In action for the 2013 FIA Formula One World Championship™: The SLS AMG GT and the C 63 AMG Estate help to ensure safety in Formula 1®

Don't Copy From This Blog...

In the new 2013 Formula 1® season, Mercedes-AMG will once again help to ensure safety at all Formula 1® races forming part of the FIA Formula One World Championship™. For the 18th year the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz is providing the Official F1® Safety Car and the Official F1® Medical Car. The SLS AMG GT with 435 kW (591 hp) and the C 63 AMG Estate with 358 kW (487 hp) will be deployed at the direction of Race Control officials usually when weather or incidents are considered to impact on the safety of a race. The two AMG high-performance cars had their first appearance at the opening race of the Formula 1® season in Melbourne/Australia (14 to 17 March) the 2013 FORMULA 1 ROLEX AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX. The second race of the season, the 2013 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix will take place this weekend.

The main reasons for intervention by the Safety Car are poor weather conditions or accidents. The Official F1® Safety Car is driven by Bernd Mayländer (from Germany) and his co-driver, the FIA‑employee Pete Tibbetts (from Great Britain). Bernd Mayländer: "We are on standby in the pit lane in the Official F1® Safety Car, waiting for a radio message from Race Control." When the need arises, the aim is to guide the field safely around the track until the danger no longer exists. The racing driver from Schorndorf has been the official driver of the Safety Car for the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) since 2000. As a former DTM driver he is also active as an instructor for the AMG Driving Academy and as a Mercedes-Benz brand ambassador at selected events.

Perfect super sports car genes as the basis for dynamic performance

The SLS AMG GT is the perfect car for the exacting requirements of Formula 1®. In keeping with the philosophy of Mercedes-AMG, the Safety Car does without technical modifications or retrofitted lightweight design measures as far as possible. The SLS AMG GT's outstanding driving dynamics come courtesy of its thoroughbred super sports car heritage: thanks to an aluminium spaceframe body, the Official F1® Safety Car tips the scales at just 1620 kg (DIN kerb weight). Thanks to the dry-sump lubrication system, it has been possible to install the V8 engine very low down, giving the vehicle a low centre of gravity. And as a result of the engine's positioning behind the front axle and the transaxle arrangement of the dual-clutch transmission on the rear axle, the car also has a favourable weight distribution ratio of 47:53 percent (front/rear). As is customary on super sports cars, aluminium double-wishbone axles to ensure high cornering speeds, precise turn-in characteristics and superb agility, as well as low mass inertia during sudden changes of direction are all part of the package with the SLS AMG GT.

The 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine with a maximum output of 435 kW (591 hp) and 650 newton metres of peak torque is also the series-production version, as are the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, the AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension, the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system and the weight-optimised AMG 10-spoke forged light-alloy wheels painted in matt black with a high-sheen finish. The rear silencer specially developed for the Safety Car generates an even more exciting V8 sound signature to thrill Formula 1® fans watching at the circuit as well as at home on TV. The SLS AMG GT accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, and reaches the 200 km/h mark after just 11.2 seconds.

Aerodynamically optimised roof light bar incorporating LED technology

The major distinguishing visual feature between the standard production SLS AMG GT and the Official F1® Safety Car is the roof light bar. It boasts an aerodynamically efficient profile and sits on a special carbon-fibre hood which ensures the most efficient airflow over the rear aerofoil, which automatically extends at speeds above 120 km/h. All of the bar's light functions are handled by LEDs which offer a fast response time and low power consumption.

- Green: the two centrally positioned green lights on the front and rear are lit up when the gullwing model joins the field at the start of a Safety Car phase. Permanent green is the signal for all Formula 1® drivers to overtake the Safety Car.

- Orange: as soon as the Safety Car has positioned itself in front of all of the Formula 1® racing cars, the green LEDs are switched off and the orange LEDs are switched on. The flashing orange lights on the outer ends of the bar indicate that no overtaking whatsoever is allowed.

The roof light bar also incorporates a TV camera, and a second camera located next to the rear number plate allows the driver and co-driver to keep an eye on the Formula 1® cars behind via a monitor in the cockpit. The special number plate on the rear, with "Safety Car" lettering and 700 green LEDs, provides additional safety in darkness or wet weather. Another important feature is the stroboscopic lights in the headlamps and tail lights. They are activated permanently and provide a general signalling function while the Safety Car is being deployed.

In action 13 times during nine races in the 2012 FIA Formula One World Championship™

In last year's Formula 1® season the Official F1® Safety Car went into action in nine of the 20 races. In 2012 the SLS AMG GT took to the track 13 times, covering 53 laps and a distance of 281 kilometres. The SLS AMG GT celebrated its Formula 1® debut at the 2012 FORMULA 1 SHELL BELGIAN GRAND PRIX, replacing the SLS AMG. As in previous years, the SLS AMG GT Official F1® Safety Car will be operational at all rounds of the 2013 FIA Formula One World Championship™.

C 63 AMG Estate: the Official F1® Medical Car

To accompany the Official F1® Safety Car in the 2013 season, Mercedes-AMG is once again providing the Official F1® Medical Car. As in the previous years since 2008, the C 63 AMG Estate will be responsible for ensuring a rapid emergency response in the event of an accident. The Medical Car follows the Formula 1® field during the initial lap, as the racing cars are still bunched extremely closely together during this critical phase of the race.

The 6.3-litre V8 engine of the C 63 AMG has the AMG Performance package and delivers an output of 358 kW (487 hp). High performance is also ensured by the variable coil-over suspension, the AMG high-performance braking system, AMG light-alloy wheels with tyre sizes 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear), the differential lock and 3-stage ESP®. Visually, the Medical Car is similar to the Safety Car: the light bar on the roof, the FIA and F1®logos, the stroboscopic LED lights at the front and rear, and the rear number plate illuminated with LEDs and with "Medical Car" lettering, distinguish the special Estate model from the standard production vehicle. To ensure the best possible airflow to the radiator, the AMG front apron also has larger intake apertures and side air vents.

Plenty of space in the boot for emergency equipment

The Official F1® Medical Car is driven by racing driver Alan van de Merwe (from South Africa); his co-driver is the official FIA Chief Medical Officer Dr Ian Roberts (from Great Britain). Two assisting medical personnel from a specially selected clinic near the race track sit in the rear. Four AMG sports bucket seats with six-point seat belts, two monitors integrated into the centre console for monitoring the race and a radio set for communicating with Race Control distinguish the interior of the Official F1® Medical Car from that of the standard production C 63 AMG Estate. There is plenty of space for all the emergency equipment – including a defibrillator and respiration apparatus – in the 485-litre luggage area of the C 63 AMG Estate.

18 years of Safety Cars and Medical Cars from Mercedes-AMG

Mercedes-AMG has extensive experience in the design, development and deployment of the Official F1® Safety Car and Official F1® Medical Car. The Affalterbach-based company has been active in the top echelons of international motorsport since 1996.

All the Mercedes-AMG Safety Cars at a glance

1996: C 36 AMG (W 202)
from 1997: CLK 55 AMG (C 208)
2000: CL 55 AMG (C 215)
from 2001: SL 55 AMG (R 230)
2003: CLK 55 AMG (C 209)
from 2004: SLK 55 AMG (R 171)
from 2006: CLK 63 AMG (C 209)
from 2008: SL 63 AMG (R 230)
from 2010: SLS AMG (C 197)
since 2012 (Belgian GP): SLS AMG GT (C 197)

All the Mercedes-AMG Medical Cars at a glance

1996: C 36 AMG (W 202)
1997: C 36 AMG (W 202); E 60 AMG (W 210)
from 1998: C 55 AMG Estate (S 202)
from 2001: C 32 AMG Estate (S 203)
from 2004: C 55 AMG Estate (S 203)
since 2008: C 63 AMG Estate (S 204)

The F1 FORMULA 1 logo, F1, FORMULA 1, FIA FORMULA ONE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP, GRAND PRIX and related marks are trade marks of Formula One Licensing BV, a Formula One group company. All rights reserved.

~ Official photo and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

The New Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG 2013 (W 212/S 212): The Complete Video Gallery

Don't Copy From This Blog...

HIT PLAY AND ENJOY WATCHING!

Video Credits: Daimler AG /cms-GOMEX™

Copyright © 2013, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SPY: The 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class T-Modell Facelift (S 212) gets caught again

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The mid-life revamp of the E-Class will bring a new, powerful identity to the business class range of Mercedes-Benz. Each model of the lineup is prone to getting a completely revised front fascia and state-of-the-art assistance systems and telematics. The engine portfolio will also get some efficiency tweaks and output upgrades.

In a week, we shall get the first look at the new-generation E-Class for the 2013 model year, as Mercedes-Benz is expected to issue the first official pics and information on December, 13th. Following the C-Class approach, the new variants of the lineup will become more distinct through a visual treatment with great effect: the bottom-line version gets a classic chrome grille with grey louvres, the higher Elegance trim will be distinguished through its new, rounder chrome grille with black accents, whereas the range-topping Avantgarde model will get the dynamic Star grille for the first time in history.

Inside, changes will affect some key parts of the dashboard. The instrument cluster will feature new dials and a new arrangement, the HVAC and media interface will be updated according to the latest trend of the brand, the air vents and the central clock will be borrowed from the CLS-Class, while the liquid-crystal display will receive a new graphics technology so that it looks modern and vivid. Customers of the new E-Class Facelift will also have the chance to equip their Merc with the internet-based COMAND Online satnav & infotainment system. New storage compartments and revised ergonomy for a more intuitive use are also among the strategies to destined to freshen up the luxurious dashboard. Last, but not least, new multifunctional steering wheels with four and three spokes will also be offered.

Stay tuned to www.mercedesgla.blogspot.com as new images and details could leak out very soon!

Image Credits: Autoevolution

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SPY: Fresh pics of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Limousine and T-Modell Facelift (W 212 & S 212)

Don't Copy From This Blog...

The future looks bright for the E-Class. The executive model from Mercedes-Benz is currently subject to intense development work ahead of the launch of the all new 2013 generation. Long before the future W/S 213 series arrives on the market, the refreshed W/S 212 E-Class announces a design revolution for the Stuttgart-based constructor. Already widely recognized is the fact the new E-Class Facelift will mark the return to the single-unit headlights and the discontinuation of distinctive four-eyed front fascia.

If one might feel nostalgic for the oval lights, we say there is no need to worry. Most certainly, the finished result will be remarkable and will definitely offer a daring, dynamic presence for the premium model. The new headlamps will incorporate a high dose of clever technology, like the LED Intelligent Light System and the infrared projector for the Night View Assist Plus technology.

Another characteristical part of the new face is the prominent radiator grille, with its clearly traced details. The criticized Ponton crease will be slightly toned down and somehow integrated in the design of the side profile and thus become less visible. The tail lights will also receive a new shape and revised inner graphics based on LED technology, that should offer a spectacular show when lit up at night.

Even though it will remain mainly rectangular, the dashboard will get new controls and equipment straight from the CLS-Class. Remarkable is the new center console, defined by the new HVAC and COMAND Online control panels as well as the beautiful clock surrounded by the rounder air vents covered in aluminium, which give the E-Class a new, more self-assured look. The quality of the materials used for personalizing the interior will also be upgraded to a new level thanks to the introduction of foam-based high-rank plastics and refined upholstery and trim choices.

The engines for the new E-Class Facelift will basically be the same as for the current model. Upgrades are planned for the range-topping variants. The upcoming E 350 BE with V6 engine grows from 306 hp to 333 hp, the new E 500 BE with V8 power now offers 435 hp, while the output of the E 63 AMG could also be increased by 12 hp up to 537 hp (564 hp for the model equipped with Performance Package).

Shortly after the world premiere slated for NAIAS Detroit 2013, the new E-Class Facelift lineup will be available for sale at authorized dealers across Europe, USA and Asia beginning with March next year. In Germany, the price for an entry-level model should not exceed 40,000 euros.

Image Credits: WorldCarFans / GermanCarForum / Autoevolution / Motor Authority

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More

SPY: First shots revealing the dashboard of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class FL (W/S 212)

Don't Copy From This Blog...

Mercedes-Benz will release the first details and photos of its new, restyled 2013 model year E-Class range (W/S 212) by mid-December, with the official premiere due to take place in January at the Detroit Motor Show. Although we are talking about a car that gets a refreshment in the middle of its programmed lifespan, the business models of the German carmaker will receive multiple upgrades, both in the design and technology departments. While the E-Class Facelift will not entirely be a revolution, it will definitely be a very attractive choice in the premium segment where it belongs to.

During this time, engineers continue the hard work at finishing the 2013 E-Class series with various testing sessions held all across the globe. The last scoops have recently been captured on the Nurburgring circuit in Germany, when a heavily camouflaged S 212 T-Modell prototype was spotted by the watchful automotive photographers.

In a previous article (see HERE), we have discussed about the exterior looks of the new-generation E-Class, so we will not insist on this part, but rather focus on the interior, as the first-ever shots that reveal the dashboard of the model have emerged on the internet lately. Even though the photos lack quality due to some inherent darkness the heavy cladding, we can decide upon several visible arguments.

The current specification of the E-Class proposes a rough, very cold approach to premium styling when we look at the dashboard. Inspired from the 124 generation, the 212 series has been a true a remake of the automotive icon of the late '80s. However, an update is always welcome and the facelift version will display a reworked interior. The dashboard has been functionally improved with new commands and controls and will boast a styling similar to that of the CLS. Softer, rounder lines instead of the squares and angles you've been familiar with, a new multi-functional steering wheel, as well as a new instrument cluster, a bigger and more lightful LCD display for the COMAND Online infotainment assistant and a revised center console are expected. Moreso, the 2013 E-Class FL will share the air vents and the central clock with the luxury 4-door coupe. For a refined atmosphere, the quality of materials and components used for the interior has been radically improved. A rich list of personalization choices will wait for the clients to choose the configuration that best suites their tastes: Nappa, Alcantara, ARTICO leather upholstery in various tones; walnut, oak, ash tree wood or aluminium trims; plus the dedicated designo customization programme.

Image Credits: Gmotors.co.uk

Copyright © 2012, mercedesgla. All rights reserved.

Read More