A Carbon and Paint Treat for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Here's a video of the SLS AMG getting a nice treatment from the AMG Performance Studio guys in Affalterbach. You'll notice in this time-lapsed video how everything needs to be removed first before the actual job can be done. Long and tedious work, however, the Mercedes guys are okay with it, all for the love of beauty and speed.

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The M-Class and B-Class Miniatures : Small is Beautiful

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class and B-Class are famous new cars that the company launched this year. And if you dream of owning one yet cannot afford it this time, then it might be a good idea to settle for its mini counterparts, at least for now.

High-grade miniatures in 1:87, 1:43 and 1:18 scale are now out and being sold in Mercedes-Benz outlets, online shop, dealerships and the Mercedes-Benz Museum. These mini cars are amazing because of its details which looks and feel like the actual thing. For example, the 1:43 and 1:18 models have the same interior trims like their actual equivalents.



Here's a table of its features:

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Don't Drink and Drive Campaign Video by Mercedes Drivers

Mika Hakkinen, the world champion of F1 racing, and Jenson Button of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes are joining forces with Johnnie Walker to promote safety driving. One of the most common violations on the road is a “DUI” or driving under the influence, which not only make you pay fines or penalize you, it may also cost your life. The two drivers probably knows this too well that's why they agreed to be the faces of this campaign.

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E-Class Hybrids to be Introduced in January

In January next year, the much awaited Detroit Motor Show will be held. Almost all car companies will have models that will launch in the said event, and of course, Mercedes-Benz will not be left behind.

The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid and the E400 BlueTEC Hybrid will premier at the auto show. The car is known to provide green benefits to owners while making sure the luxury feel remains intact.

The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid consumes only 4.2 liters per 100KM and produces 200HP with the help of its 4-cylinder engine. Meanwhile, the E400 BlueTEC Hybrid is a V6 engine which can produce 300HP. Both cars will be run by a 20kW electric motor.

“The modular technology opens up a quick way for us to complement other model series with hybrid models. With these two E-Class models we are now continuing our comprehensive hybrid offensive,” said the Head of Mercedes-Benz Car Development, Dr. Thomas Weber.

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Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Fits the Nurburgring

Seeing the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG on the Internet or magazines is not uncommon, but seeing it live, in front of you is something you will truly treasure. These luxury and high-performance cars are usually lurking in country clubs and high-end malls because those are the hang -outs of those who can afford it.

But the SLS AMG in this video shows the world that it is more than just a “fashion/luxury” car, it is a high-performance car that can also cope with the speed of Porsches and Ferraris of the world.

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Scooped: Brochure Scans of the 2013 Mercedes SL

Germancarforum showed a scanned brochure of the new Mercedes SL. Even if there were lots of spyshots that has been showing up in various car blogs, the cars there are heavily shelled or disguised. If these scans are true, then this is the first time we'll be seeing the actual thing, at least on photo.

Aside from the reported new windshield technology and engines, the 2013 SL is pretty much like its predecessors. It maintained the retractable hard top too.

What's making this car exciting is its 89% aluminum body that will apparently make it 308 pounds lighter than 2012 SL.

The car will make its debut at the Detroit Motor Show, but if this scans are true, then we might be seeing the official photos anytime soon – before its debut.

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Video: Can Anything Cope with Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG's Speed?

So, which do you think is the fastest high-performance car in the market? This is a video that can give you an idea, although, this is non-conclusive because we think Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is still the best!

By the way, the common ground with these four cars are its engine (all V8s), luxury line selling around $100,000.

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Mercedes C-Class Brought Home Awards from Australia and Japan

Mercedes C-Class was able to win awards from Australia in Japan, proving once again that the car is not only popular and admired in Europe and North America. Besides being an entry level vehicle, the C-class is gorgeous in its own right and powerful too, so it is not surprising it always gets the citations.

Stuttgart – The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is among the most popular cars – worldwide. This is confirmed by two recent awards: in Japan the C-Class leads the field as the best imported car for the second time in succession. Down under, the
C 250 CDI and the C 63 AMG Coupé scooped the "2011 Australia’s Best Car Award" in their respective segments.

The title "The Imported Car of the Year Japan" is traditionally awarded at the Tokyo Motor Show for the automobile with the best concept and the most innovative technology. As in the previous year, the title for 2011/2012 went to the C-Class Saloon and Estate. C-Class models also claimed Australia's most important independent automobile award. The Australian Automobile Association presented the C 250 CDI as the best of the best premium mid-size cars. The C 63 AMG Coupé won its award category as best sports car.

Mercedes-Benz carried out a comprehensive upgrade of the C-Class in the spring of 2011. The new generation boasts a dynamic design and numerous new assistance systems: from the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system to proximity control with DISTRONIC PLUS, it offers a new standard of safety in this segment. In addition, fuel consumption has been cut by up to 31 percent in comparison to the previous generation.

Source: Daimler AG

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Deutsche Post DHL Got a Hold of Ten Mercedes Atego

The first hybrid truck in Europe, the Mercedes Atego were delivered for the mail and freight industry. Deutsche Post DHL received the keys to ten Atego BlueTec Hybrid trucks, which will be deployed in different parts of Germany. Five will be at Hennigsdorf, Cologne-Gremberghoven, Dortmund, Kolbermoor and Gersthofen to be used by their mail division while the other five will be utilized by the freight division and will operate at Hamburg and Wustermark.

Fuel savings of 10 to 15 percent

At the end of last year, the Atego BlueTec Hybrid additionally scooped the prestigious "Deutscher Nachhaltigkeitspreis" (German Sustainability Award). The jury explained its grounds for choosing the Atego as follows: "With the Mercedes-Benz Atego BlueTec Hybrid, Daimler AG addresses various challenges in the area of sustainability. The adaptation of hybrid components to the vehicle's operating strategy results in a reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions of between 10 and 15 percent – with even greater savings possible, depending on the given topography and service conditions. In braking and overrun mode the electric motor functions as a generator, feeding energy into lithium-ion batteries which are subsequently available when special load situations apply. These features make the Mercedes-Benz Atego BlueTec Hybrid an environment-friendly vehicle with which Daimler AG sets benchmarks worldwide."

The basis for the BlueTec Hybrid is provided by the Atego 1222 L Euro 5, which already meets the environment-friendly EEV standard for particularly low particulate emissions and qualifies for toll-free use of German roads. Its compact and light four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 4.8 l generates 160 kW (218 hp) of power. This engine is backed up by a water-cooled electric motor with a maximum output of 44 kW which is powered by high-energy, high-performance lithium-ion batteries.

The electric motor is installed behind the combustion engine and the clutch, but in front of the transmission. This configuration enables the truck to be powered by engine and motor together or by either of the drives on its own. The parallel hybrid drive enables start-up of the vehicle on electric power, recuperation by the electric motor and optimisation of the diesel engine's characteristic. The diesel engine's drive power is engaged via the coupling between diesel engine and electric motor. Until it is connected to the powertrain, the combustion engine serves solely to drive the ancillary units. Apart from a marked reduction of up to 15 percent in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, this also results in lower noise emissions. The automatic start/stop function for the engine reduces fuel consumption, emissions and noise to zero at traffic lights.

Source: Mercedes/Daimler Press Release

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Video: C63 AMG Black Series Excitement

The C63 AMG Black Series has been the talk of car enthusiasts around the world. The car equipped with 6.3L V8 engine can speed up to 517HP. Not surprisingly, Australians bought out all the Black Series that 's allocated for their country/continent, just after one week when it was announced that the dealerships are taking orders.

Find out what the excitement is all about with this video.

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MBUSA New Chief Not Yet Chosen

Image via CrunchBaseErnst Lieb, former CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, was quickly fired. Yet, until now, his replacement has not been found.

One reason, according to reports is that Lieb has been very effective in his post before that it is difficult to find someone as good and as “loveable” as him. Apparently, dealerships in America really liked Lieb's leadership. The second reason is that the candidates for the position all include Mercedes-Benz executives from other countries, they are also performing really well where they are right now, so it would be very difficult to get them out of their current posts because that place maybe affected. Apparently, the contenders for the post are from Canada, Turkey, China, Australia and England.

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Video: Why the Mercedes ML63 AMG for a Pursuit car?

This video directed by New York director Henry Corra and Corra Films will show you some behind-the-scenes of those ads you watch on TV. It will show the danger of each shoot, thus, the need for a reliable camera crane car. Here, the Pursuit Team chose the Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG as a pursuit car, for many reasons.

Watch the video:

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Sievers Tuned the Mercedes-Benz SLR GTB

A footage was released by JustinsSupercars, it's showing the Mercedes-Benz SLR GTB at the 2011 Essen Motor Show.

According to AutoEvolution, the car has 814 HP and torque of 1,200 Nm. It has a top speed of 350km/h while the weight decreased to 1.5 tons. The orange car is worth €1.9 million. Ouch!



Source: AutoEvolution.com

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Video: Playing with Mercedes E63 AMG

AMG is a brand known to produce power cars. Many fear its speed, yet there are more who wants to be behind the wheels of these cars. Like this Youtube video by Jorriks, showing how you can “play” with a Mercedes E63 AMG.

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Mercedes-Benz M-Class' Ad

The new luxury SUV is not only for your usual family trip to a mall or golf course. You'll be surprised that it can haul a tree too.

The Mercedes-Benz commercial shows a young guy who got blocked by a tree on the road. Then he gets home, his wife asked him why he is late. He explained what happened then the rear hatch door was opened and there was firewood.

It just wants to show that M-Class is a mean machine, aside from being the luxury car it is known for.

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Mercedes-Benz SL: The First Car to Have 89% Aluminum Body

Everyone's excited to see this new car.

The Mercedes-Benz SL has been creating buzz in the auto fandom because of its many features that have never been seen in any vehicles yet. It is said to be 89 % aluminum, which intrigues tuners and car enthusiasts alike because being aluminum means it is ultra-light, trimming 275 lbs from SL 500 and 308 lbs from SL 350.

The engine to power the car is not confirmed yet, but rumor has it that it will use Mercedes-Benz' new 4.6L twin-turbocharged engine. It will also be equipped with the MAGIC VISION CONTROL technology, which replaces the usual windshield. It means that water jets are installed in the wiper.

The Mercedes-Benz SL will be released by the end of this year, meanwhile, check out this video of the new 'light' car.

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Los Angeles Design Challenge: Daimler's Entries

The Los Angeles Design Challenge is a design contest for industries to showcase their ingenuity and creativity. And of course, Mercedes-Benz will not be left behind.

Here are some pictures grabbed from Benzinsider.com:

The smart Parkour : The car that can climb skyscrapers and fly.


Maybach Berline: Car based on the 17th century coaches but with gull-wing doors!


And finally, the Mercedes-Benz Silver arrow!

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The Car Sharing Network is Now in San Diego

Last November 18, the car sharing network started its operation in the city of San Diego California. It began with 300 smartfortwo cars and hopefully if the business is good the company will add a few more of it or will branch out in Los Angeles where there are more people.

Here's a press release from Daimler:

Driving electric vehicles now possible — and affordable — for an entire city
car2go begins deploying 300 emissions-free vehicles throughout San Diego

SAN DIEGO — car2go N.A., LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler North America Corporation, and the City of San Diego today officially launched North America’s first all-electric carsharing network, making emissions-free driving a widely available and affordable transportation option for all of San Diego.

A New Way to Get Around

The car2go smart fortwo electric drive carsharing network provides San Diego drivers with unmatched flexibility and convenience in urban mobility. Starting today, and for the first time in the history of North America, an entire city will have on-demand access to a large network of electric drive cars.

“car2go has set a new milestone in terms of flexible and tailor-made individual mobility. As the innovation leader in the automotive industry, we strive to serve our worldwide customers not only with leading-edge technology but also with groundbreaking new concepts,” said Thomas Weber, the Daimler Board of Management member responsible for research and development. “Therefore, we accelerate the rollout of this cutting-edge mobility concept. Starting Nov. 18, 2011, San Diego will be part of the innovative worldwide car2go network with a fleet of emission-free smart fortwo electric drive.”

car2go began deploying 300 smart fortwo electric drive vehicles Friday in San Diego, which are now in service and available for use.

“car2go’s investment here is another major step toward making San Diego the nation’s electric-vehicle capital,” said Mayor Jerry Sanders. “This carsharing program gives San Diegans a clean transportation option and complements walkable lifestyles in our city’s urban communities.”

Revolutionizing the Carsharing Industry

Unlike traditional carsharing programs, car2go meets the daily needs of members by providing a free-floating network of vehicles that is truly available on-demand for point-to-point trips. Members can use car2go with or without a reservation, for as long as they would like, without having to commit to a return time or location.

“We have designed car2go to be convenient and flexible, to meet the demands of everyday life, and to fit the lifestyle of our members,” said Nicholas Cole, president and CEO of car2go N.A., LLC. “It is as easy as having access to your own vehicle, and in some cases, like in densely populated downtown areas such as San Diego, it can actually be easier. car2go fills the gap between where you are and where you want to be.”

San Diegans will now have access to the car2go network of electric vehicles 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When they’re finished using the vehicle, members can park in a car2go-designated spot, at city non-restricted meters or on-street in residential neighborhoods within the car2go operating area. Parking, recharging, insurance and maintenance are included. Members pay by the minute, and only for the time they use the vehicle, with discounted rates for hourly and daily use.

“San Diego is a progressive city focused on a sustainable future. Starting today, San Diegans who have dreamed of owning an electric vehicle but could not, now can enjoy the benefits of electric vehicles and become part of an emissions-free mobility revolution,” said Cole. “car2go is revolutionizing the carsharing industry and the future of urban mobility. The launch of car2go in San Diego will serve as a model for other cities around the world that are looking for ways to reduce emissions, alleviate congestion, and create a more sustainable environment for their residents.”

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Video: Unveiling the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 AMG

Days before the Los Angeles Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz posted this video that shows the 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML63 for us to enjoy. It kind of served as a teaser, because once you've watched it you will feel more excited to see it in person. Watch the video below.

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Video: The New C63 AMG Coupe Black Series Commercial

What happens when the dealers close shop at night? Well, this video is not to say that your dealers are using the cars they sell for their own pleasure, but Mercedes-Benz just want you to know how irresistible the 2012 C63 AMG Black Series is that you may want to buy many locks for your garage if in case you purchase this car.

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The M-Class and the SLK Bagged the 2011 Golden Steering Wheel Awards

No doubt, Mercedes-Benz cars are award-winning. And this has been proven even more when the two models, the Mercedes M-Class and Mercedes SLK got the Golden Steering Wheel Awards in their respective class. The manufacturing company actually won the most number of nominations and votes from this award-giving body, 21 times in fact.

The awards were received by Professor Dr. Thomas Weber, Daimler Board of Management member for Group Research and Mercedes Cars Development and Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler.

More than 260,000 readers of the German publications "Bild am Sonntag", "Auto Bild" and their European sister publications in 22 countries registered their votes in this year's "Golden Steering Wheel" awards. The winner of the SUV class was determined in a direct vote, so making the Mercedes-Benz M-Class the winner of the "Golden Steering Wheel" in this group. The SLK won its category after being shortlisted along with four of its competitors. In the unimpeachable judgement of a panel of experts, and after undergoing real-life testing, it too was awarded the "Golden Steering Wheel" in its category.

Readers from across Europe valued not only the M-Class's characteristic and distinctive design and its variable interior, with that all-important sense of wellbeing, but also the excellent energy efficiency and thus environmental acceptability of this premium SUV. The permanent all-wheel drive system of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class also proved a determining factor thanks to its well-balanced ride comfort along with excellent driving dynamics, both on and off road, along with the car's outstanding range and high level of safety.

What ultimately swayed the result in favour of the SLK Roadster in the "Golden Steering Wheel" competition was, above all, the way it manages to combine light-footed sportiness with stylish comfort, striking sports car design with absolute everyday practicality, and superb performance with exemplary ecological credentials. With the excellent performance it derives from its economical and yet powerful engines, along with technical innovations such as the unique panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which can be switched from light to dark at the touch of a button, the SLK takes driving pleasure and open air enjoyment to a whole new level.

This year's double win in the "Golden Steering Wheel" awards marks the continuation of a fine tradition: with a total of 21 victories to date, the brand with the three-pointed star now leads the field of the most successful car brands to win the competition for the "Golden Steering Wheel", a prize that has been awarded since 1976.

Source: Daimler

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Video by Fifth Gear: Mercedes C63 AMG Coupe versus Audi RS5

The Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe, the two-door V8 equipped car and the Audi RS5 with 44HP and an all-wheel drive were pitted against each other – in a racetrack. Which is the fastest? Our very own C63 or Audi's RS5? They say they could be equal, but really?

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Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG in Qatar, In Purple

Some people in Qatar should be very artistic to have come up with this version of the Mercedes SLS AMG. The already attractive gullwing door car, is made even more desirable with its new color, purple.

Why the color? Well, if your neighbors and friends also have the same vehicle, this is the only way you could stand out. Imagine riding this purple car, surely, all heads will turn. Without a matte finish it looks even classier.

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The Best Holiday Gifts: The Mercedes-Benz Collection

If you have not started your Christmas shopping yet, then that's great. You may find these items attractive and suitable as gifts to families and friends. The Mercedes-Benz Collection are made especially for the brand by famous manufacturers of items.

Here's the official press statement from Daimler:

Stuttgart – If you are still looking for suitable present ideas, the Christmas selection from the Mercedes-Benz Collection may offer the perfect solution. There are stylish, high-quality gifts for all ages and genders – from fashionable to timeless, and from practical to quirky.

All Christmas offers from the Mercedes-Benz Collection are specially produced for Mercedes-Benz by well-known manufacturers. Made from select materials, with an understated Mercedes star to indicate their premium status, they are sure to be a highlight under any tree.

The selection includes a practical yet elegant Italian calfskin men's travel wallet from the BUSINESS line, which also features a calfskin wallet and a high-quality ballpoint pen with twist mechanism in anthracite metal with a 3-D Mercedes star on the cap. Other gents items include a distinctive leather organiser with diamond stitching and a metal AMG logo, hand-crafted in Germany and a handmade red-patterned 100 per cent silk tie by Olymp.

Both ladies and gentlemen can stay up to the minute with exquisite wristwatches –the ladies' model combines stainless steel with a black leather strap and features stunning CRYSTALLIZED™ –Swarovski elements. The square men's model has a black leather strap with a crocodile pattern, a stainless steel casing and is a chronograph watch with stopwatch functionality.

Other stylish surprises for the ladies: a reversible scarf in fashionable taupe on one side and a leopard print on the other, along with practical nude-coloured accessories by Emma Brown made from finest Italian calfskin with a leopard design lining. These include a handbag, a cosmetics bag and a purse. Also in the Christmas collection: a stainless steel key ring with diamante inlay.

A true Christmas delight for younger Mercedes fans is an electric version of the famous SL, suitable for children aged 3 to 5. This is also available as a pedal car, both from Toys Toy. Alternatively, young motorists can take their first test drive under the Christmas tree with the SLS AMG Bobby-Benz by BIG, with authentic-looking AMG wheels. It has continuously variable precision double-pivot steering and whisper wheels and is suitable for children from 18 months upwards. The children's Christmas collection also includes a pull-back friction model of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, a game of pairs with colourful images of modern classic cars, a brown, washable teddy bear made from woven fur fabric and a set of metal wall hooks with the silhouettes of the SLK and the SLS.

Popular accessories for all fans of the Mercedes-Benz brand are a set of two espresso cups with saucers in the exclusive ‘Mercedes-Benz by Ritzenhoff’ design with historical racing motifs and a set of four stoppers shaped like the 300 SL gearshift knob for wine or champagne bottles. Three of the stoppers are made of varnished wood and one of stainless steel, all of them feature an engraved gearshift design. There are also two sets of Christmas baubles, both sporting Mercedes-Benz motifs. The theme of ‘125! years of innovation’ features on scented candles with the ‘Mercedes-Benz by Ritzenhoff’ design and a 2012 desk calendar.

For fans of model cars there is a detailed metal-cast replica of the Benz patent motor car by Premium Collectibles, scale 1:43, and an exquisite miniature of the E-Class Coupé by Schuco in three different colours, also scale 1:43.

The Christmas items from the Mercedes-Benz Collection and even more exciting gift ideas with a star, for example of large selection of new, high-quality Samsonite suitcases in a range of sizes, complemented by with a beauty case, a toiletry case, travel bags and a laptop cover – all from Samsonite – and other accessories from the BUSINESS line, such as a document folder, a money clip, a key pouch and a belt – all made from high-quality Italian calf skin – are available at all Mercedes-Benz dealers.

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Smart, Maybach and Mercedes Silver Arrow Stars in Films

Yes, you read that right, the three Daimler vehicles stars in films, separately. No, it 's not another Transformers. These are films made as entries to the 2011 Los Angeles Design Challenge as part of the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16- 17.

Here is the complete press release from Daimler:

• Three visionary film cars featuring in exciting stories
• Mercedes-Benz to present futuristic Silver Arrow and dummies brought to life
• smart develops the perfect reporter's car, which can climb up the facades of high-rise buildings and take to the air
• Maybach creates modern luxury carriage for a remake of the Cinderella fairytale

For the 2011 Los Angeles Design Challenge, which is seeking to find the most spectacular new film car for Hollywood, the designers from the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Sindelfingen (Germany) and Carlsbad (USA), have joined the ranks of the screen-writers. Their efforts have borne fruit in the form of three visionary “hero cars” – a Mercedes-Benz and a smart, each perfectly cast in an action thriller, and a Maybach luxury carriage starring in a modern-day fairytale. The futuristic Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow teams up with two crash test dummies to battle it out with the forces of evil. The smart 341 Parkour, which is able to climb sheer faces and take to the air, helps a young reporter to scoop the story of her life. The Maybach Berline brings a touch of magic into the life of a hapless Cinderella.

Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow and crash test dummies

The designers at the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studio in Carlsbad, California have created a Hollywood-style homage for Mercedes-Benz to 125 years of innovation in automotive technology and design. The leading roles are played by two high-tech characters which have been instrumental in reconciling safety and stylish design in automobiles: the Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow cult racing car and crash test dummies.

The film ”Silver Lightning“ is set in the near future, in an age of artificial intelligence. Two crash test dummies by the names of Hans05 and Franz02 take on evil ruler Dr. Crash-Barrier to save their beloved Mercedes Silver Arrow. They engage in an action-packed, nerve-jangling duel with the ruthless battering ram before finally outfoxing him. The Silver Arrow is a low-lying sculpture on wheels. A feat of technical innovation is the diagonal, hubless roller which allows steering in all directions. The futuristic Silver Arrow’s proportions are reminiscent of the legendary sports car from the late 1930s and the Uhlenhaut SLR from the 1950s.

”Annie get the Grannies“ with the smart 341 Parkour

For smart, the designers at the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studio in Sindelfingen have created a revolutionary all-rounder. The smart 341 Parkour is equally at home driving along the road, climbing up the facades of skyscrapers or even taking to the air. The occupant cell is completely transparent and offers the very best all-round visibility – the perfect vehicle for a fast-paced reporter story.

For the plot of the film ”Annie get the Grannies“, the designers have taken the visionary smart concept with which they won the Los Angeles Design Challenge last year as their starting point. Last year, the smart 454 was knitted from carbon fibres by so-called ”smart granny robots“. These high-tech robots equipped with knitting needles have now been revived. On reading in a newspaper that the incredible robots have disappeared, the young reporter Annie Angle from Cantpark City scents the story of her life. Armed with a professional camera, she sets off to investigate in her smart 341 Parkour.

Cinderella and the Maybach Berline

For Maybach, Mercedes-Benz’s interior designers in Sindelfingen have created a modern reinterpretation of the classic ”Berline” a luxury carriage with full suspension from the 17th century, for a remake of the Cinderella fairytale. Hapless Cindy toils day-in, day-out helping her father to develop the Maybach Berline, while her step-sister enjoys the party life. On her birthday her father allows her to travel into town in the prototype of the luxury carriage. She goes to a dance, where she meets an attractive man and loses all sense of time. As she has to be home by midnight, she suddenly dashes off, losing one of her red stilettos in the process. Her dancing partner runs after her with the shoe. Overjoyed, Cindy boards the Maybach Berline and is driven home by a virtual chauffeur.

The Maybach Berline is remote controlled via satellite like a drone, allowing the occupants maximum space and absolute privacy. The chauffeur is based at the Maybach Virtual Chauffeur Center and can be spoken to at any time by means of a glass screen suspended from the roof lining. Every conceivable entertainment feature can also be activated via this screen. Copiously appointed with wood, the interior is designed in the manner of a royal lounge in which the passengers face one another on two comfortable individual seats. Similarly to on a business jet, the passengers board and alight from the vehicle by means of a two-piece swing-wing door with a horizontal split, whereby the lower section folds out to form a step unit. The sides of the carriage have extra-large windows which can be set such that they can only be looked through from inside the vehicle. They can additionally be used as interfaces.

Los Angeles Design Challenge

The Los Angeles Design Challenge is part of the Los Angeles Design Conference, which is to take place from 16 to 17 November 2011 at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The winners of the competition will be announced on 17 November 2011.

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Spyshots of the Mercedes-Benz SL Interiors

I know this is "third" hand information. Benz Insider published that AutoEvolution caught sight of the 2013 Mercedes SL's interior. Of course, they took some photos for the enjoyment of the blogging world.

Here are the photos from AutoEvolution:

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Mercedes Petronas Team Did Well at the Indian GP

The performance of Mercedes Petronas duo, Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg was strong. They finished 5th and 6th respectively at the Buddh International Circuit in India. Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel, grabbed the top spot. Nevertheless, the two drivers were happy about the results of the race.

“I am obviously happy about the race today. We achieved the maximum that we could hope for, and as a team we maximised our potential. Fifth and sixth places are a great result for us. On top of that, my car was very nicely sorted for the race and very stable. At the start, everything worked out according to my strategy as I deliberately didn’t want to use KERS in the first two corners and save it for the long straight where I knew that I could make up some positions. In the second stint, I managed to maintain my tyres so I could stay out longer and that was enough for fifth place. What’s really important at the moment is that we keep pushing and trying to improve, and that is what we achieved today. To the organisers of the first Indian Grand Prix, I would like to send a big compliment; I’m sure that I am not the only one to say that this was a very positive debut, “ said Michael Schumacher.

Meanwhile, Nico Rosberg said, “We can be happy with a good team result and that’s what the boys in the garage deserved. I’m also pleased to have gained one place on my grid position. However my strategy was not perfect today and I lost some time in the second pit stop which meant that I wasn’t able stay ahead of Michael. I had good pace at the end of the race and pushed very hard but it was impossible to catch him over the last laps. I’m confident that we can repeat this good result in the last two races. All in all, it has been a good Indian Grand Prix debut for us and I hope all the fans enjoyed the race. I’m looking forward to coming back next year.”

Source: Daimler AG

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Mercedes-Benz Logo Meaning

When you see the three-pointed star on a car, you will immediately recognize that it is Mercedes-Benz. The logo is a very recognizable one and we're all very familiar with it.

However, have you ever thought what the logo means? It is great to now know that the three points of the star represents the three major mode of transportation, air, sea and land. Here's the rest of the story, in video.

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Ernst Lieb Ousted as MBUSA Chief

News surfaced last week that the “charismatic” CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, Ernst Lieb, was replaced. When it was first reported, there was no reason, it was just noted that a temporary replacement in the person of Herbert Werner, MBUSA Finance Head, will sit on his post.
Image via CrunchBase
However, just a few days ago, Wall Street Journal reported that according to “people familiar with the matter”, Lieb was removed from his post due to financial misdeed. This is after questions surfaced because of the purchase of his home near the MBUSA's headquarters, as well as a personal flight to Australia he took, in which the company paid for.

Even if Mercedes gained sales and market share during his tenure, it was done because the company is being very careful and attentive to corruption practices.
Despite all this, it seems that Lieb is one-of-a-kind because MBUSA is still trying to find for the new CEO to fill in his shoes, someone who has great understanding of the country's market and the company's dealer network there, like him.

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Mercedes-Benz Cars Tagged as the “Most Beautiful”

Four Mercedes-Benz cars, the Mercedes CLS, SLS AMG Roadster, C-Class and 300 SL Gullwing won the title as the most beautiful cars in their respective category. This is after 22, 916 readers voted for the 2011 Autonis design awards, an annual award by “auto motor und sport” that is created to honor the most beautiful cars ever manufactured.

Stuttgart – The Mercedes-Benz CLS, the SLS AMG Roadster and the various models in the C-Class are the most attractive vehicles in their respective classes. Furthermore, the legendary 300 SL Gullwing of the 1950s has earned the right to be called a design icon of recent decades. Such were the results of a survey of readers undertaken by leading German motoring magazine "auto motor und sport".

22,916 readers submitted votes in this year's Autonis design awards, which are made each year by "auto motor und sport" to honour the most beautiful new cars. The survey's only criterion is to establish which car readers find the most visually appealing. The clear winners in the medium-size category, with more than two thirds of all readers' votes, were the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and the coupé of the same model family. Readers showed themselves impressed by the dynamic design of the new generation C-Class. This was especially true in the case of the C-Class coupé, with its classic coupé proportions.

In the luxury segment, the magazine's very percipient readers voted the Mercedes-Benz CLS four-door coupé into first place in the beauty contest. Like its predecessor, the new version of the CLS offers a very convincing package of captivating design and refined sportiness.

When it came to the cabriolets, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster was the car that found most favour with readers. The open version of the super sports car features the same technical highlights as the coupé model with gullwing doors that caused such a stir in this same competition back in 2009. With its compact soft top, which opens and closes in just eleven seconds, the new SLS AMG Roadster combines excellent driving dynamics with breathtaking roadster fun.

Even after almost 60 years, eyes light up when one of the legendary 300 SL models appears on the scene – Gullwing or Roadster, the effect is the same. This reaction serves to underline the longevity of the car's stunning design. It also underpins "auto motor und sport" readers' decision to award the title of "Design icon of recent decades" to the 300 SL – a "lifetime achievement award", as it were.

Source: Daimler

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No to Leather Seats -Tobey Maguire

We all know who Tobey Maguire is, he is the star of Spiderman movie. Yet not all of us know that he is an animal advocate. In fact, he was hailed as PETA's sexiest vegan one time, and with that, he also adopted a “no leather” policy.

Thus, when he was given a Mercedes-Benz that he can use while filming “The Great Gatsby” in Australia, he sent it back, and reportedly, he was upset because the car has leather seats. Naturally, Bazmark Films returned it to the dealer and and asked them to replace the upholstery with vinyl.

With this step, PETA became very proud.

Photo: Rottentomatoes.com

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Mercedes-Benz Recalls Diesel Vehicles

Image by henrymaxm via Flickr

Four models with diesel versions, the 2011 E-Class, 2011 R-Class, 2012 S-Class and 2011 ML-Class are being recalled due to a possible fuel leak. The company said that the recall will affect 6,872 units.

Here's the complete information of the recall from Daimler:

Report Date : October 17, 2011 at 09:34 AM
NHTSA Campaign ID number : 11V496000

Vehicle Make / Model: Model Year(s):
MERCEDES BENZ / E 2011
MERCEDES BENZ / GL 2011
MERCEDES BENZ / ML 2011
MERCEDES BENZ / R 2011
MERCEDES BENZ / S CLASS 2012

Manufacturer: MERCEDES-BENZ USA, LLC. Mfr’s Report Date: SEP 30, 2011
NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 11V496000 NHTSA Action Number: N/A
Component: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL
Potential Number of Units Affected: 6,872

Summary:
MERCEDES-BENZ USA (MBUSA) IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2011 VEHICLES INCLUDING E-CLASS (212 PLATFORM), MANUFACTURED FROM JULY 2010 THROUGH FEBRUARY 2011, R-CLASS (251 PLATFORM), MANUFACTURED FROM APRIL 2010 THROUGH APRIL 2011, ML-CLASS (W164 PLATFORM), MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 2010 THROUGH MARCH 2011, GL-CLASS (X164 PLATFORM), MANUFACTURED FROM MARCH 2010 THROUGH MARCH 2011, AND MODEL YEAR 2012 S-CLASS (221 PLATFORM) VEHICLES. THE DIESEL FUEL FILTER MAY LEAK FROM THE AREA AROUND THE HEATING COMPONENT.

Consequence:
DIESEL FUEL MAY BE DEPOSITED ONTO THE HIGHWAY AND CREATE THE POTENTIAL FOR A CRASH. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.

Remedy:
MBUSA WILL CONTACT OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE DIESEL FUEL FILTER IF NECESSARY, FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING NOVEMBER 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MERCEDES-BENZ USA AT 1-800-367-6372.

Notes:
OWNERS MAY ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION’S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

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Mercedes Petronas Race Results : Korean GP

Nico Rosberg was glad that he finished the Korean GP in 8^th place. Michael Schumacher was not that lucky.

Rosberg did a two-stop strategy is 13^th and 27^th laps while running used option/new prime tires. He completed the 28 laps on his second set of tires, which is surprisingly great as the distance is over half the race.

Rosberg commented, “I had good speed at the start of the race today but after we changed to the prime tyres, it became more difficult as the degradation was too strong. I had some nice battles against Jenson and the Ferraris, and was pushing hard to defend my position against Felipe and Fernando in the middle stint. During this, I flat-spotted my front tyres so I had to pit earlier than expected which made my last stint on the primes very long. I didn’t have enough grip by the end and so I just wasn’t able to defend the position against Jaime. A difficult race for me today but I’m still happy to score some points.”

The pit stops of Mercedes Petronas were under 21 seconds.

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2011 Korean GP Qualifying Results for Mercedes Petronas

Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher placed 7^th and 12^th respectively in the qualifying of the Korean GP at the Korea Internation Circuit.

Schumacher was doing great in Q1, he was sixth place, however because of a vibration in Q2, he was left behind. He said, “To start with the positives of today’s qualifying, I have saved two fresh sets of option tyres which is always helpful. On the other hand, it was obviously a pity what happened. Everything went normally in Q1, and from what you can expect of the tyres under normal circumstances, it was absolutely justified to go for just one run in Q2. But unfortunately I could feel that something was not right when leaving the pits as I had vibrations straight away. All that was left for us to do was hope that the gap would be big enough to remain in the top ten but that turned out not to be the case. We will now have a close look into what exactly happened and fully concentrate on trying to make up some positions in the race tomorrow.”

Meanwhile Rosberg's place will be his top 15^th in the 16 races this season. So, he commented, “I’m quite pleased with today. To find the right set-up for the qualifying and the race is always a compromise, particularly after such limited dry running, so I’m happy that we saved one set of option tyres. It will be tough to catch one of the top six drivers tomorrow but hopefully I’ll have a good start and may be able to gain a position there. It will be an interesting race from the tyre perspective with a lot of stops, and I’m confident that our boys will do a great job in the pits again.”

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New Rendering of the C63 AMG

A top down C63 AMG? Well, it could be possible, and if someone would tune the vehicle to this, then it will certainly look great.

In a forum called Pistonheads, user Tuvra showed an image he created using Photoshop. The inspiration was lifted from the very rare Mercedes-Benz CLK DTM and the rear spoiler is really from that car. But since it is a C63 it surely has a V8 6.3-liter engine that produces about 520 HP.

I wonder if a tuner will actually create this? Don't you think it will make a good kit?

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Daimler with Its Car-to-X Communication

Wireless communication at its best will be launched by Daimler through its Car-to-X Communication device.

Following three years of intensive research work, Daimler and the involved project partners are presenting the current status of the simTD project in Friedberg/Hesse today. It is also announcing the launch of the largest field trial for Car-to-X communication worldwide: from the spring of 2012, around 120 vehicles will be testing the new technology in real road traffic in the Rhine-Main region. “We are convinced that Car-to-X communication represents an important step on the way to accident-free driving,” observes simTD overall project coordinator Dr. Christian Weiß, who also heads the Cooperating Systems team in the Research and Advance Development department at Daimler AG.

The use of Car-to-X systems extends the vehicle’s field of vision – the “telematic horizon” – substantially. In addition to safety-related applications, comfort functions such as suggested routes to the nearest available car park can also be realised. By enabling traffic signal systems to be controlled according to prevailing requirements, Car-to-X communication can also help to optimise traffic flows, thereby contributing to efficient and thus sustainable mobility.
In Germany, the simTD research project (Safe Intelligent Mobility – test field Germany) is examining the everyday practicality of Car-to-X communication under the direction of Daimler AG.

As a pioneer in the field of vehicle and traffic safety, Car-to-X communication and the resultant assistance systems are a matter of high priority for Daimler. Against this background, the Group is contributing the largest individual share of funding among the industrial partners involved in the simTD research project and has provided the most vehicles for the test drives conducted to date. The importance of Car-to-X communication to Daimler is also demonstrated by its long-standing involvement in other projects relating to this area. The company is a founding member of the CAR 2 CAR Communication Consortium, for example, and plays an active role in promoting the standardisation of technology in the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI).

simTD is a joint project involving German automobile manufacturers, automotive parts suppliers, communications companies, research institutes and the public sector. simTD is being sponsored and supported by the Federal Ministries of Economics and Technology, Education and Research, Transport, Building and Urban Affairs and the Federal State of Hesse.

Source: Daimler AG

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Mercedes-Benz Regarded as One of the Best Brands in 2011

When you say luxury car, you will immediately think of Mercedes-Benz. Aside from that, you should be aware that this company is known as one of the top brands in the world.

Interbrand Zintzmeyer & Lux awarded Mercedes-Benz with the Best Global Brands and the company placed 12th, the first in the luxury car segment. The brand equity has incresed to $27.455 billion, a 9% increase from last year.

Interbrand studies leading brands in the world and identifies the 100 most valuable companies or brands.

Press release from Daimler:

Mercedes-Benz continues to be regarded as the world’s most valuable premium automotive brand. In the latest ranking by respected brand consultancy Interbrand Zintzmeyer & Lux, ‘Best Global Brands 2011’, the three-pointed star brand again took twelfth place – as it did last year – and is therefore the most valuable European brand. Its brand equity has risen to US$ 27.455 billion, an increase of 9 percent compared to 2010. Mercedes-Benz’s brand equity has therefore risen continuously since 2009.

The study’s authors attribute this success to customer satisfaction with the brand, which is higher than that of all other automotive brands. What’s more, the model initiative launched two years ago is enabling Mercedes-Benz to successfully respond to the market’s demand for ground-breaking, sustainable transport solutions.
Interbrand conducts the ‘Best Global Brands’ study every year. Leading CEOs regard it as the benchmark for measuring the value of international brands. The study identifies the 100 most valuable brands in the world.

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Feel the Power of the SLS AMG

The SLS AMG video was shot in a mall in UAE and showed the beauty of the vehicle. Like a model in a catwalk, the SLS AMG will surely turn heads as you really won't be ignore the looks of this amazing car. Watch the video and feel the performance of the SLS AMG!

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Lyon France- The Next car2go Destination

Following the success of car2go in Canada, US and Germany, the carsharing service will expand in Lyon, France in 2012. No exact date of when this will happen, but it will surely be well-received by the French for its convenience.

Lyon - Following the successful launch of the car2go mobility service in the German city of Hamburg, car2go GmbH, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler AG, and Europcar, the leader in car-rental services in Europe, announced today that within a few weeks, Lyon will become the first French city to enjoy the benefits of the unique car2go mobility programme.

Starting in 2012, car2go will provide Lyon residents with a fleet of 200 low-emission, self-service smart fortwo cars which will be available for “on-demand” rentals throughout the city. Members can easily locate the closest available vehicle within a defined operating area of 44 square kilometres via the internet at www.car2go.com or with the help of a smartphone application. They can rent a vehicle spontaneously without the need to reserve it in advance. car2go allows its members to use the vehicle for as long as they like, without committing to a specific return time or location. Members pay only for the time they usethe vehicle, with rental periods as short as one minute. More than 45,000 people in Germany, USA and Canada have already become members of car2go, the world’s first one-way carsharing service.

“Innovative urban mobility solutions like car2go offer a way to help meet the challenges of urban congestion, reducing carbon emissions and improving quality of life,” said Gérard Collomb, Mayor of Lyon and President of ”‘Grand Lyon”. “Following the actions we initiated in 2005 with Velo’v, the first self-service bike sharing system, Lyon is innovating again with car2go, a new approach to car sharing which is complementary to other initiatives enabling our residents to move around town. Choosing Lyon, Europcar and Daimler strengthen the role of our city being one of the European leaders in terms of sustainable mobility.”

“This roll-out marks an important step of car2go into the European market and we are proud to name Lyon the first home of car2go in France,” said Robert Henrich, CEO of car2go GmbH. “The overwhelming success in Germany and North America shows that car2go offers what people are searching for: a very convenient and flexible mobility solution for short and spontaneous one-way trips.”

car2go complements the existing transportation infrastructure in dense urban areas and aims to reduce the burden on city-center traffic, parking and the environment by using the smart fortwo “car2go edition”. The vehicle has been specially developed for the purpose of carsharing and is manufactured at the smart plant in Hambach, France.

Unlimited mobility

The idea of car2go was born at the Business Innovation Department of Daimler AG. Today, with a total of more than 45,000 members and 1,100 vehicles worldwide, car2go has proven success in four cities: Ulm and Hamburg in Germany, the Texan capital Austin in the US and Vancouver in Canada. Since the first launch in the southern German city of Ulm in March 2009, more than 900,000 trips have been made and approximately 9 million kilometres have been covered. Experience shows that customers highly value the possibility to do one-way trips. Nine out of ten car2go rentals end at a different location than where they began, further showcasing that customers value the car2go model of point-to-point mobility.

After successfully launching car2go in Hamburg, car2go and Europcar will continue their strong partnership in Lyon.

“Together with car2go, we are providing innovative mobility solutions to serve urban communities and reach new categories of customers,” said Phillipe Guillemot, CEO of Europcar International. “For more than 80 years, Europcar has been building the expertise and strong market positions that have established it as the undisputed European leader in car rental services. Through this partnership with Daimler, we are exploring new ways to combine urban mobility services with short term car rental services, to provide comprehensive mobility solutions to urban customers.

Source: Daimler AG

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