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The Mercedes-Benz efficiency champions: Complete Story

By | Published Tuesday, 3 April 2012

These days, Mercedes-Benz is fully focused on building the most efficient premium automobiles in the world. The German constructor is keen to offer a green alternative in every market segment. Whether we talk about the newly unveiled E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, the diesel-powered SLK 250 CDI or the new generation SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, the recipe for success remains the same. Minute attention is paid to the aerodynamical development of the body, while the engines, running on petrol or diesel, are constantly enhanced with the latest technologies that help achieve outstanding values for CO2 emissions and fuel economy.

Why not have a look through the links posted below which talk about Mercedes-Benz's newest fleet of highly efficient cars? Enjoy!


>> The Mercedes-Benz efficiency champions: Impressive efficiency without compromises



>> New Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: The world's most fuel-efficient luxury-class model



>> The Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI: Roadster with 'power diesel'



>> The Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI: The 5 litres/100 km S-Class



>> New Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC: Range of up to 1500 kilometres



>> The all new Mercedes-Benz SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY: Light, athletic, luxurious

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

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New Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC: Range of up to 1500 kilometres

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The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class sets new standards in the SUV sector, and particularly impresses with its low fuel consumption and emission figures. Compared to the previous series, the entire model range of the new M-Class consumes an average of 25 percent less fuel. Outstandingly, the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC is content with an NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km) and can travel up to 1500 kilometres on a single tankful. Efficiency notwithstanding, the fascination of the M-Class with its unique synthesis of agility, driving pleasure and comfort is fully preserved.

In the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, the 3.0-litre V6 of the previous ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC model is replaced by the thrifty four-cylinder power unit already familiar from the S-Class. The NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km is 28 percent lower than that of the previous model. Thanks to AdBlue® exhaust aftertreatment, the diesel meets the EU-6 standard due to come into force from 2014.

The calculatory range with a full tank of fuel is particularly impressive. With an NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km, the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC with the standard 70-litre tank can cover around 1170 kilometres between fuel-stops. If the vehicle is fitted with the optional 93-litre‑tank, the car can even cover up to 1500 kilometres between fuel-stops.

The excellent fuel economy is underpinned by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures, as well as by this state-of-the-art engineering. In addition to the ECO start/stop function that comes as standard, these measures include the new seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with a new fuel-economy converter, low-friction bearings and a transmission oil thermal management system. Low-friction axle drives, electric steering, the optimised belt drive, the on-demand control of all ancillary components and pumps, and tyres with low rolling resistance also play their part in reducing fuel consumption. What's more, intelligent lightweight design has stopped the weight from spiralling upwards.

With a drag coefficient of Cd = 0.32, the new M-Class (ML 250 BlueTEC) also sets a new best figure for this vehicle class. The key factor determining the low wind resistance is the aerodynamic efficiency of the basic body shell, including the optimised design of the front bumper, the A-pillars and the roof spoiler, plus numerous other detailed improvements.






Credits: Daimler AG

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

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The Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI: Roadster with 'power diesel'

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With the SLK 250 CDI, Mercedes-Benz is not only continuing its unrivaled diesel tradition but also refuting the misconception that diesel engines and sports cars do not go together. The four-cylinder diesel engine of the Roadster generates 150 kW (204 hp) from a displacement of just under 2.2 litres, and gives the two-seater a decidedly sporty character. 6.7 seconds elapse when sprinting from zero to 100 km/h – a figure worthy of a sports car. Moreover, with an NEDC combined diesel consumption of 4.9 litres per 100 km, the SLK 250 CDI is the most economical and therefore environmentally friendly roadster in its segment.

For the first time Mercedes-Benz is offering the sporty SLK Roadster with a diesel engine. The four-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement of 2143 cc generates an output of 150 kW (204 hp) and 500 newton metres of torque – as much as a petrol engine with twice the displacement would normally generate. This makes the new SLK 250 CDI the most powerful diesel model in its class, and gives the Roadster the potential for extremely sporty performance.

Equipped with the standard 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission (a six-speed manual transmission will follow in the second quarter of 2012), the diesel SLK is able to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of 243 km/h. Moreover, the flexibility of the SLK 250 CDI is nothing short of phenomenal. Thanks to its enormous diesel torque it accelerates from 80 to 120 km/h in just 4.3 seconds – easily the best figure in this class, making for safe and effortless overtaking.

Apart from this, the SLK 250 CDI is the most economical and therefore the most environmentally compatible roadster in its segment. It is happy with 4.9 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined consumption), which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 128 g/km. In other words, the diesel SLK combines thoroughbred sports car performance with the fuel economy of a sub-compact. This guarantees effortlessly superior driving pleasure with great fuel efficiency.

The diesel engine achieves its exemplary output, torque, fuel consumption and emissions figures, as well as its highly impressive smoothness for a diesel unit, thanks to a series of innovative technologies. These include fourth-generation common-rail injection with precise injection timing, as well as two-stage turbocharging. Like all SLK models, the SLK 250 CDI is equipped with an ECO start/stop system as standard.

Its frugal fuel consumption makes the SLK 250 CDI a car with superior long-distance qualities. Using the European motorways, it is quite possible to drive non-stop from the North Sea all the way to a beach on the Mediterranean. Very comfortable sports seats, a comfortable suspension setup and the largest luggage capacity in this segment also do their bit to create the right conditions.






Credits: Daimler AG

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

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New Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: The world's most fuel-efficient 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 litres of diesel/100 km and 109 g CO2/km, accompanied by increased torque and power output. Its modular hybrid concept with a lithium-ion battery does not impose any compromises on space and offers an impressive driving experience thanks to start/stop, regenerative braking, the boost effect, all-electric driving and sailing. Available as either a saloon or estate, the new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world's most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment.

Mercedes-Benz is opening up a new chapter in the core segment for the brand, setting new standards for luxury-class business cars: 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 output 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 new model does not impose compromises on passengers 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.

The extra cost of € 3570 with a comparable level of equipment is moderate: in Germany the Saloon version of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID costs € 51,794.75, the Estate version € 55,007.75 (both incl. 19% VAT). Both models will be launched in the third quarter 2012.

The philosophy: enhanced efficiency without compromising on comfort or utility

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID forms part of the brand's downsizing strategy, which involves making conventional models perform far more efficiently than previously – without sacrificing driveability or comfort. Here the company's engineers have their sights set on fuel consumption figures in everyday traffic, rather than on standard or NEDC combined consumption. 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 E 250 CDI, yet has a higher output and approx. 15 percent lower fuel consumption.

Overview of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID:
On the road therefore, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is comparable to 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 dampens any internal combustion engine vibrations. What's more, full climate control is available even in start/stop mode.

Sailing 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 can be switched off when coasting on the overrun 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 immediately available.

Boost function: the electric motor supports the combustion engine during acceleration, e.g. when 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 on the overrun), the electric motor acts as a generator. When the brake pedal is depressed, the generator output is initially increased proportionally for greater deceleration. Only when increased brake pressure is applied are the wheel brakes also operated.
Information: an additional economy 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 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 Nm 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. Its space-saving installation 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 directly incorporated 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 plus point of the overall concept is the scalability and compatibility with other vehicles and engines.

Safety: on a par with previous models

Integration of the hybrid systems without any body modifications 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 in crash simulations and tests.

At a glance: Technical highlights of the Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID*




















Credits: Daimler AG

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

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The Mercedes-Benz efficiency champions: Impressive efficiency without compromises

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Mercedes-Benz is continuing its hybrid initiative with the new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, the world's most economical luxury-class model (4.2 l of diesel/100 km, 109 g CO2/km). At the same time, efficiency champions such as the SLK 250 CDI, S 250 CDI, ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC and SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY are emphatically demonstrating that the brand continues to take a pioneering role in the continuous improvement of vehicles with internal combustion engines in all classes. The common factor in all these environmentally compatible mobility solutions is their impressive efficiency, with no compromises whatsoever.

Economical and environmentally compatible premium automobiles from Mercedes-Benz, without compromising the hallmark attributes of safety, comfort and serene driving enjoyment – this is the strategic aim of the Stuttgart-based brand. In addition to highly efficient internal combustion engines, hybrid drive systems are currently rounding off the mix of intelligent, need-related solutions for environmentally compatible mobility. Following the launch of the S 400 HYBRID in 2009, Mercedes-Benz is now setting new standards for luxury-class business cars with the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID. This diesel hybrid is available in the European market as a Saloon and Estate from the third quarter 2012. Later the E 400 HYBRID powered by an electric motor and a V6 petrol engine will be launched in the American market, and later in other countries such as Japan and China.

"Modular hybrid technology opens up the way for us to rapidly add hybrid models to other model series," says Professor Dr. Thomas Weber, the member of the Daimler Executive Board for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "With a clear focus on the varying needs of the worldwide markets, we are able to offer precisely the models that our customers require." This is because the intelligent, modular hybrid concept has a major advantage: no modifications to the bodyshell are required, the hybrid module can be used flexibly in other model series and there will be right-hand drive versions apart from the diesel and petrol models.

In addition to demand-related hybridisation in different development stages - from the ECO start/stop function right up to the purely electrically driveable hybrid, and on its way to the sustainable mobility of the future, Mercedes-Benz is also committed to optimising its vehicles with the very latest internal combustion engines – e.g. by downsizing, charging, direct injection, low-friction technology and BlueTEC. Moreover the vehicles themselves are undergoing targeted optimisation with respect to e.g. aerodynamics, lightweight construction and energy management (BlueEFFICIENCY). Powerful yet economical petrol and diesel models are offered across all the model series. Efficiency champions such as the SLK 250 CDI, S 250 CDI, ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC and SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY set new standards for efficiency in their respective segments.

E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID: 4.2 l of diesel/100 km, 109 g CO2/km

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID combines the excellent fuel economy of the 4‑cylinder diesel engine over long distances (motorway, inter-urban) with the advantages of an efficient hybrid in city and stop & go traffic. It therefore exhibits impressive efficiency with no compromises: thanks to the compact hybrid concept there are no restrictions in terms of spaciousness, comfort and safety.
In the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, Mercedes-Benz has combined the 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine developing 150 kW (204 hp) with a powerful hybrid module. Its 15 kW electric motor, positioned between the internal combustion engine and the 7-speed automatic transmission, assists the diesel engine when the car is accelerating (boost effect) and, in alternator mode, is used for the recuperation of braking energy, although it is also suitable for driving under electric power alone. Based on the modular hybrid principle developed by Mercedes-Benz, this diesel hybrid is starting a new era in hybrid drive systems. The fuel consumption of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres (CO2: 109 g/km).

In combination with 7G-TRONIC, a wet start-up clutch and the lithium-ion battery, the intelligent modular hybrid system requires little installation space and weighs around 100 kg. As in all Mercedes-Benz hybrid models, the hybrid components have all the features of the extensive "7-stage safety concept".

In time for the market launch the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID will receive an environmental certificate according to ISO standard TR 14062. The certification by the neutral examiners at "TÜV Süd" attests to the brand's commitment to comprehensive environmental protection, which is enshrined in the operating guidelines for the entire Daimler group. In this process the company takes the environmental effects of a vehicle into account throughout its lifecycle – from development and production to use and eventual disposal.

Efficiency champions: exemplary economy in all vehicle classes

Across all the model series Mercedes-Benz consistently offers powerful yet economical petrol and diesel models which feature turbocharging and direct injection for improved performance but lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. These "efficiency champions" are particularly attractive for markets with CO2-based vehicle taxation, or for company and fleet customers.

Characteristics of the efficiency champions in brief:
- SLK 250 CDI: torque at the level of a V8 muscle-car, the fuel consumption of a compact. The world's most economical (4.9 l/100 km) and powerful (150 kW/500 Nm) diesel roadster;
- S 250 CDI: the "five litres per 100 km S-Class" with serene long-distance comfort;
- ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC: full-size SUV with full on and off-road performance, a consumption of around six litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 158 g /km;
- SL 350 BlueEFFICIENCY: consumes 29 percent less fuel than the preceding model, mainly thanks to a BlueDIRECT engine, intelligent lightweight construction (- 140 kg) and outstanding aerodynamics.

The "ÖkoTrend" institute has declared the S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC to be the most environmentally friendly cars in their class. This is what lay behind the professional journal AUTO TEST’s decision to present its “Winners in Green” awards to both Mercedes-Benz models in December 2011.
Credits: Daimler AG

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

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The new Mercedes-Benz SL: Safety - Top technology for the greatest possible safety

By | Published Tuesday, 13 March 2012

Mercedes-Benz drivers are safer than drivers of other brands when out on the roads. This is the result of an investigation carried out by Mercedes-Benz accident research on the basis of official, anonymised random data checks by Germany’s Federal Statistical Office. It underlines the efficacy of the comprehensive Mercedes-Benz safety philosophy. This involves the experts not contenting themselves with achieving rating targets, but working intensively on attaining a level of safety which far exceeds the standards stipulated by the world’s legislators. An important measure of their work is not the laboratory or crash test facility, but actual accident incidents. The results of the work carried out by the safety experts at Mercedes-Benz is known as Real Life Safety, a concept which is based on research into thousands of accidents. Using this irrefutable evidence, for their holistic safety concept they have developed or initiated most of the assistance systems which today effectively support drivers and have been adopted by many of the company’s competitors.


“The new Mercedes-Benz SL sets new standards for roadsters and can confidently be referred to as the safest roadster in the world”, remarks Professor Dr Rodolfo Schöneburg, Director of Passive Safety at Mercedes-Benz. “The rigid aluminium bodyshell offers superb preconditions for a stable occupant cell, as well as for precisely defined deformation zones. This provides optimum protection for the occupants in the event of an accident. But we do not just think about those inside the vehicle – we also consider the other road users, for instance through effective pedestrian protection measures or assistance systems which also protect other motorists.”

During the development process for the new SL the requirements of Euro NCAP and other rating institutes were taken into account. The basis for this is a new light-alloy bodyshell which is formed mainly by extruded sections and cast nodes made of aluminium. It facilitates a light yet stable cell compound for a highly rigid occupant cell. In conjunction with this the tail end and front are designed in such a way that in the event of an accident they can absorb high forces through deformation, thus considerably reducing the strain on the occupants in a crash in accordance with the principle of the crumple zone. The crash boxes behind the bumper trim and an exchangeable front module ensure that the damage sustained during a front impact at up to 15 km/h can be limited.

Protection in the event of an overturn

The occupants in the new SL enjoy good protection in the case of a potential overturn, too. A-pillars in a steel/aluminium material mix and two roll-over bars can protect the passenger compartment. Normally the two roll-over bars are completely recessed, so they do not interrupt the look of the elegant, luxury roadster’s flowing lines. They are located in two cartridges fixed to the bodyshell in the area behind the seat backrests. If the system of crash sensors detects a potential overturn, the airbag control unit emits a signal and the deployment mechanism is activated. Two preloaded pressure springs per cartridge see to it that the roll-over protection shoots to the support position in fractions of a second.

Headbag and crash-responsive head restraints

The restraint systems with two-stage driver and front passenger airbags have been enhanced. A headbag provides generous lateral protection for the head impact area. An additional thorax airbag in the seat backrest can protect the upper body in the event of a side impact. The seat belts, with inertia-reel tensioners and belt force limiters, serve to highlight the high safety standards of Mercedes-Benz.

Another new feature finding its way into the standard equipment of the SL comes in the form of the NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints, developed by Mercedes-Benz. They can support the driver’s and passenger’s head in the event of a rear impact and reduce the risk of whiplash. Also fitted as standard is automatic child seat recognition. The ISOFIX system is available as an optional extra.

Protection for pedestrians

The new SL-Class Roadster uses the latest technology in the area of pedestrian protection, too. A sensor system is able to register an impact with a pedestrian and can ensure that the bonnet is immediately raised by 85 mm in the rear section. This creates additional space between the bonnet and the components in the engine compartment. This in turn results in comparatively lower acceleration values for the head of a pedestrian during the impact, thus reducing the overall risk of injury.

The deformation properties of the bonnet have also been specifically designed to meet the requirements concerning pedestrian protection. It consists of aluminium with a homogenous reinforcement on the inside of the bonnet and can therefore further reduce the loads in case of an accident. The SL’s “soft nose” also provides a large impact area, whilst the foam density and geometry in the front bumper have been optimised for reduced loads during leg impact with the pedestrian.

Only available from Mercedes-Benz – the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®

An additional safety highlight is the standard-specification anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, a system developed by Mercedes-Benz and unique throughout the world. If it detects an acute risk of an accident, it reflexively activates precautionary protective measures for the vehicle occupants, also including the reversible, electromotive belt tensioning function which ensures that the occupants are better secured so that the seat belts and airbags are able to perform their protective function to the full during an impact. Mercedes-Benz developed PRE-SAFE® on the basis of research into actual accidents, and is the only manufacturer in the world to offer such a system.

Following an accident – optimally prepared

Mercedes-Benz’s holistic safety concept involves considering the phase after an accident. This is why the new SL has numerous post-crash measures incorporated on board which facilitate rapid assistance should the worst come to the worst: depending on the type of accident and the impact severity, the doors can be automatically unlocked, the interior lighting activated and the side windows opened by 50 millimetres to provide better ventilation in the interior. In addition to this, the steering wheel can be slid upwards. The concept is completed by the Guidelines for Rescue Services and the rescue cards which can be downloaded from the internet free of charge and which can serve as a valuable support for fire brigades.

ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE as standard

The new SL also features a unique combination of driver assistance systems which help to avoid accidents. These include the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, for example. Thanks to this system, the roadster develops a precise feeling for the level of attentiveness of the driver and can provide an early warning of overtiredness.

Also making up part of the standard equipment specification is the ADAPTIVE BRAKE. It comprises ABS, the acceleration skid control system ASR and also active yaw control (GMR). In addition, it features the following functions:

- it supports the driver when moving off uphill, by preventing the vehicle from unintentionally rolling back;

- it also keeps the vehicle stationary without having to keep the brakes applied continuously – for example when waiting at traffic lights;

- as soon as the driver abruptly steps off the accelerator, it brings the brake pads into light contact with the brake discs as a precautionary measure, so that the necessary braking pressure can be attained quicker in the possible event of emergency braking;

- in wet conditions it applies light brake contact, without the driver even noticing, to dry the brake discs.

The ADAPTIVE BRAKE works in conjunction with the equally adaptive brake lights. In emergency braking situations, it warns vehicles behind with rapidly flashing brake lights.

PRE-SAFE® Brake: autonomous partial and emergency braking in response to a serious risk of a rear-end collision

Available as optional extras are the DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control as well as the PRE-SAFE® Brake, already tried and tested in other Mercedes-Benz models. The two systems together and can initiate emergency braking automatically on detecting an acute risk of an accident.

In normal driving conditions, the radar-based DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control adjusts the distance to the vehicle in front automatically. If necessary, it can apply the brakes, even bringing the SL Roadster to a stop, and accelerate it again. This takes some of the strain off the driver, particularly in bumper-to-bumper driving conditions. If the distance starts to narrow too quickly, the system gives the driver visual and acoustic warnings, thereby prompting the driver to take action, at which point they are also supported by Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS).

If the systems detect the acute danger of a rear-end collision and the driver fails to respond to visual and acoustic warnings, the electronics activate the PRE-SAFE® Brake in preparation for autonomous braking. This happens in two stages:

Around 1.6 seconds before the calculated impact point, the car initiates autonomous partial braking with around 40 percent (approx. four m/s²) of the maximum braking power, gives the driver an additional, haptic warning of the impending impact and as a precaution activates the reversible PRE-SAFE® occupant protection systems.

If the driver still fails to react, the PRE-SAFE® Brake activates the maximum braking power around 0.6 seconds before the now unavoidable collision – this emergency braking can greatly reduce the severity of the impact. The system therefore acts like an “electronic crumple zone”, offering the car occupants even greater protection.

The PRE-SAFE® Brake is active at speeds of between 30 and 200 km/h when moving vehicles are detected in front of the car. The system also reacts if the car approaches a stationary queue of traffic, providing the car’s speed is below 70 km/h.

The functionality of DISTRONIC PLUS has been enhanced even further. It now reacts earlier to vehicles which cut in, and the car accelerates quicker when changing lanes itself and where the overtaking lane is clear. Thanks to the incorporation of information from digital maps (navigation mode), automatic control has also been further refined.

Intelligent Light System – good vision at all times

The Intelligent Light System also comes as part of the standard specification. It offers variably controllable headlamps with five different light functions which are adapted to suit driving and weather situations commonly encountered. They switch themselves on depending on the prevailing driving situation, offering the motorist a considerably greater field of vision:

- The country mode distributes the light from the low-beam headlamps in such a way that the left edge of the carriageway is illuminated more brightly and across a larger area.

- The motorway mode switches on from a speed of 90 kilometres per hour and enlarges the field of vision by as much 60 percent.

- The cornering light function is automatically activated when the main headlamps are on and if the driver operates the indicator or turns the steering wheel at a speed below 40 km/h. The low-beam headlamps and fog lamps then illuminate the side area ahead of the vehicle to a range of around 30 metres at an angle of up to 65 degrees.

- The active light function improves illumination of the road on bends by up to 90 percent.

- The enhanced fog light function works by pivoting the left-hand bi-xenon headlamp outwards by several degrees and lowering its beam. This provides brighter illumination of the inner half of the road.

Adaptive Highbeam Assist is also on board as part of the standard specification: when vehicles are detected ahead of or approaching the vehicle, this system automatically dips the beams and adjusts the range of the headlamps according to the distance.

The assistance systems spring into action

Those wanting to can choose to extend the potpourri of assistance systems in the new SL even further. They provide extra doses of both safety and comfort. As an option Mercedes-Benz can equip the roadster with the following helpful features:

- Speed Limit Assist: it is able to detect speed limit signs using a camera on the inside of the windscreen and indicate the respective detected speed limit on a display in the instrument cluster and in COMAND. (Standard-fit in conjunction with COMAND online).

- Active Blind Spot Assist: it warns the driver when changing lanes if a risk of collision is detected due to another vehicle in the neighbouring lane being in the blind spot of the exterior mirror. If the driver ignores the warning and nevertheless initiates the lane-changing manoeuvre, the Active Blind Spot Assist intervenes. A brake actuation counteracts the collision course. (Part of the driver assistance package with DISTRONIC PLUS including the PRE-SAFE® Brake and Active Lane Keeping Assist).

- Active Lane Keeping Assist: this system kicks into action if the Mercedes-Benz vehicle inadvertently drifts over a solid line to the right or left of a lane. In such a case, a warning sign in the instrument cluster and vibrations in the steering wheel warn the driver. If the driver does not heed the warning in the case of a solid line, Active Lane Keeping Assist can use the ESP® to brake the opposite wheels and thereby prevent the vehicle from crossing the solid line. (Also part of the driver assistance package – please see above).

Hands off the steering wheel when parking

Active Parking Assist will answer the prayers of many drivers in the chronically congested traffic areas of Europe: the SL can not only detect parking spaces, but also help with the parking itself. This is made possible thanks to a combination of the new electromechanical Direct-Steer system (please see the chapter on the chassis and suspension) and a series of ultrasonic sensors. This convenience system features the following functions:

- Measurement of potential parking spaces lengthwise to the direction of travel – even in slightly curved bends – up to a drive-by speed of 30 km/h. The parking spaces must be at least one metre longer than the vehicle.

- Calculation of a suitable parking manoeuvre in order to park the vehicle parallel to the kerb.

- Automatic steering in order to perform this parking manoeuvre.

- Automatic steering in order to exit the parking space. This is only possible if the parking space was entered using Active Parking Assist.

Two ultrasonic sensors take care of the search for suitable parking spaces lengthwise in the direction of travel. They are integrated in the front bumper, on the left and right. If the speed falls below 30 km/h, a “P” symbol in the instrument cluster signals to the driver that the active search for a parking place has been started automatically. If the system has found a potential parking space, an arrow indicates this alongside the “P” symbol. As standard, the arrow shows parking spaces on the passenger side. If the indicator on the driver’s side has been activated, it shows potential parking spaces on the driver’s side.

It is up to the driver to assess whether the free area designated by the system is indeed actually a parking space. Even during the parking procedure the responsibility remains with the driver. They activate the accelerator and brake pedals during parking. The Active Parking Assist takes care of the steering and for orientation it uses the two front ultrasonic sensors as well as four further sensors in the rear bumper. During parking, the roadster must not move faster than 10 km/h. The automatic parking manoeuvre is configured for a maximum of five turns (backwards-forwards-backwards-forwards-backwards). Once the vehicle is standing correctly in the automatically selected parking space, the system aligns the wheels.

The Active Parking Assist switches itself off as soon as the driver intervenes in the automatic turning of the steering wheel, if the system is turned off via the PTS button (Parktronic sensor), both if the driver’s seat belt buckle or the driver’s door is open, or if there is a system error. Nevertheless the familiar PARKTRONIC function remains available without any restrictions.















Credits: Daimler AG

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