Test Drive a Mercedes-Benz Vito E-Cell at the Post Expo

The most innovative products are being showcased at the Stuttgart Exhibition Center from September 27 to September, tagged as Post Expo, people who are there had the chance to road test the Vito E-Cell.

Stuttgart – The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL is making its mark thanks to an innovative concept and high-performance drive system. A fully functioning van for everyday applications, it has a maximum payload of around 900kg and a load compartment with no restrictions on use. This means it can assume all the usual transportation duties of a vehicle in its class and makes it an ideal choice for courier and parcel services.

Post Expo held for the first time in Stuttgart

Last year, the Vito E-CELL wowed experts at the Post Expo in Copenhagen, picking up the ‘Innovation of the Year Award’ as a transport for courier and parcel services.

The Post Expo is a major international trade fair for the logistics industry that takes place every year in a different location.

This year, the most innovative and cutting-edge logistics solutions can be seen at Stuttgart Exhibition Centre from 27 to 29 September. Mercedes-Benz is offering exclusive road tests in the Vito E-CELL so that potential customers can experience this pioneering technology at first hand.

Several package delivery companies have already included the Vito E-CELL in their fleets in Germany and are delighted with its performance.

State-of-the art drive technology, high-performance lithium-ion battery

The Vito E-CELL’s powerful, high-tech batteries are located in the underfloor unit, and so do not take up valuable load space. They have a combined capacity of 36 kWh, which is sufficient for a range of around 130 kilometres. The electric motor powering the Vito E-CELL has an output of 60 kW, with 280 Nm of torque. And because electric motors are able to deliver full torque right from the start, the Vito E-CELL can pick up speed incredibly quickly. The maximum speed is capped at 80 km/h in view of the vehicle’s typical applications and maximum range.

Vito E-CELL: electric drive for quiet, local zero-emission driving

The zero-emission drive system of the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL, the first purely electric-powered van to be introduced ex works by any automobile manufacturer, makes it ideally suited to logistics applications in city centres and other environmentally sensitive areas.

The first Vito E-CELL vans have already been handed over to customers: by the end of 2010, a total of 100 had been delivered in Berlin and Stuttgart, and plans are in place for the staggered delivery of a further 2000 units across Europe. Providing a range of approximately 130 kilometres, the Vito E-CELL is capable of meeting typical customer requirements for vans making frequent short journeys. The load space can be used without any restrictions whatsoever, and with a maximum payload of around 900kg, the Vito E-CELL really is a fully functioning van for courier, express and parcel services.

High-capacity lithium-ion drive batteries

The batteries housed under the loading floor are durable, high-performance lithium-ion units. Thanks to intelligent technology, the charging times can be specified in accordance with how the vehicle is used. This means each Vito E-CELL can be charged at precisely those times when energy providers supply ‘green’ power or off-peak electricity. The batteries are also charged while driving through regenerative braking, which converts the vehicle’s braking energy into electricity.

Source: Daimler Media Site

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“Driving School” Version of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Mercedes-Benz is releasing a new B-Class specifically for those with driving school business. The B180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY vehicle is designed for riding comfort and fuel-efficiency, which will surely make a driving student love it.
The compact car also has a system called “Assist Collision Prevention”, which warns the driver if there are obstacles and prepares Brake Assist system for precise braking. This actually lessens the danger of collision. Meanwhile, it will have a power of 80 kW or 109hp and a torque of 250 Nm.

Inherent to student driving cars, this B-Class will have double pedals and driver foot lights and buzzer and second interior mirror.

The price of the Mercedes B-Class for driving schools will be €20,950 plus VAT।

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SLS Roadster by Kicherer

The tuner Kicherer, put all good things together to come up with a magnificent tuning kit based on the SLS Roadster. The kit, called the SLS Roadster Supersport GT/R, is a little bit different from Kicherer's “normal” kits. See, this one does not have the matte black paint jobs that you could usually find on the tuner's models. Which is a great thing actually.

The project has handmade GT front grille, a new front spoiler, aerodynamic fins, updated side skirts and 3-part double spoke 20” RS-1 wheels that are lightweight. A new suspension system was installed, and that cause the car's handling and stainless steel exhaust to improve. Under the hood, the kit takes the SLS AMG Roadster's 6.3L V8 engine and just increased the output to 630hp, from the original 571 hp. Acceleration is at 0-62 mph in 3.5 seconds and the top speed is at 199mph. A great kit, made for a great car!

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Lucke-Reisen with their New Generation Citaro

The German bus and coach company, Lucke-Reisen, chose the new generation Citaro to be a part of their fleet. Last September 19, a ceremony was held where Konstantinos Tsiknas, head of sales for Mercedes buses and coaches in Germany, handed a symbolic key to managing directors of Lucke Reisen, Anne and Uwe Lucke.

• New-generation Citaro handed over to Lücke-Reisen

• Significant improvements to safety concept

• Variety of innovations inside and outside

The new Citaro created a sensation when it was presented to the general public just a few weeks ago. The best-selling urban bus from Mercedes-Benz has been completely revamped, and experts were quick to predict a great future for the bus. This future is already becoming reality: on 19 September, a ceremony was held to mark the delivery of the Citaro to a customer, Lücke-Reisen. Konstantinos Tsiknas, head of sales for Mercedes-Benz Buses and Coaches in Germany, handed over a symbolic key to managing directors Anne and Uwe Lücke. Lücke-Reisen, based in Nordkirchen, Germany, is the first private bus and coach firm to choose the new-generation Citaro.

Ambassador for an eye-catching form of public transport

The design of the Citaro leaves no doubt that this is a fundamental, new development. The designers at Mercedes-Benz have given the urban bus a completely new look, from the headlights to the tail lights. Its friendly ‘face’ really does appear be smiling, thanks to large headlights and a curved windscreen. The low-reaching side windows convey transparency, while the striking profiles of the wheel arches embody dynamism and finesse. The rear of the new Citaro features soft lines, giving it a friendly appearance despite the modern touches.

The new Citaro’s redesigned passenger compartment has an even more spacious feel than before. Light colours and an uncluttered ceiling design create an airy and inviting interior. InterStar Eco seats have been fitted. While the grab rail suspended from the ceiling is cobalt blue, the grab poles are painted in white aluminium. The new lighting concept features well-lit entrance and exit areas plus indirect lighting of the outer ceiling flaps as a result of installing multidimensional scattering lenses in the ceiling lights.

Fit for everyday use: safe, comfortable and economical

The new Citaro’s safety concept sets the standard. Its protection in the event of head-on collisions is unique among urban buses and is based on the ECE R 29 standard. It has increased passive safety thanks to an even more rigid yet lighter frame structure. These features mean the new Citaro already fulfils the requirements of the stricter ECE R 66/01 regulation on survival space in the event of the bus rolling over, due to come into force in 2017. The new inward folding doors are lighter, making the bus more robust. Integrated LED daytime running lights also come as standard. Another new feature is the pivot-and-slide door at the front entrance. The raised driver area ensures an even better all-round view and, by putting the driver at eye level with passengers, creates a heightened sense of safety. The driver’s cockpit has been completely redesigned for the new Citaro. Its door is now hinged at the rear, enabling it to open at the front. The instrument panel meets the requirements of the Association of German Transport Companies (VDV) yet is more airy, has more knee room, features optimised ergonomics and provides far more information thanks to the colour display. Buttons on the new steering wheel offer extra convenience.

The new Citaro has inherited its predecessor’s tried-and-trusted economical and environmentally-friendly engines with BlueTec diesel technology. Lücke-Reisen’s Citaro is powered by a compact six-cylinder turbo diesel OM 906 hLA with a cubic capacity of 6.37 litres, 210 kW (286 bhp) output and 1120 Nm torque. The engine meets the Euro V emissions standard.

Lücke-Reisen

Bus and coach operator Lücke-Reisen was founded in 1966 by Otto Lücke and is now managed by the second generation of the family, Uwe and Anne Lücke. The firm’s fleet comprises around 60 Mercedes-Benz vehicles, including coaches. Lücke-Reisen’s services range from school trips and club outings to coach tours throughout Germany and Europe. The family business also runs scheduled bus services for public transport companies Regionalverkehr Münsterland (RVM) and Verkehrsgesellschaft Kreis Unna (VKU) as well as for the charity Caritasverband Kreis Coesfeld. The new Citaro will operate alongside nine Citaro buses of the first and second generation.

Source: Daimler

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Mercedes-Benz Accessories at the Frankfurt Auto Show

Another Frankfurt Auto Show update. It is not all about cars! Well, yeah, these accessories still has something to do with Mercedes-Benz cars, but surely, these items are something that you can buy instantly without thinking much of the price. They would also be good souvenir and collection items and if you already have your Mercedes-Benz car, the additional gadgets could pimp it!

Stuttgart/Frankfurt – Trendsetting ideas for the modern digital lifestyle, providing fun and entertainment for people on the go, are being introduced by Mercedes-Benz through its Genuine Accessories range at the IAA in Frankfurt. The Apple iPhone® can be fully integrated into the control and display system of vehicles bearing the three-pointed star, using a special app to exploit the capabilities of the hippest premium smartphone on the market. Entertainment on the move, plus access to the internet, are made possible by an ingenious head restraint mounting for the Apple iPad®. New wheel designs are a further highlight on show at the IAA. The new items from the Mercedes-Benz Collection can now also be ordered from the comfort of your own home: the Mercedes-Benz Shop is going online, just in time for the IAA.

The Apple iPhone® is synonymous with fuss-free access to the digital world and to the wide range of attractive possibilities available there. And not only is it hip, it is also considered the most multi-talented smartphone around. With its iPhone® Interface Plus concept, Mercedes-Benz is able to enhance significantly the functionality of the communication and information system already installed in the vehicle, using the iPhone® as, amongst other things, an external media centre. At its heart is a control unit developed by Mercedes-Benz, which is neatly concealed in the glove compartment and fully integrated into the vehicle electronics. This means that the iPhone® screen can be seen on the display screen of the audio system, the audio signals are played through the car’s loudspeakers and the smartphone itself can be controlled through the car’s rotary pushbutton – a perfect example of successful integration. And of course all the time the iPhone® is connected to the control unit, it will automatically be recharging. The Mercedes-Benz app for the system is designed to be used safely and without causing distraction while on the move. Developed by Mercedes-Benz specifically for the in-car user, the app features a larger display that is ideally suited for use in the car, as well as numerous functions that make the most of the many capabilities of the trendy smartphone. The app offers:

• Holistic integration of social networking throughout the product with features including “Like currently playing media” and “Share your current destination via Facebook and Twitter”
• Ability to route to a destination with a click of a button, be it a Facebook event or a Google Local Search result or your Friends-on-Map
• Always be on top of latest posts from Facebook and Twitter via text-to-speech
• Seamless selection from on-board media using Cover Art and intuitive access to Personalized Radio or thousands of Internet Radio channels
• Easy access to all contacts from phonebook and other social media sources including Facebook and Twitter
• Access on-board media and your personal playlists
• “Car Finder”, which guides you back to where your car is parked,
  even in an unfamiliar town

The Mercedes-Benz iPhone® Interface Plus can be retrofitted from summer 2012. The free app will be available for download from the App Store at the same time.

On-the-road entertainment

Rear seat passengers will in future have a very easy way of using the Apple iPad® as an entertainment centre with internet access. Watching films, whiling away the time by playing computer games or simply browsing the web will all be possible thanks to a crash-proof holder for the Apple iPad®, mounted on the back of the front head restraints. The iPad Integration Plus system for rear seat passengers can be tilted, or turned through 90°. This convenient docking station is an ergonomic solution that makes it possible to use the Apple iPad®, with all its familiar functions, in your Mercedes-Benz. All connection points are easily accessible. The battery can also be recharged, using a separate Apple data cable that links into the vehicle’s on-board electricity supply via an integrated USB interface. Available from 28 September for the iPad or iPad 2. The price: 329 euros* (plus fitting, incl. 19% VAT).

Wheel appeal

Also being shown at the IAA are the new wheel designs from the Mercedes-Benz Genuine Accessories range. For the M-Class, Mercedes-Benz is showing at the IAA a 5-twin-spoke wheel in palladium silver with high-sheen elements. The contrast between the bare metal surface and the painted finish gives the vehicle a stylishly distinctive and highly individual flair. Available from autumn 2011, 434 euros* (incl. 19% VAT) per wheel.

Fine miniatures

There’ll be a gleam in the eye of every collector when they spot the new model cars being sold exclusively at the IAA and through the IAA Shop. The special limited-edition models of the new SLS AMG Roadster are available in a scale of 1:87 (limited to just 500 pieces) or 1:18 (limited to 125 pieces). Both miniature models are painted matt black with applications in pure orange (wheels, fins, brake callipers, roll-over bar and various interior details). A few discreet touches of silver are added by the three-pointed star on the radiator grille and boot lid, the slats of the radiator grille and the fuel filler cap. 25 euros* (incl. 19% VAT) for the scale 1:87, 249 euros* (incl. 19% VAT) for the scale 1:18 model.

Online ordering

Just in time for the IAA, the Mercedes-Benz Shop will be opening online on 13 September 2011. It provides an attractive platform for the presentation of a selection of items from the Mercedes-Benz Collection, with changing highlights. Alongside model cars, covering a spectrum from the very latest models like the SLS AMG through to spectacular classic models such as the 300 SL Gullwing, in a variety of different scale versions, there are all sorts of interesting accessories and items for classic car aficionados, the trend-conscious, motorsport enthusiasts and cyclists, plus collectors’ items for all fans of Mercedes-Benz. Website address: http://shop.mercedes-benz.de

Sporty luxury – INSPIRED BY MOTOR RACING

Mercedes-Benz and TAG Heuer – an unbeatable pairing of two pioneers of design. TAG Heuer remains to this day the first watch manufacturer to have succeeded in developing luxury chronographs with unrivalled precision to a tenth, hundredth and thousandth of a second. In recognition of the values shared by the two brands – innovation, elegance and sportiness – and of the many years of cooperation between them, TAG Heuer and Mercedes-Benz Style have developed an exclusive watch, available in a limited edition, which reflects the high design standards of both partners. At the heart of the meticulously thought-through design and sophisticated technology of this chronograph, characterised by its sleek and elegant lines, is ensconced a sophisticated TAG Heuer Cal. 16 (ETA 7750) automatic movement, set in a stainless steel case with a diameter of 43 millimetres. The Arrow Silver finish of the dial is particularly eye-catching and features the logos of both Mercedes-Benz and TAG Heuer. The tachymeter scale and start/stop button pick up on the jade green shade used as the special anniversary highlight colour to mark 125! years of innovation. The hands are in polished steel.

The back of the watch is made of glass, allowing one to see into the automatic movement, and shows the Mercedes-Benz star as well as the Mercedes-Benz Style name. The chronograph is water-resistant up to a depth of 100 metres and features a scratch-resistant, specially treated anti-reflective sapphire glass face. An anthracite-coloured crocodile leather strap with a stainless steel folding clasp gives the final touch to a true collectors’ item, produced in a limited edition of 125. Available from specialist stores from March 2012. Price 3950 euros* (incl. 19% VAT).

Engineering skill par excellence: design concept spectacles to mark 125th anniversary

As the global franchise partner for Mercedes-Benz Style spectacles, Rodenstock brings more than 130 years of experience and expertise in the field of spectacle lenses and frames to the partnership – so adding yet another facet to one of the world’s most well-known brands. At the International Motor Show in Frankfurt (IAA), Rodenstock and Mercedes-Benz are presenting a unique design study as a highlight of their successful cooperation: an exceptionally light pair of sunglasses in an unusual design, hand-made in pure titanium as a one-off exclusively for this occasion. Inspired by the design of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, this is a very special addition to the Mercedes-Benz Style Eyewear Collection. The defining stylistic feature of the sunglasses is the Mercedes-Benz star mounted on the sidepiece, produced in an elaborate coin-minting process. This characteristic is to be found on all spectacles in the Mercedes-Benz Eyewear Collection. The earpieces are finished in jade green, the special anniversary colour to mark 125! years of innovation. In addition to this stunning design study, six further pairs of sunglasses and correction-lens spectacles from the current Mercedes-Benz Style Eyewear Collection are being shown at the IAA. From a pair of sporty, curved-look sunglasses and some very stylish aviator shades with screw detailing, to an exclusive half-rimmed pair of spectacles in pure titanium, the range on display demonstrates the unique quality, at the very highest level, of this successful premium cooperation. A pair of sunglasses based on the design study should be available from specialist stores from the autumn of 2012. Further information about the Eyewear Collection from Mercedes-Benz Style is available online: www.rodenstock.de/Mercedes-Benz

*all prices valid in Germany

Source: Daimler AG

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M-Class World Premier at the Frankfurt Auto Show

New and old customers will like the new look of the new M-Class which debuted at the Frankfurt Auto Show.

The luxury car has a new sporty look, less angular with chrome grill and chrome accents good for daytime driving. The M-Class will be available in black, alpaca gray, almond beige and tobacco brown. The interior has nice and detailed trimming that will really impress anyone who looks at it.

The new M-Class will have two diesel engines, 258HP and 204HP and a gasoline angine, the ML350 BlueEfficiency with 306HP. 7-G Tronic Plus transmissions will equip the car for a nice ride.

Here are the photos:

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Schumacher and Rosberg Uncovered the 2012 DTM Car

The show all of shows have begun, the Frankfurt Auto Show already started. And it was an event for Mercedes-Benz, which was started by Mercedes Petronas drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg as they unveiled the 2012 DTM C-Class Coupe.

Definitely a racing performance car, the coupe is a silver arrow by the way it looks. But what's really interesting about it is the power it produces, which is 500HP, brought about by the 4L V8 engine and the lightweight characteristics.

Obviously, this car is bringing in the pride for the three-pointed star brand. Here are words of elation from key people from Mercedes-Benz:

Michael Schumacher: "The new 2012 Mercedes-Benz DTM car looks fantastic. But what I find even more impressive than the car's visual appearance is the new safety concept with its innovative safety cell and more advanced carbon-fiber structures. This safety standard is exemplary and constitutes, in my opinion, the benchmark for touring-car racing."

Gary Paffett: "After getting a feel for the handling and performance of the DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupe around the Lausitzring, I can say I'm very pleased with it. Of course, we still have a lot of development work ahead of us before the 2012 season opener in Hockenheim. The driving experience is quite different to that of previous DTM cars. The new Hankook tires for 2012 are wider and have taller sidewalls, providing more mechanical grip."

Norbert Haug, VP Mercedes-Benz Motorsports :"The new-generation vehicle, based on our Mercedes-Benz C-Coupe, signals the introduction of an even more spectacular racing car from the start of 2012. I am certain that the spectators will get their money's worth from the three-way fight between Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz in the DTM next year."

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Hydrogen Power in the F125 Concept Car

Months after the Mercedes-Benz F-Cell World Drive, the company is still evidently promoting the F-cell technology.

At the Frankfurt Auto Show, the F125 concept car will be driven by the hydrogen cell technology. Aside from that, the vehicle will have gullwing doors reminiscent of the SLS supercar. It will also have four electric motors that can produce 230 horsepower. The car can hit 0-60mph because of the electric motor too.




The hydrogen fuel cell can run up to 620 miles, and in case you're caught up in a place where there's no hydrogen refueling station, you need not worry because the cars have a battery reserve that can drive you another 30 miles.

Although it will make its first appearance at the Frankfurt Auto Show, there's still no word yet on when this car will be on the production line. Stay tuned for more news in the mean time.

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Mercedes-Benz Reported to Build a New Roadster to Follow the B-Class

According to an article by 4WheelsNews.com, Mercedes- Benz is getting ready to produce a new roadster in line with the Mercedes SLK, or SLA designation. This is under the concept car presented in 2000.

It said that it will be created using the MFA platform or front-wheel drive, with a 1.6L petrol engine of 1.8L diesel. It is also anticipated to have a six-speed or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. We can also expect it to be the pattern of the future A-Class and B-Class, which means we may see more of its characteristics in more Mercedes-Benz vehicles moving forward.

The roadster is expected to be available in the market by 2013.

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Sport Suspension Now in the New SLS AMG

A new sport suspension is now in the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The newly marketed option is called the AMG Ride Control.

The AMG Ride control comes with an E-Select lever with a beautiful AMG emblem, electronically controlled damping which is variable and adaptable. With all these features, the sports suspensions can be drive in three modes, Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus.

The price of the AMG Ride Control will be €2,320.50 in Germany.

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Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg Unveils the AMG Mercedes C-DTM Coupe

The two Mercedes Petronas pilots, Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher will unveil the new AMG Mercedes C-DTM coupe on September 13 at 12 o'clock. The act can be seen and downloaded from www.news2use.tv.

The car will be at the Frankfurt Auto Show and joining the other Mercedes-Benz vehicles that will have its world premiere at the event. Schumacher and Rosberg expressed their excitement over the new DTM coupe.

Rosberg commented, “I can’t wait to see how the new DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupé has turned out, which is why I’m so pleased to be there as we show it off to the world for the first time. It’s going to be a moment to remember,” while Schumacher added, “the IAA, the world’s most important show for the automotive industry, is the perfect setting for the première of our new 2012 DTM car.”

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Ducati and AMG Presents: Ducati Diavel AMG

Ever since Ducati and AMG signed a partnership in November 2010, the vehicle industry has been anticipating the creation of a product to be brought by this agreement between these two large companies.

The long wait is now over, as the Special Edition Ducati Diavel AMG will make its premier at the Frankfurt Motor Show on next week.




Ducati and Mercedes AMG have proudly announced that the first public showing of the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition will be at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany from 15-25 September. The 2012 flagship model of the Diavel family is a tribute to the AMG luxury-sport brand and is intended for passionate connoisseurs of technology, engineering detail and exclusive style.

Based upon the Diavel Carbon, the Diavel AMG Special Edition features AMG’s signature 5-spoke wheel styling, carbon fibre lateral radiator grills with aluminium trim, AMG-style sport exhaust system with engraved end-caps and AMG-style horizontally ribbed seat upholstery. The model’s incredible attention to performance detail also ensures that every engine has its Desmodromic cam-timing set by hand and authenticated with the name of the engine technician engraved on the left-side engine casing. Further underlining the model’s exclusivity, each motorcycle will have a numbered plaque on the fuel tank.

The award-winning Ducati Diavel has had massive first-year success for the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, its bold design merging the worlds of power and style with absolute precision to set a new industry standard for the segment.

Hand-built – as with all Ducati motorcycles – the exclusive new Diavel AMG Special Edition is dressed in matte black carbon fibre bodywork with AMG’s very own “Diamond White Bright” stripe and frame colour contrasted with black wheels. The special edition wheels, seat and exhaust end-caps are all AMG branded while “AMG” is also laser-engraved into the air-duct panels either side of the fuel tank. The Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition and dedicated leather jacket and helmet apparel will be available in early 2012 with orders opening to coincide with the first public showing at the Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany.

Source: Ducati.com

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Mercedes-Benz Worldwide Sales in August 2011

Mercedes-Benz cars are continuing to rise. Just last month, the sales went up to 7.9% from last year, which is equivalent to 87,384 worldwide sales.

“Our sales continued to develop very well in August. Germany, as our largest market, was an important growth driver, as well as many other markets in which we increased our sales considerably. All in all, we expect strong sales in the second half of the year and want to grow compared to last year. Record sales over the past eight months have created a very good basis for us to meet our full-year target of selling over 1.35 million Mercedes-Benz cars and smart fortwo— that’s more than ever before, “said Dr. Joachim Schmidt.

According to reports, what contributed to this growth is the increased delivery in Germany, a total of 23.2% increase. China, also had an increase, a 3.2% raise compared to August 2010.

SUV sales picked up, specifically the GLK, the SUV segment sold a total of 16,852 this month, a 28.4% increase year-to-date. The C-Class got a 9.7% increase while the luxurious S-Class posted 11.4%. Meanwhile, the E-Class convertibles posted an amazing 50.2% and the A-Class, not to be left behind, got a 66.3% increase.



Source: Daimler

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The Most Awaited Launching of Mercedes-Benz SLA Compact Roadster on 2013

GoAuto of Australia reported about the release of Audi TT Roadster's archenemy, the Mercedes-Benz SLA Compact Roadster.

The two-seater convertible is expected to launch in 2013. The car is rumored to have a front-wheel drive, much like the B-Class, and if that is true, then this is the first Mercedes Roadster to have it.

Mercedes-Benz SLA was a concept roadster then, it was actually introduced in the public in the year 2000 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. It was announced that it would have a 4-stroke 1.9L displacement and 4-cylinder petrol engine with 5-speed manual transmission.


Here's the press release from way back January 2000, from SeriousWheels.com:


Lightweight hybrid bodywork consisting of aluminum sections and panels and high-grade plastics
LED rear light clusters
Introduced 2003 in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (C 199)
LED turn signals Introduced 2003 in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (C 199)
Carbon fibre bucket seats
Introduced 2003 in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (C 199)

"Arousing curiosity … firing the emotions … thinking ahead … anticipating the future and translating new ideas into reality – the designers at the Mercedes Technology Center in Sindelfingen certainly have an interesting job. Their 'present' is the future. And sometimes they give us glimpses of that future by bringing out concept cars – cars which show us how we will be getting around in a number of years' time. The new Vision SLA is one such glimpse."

This was how Mercedes introduced the Vision SLA when it made its public debut at the Detroit Auto Show in January 2000. A small roadster based on the A-Class, the Vision SLA's aim was to translate the appeal and driving enjoyment of the SL series into an altogether smaller segment.

Reflecting its A-Class parentage Vision SLA had compact dimensions, with an exterior length of 3.77 meters promising a nippy driving experience – the SLK (R 170) was 20 centimeters longer, the SL (R 230) no less than 73 centimeters longer. Key design features of the compact roadster concept included powerfully sculpted fenders, a sharply raked windshield, large doors and a gently slanting rear in the style of the legendary Mercedes Silver Arrows. Two particularly innovative features were a prominent front fin and a V-shaped nose borrowed from the SLR high-performance sports car, which incorporated a centrally positioned Mercedes star.

The bodywork sheltered advanced Mercedes engineering. A 1.9 liter engine developing maximum power of 92 kW (125 hp) and maximum torque of 180 Newton meters at 4000 rpm provided lively performance, with a 0 - 100 km/h sprint time of 7.9 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h. High active safety standards meanwhile were provided by the A-Class-derived, slightly modified chassis with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Brake Assist.

With the bodywork, the staff from the advanced engineering and research departments had broken new ground. The Vision SLA had an innovative hybrid body structure consisting of aluminum sections and panels and high-grade plastics. This lightweight construction allowed Vision SLA to tip the scales at just 950 kilograms (DIN unladen weight).

The A-Class influence could be seen in the safety concept too. Although the open-top two-seater wasn't built on the sandwich principle, in the event of a serious front-end impact it used the same bright idea as the A-Class of shunting the engine out of the way underneath the passenger compartment. The positioning of the engine at an angle ensured that in an impact it would slide down along the sturdy front floor panel without intruding into the passenger compartment. This gave Vision SLA the same high safety standards as larger Mercedes sedans. Roll-over protection was provided by sturdy roll-over bars behind the seats and by a reinforced front windshield frame.

Once again, lighting was an important development focus. At the rear, 30 high-performance LEDs, with prisms to disperse the light, provided a more effective rear warning system than conventional bulbs, particularly in conditions of poor visibility. It took the form of vertical bands. The powerful LED turn signals, housed on fins inside the light housings, were likewise innovative and designed to attract attention. High-performance LEDs were also used for the brake lights, which were mounted in the rear bumper and in the rear crossbar on the trunk lid. Evenly dispersed road illumination and a long beam range were provided by state-of-the-art xenon projector-beam headlamps which used two separate headlamps for the dipped beam and the high beam.

At the front, the transparent ends of a frontal fin spanning the full width of the car incorporated yellow high-performance LED turn signals, which were supplemented by repeater LEDs in the exterior mirror casings.

Inside, the accent was on lightweight design. The technical aspects were woven neatly together with styling features suggesting lightness and transparency, such as perforated sheet metal, aluminum rotary controls and aluminum instrument cylinders. Carbon fiber bucket seats, adopted in slightly modified form from the Vision SLR, continued the theme – they were approximately 25 percent lighter than similarly specified conventional car seats.

The cockpit recalled sports cars and tourers of earlier years. The chronometer-style instruments normally supplied data only on speed, rpm, oil pressure and fuel level. However, other displays appeared behind the dials when needed, in the event of a malfunction.

In all respects Vision SLA put the accent on a natural and unfiltered motoring experience. This was at the heart of this roadster's charm and was reflected in the interior design. Carpeting and fabric upholstery had been dispensed with in favor of painted metal surfaces and dark brown, specially supplied saddle-quality leather. This leather was tanned using only vegetable matter, thus helping to preserve its very special character. A natural material with a strong air of quality, hard-wearing and also very breathable, it was used on the dashboard, on the insides of the doors and in areas exposed to frequent occupant contact, such as the steering wheel, the seat surfaces, the armrests in the doors and the floor. The cut edges were deliberately left visible, with light-colored stitching providing a color contrast and hand-finished effect.

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What are the Mercedes Vehicles at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show?

With the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show just a few weeks away from now, most people are anticipating what Mercedes-Benz vehicles will be premiering at the event. Well, here are the vehicles you can see on September 15-25.

The New Generation B-Class.



SLS AMG Roadster



SLK 55 AMG



C63 AMG Black Series



SLK 250 CDI Diesel



Pearl Viano Vision



The high light of the showcase is said to the F125 research vehicle. Aside from the ones that will be having its premier at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, there are also some vehicles that underwent facelifts, like the C-Class coupe and R-Class along with other AMG vehicles.

Photo Source: BenzInsider.com

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Vath on Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG

Bavarian tuner, Vath released their newest project, the Mercedes-benz CL63 AMG V8 Biturbo called C216.

The tuning kit has increased the speed of the vehicle by putting an electronic management system. That is why the car now ha s a maximum torque of 930Nm and an acceleration from 0 to 62mpg in only 4.3 seconds. Despite of its speed, the car remain eco-friendly with its Sport-Kat, which reduces emission.

The Mercedes-Benz CL 63 AMG V8 Biturbo also has carbon fiber mirror caps, carbon firber trunk spoiler and rear diffuser and fiber radiator cover. Regarding the design, the exterior features great looking wheels, front wheel sizing is 9x20 inch and rear wheel is 10.5x20 inch and tires of 255/35ZR20 or 275/35ZR20. The interior meanwhile can be customizable, especially the steering wheel, which the buyer can have in a combined leather, carbon or precious wood trim materials.


Here is the official Press Release for the Mercedes-Benz CL63 AMG V8 Biturbo:

VÄTH CL63 AMG - V8 BITURBO (FACELIFT)
Hösbach, Germany, August 30, 2011



Mercedes-Benz C 216 presents the current generation of CL class as the luxury two-door coupe and it is based - in spite of the yesterday's body size in length, width and height - from September 2006 on the slightly modified platform of the S-Class limousines (Series 221). Since the vehicle was originally equipped with a large number of technical features, the "renovation" may be primarily focused on power. Company VÄTH Automobiltechnik is based in the Bavarian city of Hesbahe (Hösbach) near the city of Aschaffenburg. This company was once again able, after quite purposeful actions, to put the sports car of the highest category on the wheels.

The increase in power, for example, by Tuning-Kit V63S turns on the individual precise adjustments of the electronic engine management system including an increase in the maximum speed is now represented by the following data: about 463 kW / 630 hp., 930 Nm maximum torque, the acceleration from 0 to 100 km \ h takes 4.3 sec. and - in case of wheels camber - the top speed is 300 km \ h. The emission level has been reduced by the device made of stainless steel and Sport-Kat.
In order to optimize the brakes, on the approval of the engineering supervision, the tubes of fuel inlet are made of curved steel in which the brake fluid Castrol SRF circulates. VÄTH also offers the adequate brakes air blow-off in an optimal way. The alloyed disks have three spokes on 9x20-inch at the front and 10,5 x20-inch at the rear with the 255/35ZR20 tires or 275/35ZR20 - the optimum connection between the vehicle and the road. Factory made ABC (Active-Body-Control)-chassis are located deeper and is more comfortable in the first and second gear of the damper and in the third they are tightly regulated as in all sport cars, so the agility is clearly improved.

The cap of the side mirrors is made of carbon fiber, the car also features carbon fiber radiator cover and the rear diffuser, as well as the trunk spoiler and if necessary it may be lined with carbon as well. Naturally, VÄTH has taken care of the interior as well. Thus, the sports steering wheel, created by them, in the full sense of the word indicates the direction. Also, the leather interior gives the car a prestigious looks. By the way, the carbon or precious wood lining is available in accordance with your desire. The expected speed of 360 km / h suits this vehicle perfectly.

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