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Award ceremony at the Geneva Motor Show: New B-Class is "Winter Car of the Year"

By | Published Wednesday, 7 March 2012

The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class has been voted "Winter Car of 2012" by Finland's leading car magazine, "Tekniikan Maailma". The compact sports tourer emerged victorious against 15 competitors after being subjected to a comprehensive comparative test in winter conditions. Covering a distance of 1000 kilometres, the test comprised a series of assessments of driving dynamics, braking and fuel consumption, as well as a number of criteria which are particularly relevant in winter, such as heating performance and "light and sight" features. Velimatti Honkanen, Editor-in-Chief of "Tekniikan Maailma", presented the award yesterday at the Geneva Motor Show to Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. The Finnish car magazine has been conducting its punishing winter test since 1980.


The B-Class secured its leading position in particular thanks to its safe and precise handling, high levels of comfort and excellent headlamps. Featuring a new four-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection and turbocharger, a new diesel engine, a new dual clutch transmission and a new manual transmission along with new assistance systems, technologically the second generation of the B-Class has ushered in a new compact car era at Mercedes-Benz. High-grade materials and finely structured surfaces, fine details, precision workmanship plus safety equipment unique to the segment all help to raise the benchmark in the compact car segment.
Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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Geneva Motor Show 2012 – Mercedes-Benz model offensive with eight newcomers

By | Published Tuesday, 6 March 2012

At the 82nd Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz is presenting dynamic and efficient reinforcements in the ongoing model offensive – eight new models in four different vehicle classes. The focus of today’s show appearance was the world premiere of the new A-Class. The Mercedes athlete in the compact segment is cool and “green” – emotional in its design, dynamic in its performance with an output of up to 155 kW (211 hp), and highly efficient with emissions figures starting at 99 g CO2/km. Plus, with the A-Class, Mercedes-Benz becomes the very first vehicle maker to integrate the iPhone® fully into a vehicle’s operating and display concept. Also celebrating its world premiere in Geneva was the new SL 63 AMG, which offers considerably more dynamics than its predecessor with 30 percent lower fuel consumption. The new series-production SL celebrated its European premiere, as did the new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID. The world’s most fuel-efficient full-size model makes do with just 4.2 litres of diesel per 100 km (109 g CO2/km).


“The A-Class makes a clear statement on the new dynamism of Mercedes-Benz”, said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “Together with the successful new B-Class and three further model variants based on this vehicle architecture, it will be an important driver in our ‘Mercedes-Benz 2020’ growth strategy. We are expecting a conquest rate of more than 50 percent for the A-Class. And that’s why we say that ‘A’ now stands for attack.”

Representatives of the international press were able to gain a first impression of the new A-Class on the eve of the Geneva Motor Show. Dr. Dieter Zetsche unveiled the Mercedes athlete in the compact segment as part of an exclusive presentation. The “first pulse of a new generation” was experienced live by an audience that included Germany’s national soccer coach Joachim Löw and team manager Oliver Bierhoff, as well as national players Benedikt Höwedes and Mario Götze.

The new A-Class exudes dynamism from the very first glance – its sits lower to the ground than its predecessor by up to 18 centimetres. The radical design language that was introduced with the “Concept A-CLASS” to an enthusiastic reception worldwide has been systematically carried over into series production. With a reinterpretation of the classic two-box design, Mercedes-Benz designers created an emotional exterior with an extremely sporty character. And with a cd figure starting from 0.26, the A-Class sets a new benchmark in its class.

Premium interior and full iPhone® integration

The sporty appearance continues into the interior. Added to that is a premium feel that is unique in this vehicle segment. The operating concept also sets benchmarks with a fully integrated smartphone. The driver now has access to the main content of his iPhone® with the “Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone®” and an app concept developed in-house by Daimler that brings “Digital DriveStyle” into the vehicle. This enables the full range of smartphone capabilities to be used safely and conveniently inside the car, too, for the first time.

All functions of the iPhone® integration can be used with the Audio 20 entry device, and will also be available for a wide range of other Mercedes-Benz models as of this summer. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz will shortly be enabling the in-car use of smartphones with other operating systems.

New petrol and diesel engines with exemplary efficiency

A wide range of spark-ignition and diesel engines fulfils every performance desire and, at the same time, marks the current state-of-the-art in efficiency – for the first time, a Mercedes-Benz with an internal combustion engine will emit just 99 g CO2 per kilometre. The output spectrum ranges from 80 kW (109 hp) for the entry-level diesel through to 155 kW (211 hp) for the new 2.0-litre petrol version. Mercedes-Benz is introducing an innovation in the 1.6-litre petrol engine in the shape of CAMTRONIC – by adjusting valve lift on the inlet side, the volume of fresh air is restricted under partial load and fuel consumption reduced. All six engines are equipped as standard with direct injection and the ECO start/stop function. As an option, they can be combined with the 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic.

The new A-Class – exemplary in dynamics and safety

At the same time, the A-Class provides impressive proof that safety is not a question of price at Mercedes-Benz – the radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system and ATTENTION ASSIST are part of the standard equipment. Well-known safety features from the larger Mercedes model ranges are also available for the A-Class for the first time, including PRE-SAFE® and DISTRONIC PLUS, as well as the blind spot, lane keeping and speed limit assistants. The sophisticated chassis design chassis design guarantees high active safety and previously unheard-of handling characteristics. The most dynamic version in the lineup is the A-Class Sport engineered by AMG, on which the visual relationship to the Concept A-CLASS is particularly evident thanks to the new diamond grille.

E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID – the world’s most fuel efficient full-size car

With the E-Class diesel hybrid, Mercedes-Benz is starting a new chapter in the brand’s core segment and setting benchmarks for full-size business vehicles along the way. The S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as both a saloon and estate, sets new records in efficiency. The world’s most fuel-efficient full-size model sets the pace with outstanding efficiency figures (4.2 l/100 km) combined with high power output. The four-cylinder diesel in the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID generates 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 Nm of torque. The electric motor delivers 20 kW and 250 Nm.

“Our modular hybrid drive reduces consumption and increases driving fun and comfort at the same time,” said Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “Plus, the system is so compact that is fits entirely into the engine compartment, complete with the battery. This means that there are no reductions in available space, neither in the interior nor the boot.” Mercedes-Benz is the only premium manufacturer to offer an estate with hybrid drive – the load-master among hybrids.

World premiere for a top-class athlete – the new SL 63 AMG

With a power output ranging from 395 kW (537 hp) to 415 kW (564 hp), the new Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG offers the perfect pre-requisites for unparalleled dynamics and a uniquely refined driving experience. Systematic lightweight design sets the new generation of the high-performance roadster – and the entire new SL line-up – apart. Thanks to an all-aluminium body-in-white and carbon-fibre rear lid, the weight of the SL 63 AMG is down by 125 kilograms. A performance boost is delivered by the combination of a further refined AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control, new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance composite
brake system and AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

“Typically for AMG, we have once again loaded the top version of the SL with a few more horses, forming the basis for its supreme dynamics,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing. “At the same time, the performance specialists in Affalterbach have also achieved an impressive improvement in efficiency. The new SL 63 AMG boasts average fuel consumption of just 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres, 4.2 litres less than its predecessor.” This means that the reduction in fuel consumption for the AMG version matches that of the series-production model at around 30 percent.

Efficient driving fun as standard – more new models for the C and E-Class

Alongside the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, Mercedes-Benz is adding two more efficiency champions to its C and E-Class lineup. Among the most fuel-efficient cars in its class is the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition, which will reach dealers in March. Thanks to the Aerodynamics package, electric power steering (EPS) and a longer rear axle ratio, the 125 kW (170 hp) full-size model consumes just 4.5 litres of diesel per 100 km. This equates to CO2 emissions of 119 g/km – ten grammes or almost 8 percent less than before. Arriving on the market in parallel is the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY as the new entry-level petrol C-Class. The 115 kW (156 hp) 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder consumes just 5.8 l/100 km. The CO2 figure of 136 g/km marks an improvement of up to 21 g/km (ca. -1.0 l/100 km) compared with the previous C 180 with similar equipment.

C-Class Sport – the C-Class has never been so dynamic

With the new Coupe models “sport – engineered by AMG”, as well as the AMG Plus sports package, the selection of sporty C-Class versions is greater than it has ever been. The new coupe models C 250 Sport and C 250 CDI Sport are exceptionally dynamic, with specialists from AMG involved in their development. Both models offer the visually upgraded AMG Plus sports package, the more direct speed-sensitive steering and sporty transmission settings in S and M mode (in combination with 7-speed automatic). The new models will be available on the market starting June 2012.




































Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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Mercedes-Benz at the Geneva Motor Show 2012: Dynamism and efficiency

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The beating pulse of a new generation: the centrepiece of Mercedes-Benz's appearance at the Geneva Motor Show (8 to 18 March 2012) will be the world premiere of the new A-Class, the sporty Mercedes in the compact segment. Also totally new is the SL 63 AMG, offering high performance par excellence. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID – the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment – will be on show for the first time in Europe, as will the lightweight, athletic and luxurious SL-Class and the ML 63 AMG. The SLK 55 AMG will be appearing for the first time in Switzerland. The C-Class Sport offers a new dimension in sportiness, while the C 180 and E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition are shining beacons of efficiency. The CL "Grand Edition" stands for the ultimate in elegant luxury.


With the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is opening a new chapter in the compact segment: emphatically emotional in design, dynamic, with engines rated from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), highly efficient with emission values as low as 99 g CO2/km. The A-Class is a clear statement on the dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand. At the same time, it also highlights the fact that safety is not a matter of price at Mercedes-Benz – with standard-fit features including the COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST radar-based assistance system. The new A-Class (length/width/height: 4292/1780/1433 millimetres) will be making its way to European dealers in September 2012.

"A stands for 'attack': the A-Class is a clear statement on the new dynamism of the Mercedes-Benz brand," says Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. "It is new down to the last detail. Such an opportunity to begin with a blank sheet is rare in the field of car development. Our engineers and designers have seized this opportunity in convincing style."

The design of the A-Class: emotional with a very sporty character

The design credentials and dynamism of the new A-Class are immediately apparent at first glance as it crouches up to 18 centimetres lower on the road than its predecessor. The design idiom presented with the "Concept A-CLASS" has been adopted wholeheartedly in the series production vehicle: with a new interpretation of the classic two-box design, the Mercedes designers have created an emotional exterior with a very sporty character. " Applying the new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz to the compact class was a challenge that we thoroughly enjoyed"," relates Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. "The sculptural aspect of the A-Class design is typically Mercedes. The feature lines on the sides in particular lend the A-Class structure and a welcome edginess."

The aim in designing the interior was to complement the exterior's sporty appearance. The interior additionally derives a quality feel which is unique in the compact segment from the design idiom, the selection of high-quality materials and the available combinations of materials. And as with the Concept A-CLASS, a smartphone can be fully integrated into the control and display system. A dedicated app allows full use of the functions offered by the iPhone®, with other smartphones to follow in the future.

All trim surfaces feature an electroplated finish in "silver shadow", giving them a genuine metallic surface with "cool touch" effect. "This is just one example of the way in which the quality of the A-Class's interior is not defined by classic trim elements but by consistent design and by the specific materials used", explains Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. "The motto we used when designing the interior was 'pure sportiness, newly interpreted'."

Sporty exclusivity: the Sport edition redefines dynamic performance

The performance specialists from AMG were involved for the first time at an early stage of the development process for the compact car. This involvement has spawned the model line's most dynamic version – the A-Class Sport Edition engineered by AMG, whose looks reveal a particularly close affinity to the Concept A-CLASS – by virtue of the new diamond grille, for example.

The drive: new engines for petrol and diesel fuel

A broad range of petrol and diesel engines covers all power requirements while defining a new benchmark in efficiency: for the first time ever, a Mercedes-Benz will emit only 99 g of CO2 per kilometre.

The new generation of petrol engines with a displacement of 1.6 and 2.0 litres covers an output spectrum ranging from 90 kW (115 hp) in the A 180 through 115 kW (156 hp) in the A 200 to 155 kW (211 hp) in the A 250. Features common to all these engines are the combination of direct injection with exhaust-gas turbocharging, an enhanced combustion process and extended stratification ranges for lean-burn operation by means of fast-acting injectors for multiple fuel injections and multiple ignition according to the prevailing requirements. The 1.6-litre engine features the world premiere of the innovative CAMTRONIC system. As a result of adjustment of the valve lift at the intake end the quantity of fresh gas is limited in the partial load range, reducing fuel consumption.

The diesel engines also boast extreme efficiency and environmental friendliness, thanks to state-of-the-art injection technology and turbocharging. The A 180 CDI kicks off at 80 kW (109 hp) and offers maximum torque of up to 250 Nm, while in the A 200 CDI the maximum power output stands at 100 kW (136 hp), accompanied by maximum torque of 300 Nm. The A 220 CDI has a displacement of 2.2 litres and generates 125 kW (170 hp) of power and 350 Nm of torque, enabling outstanding performance in the A-Class.

All engines of the new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as standard. The engines can be combined with the new six-speed manual transmission or optionally with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission.

Other highlights: chassis and suspension, aerodynamics, safety

The chassis realises the dynamism which is promised by the design and the drive technology. The substantially lowered centre of gravity and the new four-link rear axe provide the basis for the effective transmission of power to the road and for the potential deployment of 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The customer has a choice of various chassis and suspension set-ups, including the optional sports suspension with Direct-Steer system. The electromechanical steering of the A-Class has been redesigned. The electric motor of the servo assistance system is now located in space-saving configuration directly on the steering gear as a high-precision dual pinion EPS system.

The perfect aerodynamics of the A-Class grant it a Cd value of 0.26 – a new benchmark in its class. The standard-fit roof spoiler concealing all the aerials on board the A-Class is also a contributory factor here.

The A-Class is the only car in its segment to feature a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist as standard, which lowers the risk of rear-end collisions. The COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system gives a visual and acoustic warning to alert a possibly distracted driver to identified obstacles, and prepares Brake Assist for the most precise possible braking response. This is initiated as soon as the driver emphatically operates the brake pedal.

The PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant protection system is available for the first time in the A-Class. This marks the debut in the compact class of this innovation which was premiered in the S-Class back in 2002.

E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: the world's most fuel-efficient luxury-class model

The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is all set for its market launch with record efficiency values of 4.2 l diesel/100 km and 109 g CO2/km, accompanied by increased torque and power output. Its modular hybrid concept with lithium‑ion battery does not impose any compromises on space and offers an impressive driving experience thanks to start/stop, recuperation, boost effect, all-electric driving and sailing. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment.

Mercedes-Benz is setting new standards for luxury-class business vehicles: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as a saloon and an estate, boasts truly impressive performance. Its 4-cylinder diesel engine generates 150 kW (204 hp) of power and 500 Nm of torque. The diesel engine combines with an electric motor rated at 20 kW and 250 Nm to produce a harmonious overall concept.

"The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID represents the continuation of our comprehensive hybrid offensive. The modular technology paves the way for us to quickly introduce hybrid models to complement other model series," explains Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "By clearly focussing on the different requirements of the global markets, we are able to offer precisely the models that our customers want."

The new SL-Class: light, athletic, luxurious

The all-new SL sees Mercedes-Benz continuing a tradition that began 60 years ago, since when "SL" has always stood for a symbiosis of sportiness, style and comfort – and for trailblazing innovations. The SL consists almost entirely of aluminium for the first time and weighs in at up to 140 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. The highly rigid all-aluminium body-in-white provides the basis for emphatically sportier, agile handling accompanied by exemplary ride and driving comfort.

New BlueDIRECT engines provide for enhanced driving dynamics; they are more powerful and at the same time up to 29 percent more fuel-efficient than the previous generation of engines. Totally new features are the Frontbass system, a world-first that transforms the luxury sports car into a concert hall irrespective of whether the top is up or down, and the MAGIC VISION CONTROL adaptive wiper/washer system, which applies water to the windscreen from the wiper blade in the required quantities and according to the wiping direction.

SL 63 AMG: high-performance roadster

The latest version of the Mercedes-Benz SL 63 AMG high-performance roadster impresses on several counts: systematic lightweight construction, increased output and enhanced driving dynamics, all combined with a 30 percent reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. Thanks to an all-aluminium bodyshell, similar to that of the SLS AMG supercar, the vehicle has shed 125 kilograms. With a kerb weight of 1845 kilograms and an output of 395 kW (537 hp) or 415 kW (564 hp), the new model boasts the perfect ingredients for unparalleled dynamism and a sublime driving experience that is truly unique.

A further boost in performance comes courtesy of a winning combination: a further improved AMG sports suspension based on Active Body Control, new AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, the AMG high-performance compound braking system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. An enticing mix of stylish design, extensive standard equipment and a high level of safety.

Intelligent lightweight construction is one of the major factors behind the low fuel consumption figures. The SL 63 AMG is built around a lightweight all-aluminium bodyshell similar to that of the SLS AMG supercar. Compared to the outgoing model, this design not only delivers a weight reduction of around 110 kilograms, it also greatly enhances rigidity, safety and comfort. The boot lid helps to further trim the weight. For the first time on a volume-produced model, the inner support is made from lightweight carbon-fibre composite. The extremely rigid carbon-fibre component is bonded to the plastic outer shell, resulting in a weight saving of five kilograms compared to a conventional boot lid.

SLK 55 AMG: top figures in all disciplines

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed naturally aspirated AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system combines ultimate performance with minimised fuel consumption. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp) and peak torque of 540 Newton metres, the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). Its fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre are some 30 percent lower than the figures for its predecessor.

ML 63 AMG: efficiency and superlative performance

The new Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG stands for efficiency and performance, exclusivity and a superlative driving experience. Burning 11.8 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined, 276 g CO2/km), the high-performance SUV undercuts its predecessor by 28 percent. The basis for the low fuel consumption and top-class performance is provided by the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine. The eight-cylinder unit extracts a maximum power output of 386 kW (525 hp) and 700 Newton metres of torque from its displacement of 5461 cc. In conjunction with the AMG Performance package, these figures rise to 410 kW (557 hp) and 760 Newton metres. Both variants of the ML 63 AMG deliver sports car-like performance: the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 4.8 seconds and 4.7 seconds respectively, while top speed stands at 250 km/h (electronically limited).

C-Class Sport: the C-Class has never been sportier

Mercedes-Benz is sharpening the profile of the C-Class: with the new "Sport" Coupé models developed with AMG and the new "AMG Plus Sports package", there has never been a wider choice of sporty versions. The new models are available from June 2012. The AMG Plus Sports package can be combined with all body and engine variants.

The name says it all – the new coupé models C 250 Sport and C 250 CDI Sport are decidedly dynamic, as the performance specialists at AMG were heavily involved in their development. In addition to the visually enhanced AMG Plus Sports package, both models have technical features which further increase driving enjoyment. Cornering and handling characteristics are more dynamic thanks to an AMG sports suspension, more direct speed-sensitive sports steering, a sports exhaust system and a more sporty transmission configuration in S and M mode. The matt paint finish "designo magno platinum" is exclusively available for the Sport models.

C 180, E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition: shining beacons of efficiency

Presenting the most economical E-Class diesel and C-Class petrol models to date: with fuel consumption of 4.5 litres/100 km and emissions of 119 g CO2/km for the
E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition and 5.8 litres/100 km and 136 g CO2/km for the new C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, Mercedes-Benz is giving an impressive demonstration of just how much potential is still left in the internal-combustion engine. Take the
C-Class, for instance: since its predecessor was launched in 2000, the output of the
C 180 has increased by 21 percent, whilst consumption has been reduced by 37 percent. The present version of the C-Class is nearly twice as efficient as its predecessor.

The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition that is available from March 2012 is simply one of the most economical cars in its segment. Thanks to a bundle of efficiency-boosting measures, including an Aerodynamics package, electric power steering (EPS), a longer final-drive ratio and size 205/55 R 16 tyres with low rolling resistance, the model emits just 119 g CO2/km – ten grams or nearly eight percent less than before and equates to 4.5 litres of diesel per 100 km. The E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition has an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and is available with a 6-speed manual transmission only.

The turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol unit is the brand new entry-level engine for the C-Class. With fuel consumption of 5.8 l/100 km and a CO2 figure of 136 g/km, the improvement compared to the previous C 180 when similarly equipped is as much as 21 g/km, or just under 1 l/100 km. This makes the C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY one of the very first petrol models to be ranked in energy efficiency class B. The 115 kW (156 hp) engine is very light when compared to its competitors and delivers impressive agility from standstill – peak torque of 250 Nm is on tap from just 1250 rpm all the way up to 4000 rpm.

CL "Grand Edition": exclusive luxury

The exclusive "Grand Edition" of the CL from Mercedes-Benz features attractive exterior paint finishes and more exclusive interior appointments. The range of paint finishes offers a choice between designo platinum black metallic, designo magno cashmere white and designo mocha black. The exclusive appearance is rounded off by 20-inch light-alloy wheels. Inside, the "Grand Edition" offers single-tone aniline leather in porcelain, armagnac or deep black. The "Grand Edition" is available as a CL 500, CL 500 4MATIC and CL 600.

Viano PEARL Limited Edition: exclusive touring van

The vision presented at the Frankfurt International Motor Show has now become reality in the form of the Viano PEARL touring van, which indulges its occupants with the finest materials. The front seats and the four individual seats in the rear are upholstered in finest two-tone nappa leather, for example, and the rear boasts a real walnut floor. The electrochromatic glass of the rear side windows can be darkened at the touch of a button. A "BeoSound Viano" sound system from Bang & Olufsen, produced and tuned specifically for the Viano PEARL Limited Edition, provides for superior on-board audio quality. There is a choice of two powerful V6 engines – a diesel rated at 165 kW (224 hp) and a petrol version rated at 190 kW (258 hp).

Vito E-CELL crewbus: first seven-seater with electric drive

The Vito E-CELL crewbus is the first seven-seater vehicle worldwide to offer local emission-free mobility ex-factory as standard. With its range of around 130 km it is ideal for use in environmentally sensitive areas, such as pedestrian zones, city centres or health resorts. The electric motor (60 kW, 280 Nm), power electronics, transformer and AC/DC charger are accommodated under the bonnet. The generated power is transmitted to the front wheels. The powerful and robust lithium-ion batteries are accommodated under the passenger compartment floor.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2012, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

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Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: The world's most economical luxury-class model

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The new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is all set for its market launch with record efficiency values of 4.2 l diesel/100 km and 109 g CO2/km, accompanied by increased torque and power output. Its modular hybrid concept with lithium-ion battery does not impose any compromises on space and offers an impressive driving experience thanks to start/stop, recuperation, boost effect, all-electric driving and sailing. The new model is available as a saloon and an estate. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment.


Mercedes-Benz is opening a new chapter in its brand's core segment and at the same time setting new standards for luxury-class business vehicles: the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as a saloon and an estate, boasts truly impressive performance. The 4-cylinder diesel engine of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is rated at 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 Nm. The diesel engine combines with an electric motor rated at 20 kW and 250 Nm to produce a harmonious overall concept.

"The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID represents the continuation of our comprehensive hybrid offensive. The modular technology paves the way for us to quickly introduce hybrid models to complement other model series," explains Professor Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "By clearly focussing on the different requirements of the global markets, we are able to offer precisely the models that our customers want."

The new model does not force passengers to compromise in terms of spaciousness, either in the interior or in the luggage compartment. The intelligent, modular hybrid concept represents a comprehensive enhancement of the S 400 HYBRID – the clear market leader in its segment: no body modifications are necessary, the hybrid module is flexible and also suitable for deployment in other model series. All this comes at only a moderate price increase of € 3570. In Germany the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID costs € 51,794.75 as a saloon, while the estate model retails at € 55,007.75 (in each case incl. 19% VAT). Both models are to be launched in June 2012.

The philosophy: enhanced efficiency without compromising on comfort or benefits

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID forms part of the brand's intelligent downsizing strategy, which involves making conventional models far more efficient than previously – without sacrificing driveability or comfort.Here the in-house engineers have their sights set on exemplary consumption figures in everyday traffic rather than on standard or NEDC combined consumption, for instance. The familiar "Real Life Safety" philosophy, which focuses on safety benefits under real-life conditions rather than standardised crash-test results, is augmented by "Real Life Efficiency".

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is based on the notoriously economical E 250 CDI, yet has a higher output and 15 percent lower fuel consumption.Overview of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID:
On the road, therefore, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is easily a match for the E 300 CDI (170 kW/540 Nm), yet it boasts around 35-percent lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.In terms of vehicle weight, too, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is on a par with the E 300 CDI.

At the same time, hybridisation enhances ride comfort:the car starts and moves off in virtual silence, while the hybrid module also damps any internal combustion engine vibrations. What's more, complete climate control is available even in start/stop mode.

Coasting along the motorway

Mercedes-Benz hybrid technology offers a wealth of extra functions that enhance both comfort and efficiency as well as helping to deliver a special driving experience underpinned by accomplished sportiness:

- When the car is stationary - ECO start/stop: the internal combustion engine switches off when coasting at speeds up to 160 km/h, since ancillaries such as the steering, brakes and refrigerant compressor operate electrically. It is restarted quickly, smoothly and virtually silently.

- Manoeuvring: in most cases, the car uses electric power alone for manoeuvring and parking.

- Accelerating: electrical power alone is used for moving off and driving under low load. Acceleration from standstill is particularly powerful, since the electric motor's full torque of up to 250 Nm is available instantaneously.

- Boost function: the electric motor supports the combustion engine during acceleration, e.g. in the course of overtaking.

- Cruising: when the car is being driven at a constant speed, the engine control unit shifts the operating points towards exceptionally low specific fuel consumption levels.

- Sailing "sailing", as it has come to be known, is possible at speeds below 160 km/h. The combustion engine shuts down and the desired speed is maintained by the electric‑motor alone until the battery needs recharging.

- Kinetic energy recuperation when coasting or braking: when the car is coasting (decelerating), the electric motor acts as a generator. When the brake pedal is pressed, the generator output is initially increased proportionally for greater deceleration. Only when increased brake pressure is applied are the wheel brakes additionally deployed.

- Information: an additional savings effect arises after a relatively short period of time, as drivers come to apply the above-stated functions in an increasingly more purposeful and effective manner. They are supported here by the display concept in the hybrid models – the central display provides information on the current energy flow and the charge status of the battery.

The hybrid module: a compact and intelligently integrated powerhouse

The hybrid drive unit is a further development of the module from the S 400 HYBRID and is based on the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.Distinguishing features include the omission of the hydraulic torque converter and the addition of a wet clutch of the kind also found in the high-performance AMG models. Consequently, the electric motor can be integrated in the transmission unit in such a way that it takes up only marginally more space than the 7G-TRONIC (+65 mm). The omission of the converter allows all-electric motoring as well as "sailing", thus significantly boosting the potential to reduce fuel consumption.

The compact electric motor, which is installed in space-saving configuration in the clutch housing between engine and transmission, is a 3‑phase AC internal rotor magneto motor which generates a maximum output of 20 kW and peak torque of 250 Newton metres at an operating voltage of 120 volts.

The components: perfectly integrated into the vehicle

The hybrid drive's electrical energy is provided by the high-voltage lithium-ion battery specially developed for use in vehicles.Its key characteristics include an output of 19 kW and an energy content of 0.8 kWh, allowing the E-Class to run on electric power alone at up to 35 km/h and for up to one kilometre. Space-saving installation of the drive in the engine compartment in place of the conventional starter battery means that the generous interior dimensions and the luggage compartment capacity remain unchanged. In addition to serving as an energy accumulator for the electric motor, the lithium-ion battery is also connected via the voltage converter to the 12V on-board electrical system, which supplies power to standard power-consuming devices such as the headlamps and the comfort features.

Sophisticated packaging means that numerous hybrid-specific components such as the high-performance electronics in the engine compartment can be integrated directly with the internal combustion engine, thus neatly rounding off the modularity concept:the hybrid models can be produced on the same assembly line as their conventional counterparts without needing to be diverted elsewhere. Another advantage of the overall concept is the scalability and compatibility with other vehicles and engines.

Safety: on a par with previous models

Intelligent integration of the hybrid systems without the need for changes to the body has the practical benefit of not restricting spaciousness in any way as well as ensuring that all hybrid models boast exactly the same high level of safety as their counterparts with an internal combustion engine – a very important aspect for Mercedes-Benz. Accident behaviour has been successfully tested crash simulations and tests.





















Credits: Daimler AG

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