The new CL 63 AMG marks the start of a new chapter in the “AMG Performance 2015″ drive strategy: Mercedes-AMG is continuing this impressive story and is meeting its promise to continuously improve fuel consumption and reduce emissions of new models with the new engine/transmission combination – while reaching new heights with the central AMG brand value of “performance”.

According to Ola Källenius, head of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “We are heading into a new era with the CL 63 AMG: for the first time we have combined spray-guided direct petrol injection with biturbocharging and the stop/start system. Together with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, we have improved fuel consumption and reduced emissions significantly – while at the same time increasing output and torque.”

Together with the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission, the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine will play a significant role in the Mercedes-AMG model strategy over the coming year. The new engine/transmission combination marks a further milestone in the successful history of Mercedes-AMG, which began back in 1967.

Direct petrol injection and twin turbocharging

Designated internally as the M157, the new V8 engine is a prime example of efficiency and features a whole host of impressive technological highlights: for the first time Mercedes-AMG is taking advantage of direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion and piezo injectors. This technology enables improved fuel economy thanks to higher thermodynamic efficiency, which in turns leads to lower exhaust emissions. AMG has combined the spray-guided combustion with biturbocharging. Other highlights of the innovative, original eight-cylinder engine from Affalterbach include full aluminium crankcase, four-valve technology with variable intake valve timing, air/water charge air cooling, generator management and also standard start/stop function. Compared with the AMG 6.3-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with a displacement of 6208 cc, the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine achieves all this with a displacement of 5461 cc.

This high-tech package leads to a high output and torque yield, together with fuel consumption figures that are unrivalled in the competitive line-up. The AMG 5.5 litre V8 biturbo engine develops a peak output of 544 hp and maximum torque of 800 Nm. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package these figures are increased to 571 hp and 900 Nm. A look at the performance diagrams shows that no other engine in this output class achieves the figures delivered by the new AMG biturbo. The major difference between the two performance classes is an increase in the maximum charge pressure from 1.0 to 1.3 bar. In addition, the engine cover of the CL 63 AMG with the AMG Performance package comes with high-quality carbon-fibre applications.

Quantum leap: fuel consumption improvement of 38 per cent

With an fuel consumption of 26.9 mpg, the new CL 63 AMG is 7.4 mpg more economical than the previous model powered by the naturally aspirated AMG 6.3-litre V8 – despite an increase in maximum power of 19 hp and 46 hp respectively, and in torque of 170 and 270 Nm. Engine specialists consider this achieved fuel saving of more than 25 percent to be nothing less than a quantum leap. CO2 emissions have also been significantly reduced: at 244 grams per kilometre, the figure is 29 percent lower than for the previous model. Both performance variants have identical fuel consumption and CO2 figures.

With figures like these, the new CL 63 AMG is not only considerably better than all its competitors, but also more fuel-efficient than much less powerful cars in this segment.

Sports car-level performance

At the same time the CL 63 AMG delivers superior performance at sports car
level: the Coupé accelerates from 0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds, and has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The 62 mph mark is reached in just 4.4 seconds with the AMG Performance package, with the top speed increased to an electronically limited 186 mph.

It is not only the unrivalled torque delivery of this turbocharged eight-cylinder that makes the heart beat faster, as the agile responsiveness with no irritating charger delay also leads to an effortlessness and dynamism previously unknown in this output class. All perfectly matched by the characteristic and powerful, sonorous engine note. Moreover, this AMG high-performance engine naturally meets all
the requirements with respect to smooth, quiet running and the comfort on long journeys that is to be expected of a Mercedes.

Key data at a glance :

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission

Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission used exclusively by AMG. It combines high emotional appeal with outstanding driving dynamics and a high level of efficiency. A wet start-up clutch replaces a conventional torque converter, and helps to save fuel. The exemplary fuel economy is also in large measure due to the standard stop/start function. This system is active in the transmission’s Controlled Efficiency (“C”) mode, and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the car comes to a stop. In “C” mode the coupé always starts off in second gear, and the transmission shifts to the next, higher gears at a decidedly early stage. With its high torque at low engine speeds, the V8 engine encourages a smooth, effortless driving style.

The eight-cylinder biturbo engine also features a generator management system: whenever the engine is on the overrun or when braking, kinetic energy is used to charge the battery rather than being wasted as heat in the usual way. In all other operating modes a combination of onboard network and generator management enables the generator to be kept at a low voltage.

Engine production – tradition of hand-built excellence

Like all other AMG engines, the new eight-cylinder biturbo is assembled by
hand in the AMG engine shop taken into commission in 2002. Highly-qualified technicians assemble the M157 according to the “one man, one engine” philosophy, maintaining the very strictest quality standards. This painstaking care is attested to by the signature on the characteristic AMG engine plate.

New AMG triple-spoke light-alloy wheels

In visual terms, the new CL 63 AMG has an even more athletic, confident appearance. The bonnet, headlamps, radiator grille, bicolour tail lamps and the newly designed AMG bodystyling all add more dynamism. The “V8 Biturbo” lettering on the mudguards points to the new powertrain. Also featuring a new look are the AMG triple-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey and with a high-sheen finish, and fitted with 255/40 and 275/40 R 19 tyres. New in the interior are the AMG sports steering wheel with silver-coloured aluminium shift paddles and specially shaped grip area covered with perforated nappa leather, as well as the “AMG V8 Biturbo” start screen in the AMG instrument cluster. As a new optional extra, SPLITVIEW is also available for the COMAND multimedia system.

Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brake and crosswind stabilisation

With immediate effect, standard equipment on the CL 63 AMG now includes the Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brake and crosswind stabilisation. With its variable ratio depending on steering angle, the Direct-Steer system helps to ensure a more direct response when cornering, and therefore more responsive handling – in brief: enhanced driving pleasure at the wheel of the Mercedes-AMG CL-Class. Thanks to brief direct application of the brakes on the vehicle’s inner rear wheel when cornering, the Torque Vectoring Brake, meanwhile, helps to ensure that the V8 coupé corners precisely and under control at all times. The Torque Vectoring Brake is an additional feature of the Electronic Stability
Program ESP® and not only noticeably improves responsiveness but also active handling safety in critical conditions.

The AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control (ABC) now also provides crosswind stabilisation as an additional function: thanks to this feature, influences caused by crosswinds are compensated for, or – in the case of strong gusts – reduced to a minimum. ABC compensates against the effect of crosswinds by adjusting the wheel load distribution within milliseconds, using the yaw-rate and lateral acceleration sensors of the ESP®.

Based on the ADAPTIVE BRAKE system with large compound brake discs all round, the AMG high-performance braking system continues to set the benchmark for stopping power, sensitivity and fade resistance.

A unique combination of driver-assistance systems

The unique combination of innovative camera and radar-based driver-assistance systems has been enhanced even further with immediate effect with a view to perfecting the vehicle’s active and passive safety. New optional extras now available for the CL 63 AMG include Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind-Spot Assist. Active Lane Keeping Assist comes into play when the CL 63 AMG unintentionally strays over a solid line on the right or left of a lane or on the outside of a bend. In such cases the Electronic Stability Program ESP® applies the brakes to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle to prevent it from unintentionally straying from its lane.

Also new is the Active Blind Spot Assist, which warns the driver by displaying a red warning in the glass of the relevant exterior mirror when it detects that changing lanes would be too dangerous. If the driver ignores the warning signal and a vehicle in an adjacent lane comes too close, the ESP® takes corrective action by applying the brakes to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle.

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• SLS AMG E-CELL
• MERCEDES-AMG BUILDS THE BEST SPORTS ENGINE

The new generation of Mercedes-Benz Viano raises the benchmark for comfort, material quality and efficiency in large-capacity vehicles to a whole new level. The improved interior of both cockpit and passenger compartment sets new standards, as does an efficient new drive system. The vehicle’s unique BlueEFFICIENCY technology, which comes as standard, ensures maximum fuel economy and minimum environmental impact. The new suspension offers comfort in conjunction with driving enjoyment and active safety, while the fresh styling of the Viano takes cues from the current Mercedes-Benz passenger car range to give the Viano a character all of its own.

Interior: comfort and operating convenience better than ever

New interior trim materials improve the look of the Viano significantly and improve its inherent functionality further still. A key feature of a new lighting concept for the passenger compartment is the impressive ambient lighting system. This comprises individual LED reading lamps as well as fibre optic units, while the whole system can be dimmed. New optional extras such as the Rear Seat Entertainment system enhance passenger travel comfort. Both driver and passengers ride in style on seats with redesigned upholstery. The upgrading of the cockpit ranges from new control buttons to a four-spoke multi-function steering wheel. All vehicle occupants benefit from significantly reduced noise levels.

New suspension enhances ride comfort, driving enjoyment and active safety 

At the heart of the new suspension is a combination of ride comfort, driving enjoyment and active safety that takes the handling safety as well as the comfort of the vehicle to new levels. Both front and rear axles have been revised in every detail and specially tuned to match each specific model. As a result the Viano’s handling is precise, predictable and safe, while it also delivers excellent performance in terms of comfort, ride and noise.  

Drive system: extremely clean and economical BlueEFFICIENCY technology

Exceptional efficiency, delivering low emissions and fuel consumption, is key to the new drive system. In all versions, the Viano meets EU 5 emission standards. CO₂ emissions could be reduced by up to 15 percent compared with the previous models, and fuel efficiency improved, giving record performance.

In conjunction with the sophisticated engineering of the current generation of four and six-cylinder Mercedes-Benz engines, this is achieved through the BlueEFFICIENCY technology that comes as standard on the new generation Viano. This encompasses on-demand activation of major assemblies, an ECO start/stop system and optimised low-resistance tyres. The new six-speed transmission, standard in combination with all four-cylinder diesel engines, also helps reduce emissions and improve fuel consumption.

The smooth-running four and six-cylinder diesel and petrol engines in the Viano range in output from 126 hp to 258 hp.

New look emphasises independent character

Externally, the new generation Mercedes-Benz Viano is differentiated from previous models by a new, distinctive headlamp design reminiscent of the current Mercedes-Benz passenger car range and by a redesigned rear end. This gives the Mercedes-Benz Viano a more independent character than ever before.

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• NEW CL 63 AMG
• SLS AMG E-CELL

Mercedes-AMG is accepting the challenges of motoring of the future: the SLS AMG E-CELL is evidence of the state-of-the-art development of an exciting super sports car featuring a zero-emission high-tech drive. Boasting a power output of 535 hp and 880 Nm of torque, the technology vehicle from AMG is able to offer exceptional performance. The gullwing with electric drive is part of the company strategy entitled "AMG Performance 2015" which aims to continually improve fuel consumption and lower emissions.

With the SLS AMG E-CELL, Mercedes-AMG is providing a glimpse of its latest development project – a powerful and locally emission-free super sports car. Finished in fluorescent "AMG lumilectric magno" paint, the gullwing offers the prospect of a possible small series production run and at the same time reflects the innovative strength and development competence of the AMG performance brand.

"We take social responsibility very seriously and with the SLS AMG E-CELL we are demonstrating a further milestone in our "AMG Performance 2015" strategy. It is our goal to continually reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of new models in the coming years, while at the same time enhancing the core brand value of performance", explains Ola Källenius, chairman of the board (from 1 July 2010) of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. With the SLS AMG E-CELL, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz is launching a totally innovative drive solution for super sports cars and as such is among the pioneers in this market segment.

The ground-breaking drive system of the technology vehicle boasts some outstanding features: powerful traction is provided by four synchronous electric motors with a combined peak output of 525 hp and a maximum torque of 880 Nm. The four compact electric motors each achieve a maximum rpm of 12,000/rpm and are positioned near to the wheels.  As a result, compared with wheel-hub
motors the unsprung masses are substantially reduced. One transmission per axle transmits the power.

Acceleration from zero to 62 mph in 4 seconds

When it comes to dynamics, the electrically-powered SLS AMG makes a statement: the gullwing model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4 seconds – which almost puts it on the same high level as the SLS AMG with 6.3-litre V8 engine developing 571 hp, which can accelerate to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds.

Further exciting touches are provided courtesy of the agile accelerator response and the straight-line performance: unlike the combustion engine, torque build-up with an electric motor is instantaneous – maximum torque is available virtually from a standstill. The spontaneous torque build-up and confident power delivery – which does not suffer from any interruption of tractive power – are combined with engine running characteristics which are totally free of vibration. Four motors, four wheels: the intelligent and permanent all-wheel drive of the electric SLS guarantees driving dynamics at the highest level, while at the same time providing the best possible active safety. Perfect traction is therefore ensured for all four driven wheels, whatever the weather conditions.

This very special gullwing is therefore able to "electrify" the driver with a completely unique, effortlessly superior and emotional super sports car driving sensation – and this is just at the prototype stage. In brief: the SLS AMG E-CELL is a true AMG too.

High-voltage lithium-ion battery provides 400 v and 40 Ah

The SLS AMG E-CELL drive incorporates a liquid-cooled high-voltage lithium-ion battery featuring a modular design with an energy content of 48 kWh and a capacity of 40 Ah. The maximum electric load potential of the battery, which consists of 324 lithium-ion polymer cells, is 480 kW, which is an absolute best value in the automotive sector. Another technical feature of this considerable performance is the intelligent parallel circuit of the individual battery modules – this also helps to maximise the safety, reliability and service life of the battery. The 400-volt battery is charged by means of targeted recuperation during braking whilst the car is being driven.

Key data at a glance:

High-performance electronic control as well as effective cooling of all components

A high-performance electronic control system converts the direct current from the high-voltage battery into three-phase alternating current which is required for the synchronous motors and regulates the energy flow for all operating conditions. Two low-temperature cooling circuits ensure that the four electric motors and the power electronics are maintained at an even operating temperature. A separate low-temperature circuit is responsible for cooling the high-voltage lithium-ion battery. In low external temperatures, the battery is quickly brought up to operating temperature with the aid of an electric heating element. This helps to preserve the overall service life of the battery. In extremely high external temperatures, the cooling circuit for the battery can be additionally boosted with the aid of the air conditioning system.

Optimum weight distribution and low centre of gravity

The purely electric drive system was factored into the equation as early as the concept phase when the gullwing model was being developed. It is ideally packaged for the integration of the high-performance, zero-emission technology: by way of example, the four electric motors and the two transmissions can be positioned as close to the four wheels as possible and very low down in the vehicle. The same applies to the modular high-current battery, whose modules are located in front of the firewall, in the centre tunnel and behind the seats. Advantages of this solution include the vehicle’s low centre of gravity and balanced weight distribution – ideal conditions for optimum handling, which the electrically-powered SLS AMG shares with its petrol-driven sister model.

The installation of the drive components required no changes whatsoever to the gullwing model’s weight-optimised aluminium spaceframe. And there were just as few constraints when it came to maintaining the excellent level of passive safety and high degree of long-distance comfort that are hallmarks of Mercedes cars.

New front axle design with pushrod damper struts

The additional front-wheel drive called for a newly designed front axle: unlike the series production vehicle with AMG V8 engine, which has a double wishbone axle, the SLS AMG E-CELL features an independent multilink suspension with pushrod damper struts. This is because the vertically-arranged damper struts in the series SLS had to make way for the additional drive shafts. As is usual in a wide variety of racing vehicles, horizontal damper struts are now used, which are operated via separate push rods and transfer levers.

Thanks to this sophisticated front-axle design, which has already been tried and tested in the world of motor sport, the agility and driving dynamics of the electrically-powered SLS AMG attain the same high levels as the V8 variant. Another distinguishing feature is the speed-sensitive power steering with rack-and-pinion steering gear: the power assistance is implemented electrohydraulically rather than just hydraulically.

AMGceramic composite brakes for perfect deceleration

The technology vehicle is slowed with the aid of AMG ceramic composite brakes, available as an optional extra for the series production model, which boast extremely short stopping distances, a precise actuation point and outstanding fade resistance, even in extreme operating conditions. The over-sized discs – measuring 402 x 39 mm at the front and 360 x 32 mm at the rear – are made of carbon fibre-strengthened ceramic, feature an integral design all round and are connected to an aluminium bowl in a radially floating arrangement.

The ceramic brake discs are 40 percent lighter in weight than the conventional, grey cast iron brake discs. The reduction in unsprung masses not only improves handling dynamics and agility, but also ride comfort and tyre grip. The lower rotating masses at the front axle also ensure a more direct steering response – which is particularly noticeable when taking motorway bends at high speed. The ABS and ESP® systems have been adapted to match the special application spectrum of the permanent all-wheel drive.

Full-LED headlamps and automatically extending front splitter

The purist, exciting design of the technology vehicle boasts a number of minor yet extremely effective modifications. At the front, the dynamically shaped full-LED headlamps with integrated daytime driving lights immediately catch the eye: they help to optimise the vehicle’s energy efficiency, since they require less power compared with regular bi-xenon light systems. The wider radiator grille also has a new look, and now comes with transverse slats instead of a diamond-pattern grille. The air outlet openings on the bonnet and the vehicle sides have also been modified for enhanced aerodynamics. All trim and detachable parts, which are finished in chrome or silver shadow on the standard SLS AMG, are now finished in matt black.

The front apron has not only been brought further forward, but also helps to guarantee an optimised airflow in the area of the underbody. This improves air resistance while reducing downforce. An extendable front splitter enhances this effect: in parallel with the automatic rear spoiler, it extends downwards by seven centimetres at speeds above 75 mph and helps to further accelerate the air which travels beneath the car. When it reaches the area of the rear axle, the air enters the rear diffusor which, due to the lack of an exhaust system, features a steeper angle, thus increasing downforce at the rear axle and in turn further enhancing the aerodynamic balance. The vehicle’s AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels featuring a new, smooth-surfaced design are fitted with 265/35 R 19 (front) and
295/30 R 20 (rear) tyres.

Interior with new display instruments for electric drive

The transformation from petrol to electric super sports car also called for some specific changes to the interior. As a result, the AMG instrument cluster and centre console in particular both feature a new design. The new AMG instrument cluster provides information on speed, charge status of the battery and the estimated range. The newly designed centre console now houses a 25 cm touchscreen, which driver and passenger can use to conveniently operate all of the audio, climate and navigation functions, and also obtain information on the flow of power from the four electric motors.

The AMG Drive Unit, which is angled towards the driver, houses buttons for starting the motor, and the ESP® functions, the AMG memory function and the extendable front splitter and rear spoiler. Using three new buttons, the driver can switch simply between P, R and D. The park setting is also enabled automatically by switching the electric motors off.

The interior appointments are dominated by high-quality nappa leather in a black/white colour combination – it has been used not only on the sports seats, the performance leather/alcantara steering wheel and the door linings, but also on the broad centre tunnel which runs towards the back of the vehicle between the seats.

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• NEW CL 63 AMG

With a design perfected through an immaculate sense of style, highly exclusive appointments and cutting-edge technology, the extensively updated Mercedes-Benz CL-Class underscores its claim to supremacy as the summit of automotive refinement. The entirely re-designed 435 hp V8 biturbo engine of the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY, with a combined consumption of 29.73 mpg, opens a new dimension of efficiency in the luxury coupé category.

Its NEDC figures show savings of up to 23 percent over its predecessor model, CO₂ emissions having dropped from 288 grams per kilometre to 224 grams per kilometre. This significant reduction is achieved thanks to the newly-developed BlueDIRECT technology with third-generation spray-guided direct injection, with the contribution of the specially-designed BlueEFFICIENCY package of the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY.

The package includes, among other things, energy-efficient control of alternator, fuel pump, air-conditioning compressor and power-assisted steering system, as well as the ECO start/stop function. It also features the use of low rolling resistance tyres and the energy-optimised Active Body Control system. In addition, the Mercedes-Benz developers equipped the CL-Class with state-of-the-art multimedia technology, thus helping this model, produced with a high proportion of hand-finished work, to retain its position as the epitome of quality in its class.

With the new generation of the CL-Class, the Stuttgart-based automaker focuses on fuel consumption and exhaust gas emissions in the exclusive high-end segment, too. According to Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG: “The CL is the ideal ambassador for our brand. It combines in a particular degree those things that characterise Mercedes-Benz: fascination, perfection and responsibility. And with the new generation we have gone a step further, too – especially in the realm of efficiency. But in terms of design, safety, comfort and output, too – the CL shows the way forward: simply follow Mercedes”

In addition, a combination of cutting-edge camera and radar-based assistance systems unique in the luxury coupé segment, including the innovation of the Active Lane Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist systems, makes of the CL-Class a “thinking” partner of the driver. The modified Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilisation system and the Direct-Steer system also contribute to enhancing safety and driving enjoyment.

Design: a muscular, self-assured presence

The exterior appearance of the new CL-Class generation is characterised by the terse profile of the bonnet, the dynamic V-shape radiator grille and the curving headlamps – design details that discreetly but effectively emphasise the car’s elegant yet powerful lines.

The front bumper, too, presents a new design with three air intake openings and a chrome trim strip. An LED strip with chrome surround for the daytime running lights is elegantly integrated in the side openings for the brake cooling air. With their standard-fit Intelligent Light System (ILS) and Adaptive Highbeam Assist, the headlamps offer state-of-the-art illumination technology. The latest LED technology in the turn indicators and position marker lamps rounds off the car’s advanced image. The rear of the vehicle is characterised by the newly-designed tail lamps.

New V8 bi-turbo engine with innovative technology

The new-generation CL-Class also assumes a pioneering role in the drive system sector. Under the bonnet of the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY a new V8 biturbo engine with BlueDIRECT technology delivers its impressive power. With its 4663 cc displacement, the eight-cylinder engine produces 435 hp so that despite 0.8 litres less displacement, it is still around 12 percent more powerful than its predecessor, which had an output of 388 hp. At the same time, torque was raised from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – an increase of 32 percent. Combined consumption in the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), on the other hand, improves fuel consumption by 23 percent to 29.73 mpg. CO2 emissions consequently sink from 288 grams per kilometre to 224 grams per kilometre. The CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY requires a mere 4.9 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 62 mph (previous model: 5.4 seconds). Summing up: the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY is significantly more agile, torquey and thriftier than its predecessor.

The BlueDIRECT technology package of the V8 biturbo includes a series of new developments, unique in their combination. Worthy of mention among these is the third-generation spray-guided direct petrol injection with piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition with up to four ignition sparks within a millisecond. Together both enable an innovative combustion process called “homogenous split”. Other factors contributing to the exemplary low fuel consumption continue to be the consistent use of friction-optimised pistons, piston rings and cylinder barrels, the on-demand control of oil pump and the new three-phase thermal management in the coolant circuit. The luxury coupé’s package includes the ECOstart/stop function and alternator control in accordance with the handling situation and on-board voltage with kinetic energy recuperation in overrun mode.

The CL 600, which is be a special order model in the UK  boasts the 517 hp 12-cylinder biturbo engine and remains the top-of-the-line model: it accelerates the luxury coupé from a standstill to 62 mph in a breath-taking 4.6 seconds and now also complies with the Euro 5 emissions control standards.

A unique combination of driver-assistance systems

The new-generation CL-Class consolidates its position as an automotive masterwork and a technology platform of the Stuttgart-based company with the most advanced assistance and protection systems. These highly perceptive assistants convert the Mercedes model into a “thinking” partner that can see, feel and react instantly if it detects a hazard, acting autonomously to prevent accidents or to mitigate their effects. The trailblazing driver assistance systems in the CL-Class are based on state-of-the-art radar, camera and sensor technology.

Thus, in the new-generation CL-Class Active Lane Keeping Assist celebrates its premiere (at the same time as in the S-Class). If the vehicle threatens to cross a continuous lane marking line, the system actuates an electric motor in the steering wheel, causing it to vibrate briefly – giving the driver a discreet but effective warning hint to countersteer immediately. The active system springs into action if the Mercedes coupé unintentionally crosses a continuous lane marking line to the right or to the left. In this case, it intervenes by gently braking the wheels of the opposite side of the car, helping the driver to stay in the lane. In order to do this Active Lane Keeping Assist avails itself of the ESP^® Electronic Stability Program.

Active Lane-Keeping Assist evaluates information provided by a camera mounted on the inside of the windscreen. It identifies the contrast between the road surface and the lane marking lines. In addition to this, using radar the system scans the side of the roadway for crash barriers and other roadway edge markings. This Mercedes assistance system also evaluates the driver’s actions and can thus reliably determine whether the car is departing from the lane intentionally or not. For this reason, there is no warning if the driver accelerates hard just before overtaking or when accessing a motorway, or if he brakes hard or steers into a curve.

Targeted brake actuation: active Blind Spot Assist

A further innovation Mercedes-Benz offers for the CL-Class is active Blind Spot Assist, a system that makes use of a multi-stage warning concept. If it detects that a change of lane would be too dangerous, it warns the driver by displaying a red triangle in the glass of the exterior mirror. Close-range radar sensors monitor the area immediately to the side and to the rear of the car. If the driver disregards this warning and, for example, actuates the turn indicator, an audible warning also sounds. If the driver continues to ignore the warnings and comes dangerously close to a vehicle in the neighbouring lane, a novel feature of the system acts: a corrective braking intervention via ESP^® on the wheels of the opposite side of the vehicle. This causes a yaw movement about the car’s vertical axis due to the unequal distribution of the braking forces. If despite this course correction an accident cannot be avoided, the active Blind Spot Assist system can reduce the consequences of a collision through the brake actuation.

Assistants to see and be seen better

Adaptive Main Beam Assist is another standard-fit system featured by the CL-Class. This camera-based system can recognise oncoming vehicles or vehicles ahead with their lights on, and then controls the headlamps to ensure the best possible beam range without dazzling other road users. In addition, Mercedes-Benz offers the Night View Assist PLUS system for the CL-Class, featuring a special infra-red camera for pedestrian detection: as soon as the system detects pedestrians on the road ahead, these are highlighted additionally in the display, in order to catch the driver’s attention better.

The images supplied by the windscreen camera are also used by the new, optional Speed Limit Assist, which recognises speed limit signs in passing and shows the relevant speed limit in the central display and on the navigation system’s map display.

For the new-generation CL-Class, Mercedes-Benz has also improved the long and medium-range radar used by Brake Assist (BAS PLUS) and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity cruise control.

An “electronic crumple zone”: the PRE-SAFE^® Brake

Mercedes-Benz also offers another radar based system for the luxury coupé as a component of the driver assistance package PLUS in the form of the PRE-SAFE^® Brake. If the driver is distracted and fails to recognise the imminent danger of a rear-end collision or the warning signal of an assistance system, this system can intervene and brake the vehicle independently. If the driver fails to react even after automatic, partial braking action, this most recent development stage of the PRE-SAFE^® Brake activates the maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before what it now recognises as an unavoidable collision — an emergency braking action that can significantly mitigate the severity of the impact. The PRE-SAFE^® Brake thus acts as a kind of “electronic crumple zone”.

Warns driver of overtiredness: ATTENTION ASSIST

Overtiredness is one of the most common causes of accidents. This is why Mercedes experts have developed the ATTENTION ASSIST system which forms part of the standard equipment of the new generation CL-Class. As the vehicle is being driven, the system continuously evaluates more than 70 different parameters in order to identify driver drowsiness and provide a warning before the dangerous microsleep phase begins. Observing the driver’s steering behaviour has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes-Benz have shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in a characteristic way. This steering behaviour is recognised by a special steering angle sensor. Observing the driver’s eyes cannot always provide conclusive evidence of sleep since many drivers can experience micro-sleep with their eyes open.

Active Body Control reduces the effect of a crosswind

The CL-Class also meets the highest standards in terms of driving dynamics and agility. This is in part thanks to Direct-Steer, with a steering ratio that varies with the steering angle, and modified Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilisation (standard for CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY and CL 600). This latest stage in active body development modifies the wheel load distribution via the ABC spring struts within milliseconds, depending on crosswind direction and intensity, to the extent that it can largely compensate the effects of the crosswind.

The Active Body Control suspension system with which Mercedes-Benz ushered in new dimensions of driving dynamics in the preceding C 215 model series in 1999, is unique worldwide as it not only regulates roll, but pitching and squatting movements as well, ensuring a perfect harmony of comfort and handling stability. Since the introduction of this innovative system, engineers in Sindelfingen have continuously improved on it, so that eleven years later it still marks the summit of automotive engineering. In addition to crosswind stabilisation, the new suspension features an energy-optimised hydraulic pump that takes part of the burden off the engine, contributing towards reducing fuel consumption. 

Additional safety and agility at the physical limits is provided by the standard-fit Torque Vectoring Brake in the new-generation CL-Class – targeted, one-sided braking intervention at the inside rear wheel when cornering. This enables the luxury coupé to turn into the bend under precise control with even greater agility.

On-board infotainment: the most advanced multimedia technology

In line with its serene character and claim to be a technological masterwork, the CL-Class also sets standards where onboard infotainment is concerned. Thus, the Stuttgart automotive manufacturer equips its flagship model with the new SPLITVIEW technology for the COMAND control and display system centrally located in the centre console. This innovative display concept allows the driver and front passenger to view different contents simultaneously on one and the same screen. While the driver e.g. uses the map-based navigation system, the front passenger can be watching a film on DVD.

The standard COMAND control and display system with Bluetooth^®, USB and SD card interfaces offers customers the possibility of exporting their stored data to other vehicles and multimedia devices. It is also possible to transfer and update navigation data. In the glove compartment Mercedes-Benz also integrates a Media Interface as standard – the interface is for mobile audio and video devices – devices such as the iPod^® and every other possible customer device.

COMAND also includes a Europe-wide navigation system whose data are stored on a 40-Gigabyte hard disc, enabling extremely rapid route calculation. Another factor contributing to a high level of navigation comfort is the detailed three-dimension map display including updates free of charge for three years. For musical entertainment COMAND provides a radio, a CD/DVD player with MP3 function, an equalizer with speed-dependent volume control and the MUSIC REGISTER with a 7.2 GB hard disc which stores around 2500 digital music files in MP3, AAC or WMA format. The system recognises music files played on CD, DVD or from the MUSIC REGISTER using its stored Gracenote® database, and shows the title, album and performer in the colour display. Another new function, Music Search, enables CL-Class drivers and passengers to search SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music titles and performers.

The Navigation package also includes the latest-generation LINGUATRONIC voice control system that controls the navigation, telephone and audio devices via whole-word input. Benefit: the driver no longer needs to spell out his commands but simply speaks the corresponding words as whole words when entering the destination or choosing a radio station or a music title from the Music Register, or when calling up a name from the phone book.

The further developed surround sound system with Discrete Logic7^® technology developed by Mercedes-Benz together with audio specialists Harman Kardon^® delivers an outstanding performance with three-dimensional sound as a natural 360-degree musical experience for all passengers of the CL-Class. Mercedes-Benz offers the surround sound system together with SPLITVIEW and a six-disc DVD changer as part of the Entertainment Package (standard for CL 600).

Interior: carefully selected materials and first-class finish

In the interior, too, Mercedes-Benz developers and designers perfected the CL-Class, paying careful attention to detail. A total of four different kinds of fine wood open up the possibilities for perfectly matched material and colour concepts according to your personal taste: apart from light and dark high-gloss burr walnut, there is black ash and high-gloss brown poplar (CL 600). Another particularity: in line with the central importance awarded to the concept of sustainability within the Mercedes-Benz corporate philosophy, the CL-Class employs only European wood from renewable forestry sources. Most of the wood parts are hand-made and matched individually for colour and grain by experienced craftsmen.

The seat covers of the new CL-Class are of the most exquisite quality. For this luxury model there are two different kinds of leather available which thanks to their low pre-tensioning and consequent wrinkle effect appear supple and comfortable from the very first glance. There is a choice of five tasteful colour combinations for the vehicle interior: black/black, savannah beige/cashmere beige, sahara beige/black, and the novel combinations alpaca grey/basalt grey and aubergine/black.

The multifunction steering wheel of the CL-Class has also been modified by the Mercedes-Benz designers: in future the rim and airbag module are lined with soft nappa leather as standard. The new, flatter airbag module also lends a sporty touch to the multifunction steering wheel covered in leather sewn with sophisticated double stitching.

Apart from this, Mercedes-Benz makes more use of light as a styling element in the vehicle interior. In future customers who specify the optional ambient lighting (standard for CL 600) have a choice between three lighting moods: solar (amber), neutral (white) and polar (ice blue).

Tradition: an exclusive line of ancestors

The new generation CL-Class continues the great tradition of Mercedes-Benz coupés, which reaches back to the legendary supercharged cars of the 1920s and ’30s. Since the 1950s in particular, the brand with the three-pointed star has produced an uninterrupted series of exclusive two-door cars which combine sophisticated design with trailblazing technology – every model an automotive classic. The W 188 model series 300 S Coupé which entered series production in 1952 marked the beginning. A contemporary report called it the “measure of what it is possible to achieve in automotive engineering”.

This statement has retained its full validity for all subsequent models, right down to the current CL-Class of model series C 216, because the luxury coupés from Mercedes-Benz featured – apart from their timeless design and the highest level of comfort – trailblazing innovations in automotive technology. Thus it was that in 1961 the 220 SE Coupé was the first series-production Mercedes-Benz to be equipped with disc brakes. In 1995 the ESP Electronic Stability Program celebrated its world premiere in the S 600 Coupé of model series C 140, and in 1999 the Active Body Control suspension system was introduced for the first time in the CL-Class, model series C 215. With the PRE-SAFE^® brake a further technological innovation made its debut in a large Mercedes-Benz coupé. In the new CL-Class generation, two new developments, Active Lane Keeping Assist and the Active Blind Spot Assist, will help prevent accidents or reduce their severity.

Model range

Luxury and performance

• Perfect combinations: equipment packages and driver assistance systems
• CL 500: great efficiency and more power
• Exclusive individuality: the AMG Sports package and designo

For decades now, the great coupés from Mercedes-Benz have represented motoring refinement of the highest level. Exceptional design, craftsmanship and pioneering technology flow together, blending into a style-generating unity. The history of the great two-door cars bearing the three-pointed star goes back to the large supercharged cars of the 1920s and ’30s. The new CL-Class generation continues in this great unbroken tradition of automotive masterworks.

With targeted design modifications such as the new, more strongly pointed radiator grille, the new front bumper with integrated LED strips for the daytime running lamps and the standard bi-xenon headlamps, the Mercedes developers cultivated the poise and dynamism expressed in the design language of the two-door car in a contemporary manner. The high technological level exemplified by Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilisation sets new standards in driving dynamics and comfort. And with safety systems such as the ATTENTION ASSIST weariness recognition system, active Blind Spot Assist, active Lane Keeping assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and automatic PRE-SAFE^® full brake application, the CL-Class takes pole position in the luxury coupé class.

This is also true of the engine line-up: the entirely re-developed V8 biturbo engine with a displacement of 4.6 litres, 435 hp output, a torque of 700 Newton-metres and spray-guided direct petrol injection in the CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY achieves top marks in its class in terms of efficiency, with a consumption of 29.73 mpg on the combined cycle. This means fuel savings of up to 23 percent over the predecessor model.

CO₂ emissions drop from 288 to 224 grams per kilometre. At the same time, output climbs by 47 hp compared with the 5.5-litre naturally aspirated engine in the preceding model.

The special order CL 600 is the renowned summit of the drive units, with its 517 hp V12 5.5-litre biturbo engine developing a torque of 830 Nm.

The high-value appointments and equipment of the luxury coupé obey the highest standards of exclusivity and individuality. An extract from the list of the car’s standard equipment:

• Active Body Control with crosswind stabilisation
• Adaptive driver and front-passenger airbags
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist
• Adaptive brake lights
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission (CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY)
• Automatic steering wheel adjustment for entry and exit
• Bluetooth^®, SD, USB, AUX-IN audio and video interface
• Brake Assist (BAS)
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE
• AMG Sports Package
• COMAND system with CD/DVD player, SD card slot, USB interface and Gracenote^® data base
• DIRECT SELECT gearshift
• Direct-Steer system
• ECOstart/stop function (CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY)
• ESP^® with acceleration skid control (ASR)
• Headlamp assist
• Electric parking brake
• Belt tensioners on all seats
• Intelligent Light System with country light, motorway mode, extended fog light function, active light function and cornering light function
• Leather upholstery
• 18-inch light-alloy wheels
• Memory package for seats, steering wheel and exterior mirrors
• Metallic paintwork
• Nappa leather multifunction steering wheel
• PARKTRONIC with Parking Guidance
• PRE-SAFE^®
• Rain sensor with two sensitivity levels
• Tyre pressure loss warning system
• Tilting/sliding glass sunroof, electric, with PRE-SAFE^® function
• Door power closing
• Front and rear seatbelts with automatic comfort-fit feature
• Sidebags front and rear
• Heated front seats
• LED daytime running lamps integrated in bumper
• Telephone keypad
• Cruise control
• Doorhold
• Four-zone automatic climate control
• Front seats with electric fore/aft and height adjustment with lumbar support and PRE-SAFE^® positioning function
• Tinted, sound-insulating, infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round
• Windowbags

Equipment packages: substantial benefits thanks to perfect combinations

To enable drivers to benefit to the greatest extent from the advanced assistance systems and comfort elements, Mercedes-Benz offers certain innovations as packages upon request. This guarantees that the systems complement each other perfectly.

• In the Driving Assistance package PLUS Mercedes-Benz mainly combines systems that can actively help to prevent rear-end collisions: the radar-based proximity cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS, Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE-SAFE^® Brake. This equipment package also includes Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist.
• An exclusive audio experience and optimum video entertainment for the front passenger is provided by the Front Seat Entertainment package. It includes the SPLITVIEW display, the 6-disc DVD changer and the Harman Kardon^® Discrete Logic 7^® surround sound system with headphones and remote control (standard for CL 600).

The CL 600: the summit of driving refinement

Mercedes-Benz stylishly underlines the exceptional status of the twelve-cylinder CL 600 with numerous distinguishing features in the exterior and interior. In addition to the model-specific radiator grille with two twin louvres, these include the V12 emblem on the flanks, model-specific, five-spoke 18-inch light-alloy wheels in a bi-colour look and a large range of standard option packages. Standard ex-factory specifications include:

• Navigation package
• Front Seat Entertainment package
• Reversing camera
• KEYLESS-GO
• Convenience telephony
• Anti-Theft Protection package

The front active multicontour seats and the rear seats are upholstered with particularly supple “PASSION” leather, decorated with a special V12 fluting pattern, as is the Alcantara roof liner. Among other things, the upper and lower sections of the dashboard, the door centre panels, rear shelf and ruffled pockets on driver and front passenger backrest are covered in this high-quality leather. Apart from the roof liner, the interior trim of the A, B and C pillars is also clothed in Alcantara leather. Luxury head restraints at front and rear bearing the V12 emblem also enhance travelling enjoyment. The V12 symbol on the backrests makes reference to the exclusive character of the vehicle. On entry, the V12 emblem lights up in the instrument cluster. Trim elements in fine high-gloss brown poplar wood, chrome-plated door sills and boot sill, together with the standard ambient lighting, round off the serene character of the Mercedes-Benz CL 600.

designo and designo Selection: individual and exclusive

For further individualisation, customers can now also choose from a restructured range of designo features for the CL-Class, which further underscore the exclusive hand-finish character of the luxury model. Ten different designo paint finishes can be combined with ten designo aniline leather interiors and four natural leather interiors – with practically no limitations on personal taste. For designo wood trim, customers have a choice between natural-grain maple and natural-grain matt oak. Trim in black piano lacquer and champagne white piano lacquer can also be ordered.

Two kinds of fine authentic granite trim are available for the CL-Class: Labrador blue pearl and Star Galaxy black. These trim elements are made by cutting 0.6 to 0.8 mm thin stone wafers which are then coated with an adhesive layer to ensure that every grain remains exactly where it is. These thin plates are then ground between two rollers. The result is a visually undisturbed, extremely thin stone sheet, pliable thanks to the adhesive layer applied, which enables it to be moulded around narrow edges, too.

With designo Selection, Mercedes-Benz is offering a special, high-end package of designo features for the CL-Class. Customers can configure their car according to their personal preferences and taste from the different designo aniline leather upholstery, wood trim elements and paint work available. The highlight is designo lettering in solid 18-carat gold on the rear air conditioning unit cover. This is exclusive to the designo Selection. The designo wood/leather steering wheel and the designo roof liner in black nappa leather or Alcantara in cashmere beige, anthracite or alpaca grey round off the refined atmosphere of the car’s interior.

AMG Sports package: CL-Class with a striking sporty character

The AMG Sports package with AMG bodystyling and AMG light-alloy wheels gives the luxurious two-door car an even more dynamic look. At the front the newly-designed front apron ensures an imposing, muscular appearance. Its distinguishing feature is a tapered air intake with a wider lower edge. The side skirts continue the design of the front bumper, with striking contours that find an echo in the rear apron. The independent rear bumper with a black insert is the perfect finishing touch.

Further highlights include the 19-inch AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in sterling silver. With their broad format 255/40 (front) and 275/40 (rear), not only do they fill the wheel houses perfectly, lending the CL-Class an exceptionally dynamic presence, but also enhance its handling characteristics even more. In addition, silver-colour painted brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering on the front axle wheels emphasise its sporty appearance. The CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY with AMG Sports package is fitted with 255/40 R 19 tyres on both front and rear axles. Optionally, 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in twin-spoke design with tyre sizes 255/35 and 275/35 are also available.

Wood trim and the wood/leather steering wheel in black ash give the high-quality vehicle interior a very special feel. The standard AMG Sports package also includes sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with black rubber studs and velour floor mats with AMG lettering.

At a glance

Technical highlights of the Mercedes-Benz
CL-Class

       *Selection       

*** Not available in all countries

Mercedes-Benz CL 500 BlueEFFICIENCY

*acc. to VDA measuring method; ** incl. 75 kg for driver and luggage; *** combined

Mercedes-Benz CL 600

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Mercedes-Benz UK has launched an exclusive new model, the C-Class DR 520 with more power and performance than any other C-Class.  Only 20 units of this car will be available, and it is sold exclusively through the company’s Specialist Products division at Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands, Surrey.

Based on the high-performance C 63 AMG, the DR 520 has a performance upgrade and boasts 520 hp and 650 Nm of torque, a 60 hp and 50 Nm advantage over than the standard C 63 AMG.  The DR 520 Saloon can reach 0-62 mph in just 4.1 seconds with the Estate achieving the same in 4.2 seconds, and both are electronically limited to a top speed of 187 mph.

The AMG Performance Pack Plus is fitted to the DR 520 as standard and features AMG’s high-performance braking system with red calipers, with the addition of engine upgrades in the form of forged pistons, newly-developed connecting rods and a revised crankshaft, as well as an AMG Carbon Fibre rear spoiler for the Saloon.

Available with a black or white matt wrap and complimented by Titanium finish alloy wheels, grille and discreet DR 520 badging on the wing and the boot lid, the DR 520 combines stealthy looks with potent performance.

Inside, the sports seats are upholstered in leather and exclusive Alcantara finished with red or white contrast stitching, as is the dashboard and upper door panels.  The multi-function AMG Performance steering wheel is clad in Nappa leather and Alcantara.

Nigel Unsworth, Specialist Products Division Manager commented:  “We wanted to launch the Specialist Products Division with something unique – and the DR 520 fits the bill perfectly.  Mercedes-Benz World is located at Brooklands, and there’s a proud history of ‘Brooklands Specials’ being sold here over the years.  The DR 520 – which is dyno-rated at 520 hp – is our chance to create an exclusive model in the UK.  It’s a great opportunity for us to offer our customers who enjoy sports and supercars a bespoke car with even more performance than the already very successful C 63 AMG.  And as well as the increased performance, it looks incredible, too.”

The DR 520 costs £9,995 above the standard C 63 AMG price, making the DR 520 Saloon £62,430 OTR and the Estate £63,680 OTR.  The cars are also backed by a three-year, 60,000 mileage warranty.

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The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine took away two top accolades as part of the coveted “International Engine of the Year Awards 2010″: the high-revving naturally aspirated engine developing up to 386 kW/525 hp comfortably took top spot in the “Best Performance Engine” and “Above 4 litres” categories. This is the second year running that the eight-cylinder engine from AMG has beaten off the competition.

Bearing the internal designation M 156, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with its displacement of 6208 cubic centimetres produces between 457 hp and 525 hp, develops up to 630 Nm of torque and features in various AMG models, including the C 63 AMG, the E 63 AMG and the SL 63 AMG. The basis for the agile power delivery is the consistent technology transfer from motorsport, which has been an inseparable part of the company philosophy at Mercedes-AMG for over four decades. The verdict of juror Jason Cammisa from Automobile Magazine (USA): “The absolute epitome of a German hot rod V8 engine!” Carl Cunanan, editor of C! Magazine (USA): For its fantastic engine sound alone it deserved first place!”

The great potential of the award-winning AMG V8 is also reflected in its character-packed, powerful evolution: the engine – dubbed the M 159 – for the SLS AMG super sports car is based on the M 156; in the gullwing the AMG high-revving naturally aspirated engine develops 571 hp and delivers maximum torque of 650 Nm. Another outstanding vehicle is the C 63 AMG with Performance Package Plus and maximum output of 487 hp. The overhauled features inside the engine are responsible for the increase in output: the forged pistons adopted from the SLS AMG together with new connecting rods and a lightweight crankshaft make the engine three kilograms lighter. The reduced inertia enhances the agility of the eight-cylinder unit, which offers even more exhilarating responsiveness.

Mercedes-AMG beats off established rivals

The “International Engine of the Year Awards” rank among the most prestigious honours in the automotive sector and have been organised by specialist UK publisher, UKIP Media & Events, since 1999. An independent jury of 65 renowned motor journalists from 32 countries chooses the best engines of the year. Following on from the success in 2009, the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine also managed to beat off prestigious rivals from Germany, Italy, the UK, USA and Japan this year, enabling Mercedes-AMG to demonstrate once again its consummate expertise in developing and producing exhilarating high-performance engines.

Friedrich Eichler, Head of Engine & Powertrain Development at Mercedes-AMG:

“Our renewed success this year in the two categories is testimony to the out-and-out positive test results for the AMG6.3-litre V8 engine in all the media. The top spots also reflect the great enthusiasm of our customers.”

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After ten years away from Mercedes-Benz’s biggest right hand drive market, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is set to return to UK roads in the Autumn, with a choice of diesel or supercharged petrol engines.

This go anywhere, do anything icon celebrated its 30^th birthday last year and still retains it robust classic design twinned with the very latest Mercedes-Benz technology – and peerless off-road credentials.

It is the unique timeless look and distinctive design which sets the G-Class apart from the crowd, and it has created a strong following of motorists looking for a luxury and very exclusive SUV.  The virtually limitless off-road capability of the G-Class and its practicality as an everyday vehicle have also helped the vehicle to achieve sales of over 200,000 units worldwide since 1979.

Dermot Kelly, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Cars said:  “Despite G-Class being the longest-serving passenger car series in the history of Mercedes-Benz, we are delighted to welcome it as a ‘new model’ in right hand drive for UK customers.  The long wheelbase version in particular blends style, technology, practicality, impeccable build quality and unbeatable off-road credentials in a shape that is as seductive today as it was when originally launched”. 

Customers will be able to choose between the G 350 CDI which produces 221 hp and returns 25.7 mpg, and the range topping G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR, which produces 500 hp and reaches 0-62 mph in 5.5 seconds. 

Both the G 350 CDI and the G 55 AMG will feature a wealth of standard equipment including: Automatic climate control; automatic transmission, with high and low gear ratios; Bi-Xenon headlamps, heated seats with memory, leather upholstery (including the dashboard) as well as COMAND, a reverse parking aid and a Harman Kardon Logic 7 Sound system.

As well as the standard equipment that features on many Mercedes-Benz road cars, constant innovation in the G-Class range offers high-performance driving dynamics, but, also supreme off road ability.  ESP^âand 4ETS both ensure maximum traction, handling and stability on any terrain and the 100 per cent locking differentials, permanent all-wheel drive and off-road ratios prove their worth off the beaten track, making the G-Class world class in any off road condition.

There will also be a commercial G 300 CDI Professional, ideal for tough working conditions in hard-to-reach locations.  It will feature equipment levels ideal for it to carry out its labours in a reliable, safe, go-anywhere package.  This entry model to the G-Class range will be available from £57,975 OTR.  The G 350 CDI will be available from £79,975 and the G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR will cost £114,975 OTR.

The G-Class is one of a small and elite band of high quality products that has resisted the influences of fleeting stylistic trends, and as such has become a trendsetter itself. The low volume G-Class is hand built in Graz and in 1983 won the gruelling Paris-Dakar rally reinforcing that it is not only a design icon, but also boasts true go anywhere capabilities which are still winning new admirers today.

Whether traversing tough terrain or cruising down the King’s Road, the new G-Class is set to become one of the UK’s most desirable luxury vehicles later this year.

The G 350 CDI and G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR will be exclusively available from the Specialist Products Division at Mercedes-Benz World at Brooklands as will the G 300 CDI Professional.

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In October 2004 Mercedes-Benz established a new market segment with the four-door Coupé CLS. In September 2008, the brand revealed a fresh and exciting interpretation of the emotionally-appealing Coupé-based design in the form of the FASCINATION concept car. Now making its premiere at Auto China 2010 is the Shooting Break concept car – a further insight by Mercedes designers into the possible future development of the Coupé concept. The Shooting Break concept car also represents a clear indication of the further emotional appeal of the Mercedes design idiom.

Wide and flat, with a long bonnet and a roof which continues through to the rear: the Shooting Break concept car features some astonishing proportions which at the same time are clearly reminiscent of another design icon – the CLS. The design of the front is completely new, but makes use of elements which are mindful of the SLS AMG super sports car: the radiator grille, with the large star and eye-catching, bionic slats, is not integrated into the bonnet but has been designed separately in the form of a “soft nose”. The grille is flanked on each side by full LED headlamps, which for the first time feature LED technology for all of the usual dynamic light functions. The side profile is given a touch of dynamism thanks to the high, exaggerated beltline sweeping towards the rear, and the dramatic character line which is supported by the powerful-looking rear wheel arches. The coupé-like side view is also emphasised with a low window design which also highlights the greenhouse with polished aluminium trim.

The interior is dominated by natural wood and leather materials. One eye-catching feature is the large full-length centre console. It highlights the four- seat layout as well as the high levels of comfort afforded by the Shooting Break concept car. The wooden floor of the luggage compartment reflects the true interpretation of this area of the vehicle, where the dark-stained silky oak contrasts against inlaid aluminium protective loading strips.

The Shooting Break concept car is driven by the forerunner to the forthcoming new V-engine generation from Mercedes-Benz. The V6 benefits from a 60° cylinder angle and a displacement of 3.5 litres, and is characterised by direct injection featuring a control system which enables lean-burn operation. The six-cylinder engine produces 225 kW (306 hp) with a maximum torque of 370 Nm and in line with the BlueEFFICIENCY criteria of Mercedes-Benz also sets new standards among the competition in terms of fuel consumption.

The exterior: stylish and sporty

The proportions are clearly those of a coupé: the long bonnet, narrow-look windows with frameless side windows, and dynamic roof sloping back towards the rear create a basic stance with which it looks ready for the off. It is only when taking a second look that it becomes clear that the Shooting Break concept car actually has four doors and an estate rear. As such, this study in design reveals its philosophical links with the four-door CLS Coupé, a car which has established a new market segment since 2004 and today is already seen as a design icon which is likely to occupy a very special place in the history of the motor car. The Shooting Break concept car may well be looked back on at some point as having played a similar role, taking ideas from the FASCINATION concept car premiered in 2008 and projecting them into the future.

“The Shooting Break concept car is based on the great tradition of a stylish, cultivated sportiness which has always characterised the great Mercedes Coupés, and it takes this unique legacy an exciting step further,” explains Professor Gorden Wagener, chief designer at Mercedes-Benz. “At the same time it points the way towards the future design idiom of Mercedes-Benz.”

The vocabulary of the design idiom includes the contrasting play between lines and exaggerated areas, which combine to create an animated area of interaction. The expressive design of the front immediately catches the eye, using elements which are mindful of the SLS AMG super sports car, and with a radiator grille which for the first time has been designed as a “soft nose” and is not integrated into the bonnet. This contributes to better pedestrian protection and at the same time also helps to improve the focus on the long, sporty bonnet. The grille is dominated by the large central star, highlighting its relationship to the other Coupés of the Mercedes brand. It is supported by bionic, curved grille slats. Their curved design is reflected in the expressive look of the front apron and air intakes.

Particularly eye-catching are the full LED headlamps, which for the first time offer all of the regular dynamic light functions using LED technology. Inside they are divided into three arrow-shaped layers from top to bottom: the upper layer contains an LED indicator, beneath which is a striking LED side light offering LED low beam functions. The side light can also be seen when the dipped beam function is switched on, thereby creating a novel and separate night-time design and distinctive look. The lowest level of the headlamp houses the main beam and nightview functions. A total of 71 LEDs not only provide an unmistakable appearance, but also a significantly enhanced view of the road compared with previous systems.

The side profile of the Shooting Break concept car is dominated by the low, frameless side windows, the coupé-like shape of which is further highlighted with the incorporation of a polished aluminium frame along the body. Thanks to the positioning of the outside mirrors on the beltline, the side line is emphasised and all-round visibility has been improved in the region of the A-pillars. The side windows are supported on a high beltline, which slopes towards the rear in a fresh interpretation of the classic “dropping line” of iconic Mercedes Coupés. An additional exciting touch has been made with the prominent, muscular hip points which forcefully support the side line. This interaction gives the impression of a sprinter, poised in the starting blocks, ready to release an explosive forward surge of energy. The roof follows through to the rear and also drops away in typical coupé fashion. Another special feature is the recessed, filigree door handles, which emerge on being touched with the aid of sensors to allow access to the interior.

The side view is rounded off with wide wrap-around tail lights featuring LED technology. As such they form a linking element to the low, steeply-angled estate car rear end with top-hinged tailgate. The shape is emphasised by the broad shoulder line, which is clearly visible from behind and supports the lowered-look greenhouse. The twin pipe exhaust system, with two polished exhaust covers, is integrated into the rear bumper, which features an elegantly curved wing.

Also contributing to the special appearance of the Shooting Break concept car is the exceptional paint finish. A satin-finish clear coat has been used, which gives the vehicle’s allanite grey magno colour a mysterious glint and also further brings out the Coupé’s exquisite lines.

The sporty look of the Shooting Break concept car is complemented with large 20-inch sterling silver wheels, featuring a special bionically arranged five-spoke filigree design. They allow a glimpse of the large brake discs behind. The front wheels are fitted with 255/30 ZR 20 tyres, while the rear of this exceptional vehicle sits on 285/25 ZR 20 tyres.

The interior: design makes quality noticeable; high-quality materials,
hand-crafted perfection

A large panoramic glass sunroof provides a glimpse into the high-quality, perfectly hand-crafted interior of the Shooting Break concept car, where natural materials such as wood and leather dominate. Wood is used on the trim elements and door pulls, the instrument panel and centre console, and primarily on the luggage compartment floor in the rear. When it came to choosing the wood, the interior designers opted for silky oak on account of its unusual, lens-shaped texture. The wooden floor in the luggage compartment has inlaid aluminium protective loading strips, and is reminiscent of finishes normally seen in yacht building.

Four saddle bags along the sides of the luggage compartment are useful for storing small tools. They are finished in leather, a material which has been used extensively throughout the Shooting Break concept car: in fact, almost ten square metres of leather have been incorporated into the interior. Light sections of porcelain-coloured nappa leather form an attractive contrast to the dark-brown natural-coloured aniline leather and perforated metallic-silver finish seat cushions and door centre panels. Extensive double-lapped stitching and discerning colour-coordinated upholstery seat piping reflect the hand-crafted perfection and attention to detail, as does the tuck stitching on the instrument panel, door sill covers and seat backrests, all of which highlights the contours of the components extremely well.

Perfection and attention to detail also apply to the trim elements. While on the exterior they are polished to a high-sheen finish, in the interior they feature a matt finish. A total of seven manual processes are necessary – from grinding to polishing – to transform the components, which are milled completely from aluminium, into their final decorative form. The matt finish of the interior trim has also served as inspiration for the metallic-silver leather on the seats, door centre panels and bags in the luggage compartment. The deep-pile carpet in the footwell – finished in porcelain colour – is a luxurious material used by Maybach-Manufaktur. The light-coloured roof liner made of silk cloth adds the finishing touch to the impression of comfortable elegance in the interior.

The Shooting Break concept car is clearly a four-seater. The four identically shaped leather seats have a touch of the sports car about them thanks to their integrated head restraints. Openings in the upper area of the backrests make it possible to see through the seats. A large full-length wood console on the transmission tunnel provides a visual divide between driver and front passenger and at the same time indulges the occupants with two large leather-covered armrests. It also houses two cup holders as well as controls for the rear-compartment air conditioning. The centre console is finished off at the rear with inlaid work: curved Mercedes lettering which harks back to the style of the 1920s. The striking cursive-script lettering is also repeated on the front door sills.

Since the central screen has been integrated into the upper part of the instrument panel, the cockpit has a “wrap-around” effect. The elegant verve and bionic details of the exterior are captured, among other things, in the dynamic wave-design air vents in the instrument panel. An analogue clock sits in the centre. The instrument cluster comprises three tubes for dial-type gauges as well as a colour display for service indications.

The headlamps: exciting LED technology offering full functionality

The Shooting Break concept car has dynamic full LED headlamps, which combine the exciting daylight colour impression of LED technology with the performance, functionality and energy efficiency of today’s bi-xenon light generation. The new light system, due to make its debut in series production this year, features the Intelligent Light System which has already been tried and tested in Mercedes models with bi-xenon headlamps. Its five light functions – country lights, motorway lights, enhanced fog lights, active curve lights and cornering lights -have been specifically designed for typical driving or weather conditions.

The light specialists at Mercedes-Benz have also been able to combine LED technology with the innovative Adaptive Highbeam Assist for the first time, leading to a completely new level of safety at night.

The engine: enhanced performance, enhanced efficiency

The Shooting Break concept car is driven by the forerunner to the forthcoming new V-engine generation from Mercedes-Benz. The special features of the spray-guided direct injection engine include the latest generation of piezo-electric injection valves which enable multiple injections. Better lean operation is possible thanks to load monitoring of the pressure information. Even the operation of the ancillary components has been made efficient and there is also a start/stop function. The V6 with a 60° cylinder angle and displacement of 3.5 litres produces 225 kW (306 hp) with a maximum torque of 370 Nm.

It’s all in a name: the origins of the name “Shooting Break”

Break, or the homonym Brake, was the name once given to carriages used to “break” in wild horses and also to restrict (or “brake”) their urge to move, so that they could be put to use as work horses. Since the carts could easily be broken as part of this process, people tended not to use ones which they may have urgently needed for other purposes. Where necessary, “Brakes” were often fitted out with variable bodies, which were only really used to carry along anything that may have been necessary for the hunt, for example. Any such vehicle which was used when going out shooting was called a Shooting Brake or Shooting Break. In the 1960s and 1970s motorised Shooting Breaks were popular in Great Britain – exclusive cross-over vehicles, which combined the luxuriousness of a coupé with the luggage space of an estate.

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Coinciding with the market launch of the SLS AMG on 27 March 2010, Mercedes-AMG is presenting a GT3 variant. This racing version of the gullwing model stands out with its spectacular design and thoroughbred motor sports technology. Developed to comply with the GT3 specifications of the FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile), the SLS AMG GT3 is designed as a racing sports car for customers competing in sprints and long-distance races. These race series for near-series GT cars are noted for their very varied participants and great excitement. Not least because of their comparatively favourable cost structure, they are enjoying increasing worldwide popularity.

AMG, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz, is entering a new business sector with the new SLS AMG GT3: the development, production and marketing of sports racing cars intended for customer use. Sales of these customer cars are expected to commence in autumn 2010, and homologation of the GT3 variant will be completed in time for the 2011 racing season.

“Thanks to uncompromising lightweight construction and superior handling dynamics, the SLS AMG provides an outstanding basis for a highly competitive racing car. This exciting GT3 version is our response to strong customer demand for a car designed for these attractive motor sports series. Once again, it demonstrates AMG’s huge experience gained in more than 40 years of motor sports, and its great expertise in the development of unique high-performance cars,” says Volker Mornhinweg, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The new SLS AMG GT3 is an emphatic continuation of AMG’s commitment to motor sports. AMG has been a pioneer in the motor sports world ever since its foundation in 1967. The new racing version of the SLS AMG is developed and produced by AMG in close cooperation with HWA AG. HWA is responsible for the DTM racing team on behalf of Mercedes-Benz Motorsports. The HWA team is one of the most successful in international motor sports, as witness nine driver championships in the DTM and ITC, as well as two championship titles in the FIA GT Championships.

The SLS AMG GT3 is set to write another chapter in this success story, and harks back to the 300 SL racing sports car of 1952 which first established the “gullwing” legend. Its historic victory in the “Carrera Panamericana” long-distance race also made Mercedes-Benz a household name in North and Central America, and demonstrated the know-how and expertise of the Stuttgart-based automobile company.

Spectacular racing car looks and top-class performance

The new SLS AMG GT3 is wide, flat and has spectacular racing car looks. The main focus when modifying the body of this gullwing model was on aerodynamic performance – as is seen not only in the new front apron with a splitter, the bonnet with its central cooling air vent and the wider front and rear wings, but also in the the side wheel arch air vents, the sideskirts with cooling ducts for the rear brakes, the smooth underbody with a rear diffuser and the adjustable rear aerofoil. All these features ensure a low drag coefficient and maximum downforce – while guaranteeing effective cooling of thermally highly stressed components. The C-pillars accommodate the standardised filler pipes for the fast-refuel system.

The FIA will determine the maximum output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine with dry sump lubrication on the “Balance of Performance” principle. This is intended to ensure that all the racing cars taking part have an equal chance. The classification process, during which the kerb weight is also determined, will be completed in 2010. Power transmission in the GT3 variant is by a sequential six-speed racing transmission with steering wheel shift paddles and an integrated multi-disc locking differential. As in the standard SLS AMG, the transmission is located at the rear axle: the engine and transmission are connected by a torque tube within which a carbon-fibre shaft rotates at the engine speed, as in the roadgoing version.

The wheels are located by a double-wishbone suspension of forged aluminium at the front and rear. Adjustment facilities for the springs and shock absorbers, the suspension height, the stabilisers, the track width and camber allow an individual setup for the racetrack. Rack-and-pinion steering with a more direct ratio and speed-sensitive servo assistance make for extremely agile handling. Behind the central-locking AMG light-alloy wheels, a composite steel racing braking system with racing ABS ensures outstanding deceleration.

Functional racing car atmosphere in the interior

The interior of the SLS AMG GT3 is dominated by a functional racing car atmosphere: the steel rollover cage not only ensures the driver’s safety, but also adds additional reinforcement to the aluminium spaceframe. Another eye-catching feature is the racing buucket seat with a six-point seat belt and HANS system (Head and Neck Support). The central display is perfectly positioned in the driver’s field of vision, and shows all the relevant information such as speed, engine rpm, operating temperatures, lap times and the selected gear. The open-top racing steering wheel with gearshift paddles makes perfect vehicle control possible.

Additional controls are located on the centre console. This is where the driver can not only start the AMG V8 engine or adjust the traction control, but also select reverse gear or – if the worst comes to the worst – activate the integrated fire extinguisher system. The adjustment control for the brake balance is located on the torque tube tunnel.

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The new generation of the R-Class now features an enhanced self-assured appearance, highlighting the unique personality of this versatile vehicle.

The overall impression in particular has benefitted significantly from the completely redesigned front section, which borrows elements both from Mercedes-Benz saloons and SUV models. In addition to the fresh exterior, the “twenty-eleven” model year R-Class also impresses with a number of distinctive interior features.

These include the economy of space found in the latest MPVs, as well as the comfort, high-class appeal and prestige associated with classic Mercedes-Benz saloons. At the same time, the latest generation offers the same level of interior diversity for which its predecessor was renowned, and also boasts the robustness and all-wheel-drive properties of Mercedes-Benz SUV’s for the R 350 CDI L. The R-Class will be celebrating its world premiere on 31 March 2010 at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS).  UK deliveries begin in September 2010.

Engine line-up: economical drive systems

The UK model range consists of two variants: R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 2WD and the R 350 CDI L 4MATIC. With a fuel consumption figure of 37.2mpg*, compared with its predecessor the R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model requires around 7 per cent less fuel while offering the same power output and enhanced performance. The new R 350 CDI 4MATIC combines the high performance of a V8 model with the low fuel consumption of an economical V6 variant. It consumes 33.2mpg* of diesel, thereby undercutting its predecessor by 2.8mpg– yet is able to offer significantly enhanced performance. While previously the maximum performance topped out at 165 kW (224 hp), the V6 diesel engine now boasts 195 kW (265 hp) as well as massive torque of 620 Newton metres. Making its debut in the R-Class, this powerful package enables the sportiest of all of the R-Class models with diesel engine to achieve effortlessly superior levels of performance. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes 7.6 seconds, while the top speed is 146 mph.

*NEDC combined consumption

Key technical data+:

+provisional figures for the international model range which may also vary from country to country.

CDI-/  = diesel models,   1 standard wheelbase available,   2 BE = BlueEFFICIENCY

3 long wheelbase available,   4 figures in brackets apply to long wheelbase variant

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Mercedes-Benz is offering peace-of-mind and value for money for its customers through a new, inflation-proof servicing programme.

Service Care from Mercedes-Benz is a cost-effective and hassle-free budgeting plan that provides owners with a convenient way of covering their future servicing requirements from £22.50* per month.

The programme has been developed to deliver flexible and affordable plans for customers to have their car serviced at a Mercedes-Benz Official Workshop. The Service Care plan is an integral part of the Mercedes-Benz national pricing structure. It provides the option of covering future servicing by either spreading the cost into a fixed monthly amount, or as a one-off, up-front payment. The plan has the added advantage of being transferable when the car is sold on, providing it has been paid for up-front.

Comprehensive in its cover, and taking care of all manufacturer-recommended service items such as brake fluid, spark plugs and filters, Service Care offers total simplicity as far as management and payment of the plan is concerned. Service Care plans can cover either the next two or three services over a length of time to suit the customer, according to how long the customer intends to keep the vehicle, and what their anticipated annual mileage is.

Service Care also provides owners with the added comfort that their car is being looked after by expert Mercedes-Benz Official Workshop technicians.

“By opting for a Service Care plan, our customers can enjoy the reassurance that their car is being worked on by manufacturer-trained technicians using genuine parts and approved lubricants,” said Angela Shepherd, Customer Services Director. “A full Mercedes-Benz service history also demonstrates to a future buyer that they have chosen to take the very best care of their car and may enhance its future value.”

She added: “In addition to this peace-of-mind, owners taking out a Service Care plan can relax safe in the knowledge that they are protected against inflation, so if the cost of parts, oil or labour should increase in the future, the price of their servicing will remain the same, throughout the life of their plan.”

Service Care is available at all Mercedes-Benz Official Workshops, on a wide range of models aged up to seven years old. Models covered by the scheme are A-Class, B-Class, CLC-Class, C-Class, SLK-Class, CLK-Class, E-Class, CLS-Class and M-Class. AMG models excluded.

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An enlightening new exhibition on the green future of the motor car has been opened at Mercedes-Benz World, Weybridge, Surrey.

The special BlueEFFICIENCY display, at Britain’s largest automotive brand experience centre brings together the latest cutting-edge technology aimed at reducing and ultimately eliminating CO2 emissions.

For the first time Mercedes-Benz-World has brought to life this most recent stage in hydrogen powered fuel cell development with the B-Class F-Cell – the latest evolution of this technology that will for the first time be used around the world with customer trials in 2010.

A special cutaway version of the car forms a key part of the new exhibition allowing a unique insight into this zero emission vehicle, which has already entered limited-series production. The F-Cell’s electric motor uses energy generated by a state-of-the-art fuel cell converted from hydrogen. The only emissions are pure water vapour.

Visitors can also enter a futuristic 360 degree interactive area. Inside, they can select from a series of display options and learn about a variety of new developments: BlueEFFICIENCY measures to reduce emissions and improve fuel efficiency; how hybrid vehicles are changing the automotive scene; the remarkable DIESOTTO engine that offers the power of a petrol engine with the economy of a diesel; the drive to use renewable raw materials and increase recycling; why new lithium-ion batteries are making electrically powered vehicles a force to be reckoned with; and how Mercedes-Benz is turning to bionics to show how nature continues to shape cars of the future.

The new exhibition also includes one of the very latest Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC engines featuring the cleanest diesel technology in the world. This special cutaway version features the internal workings of AdBlue technology, a development which reduces emissions by injecting a special fluid into the exhaust system.

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Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the prototype of a battery-powered van based on the Mercedes-Benz Vito at a recent EU Competitiveness Council meeting held in Spain. During the event, European ministers of economic affairs met to discuss issues relating to the economic viability of future technologies.

Assembly of the electric-powered Vito is being integrated directly into standard production and marks the start of a new era in local, zero emission mobility in the van sector.  The Vito will incorporate the technology ex factory, thereby underlining Daimler AG’s commitment to sustainable mobility.

The vehicle is the outcome of research and development activities at Daimler AG which are focused on three aspects: optimising combustion engines, boosting efficiency via custom hybrid components and emission-free vehicle operation deploying batteries and fuel cells.

During 2010, more than 100 Mercedes-Benz Vito vans will be delivered to 20 customers, primarily fleet operators and public institutions wishing to transport items in environmentally sensitive zones with zero emissions, including no CO2 emissions, and low noise. Deployment scenarios therefore typically involve short distances and making many stops in urban areas. Production of a further 2000 vehicles is planned in the next phase.

The drive configuration is designed solely to run on battery power and thus dispenses with the powertrain intended for combustion engines.

A battery featuring powerful lithium-ion technology supplies energy to the Vito. With an operating voltage of 400 V, 16 A current and an available capacity of 32 kWh, the Vito’s range averages 130 km but can be considerably higher given an appropriate driving style. The electric motor delivers a peak output of 90 kW. Performance is oriented around customer requirements: an electronically limited top speed of 80 km/h is designed to meet our customers’ transportation needs in and around urban areas.

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Mercedes-Benz’ F 800 Style research vehicle is showing the future of premium automobiles from a new perspective, as the five-seat upper-range sedan combines highly efficient drive technologies with unparalleled safety and convenience features and an emotive design idiom, which interprets current Mercedes-Benz styling in line with the brand’s hallmark attribute of cultivated sportiness.

The F 800 Style has a spacious interior full of intelligent seating, operating, and display concepts. Another unparalleled feature for a large sedan worldwide is an all-new multi drive platform, which is suited for electric drives with fuel cells (enabling ranges of almost 600 kilometers) as well as the use of Plug-in Hybrids that can drive for up to 30 kilometers solely on electricity.

Both variants of the F 800 Style therefore make locally emission-free mobility possible at the level of a premium-class automobile, while at the same time being fully suited for everyday driving and providing a dynamic driving experience.

“We are dedicated to reconciling our responsibility for the environment with practical customer utility in a fascinating automobile,” says Dr. Thomas Weber, the Daimler Board of Management member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “The new F 800 Style research vehicle combines this commitment to providing the leading innovative drive concepts with our traditional Mercedes strengths in the areas of design, safety, comfort, and outstanding performance.”

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Mercedes-Benz has seen market share increase – despite the worst UK recession for 60 years – in the 1.8-3.5 tonne segment.  Following a strong 2009 sales performance by the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Vito model range, the brand secured market share of 14.96%, increasing its five year market share average by a remarkable 3.4 percentage points.

Although not immune to the falling market (Mercedes-Benz experienced a drop in new van sales of 27% in 2009), the brand still registered over 20,000 vans, an outstanding result in view that the 2009 Total Commercial Vehicle market saw a downturn of 36% compared to 2008. 

Mercedes-Benz Vans’ resilience in sales and market share performance, even in the most difficult market conditions, can be attributed to the brand’s continual focus on offering class-leading vehicles, a premium customer service and attractive finance offers. 

One such finance offer that boosted sales success during 2009 was the Mercedes-Benz Swappage scheme.  The initiative – that ran during Q3 and Q4 – provided customers the chance to make significant savings on the cost of a new Mercedes Vito and Euro 4 Sprinter.  This successful campaign has been enhanced for 2010 with the news that Mercedes-Benz is continuing to offer affordable finance, along with savings on the five-year maintenance and servicing package, Service Package Plus.

Steve Bridge, Sales and Marketing Director – Van explained: “Our aim is to provide total peace of mind when owning a Mercedes-Benz Van.  Not only do we offer customers the chance to acquire a new Sprinter or Vito at a highly attractive monthly cost, and without having to put down a sizeable cash deposit at a time when for many, capital is very hard to come by; but we also provide significant savings on Service Package Plus ensuring the customer is firmly in control of their service budget.

With the growing trend by van operators to choose alternative means to fund their new vehicle acquisition, Mercedes-Benz CharterWay, the commercial vehicle finance arm, enjoyed record lending during 2009.  On average one in three customers chose to take advantage of the competitive finance offers available through the company.

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Improved fuel consumption and lower emissions are now standard on the Mercedes-Benz C-Class range thanks to the introduction of three new diesel and petrol BlueEFFICIENCY engines.
Two new diesel engines – based on the OM651 unit also fitted to the new E-Class – bring low emissions, improved performance and even better environmental credentials to the C-Class range.  The C 220 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY replaces the C 220 CDI, which accounts for over 65 per cent of C-Class sales, whilst the C 250 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY is a completely new addition to the range. 

Both are based on the state-of-the-art 2.1 litre four-cylinder engine, and when coupled with standard six-speed manual transmission emit just 127 and 134 g/km of CO2 respectively.  The 29g/km reduction on the C 220 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY results in a fall of three VED bands and four company car tax bands, to the 18 per cent bracket, making the C-Class an attractive contender in the fleet market.

Over 65 per cent of C-Class sales are to the fleet market, and now fleet managers and company car users can now see just how much BlueEFFICIENCY models can save them through a new comparison tool at: www.mercedes-benzcorporate.co.uk/blueefficiency.  It shows direct comparisons between Mercedes-Benz models and key competitors, giving a clear indication of ownership costs, environmental credentials and fuel consumption.

The P11D value for a company car driver using a C 220CDIBlueEFFICIENCY SE is £24,750.  With the car now in the 18 per cent tax band, the benefit in kind would be £4,450, so those paying 20 per cent tax would be charged just £891 per tax year, or £74.25 a month.  Those paying 40 per cent tax would be charged £1782 a year, £148.50 a month, equating to a 44.7% reduction over the previous C 220 CDISE.
C 220 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY: 170hp; 58.9mpg; 127 g/km

As well as best in class emissions the C220 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY retains the same power (170 hp) and the manual SE Saloon boasts a 23 per cent improvement in fuel consumption, returning 58.9 mpg on the combined cycle.  The new 204 hp C 250 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY offers even more power and returns an impressive 55.4 mpg on the combined cycle with manual transmission.

The C200 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY based on the OM651 engine with a single turbo joins the line up as the entry diesel engine for the C-Class range.  Replacing the C 200 CDI, the new engine maintains the same power output of 136 hp but boasts a 6.9 mpg improvement, returning 56.5 mpg on the combined cycle for the C 200 CDISE Manual.

At the other end of the diesel offering for the C-Class is the C 350 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY which replaces the C 320 CDI.  The C 350 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY boasts a 7 hp boost, yet still sees a 19 g/km fall in CO2 emissions for the Elegance model line while a 4.1 mpg improvement results in a combined fuel consumption of 42.8 mpg.

Diesel power accounts for 59 per cent of C-Class sales, yet of the remaining cars, three-quarters of petrol C-Class sales have been of the C 180 KOMPRESSOR BlueEFFICIENCY.  In 2010 this engine will be replaced by the turbo charged C 180 CGIBlueEFFICIENCY petrol engine.  The C 180 CGIBlueEFFICIENCY automatic offers drivers the same output of 156 hp but boasts an extra 20 Nm of torque as well as a reduction of 3 g/km CO2, resulting in emissions of 166 g/km of CO2 whilst maintaining its combined fuel consumption figure of 39.8 mpg on the combined cycle.  Manual transmission for this engine will be available in 2010.

In light of this the low-volume C 200 KOMPRESSOR, C 230 and C 280 engines have been discontinued and replaced with the new C 250 CGIBlueEFFICIENCY petrol engine which uses turbo charging and direct injection to combine maximum efficiency with an engaging driving experience.  The 204 hp engine returns 39.2 mpg and emits 168 g/km in CO2, some 49 g/km less than the previous C 230, with a fuel consumption improvement of over 26 per cent.

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With class-leading load capacity, enhanced practicality, greater fuel efficiency and low emissions from just 150 g/km the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, on sale from 21 January 2010, has set a new benchmark for the premium estate sector.

New innovations are designed to make life easy – even from across a busy car park.  The Easy-Pack electronic tailgate can be activated at the press of a button on the key, opening the tailgate and automatically raising the load compartment cover making up to 695 litres available [with the rear seats in place].  The rear seats can be folded down using just one finger thanks to the innovative Easy-Pack Quickfold system opening the cavernous load capacity up to a maximum of 1,950 litres.   In addition to this a further 112 litres of load space can be found in the Easy-Pack folding load compartment under the load space floor.

Easy-Pack Quickfold offers maximum convenience when loading large items as it enables the rear seats to be folded down from the load compartment, using operating levers on the D-Pillar, without the need to adjust headrest or move the driver or front passenger seat.

The largest cuboid that can fit in the car is now an impressive 172.5 cm x 100 cm x 62 cm and items up to 320 cm long can be accommodated as well.  These class-leading dimensions mean that a customer could easily load an office desk, a large gas barbecue, a fridge freezer, a 50” plasma television or a 5ft sideboard in with out any need to dismantle.

With the potential for large items of significant weight being loaded into the rear of the car the E-Class Estate is fitted with rear self levelling air suspension as standard to ensure that ride and handling are not compromised.

From launch there will be a choice of seven engines: three diesel and four petrol; and as with the E-Class Saloon, 98 per cent of the E-Class Estate range will boast BlueEFFICIENCY measures.  Weight reduction, efficient energy management systems as well as improved aerodynamics are standard – all of which have a positive effect on the fuel economy and emissions of the new car. 

The E 220 CDI Estate returns 49.6 mpg, an improvement of 9.8 mpg and emits just 150 g/km, 38 g/km less than the previous generation.  These improvements also have a positive impact for company car users.  The P11D value for a company car driver using an E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Avantgarde is £30,935.  With the car now in the 21 per cent tax band for 2009/10, a seven band fall from 28 per cent, the benefit in kind would be £6,496.35.  Therefore those paying 40 per cent tax would be charged £2,598.54 a year, £216.55 a month, equating to an impressive 33 per cent reduction over the previous E-Class Estate.  The E 250 CDI and the V6 E 350 CDI Estate complete the diesel line-up. 

June 2010 sees the arrival of a fourth diesel engine, the E 350 BlueTEC – the world’s cleanest diesel engine, which already meets EU-6 standards that come in to effect in 2014. BlueTEC technology has been developed by Mercedes-Benz to improve diesel emissions, especially nitrogen oxides, the only exhaust gas constituent that is inherently higher in diesel engines than petrol engines.  Water based urea solution, AdBlueâ, is injected into the exhaust flow reducing 80 per cent of nitrogen oxides to harmless nitrogen and water.

The petrol line-up starts with the E 200 CGI which returns 35.8 mpg and emits 184 g/km.  The E 250 CGI, E 350 CGI and E 500 complete the range at launch and in March the E 63 AMG Estate will arrive as well to complete the petrol line-up. 

Model lines for the E-Class Estate will be SE, Avantgarde and Sport and all feature much higher levels of standard equipment than the out going model.  The SE model line is understated yet elegant and features Aluminium trim, Artico upholstery along with 16” alloy wheels, with low rolling resistant tyres, Advanced Parking Guidance and Parktronic.  The eye-catching Avantgarde is a £2,495 premium over the SE and includes leather upholstery, black ash wood trim, ambient lighting, Bi-Xenon headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam assist and the Intelligent Light System, as well as lower suspension, LED daytime running lights and 17” alloy wheels.

For those want a more dynamic look and feel the Sport model line offers AMG body styling, sports tuned suspension, sports seats in Artico/Microfibre, an AMG 3-spoke steering wheel, AMG floormats, brushed aluminium trim and 18” AMG alloy wheels for £1,500 over the Avantgarde trim.

The E-Class Estate features all the standard safety features that we have already seen on the E-Class Saloon, including: Attention Assist, the drowsiness detection system; the Active Bonnet pedestrian protection system; nine airbags; PRE-SAFEâ anticipatory protection system and, for Avantgarde and Sport models; Adaptive Highbeam Assist, which always selects the optimum headlamp range, unlike other systems which merely switch between low beam and high beam.  This allows better visibility of the road ahead, pedestrians on the road and danger spots.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate is just a £1,750 premium over the competitively priced E-Class Saloon and features enhanced levels of standard equipment over the previous Estate. The introduction of the Easy-Pack tailgate, Easy-Pack Quickfold and the Easy-Pack folding floor also enhance practicality and ease of use for the customer.  Pricing for the new E-Class Estate is four per cent lower than the outgoing model resulting in the range starting from £29,785 OTR for the E 200 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY SE through to £73,855 OTR for the range topping E 63 AMG Estate.  As with every Mercedes-Benz, all E-Class Estates come with Mercedes-Benz’s three year unlimited mileage warranty.

Prices for the New E-Class Estate OTR

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Mercedes-Benz is celebrating a double victory following the What Car? Car of the Year 2010 Awards ceremony held at the Grosvenor House hotel on Thursday 14 January.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has retained its title as Best Luxury car for the fourth year in a row, while Attention Assist, the unique and innovative drowsiness detection system, was honoured with the What Car? Safety Award.

In the last decade the S-Class has won the coveted title of Best Luxury car nine times and Steve Fowler, Group Editor at What Car? commented: “The S-Class is built to the most exacting standards using gorgeous materials.  The engine is smooth and punchy and when roads become more demanding the S-Class is far more agile than you would expect from a five metre car.  We were impressed with the S-Class last year, since then Mercedes-Benz has revised the car, making it even better.”

Judges favoured the S 350 CDI engine which accounts for over 90 per cent of UK sales.  The S 350 CDI returns an impressive 37.2 mpg on the combined cycle and emits from 199 g/km of CO2.

Wilfried Steffen, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz UK said: “We have sold over 40,000 S-Class in the UK since 1992 and we are delighted that the latest generation S-Class has continued to impress.  We are always breaking new ground with our flagship model, while our new technology and exemplary levels of refinement and safety ensure that we offer our customers the very best.  Being awarded the Safety Award for Attention Assist, our drowsiness detection system reaffirms this.”

Attention Assist is a world first that will save lives.  Now standard on every new E-Class and S-Class the system uses highly sensitive sensors to continuously monitor more than 70 different parameters around driver behaviour and vehicle usage.  This wealth of data, then calculates an individual driver profile during the first few minutes of every trip. This profile is then compared with the current sensor data by the car’s electronic control unit.

Steve Fowler said: “Attention Assist is a clever monitoring system and it’s great that Mercedes-Benz is planning to introduce this as a standard feature across its range.  The consequences of falling asleep at the wheel just don’t bear thinking about.”

Steering behaviour, vehicle speed, journey time, time of day, lateral acceleration and longitudinal acceleration are all monitored along with the use of the turn indicators and pedals as well as external influences such as side winds or road unevenness.

By monitoring over 70 parameters the system is able to detect the floating transition from being awake to being drowsy and gives the driver plenty of warning that they are in need of a break.  If the system detects drowsiness, it emits an audible warning signal and flashes up an unequivocal message on the display in the instrument cluster: “ATTENTION ASSIST. Break!”

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The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Executive SE special edition brings added value for the customer with an exterior styling pack and interior upgrades. Available from November 2009 and powered by the manual C180 KOMPRESSOR BlueEFFICIENCY engine, it is offered in both the Saloon and Estate bodystyle. 

The special edition follows on from the success of the E-Class Executive SE and is based on the SE model line.  The C-Class Executive SE will feature the Sport Grille with the integrated Mercedes-Benz star, usually exclusive to the Sport model.  New look 16’ ‘Pristix’ alloy wheels will also be a distinguishing feature and the boot lid and exhaust will boast chrome trim finishes.

On the inside the Executive SE really comes into its own with COMAND fitted as standard.  The multimedia system includes hard disk drive navigation, Linguatronic voice control, a 6 GB music register and a PCMCIA slot.  All of which can be fully controlled through the Executive SE’s upgraded multi-function steering wheel.

At £23,190.64 (Estate, £24,390.11) OTR the Executive SE is just £574.47(ex VAT) more than the SE, yet offers the customer over £2,200 in added value.

Powered by the C 180 KOMPRESSOR BlueEFFICIENCY 156 hp engine, the Executive SE returns 44.8 mpg on the combined cycle, making it a real contender for both the fleet and private customer.  CO2 emissions of just 154 g/km place the Executive SE saloon in the 18 per cent tax band, making tax payable just £68.96 a month for the saloon for those paying 20 per cent tax and £137.91 for those paying 40 per cent tax.

As with every manual C-Class the Executive SE features Hill Start Assist, removing the need to operate the parking brake whilst moving away from a standstill.  The system holds the car for a second enabling the driver to move from the brake onto the accelerator for a smooth pull away.

EuroNCAP awarded the C-Class a full five stars when it launched in 2007 and as you would expect the Mercedes-Benz C-Class has an impressive line-up of standard safety features.  Pre-Safe® the intelligent, anticipatory safety system will trigger the seat belt pre-tensioners, close the side windows (and electric sunroof if fitted) and move the front passenger seat into the safest position (if the Memory package is fitted) if an accident is imminent.  The C-Class is also fitted with Adaptive brake lights.  If the driver applies the brakes suddenly and forcefully the brake lights will start to flash to alert drivers behind them.

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• Mercedes-Benz thanks its motorsport fans with a day to remember
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A star-studded cast of Formula 1 drivers – including 2008 World Champion Lewis Hamilton – will headline the first-ever Powered by Mercedes-Benz Live event at Mercedes-Benz World, Surrey on 8 November.

Powered by Mercedes-Benz Live will offer fans the chance to meet Lewis Hamilton, his team-mate Heikki Kovalainen, double World Champion Mika Häkkinen, David Coulthard and Formula 1 team boss Ross Brawn. Formula 1 drivers Pedro de la Rosa and Anthony Davidson, as well as a host of Mercedes-Benz Touring car and Formula 3 drivers, will also be in attendance.

The whole event, held at the legendary Brookland circuit – home of Mercedes-Benz World – will be open free to the public.

Highlights of the day include Lewis driving his MP4-23 – the car in which he memorably won the 2008 Formula 1 Drivers’ World Championship. Ross Brawn will also be on hand to showcase his team’s groundbreaking debut Brawn Mercedes BGP 001, driven by Radio 5 Live commentator and Brawn GP test driver, Anthony Davidson.

The British DTM drivers Susie Stoddart, Jamie Green, Paul Di Resta and Gary Paffett will attend and demonstrate what makes this touring car series one of the most exciting in the world, with their 500hp V8 AMG Mercedes C-Classes pounding around the circuit at Mercedes-Benz World. Like all the drivers in attendance, they will sign autographs and spend as much time with fans as possible.

Formula 3 Euro Series hotshot Sam Bird returns to Brooklands to demonstrate his Dallara Mercedes, and in the coming weeks even more will be added to an action-packed line-up.

There is even the chance for event visitors to take part in driving activities themselves, with a selection of events that offer something for all ages – even children over 1.5 metres tall – thanks to the Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy. Activities include hot laps in the Mercedes AMGs, Off-Road 4×4 passenger rides, the trust-building Blindfold Driving Challenge and a fun smart fortwo Egg & Spoon Challenge.

Wilfried Steffen, President and CEO Mercedes-Benz UK commented: ‘After a thrilling racing season this year, we want to say a big thank you to our loyal customers and fans – and a free Grand Prix event is the perfect way to do that. We look forward to providing our customers, our fans and their families free entry to the historic Brooklands circuit.’

To register for free entry and to be the first to receive updates as the day’s programme builds, enter your details at www.Mercedes-BenzWorld.co.uk.

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Supercars like the SLS AMG and SL65 AMG Black Series might be the flagships for the current Mercedes-Benz lineup, but back in the late 1990s it was all about the CLK GTR — an all-out race car slightly disguised as a road car. The street version you see here was built to homologate the race car that competed in the FIA’s GT1 class in 1997 and 1998 (wining the championship in 1997). Each came with a 6.9-liter V12 putting out 612 horsepower as well as features found on modern supercars like a sequential six-speed transmission with paddle shifters and carbon fiber brakes. Just 25 examples were built including five roadsters, making the CLK GTR one of the most exclusive supercars ever built.

It’s for this reason that the auction of two CLK GTR road cars immediately caught our attention. Both will be offered at RM Auction’s Automobiles of London sale on October 28. One coupe and one roadster will go across the block, each completely brand new and unregistered with delivery miles only. Interestingly, both cars are right hand drive, custom built for the original owner. RM lists the estimated price for each CLK GTR at around 1/3 the original cost to build the cars, meaning some lucky collector might take home a supercar for a bargain.”

(Via Autoblog.)

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Shortly after the successful market launch of the S 400 HYBRID, currently the most fuel-efficient luxury-segment saloon with a petrol engine, Mercedes-Benz will be presenting the first “three-litre car” in the premium class — the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID — at the 63rd IAA in Frankfurt. The technology vehicle will display the future of Mercedes-Benz’ modular set of hybrid systems. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID can drive for up to 30 kilometres solely on electricity and therefore without producing any local emissions.

The efficient drive system combined with the CO2 bonus for the battery-electric driving mode enables the vehicle to achieve a certified consumption of only 3.2 litres of petrol per 100 kilometers. With CO2 emissions of only 74 grams per kilometre in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle), the experimental vehicle developed in Sindelfingen demonstrates the long-term viability of future S‑Class generations. The outstanding values are made possible by the combination of a plug-in hybrid with the efficiency-boosting BlueEFFICIENCY measures. At the same time, the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID has all of the strengths that are typical of the S‑Class: top comfort, outstanding safety and masterful performance. The drive system in the concept car consists of three main components: a powerful V6 petrol engine with a next-generation direct injection system, a 44 kW/60 hp hybrid module and a lithium-ion battery with more than 10 kWh of storage capacity that can be recharged at charging stations. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

“The Vision 500 Plug-in HYBRID is a new milestone on our path toward zero-emission mobility,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “It is a luxurious and safe S‑Class that offers superior driving performance while at the same time consuming less fuel than current compacts. All of this shows that our top models will also be able to combine automotive fascination with responsibility for the environment.”

“Although it will take some time before this model can go into series production, our engineers will be working full steam to carry out the necessary integration measures and ensure that all components can meet the tough everyday demands required of a luxury long-distance saloon,” says Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “We’ve already got all the key technology we need for such a dream car, which is why I see it being included in the next generation of the S‑Class. The important thing now is that our development work be accompanied by the establishment of a full-coverage infrastructure that will allow the potential of this innovative drive system to be fully exploited.”

The electrical drive components of the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID demonstrate the versatility of Mercedes-Benz’ intelligently organised set of hybrid systems, which has a widely scalable range of performance. The hybrid module’s design does not differ much from the compact, disc-shaped 15-kW electric motor of the S 400 HYBRID, even though it is three times as powerful. As a result, the hybrid module can be elegantly incorporated into the housing of the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, allowing this model variant as well as the S 400 HYBRID to retain the S‑Class’ spacious interior. Future model generations will orient themselves on this system architecture.

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• NEW CL 63 AMG
• NEW GENERATION OF MERCEDES-BENZ VIANO

The new super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and AMG dazzles with its unparalleled technology package which includes: an aluminium space frame body with gullwing doors; an AMG 6.3-litre, front-mid V8 engine with a top power of 571 hp, 650 Nm of torque, and dry sump lubrication; seven-speed dual-clutch in a transaxle configuration; a sports chassis with aluminium double-wishbone suspension; and a kerb weight of 1,620 kilograms. It’s a combination that guarantees supreme handling dynamics. The car’s ideal weight distribution between the front and rear axles (47 to 53 per cent respectively) and its low centre of gravity emphasize the concept’s pronounced sports car nature. The gullwing accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds and has a top speed of 197 mph (electronically limited). The fuel consumption of 21.4 mpg (combined) is best-in-class (all figures are provisional).

Full feature report here:

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• NEW CL 63 AMG
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The BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS is part of a family of modularly constructed electric cars, which will enable Mercedes-Benz to meet all customer requirements for sustainable mobility in the future. In this variant of the concept vehicle, the electric motor of the purely battery-powered BlueZERO E-CELL is combined with an additional three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine. Putting out 50 kW, the compact combustion engine is installed in the area of the rear axle and can charge the battery while the car is being driven. The CO2 bonus for the battery-electric driving mode reduces the vehicle’s emissions to only 32 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The range extender enables the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS to drive for up to 370 miles, of which up to 62 milees can be driven in electric mode with zero local emissions. The long combined range makes the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS fully suitable for everyday use and assures that the customer will reach their destination even with a depleted battery. After all, the car can be refuelled quickly and easily at any normal filling station.

Battery with superior lithium-ion technology
During rapid charging with a charging capacity of 20 kW, the high-performance, 18 kWh lithium-ion battery of the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can store enough power within around 30 minutes for a 30 mile cruising range. The complete electric range of 100 kilometres requires a charging time of somewhat more than an hour. Charging time is doubled with a standard charge cycle at a conventional household outlet with 3.3 kW. Special on-board electronics support the intelligent charging stations and billing systems used by electric fuelling stations. Advantages of lithium-ion batteries compared to other battery technologies include their compact dimensions, high output and energy density, high charge efficiency and long service life.

Concept BlueZERO — the triad of electric mobility
Mercedes-Benz is showing the way to environmentally compatible electric mobility with the near-series Concept BlueZERO. The vehicle’s intelligent modular concept enables a single vehicle architecture to be used to create three models with different drive system configurations.

* The BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS is equipped with an electric drive and a supplemental combustion engine with an electrical generator (range extender). The car has a total range of up to 370 miles, of which up to 62 miles can be covered solely by electric power.
* Originally presented in Detroit at the beginning of the year, the BlueZERO E‑CELL is propelled exclusively by a battery-powered electric drive that allows the car to travel up to 125 miles on a single battery charge and completely free of local emissions.
* The third drive version is the fuel cell powered BlueZERO F-CELL, with a range of about 250 miles on electric power and therefore also without any local emissions.

All three BlueZERO models feature front-wheel drive, which is typical for this class of car. The drive components have been modularly organised by the Mercedes engineers and can be combined as needed. These include state-of-the-art liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries with up to 35 kWh capacity, and a compact electric motor with a maximum output of 100 kW (sustained output: 70 kW). The maximum torque of 320 Nm is available from the electric motor’s first revolution, and it surpasses the value attained by today’s V6 petrol engines at 2,500 rpm. Like its two sister models, the BlueZERO E-CELL and the BlueZERO F-CELL, the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in less than eleven seconds. To ensure optimum range and energy efficiency, the top speed is electronically limited to 90 mph.

‘The Concept BlueZERO offers a triple demonstration of the technical maturity of alternative drive systems from Mercedes-Benz. Electric vehicles with battery electric or fuel cell drive systems will not truly be on an equal footing with today’s combustion engine drive systems until customers are confident that there is a sufficient infrastructure of electricity and hydrogen refuelling stations,’ says Prof. Herbert Kohler, Head of E-Drive and Future Mobility and also Chief Environmental Officer at Daimler.

Concept BlueZERO: Modular architecture for flexibility and efficiency
The three BlueZERO variants were developed on the basis of the unique sandwich-floor architecture known from the A-Class and B-Class. The advantage of the enhanced design is that the key drive components are installed in the vehicle’s underbody in such a way that they take up little space, ensure a good centre of gravity, and are maximally protected. The BlueZERO models therefore differ considerably from conventionally designed electric cars, which have heavy and voluminous storage batteries installed in the boot, for example, or in the area of the backseat. All three BlueZERO variants share key technological components and have identical designs and vehicle dimensions. Even though they have compact exterior dimensions, the 4.22-meter-long BlueZERO models have a spacious and versatile interior and cargo space. The vehicles’ five full-size seats, approximately 450 kilograms of payload, and more than 500 litres of cargo capacity make them suitable family cars.

‘Our modular system permits different drive configurations for each customer requirement,’ says Dr. Thomas Weber, the Daimler Board of Management Member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. ‘The improved sandwich floor platform serves as the perfect basis for a diverse range of vehicles with electric drives. We are currently developing an additional platform for future compact models that have drive systems using optimized internal combustion engines. The smart linking of both architectures will allow us to expand our product range in an extremely flexible and efficient manner. During 2009, we will manufacture the first small batch of Mercedes fuel cell cars. In 2010, they will be followed by a small batch of Mercedes-Benz vehicles that run solely on electric power supplied by a battery. Thanks to these measures, we are in a excellent position for the future.’

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