.

Braking assistance for cross traffic too: BAS PLUS with Junction Assist

Apart from material damage, accidents at junctions often result in serious personal injuries, too. The new Brake Assist BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist from Mercedes-Benz is therefore capable of more than just helping the driver to avoid collisions with vehicles ahead or lessen their consequences in a purely linear direction: the new Junction Assist function can also come to the driver's aid when there is a risk of a collision with cross traffic at junctions.

If this anticipatory system detects a hazardous situation of this type, it prompts the driver to start emergency braking by activating visual and acoustic warnings. If the driver presses the brake pedal too tentatively, BAS PLUS will step in by automatically boosting brake pressure for effective emergency braking, even applying the brakes at full power if necessary. Applying just the right amount of braking power for the situation at hand maximises the available braking distance for traffic behind.

The Junction Assist function is operative at speeds up to around 72 km/h, while BAS PLUS is able to aid the driver in linear situations at any speed.

BAS PLUS with Junction Assist is potentially able to either prevent or lessen the severity of around 27 percent of all accidents at road junctions resulting in personal injury. This equates to some 20,000 accidents a year in Germany alone (source: investigations carried out by the GIDAS – German In-‑Depth Accident Study – and Mercedes-Benz Accident Research).

With pedestrian detection and city brake function: BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake

Pedestrian detection has been added to the BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake functions, while autonomous braking for vehicles in front has undergone a major enhancement too.

Thanks to the combination of stereo camera and radar sensors, it is now possible to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle. Visual and acoustic warnings are triggered when a hazard is spotted. If the driver then reacts by braking, the braking power will be boosted by BAS PLUS as the situation requires, right up to a full brake application. Should the driver fail to react, PRE-‑SAFE® Brake triggers autonomous vehicle braking. The PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection is active up to approx. 72 km/h, and is able to prevent collisions with pedestrians autonomously from an initial speed of up to 50 km/h.

Evaluations of GIDAS accident data indicate that this new technology could avoid six percent of pedestrian accidents and reduce the severity of a further 41 percent. The operating range of the autonomous braking function for stationary vehicles has been optimised so that rear-end collisions can likewise be avoided at speeds of up to 50 km/h.

BAS PLUS with Junction Assist and the PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection rely on the same sensors employed for the adaptive proximity control system DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: the new stereo camera plus the multistage radar sensor system.

Reacts to broken lines too: Active Lane Keeping Assist

The new improved version of the Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also able to intervene should the driver inadvertently cross a broken line when the neighbouring lane is not clear and this could result in the risk of a collision when changing lane. The system can determine if this is the case using the information from the stereo camera and the radar system. The latter has been supplemented by a sensor at the rear, which works in unison with the other sensors in the front and rear bumpers.

The Active Lane Keeping Assist is not only capable of recognising critical situations such as overtaking vehicles, vehicles to be overtaken and parallel traffic, it can also respond effectively to oncoming traffic. If the system detects the vehicle crossing the lane markings when the adjacent lane is not clear, not only does it cause the steering wheel to vibrate in pulses as a tactile warning for the driver, it guides the vehicle back into lane by applying a corrective braking force on one side via the ESP®. It thereby forms the ideal complement to the Active Blind Spot Assist, and for the first time also enables the often fatal collisions with oncoming traffic to be avoided.

The Active Lane Keeping Assist is active at speeds between 60 and 200 km/h. If driver activity in the form of e.g. active steering, braking or acceleration is detected or when the indicators are switched on, both the warning and the corrective brake actuation are suppressed.

Now also identifies no-overtaking zones and no-entry signs: Traffic Sign Assist

A new Traffic Sign Assist which builds on the capabilities of the previous Speed Limit Assist represents yet another contribution to accident prevention from Mercedes-Benz. The system is now also able to recognise no-overtaking zones and alert drivers to no-entry restrictions.

The camera on the inside of the windscreen continues to pick up speed limit signs, including those on overhead gantries and in roadworks, for example. The camera's data is cross-referenced against the information in the navigation system and can be displayed in both the instrument cluster and the map view. If the camera fails to spot any road signs showing a speed limit or a speed limit is lifted, the legal speed limits based on the navigation data are shown instead, such as a maximum speed of 100 km/h on country roads in Germany or 50 km/h in built-up areas.

No-overtaking zones and the signs signalling their end are also registered and displayed, while in the case of signs imposing access restrictions, an acoustic warning is additionally emitted together with a visual warning in the instrument cluster – making an effective contribution towards helping to prevent serious accidents caused by wrong-way drivers.

Visualising drowsiness: ATTENTION ASSIST

A quarter of all motorway accidents in Germany are put down to drowsiness, making it one of the most frequent causes of accidents, most of which are of a serious nature. In 2009, Mercedes-Benz presented ATTENTION ASSIST, which is able to detect tell-tale signs of inattentiveness and increasing drowsiness based on changes in steering behaviour and a host of other factors.

The system has been subject to on-going development, and the latest version has the ability to detect drowsiness and inattentiveness across a far greater speed range from 60 - 200 km/h. Furthermore, the system's sensitivity can be adjusted, e.g. for drivers who already feel tired when they get behind the wheel.

A new menu in the instrument cluster display also makes the system more tangible and transparent for the driver by visualising the current attention level and the driving time since the last break. What's more, it is also possible to see whether the system is active in the current driving situation.

The system can be deactivated by making the appropriate selection in the instrument cluster menu. However, it will always be automatically reactivated with the sensitivity setting last selected the next time the vehicle is started.

Automatic manoeuvring into and out of parallel and end-on parking spaces: Active Parking Assist

The Active Parking Assist enables automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces. It is an advanced version of the PARKTRONIC system with Parking Guidance offered previously. What's more, the system is now also able to manoeuvre out of parallel parking spaces again all by itself with automatic steering and brake control, assuming the vehicle was parked there automatically previously.

When travelling at speeds below 30 km/h, ultrasonic sensors with an extended range in the bumpers' side sections survey the nearside of the road for suitable parallel and end-on parking spaces. The same procedure is carried out for the far side of the road if the driver indicates accordingly. A symbol in the instrument cluster shows that the system is in the process of measuring. If a suitable parking spot is identified, an arrow appears alongside the symbol indicating that the system is ready for automatic parking. All the driver now has to do to activate the system is engage reverse gear and confirm by pressing the OK button on the steering wheel.

The Active Parking Assist steers and brakes the vehicle automatically as well as indicating the required driver actions in the display in each case, such as the transmission position to be selected. The driver moves the vehicle by lightly pressing the accelerator or releasing the brake.

Permanent high beam with no dazzling: Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus

Around 20 percent of all road journeys in Germany are undertaken at night. But this is when some 40 percent of all accidents occur. A main cause for this is poor visibility. According to a study by the University of Michigan, high-beam headlamps can only be used during eight percent of driving time - which is nowhere near enough. Based on this, it can be assumed that the time during which high-beam headlamps can be used in Germany is likely to be even lower given the denser amounts of road traffic compared with the USA.

For the first time, the Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently while driving by masking out any other road user detected in the beams' cone of light. If the camera-based system registers either oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead, it will adapt the light distribution according to the specific situation when the high beam is switched on. Consequently, the driver can simply leave the high-beam headlamps on at all times and use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users. There is no need to switch them on and off manually, resulting in a significant increase in the overall driving time with high beam.

The Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus likewise makes use of the new stereo camera also employed by other assistance systems. If its image recognition algorithm picks up a vehicle that is oncoming or driving ahead, it actuates a mechanism in the headlamp module. This then masks the portion of the LED headlamp's high-beam cone of light where there are other vehicles to prevent their drivers from being dazzled. If road users are detected outside the area that can be masked – for instance when cornering with multiple vehicles in the headlamps' beams – the system will switch to the familiar system of headlamp range control using the low-beam headlamps.

Possible backglare caused by increased use of the high beam and highly reflective signs at the side of the road is also detected and eliminated by dimming the headlamps accordingly.

The Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus builds on the Adaptive Highbeam Assist system first introduced by Mercedes-Benz in 2009. If this system detects oncoming traffic or traffic driving ahead with the help of a camera, it dips the headlamps and automatically adapts the low beam's range according to the situation. In this way, it allows the road to be illuminated for a long way ahead without dazzling other drivers. In addition to this, adaptive control of the low-beam headlamp range with smooth transitions results in gentler lighting changes that the eyes can quickly adjust to.

At a glance

The main new functions of Mercedes-Benz assistance systems

Comfort-oriented assistance

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steer Assist: helps with keeping the vehicle in its lane and tracks traffic in tailbacks

Safety - longitudinal guidance

BAS PLUS: can also detect crossing traffic and boost the braking power applied by the driver can detect pedestrians and boost the braking power applied by the driver

PRE-SAFE® Brake: can detect pedestrians, avoid collisions with pedestrians or stationary traffic at up to 50 km/h by means of autonomous braking and reduce the consequences of a collision at up to 72 km/h

Safety - towards the rear

PRE-SAFE® PLUS: can detect imminent rear-end collisions, trigger PRE-SAFE® occupant protection measures in an imminent rear-end collision, firmly apply the brakes of the stationary vehicle in a rear-end collision to reduce the forces to which occupants are subjected and to avoid secondary collisions

Safety - lateral guidance

Active Lane Keeping Assist: can detect oncoming traffic and if the adjacent lane is occupied, and prevent the vehicle from leaving its lane unintentionally by applying the brakes on one side

Safety - at night

Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus: allows the high-beam headlamps to be kepton permanently without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the beams' cone of light

Safety - when parking

Active Parking Assist: enables automated parking in both parallel and end-on spaces with automatic steering and brake control enables automatic manoeuvring out of parallel parking spaces

Driver's level of attention and condition

ATTENTION ASSIST: can warn of lack of attention and drowsiness in an extended speed range of 60 to 200 km/h. can provide the driver with information on his level of fatigue and the amount of driving time which has elapsed since the last break provides an adjustable sensitivity level

III. Trend-setting safety: Airbags, restraint systems and pedestrian protection

Innovative driver assistance systems, preventive protective measures, a stress-resistant body structure and highly effective restraint systems make the E-Class one of the safest vehicles in its segment.

The basis for this is the integrated safety concept from Mercedes-Benz, which combines all elements of active and passive safety in a well-thought-out system – providing protection to the vehicle occupants and other road users. The integrated safety concept meets, to an unprecedented extent, the requirements for a high degree of vehicle and road safety, and is oriented towards real-world accidents.

PRE-SAFE® PLUS: occupant protection in an impending rear-end collision

Mercedes-Benz has extended the well-known PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system to cover dangerous situations caused by traffic following behind.

A radar sensor in the rear bumper monitors the traffic behind the vehicle and can detect an impending rear-end collision. The system alerts the driver of the vehicle behind to a dangerous situation by quickly flashing the rear hazard lights (not for the USA and Canada). In addition, it triggers the preventive PRE-SAFE® occupant protection measures, which include reversible belt tensioners and active NECK-PRO® head restraints.

If the vehicle is stationary, PRE-SAFE® PLUS will keep it firmly braked, thus reducing any forward jolt. This can greatly reduce the strain placed on the occupants and the risk of whiplash injuries, for example. Firmly applying the vehicle's brakes can help to prevent secondary accidents too, such as running into a vehicle in front, for example, or colliding with pedestrians or other road users at junctions.

State-of-the-art restraint systems

In the event of an accident, the best possible protection is provided by the restraint systems, the comprehensive deployment of airbags and the structural safety of the body. An innovative sensor system triggers the safety systems depending on the situation and coordinates them all with each other.

Restraint systems are the backbone of passive safety.

- 3-point seat belts for driver and front passenger with electronic, reversible belt tensioners in the PRE-SAFE® phase and pyrotechnic belt tensioners in the event of an accident as well as belt force limiters.
- 3-point seat belts on the outer seats in the rear with pyrotechnic belt tensioners, belt force limiters for all rear seats and rear belt status display in the instrument cluster. Making up part of the optionally available Rear Seat Safety package are 3-point seat belts with self-adaptive belt force limiters on the outer rear seats, which are able to adjust the belt force for small passengers and children in particular.
- NECK-PRO head restraints for driver and front passenger which provide early support for the head in the event of a rear-end collision and as such are able to reduce the risk of whiplash.
- ISOFIX child seat anchor points on the outer rear seats for the safe attachment of appropriate child seats with additional respective anchor point above on the rear seat backrest.

Also fitted on board the E-Class is an elaborate system of airbags:

- adaptive airbags for driver and front passenger with multistage deployment, depending on the detected severity of the impact
- sidebags for driver and front passenger, which are able to provide additional protection in the event of a side impact
- pelvisbags for driver and front passenger, which are able to protect the pelvic area in the event of a side impact
- windowbags between the A, B and C-pillars, to protect the head area of the driver, front passenger and passengers seated on the outer rear seats
- kneebags, which in specific types of impact can protect the driver in the area of the dashboard which comes into contact with the knees, and also stabilise the entire upper body by positively influencing occupant movement in the event of an impact
- sidebags in the rear provide additional protection for passengers on the outer rear seats; they are part of the Rear Seat Safety package which is available as an optional extra

Also making a contribution to safety is automatic child seat recognition (ACSR). It can deactivate the airbag on the front passenger side when a child seat with a corresponding transponder is fitted.

Consistent pedestrian protection

The E-Class also plays an exemplary role when it comes to pedestrian protection. The following measures are implemented for pedestrian protection:

- active bonnet, which is moved upwards by 50 mm when an impact is detected, thus creating additional deformation space during the impact; the system is reversible and can be reset by the driver, without having to visit the workshop, to enable him to continue driving
- BAS PLUS warns when pedestrians are detected in the danger zone by the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera. The PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian protection triggers autonomous braking when the system detects a pedestrian in the danger zone and the driver is not reacting to the system's warnings. This pedestrian detection, in conjunction with the optionally available Driver Assistance package Plus, represents a milestone in preventing accidents with pedestrians and/or reducing their consequences.

Credits: Daimler AG

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