Mercedes Benz

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

The World’s Most Powerful High-Performance Sedan - 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW, 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) and a Top Speed Over 370 km/h (230 mph)

Bottrop, Germany, Sep 15, 2009 - BRABUS E V12 – The fourth E V12 generation based on the latest Mercedes E-Class once again sets new standards as the world’s most powerful high-performance sedan. At the heart of this exclusive small-series-production car is the newly developed BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 twelve-cylinder displacement engine. With a rated power output of 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) this engine catapults the four-door car from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of over 370 km/h (230 mph). The exclusively appointed BRABUS E V12 is built in a limited “one of ten” edition and starts at 498,000 Euros MSRP.


BRABUS, recognized by the German Federal Vehicle Registration Agency (Kraftfahrtbundesamt) as a vehicle manufacturer, builds the new E V12 “one of ten” based on the reinforced body of the latest Mercedes E-Class.

The next evolutionary stage of the proven BRABUS SV 12 Biturbo displacement engine is called SV12 R Biturbo 800 and was developed specifically for this vehicle. The engine is implanted into the modified engine bay of the E-Class with almost surgical precision.

Displacement of the twelve-cylinder engine that usually powers the latest Mercedes 600 models is increased from standard 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 384 cu. in.). The increase is affected with a special crankshaft with longer stroke, precision-balanced pistons rods and pistons with a larger diameter and an increased cylinder bore. The inner workings of the BRABUS engine are further modified with special sport camshafts and cylinder heads optimized for mixture flow.

Both the air intake and the BRABUS twin-turbo system were newly developed for this car. The latter features two custom manifolds with integrated high-performance turbochargers and four water-to-air intercoolers. The combustion air is provided by a carbon-fiber RAM-air intake system in the hood. In addition a high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts was custom-developed for the platform of the new E-Class.

New engine electronics with specially programmed mapping for injection and ignition ensure not only exemplary power yield but also compliance with the strict EURO IV emission limits. The high-tech lubricants for the entire drivetrain are supplied by technology partner ARAL.

With these modifications the engine of the BRABUS E V12 “one of ten” produces an enormous power output of 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm and an even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available at a low 2,100 rpm. In the car peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a BRABUS high-performance limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent. The BRABUS E V12 comes standard with state-of-the-art driving stability programs that can be deactivated at the push of a button.

Following the tradition of the first three BRABUS E V12 sedans the 2010 edition once again delivers driving performance normally reserved for only a very few select super sports cars. The sedan, which weighs in at 1,980 kilograms (4,365 lbs), sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.7 seconds. After just 9.9 seconds the four-door car reaches a speed of 200 km/h (124 mph). The 300-km/h (186-mph) mark is reached after just 23.9 seconds. Top speed is more than 370 km/h (230 mph) but is limited electronically for reasons of tire safety to 350 km/h (217 mph).

This extreme performance also places highest demands on the vehicle’s aerodynamic properties. The BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a body conversion kit made from high-strength yet especially lightweight carbon fiber. It not only adds 36 millimeters (1.4 inches) to the width of the E-Class and gives it an even more striking appearance; it also minimizes aerodynamic lift on front and rear axle.

The BRABUS front was designed to replace the original apron and provides radiators and front brakes with an optimal supply of cooling air. At the same time the sophisticated shape notably reduces aerodynamic lift on the front axle.

Air vents located behind the wheel arches were integrated into the front fenders. They are also vital to the thermal health of all components in the engine bay and help vent the front wheel houses to reduce lift on the front axle.

The rocker panels route the air stream to the rear wheel arches with minimum turbulence. The rear wheel arches of the “one in ten” edition feature special cowlings called ‘Speed Spads.’

The striking rear of the new BRABUS E V12 sets itself apart with the four characteristic tailpipes of the BRABUS high-performance exhaust system. Also part of the sophisticated aerodynamic-enhancement concept is the rear wing on the trunk lid and the diffuser integrated into the rear apron.

A wider track means better directional stability at high speeds. The widened fenders front and back make room for BRABUS Monoblock Q wheels in size 9.5Jx19. The high-performance tires so essential for these extreme speeds are supplied by technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA. They are mounted on the front axle in size 255/35 ZR 19 and in size 285/30 ZR 19 in back.

The height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over suspension was also custom-developed for the E V12. The ride height of the suspension can be adjusted to the owner’s individual preferences. But that’s not all: Compression and rebound rates of the front and rear dampers can be adjusted in ten steps between very comfortable and extremely firm for use on the racetrack. Sport sway bars reduce body roll in fast corners.

The enormous performance of the BRABUS E V12 also places highest demands on the brakes. The high-performance sedan is equipped with 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel brake discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15.0 x 1.5 inches) on the front axle. The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers gripping discs measuring 360 x 28 millimeters (14.2 x 1.1 inches). The BRABUS high-performance brake system incorporates all functions of the standard Brake Assist system of the Mercedes E-Class.

The interior of the car exudes a feeling of true exclusive luxury. The sporty-contoured custom front seats and the two rear individual seats are covered with a combination of Alcantara and black leather, smooth or perforated, as are dashboard, door trim and headliner. The entire vehicle floor is covered with square-patterned leather. It alone uses several miles of the finest thread, every inch of it sewn with utmost precision.

The ensemble is completed with matte-black carbon-fiber components for dashboard, center console and door panels. The BRABUS E V12 “one of ten” can be optionally equipped with a cell phone from premium manufacturer Vertu. This exclusive cell phone from the “Vertu Ascent Ti Carbon Fibre” limited edition of 1,500 phones features a titanium housing with the sides clad in black carbon fiber. This especially exclusive phone features 3G and quad-band technology as well as an integrated hands-free option, and represents state-of-the-art communication technology.

Only ten BRABUS E V12 sedans of the “one of ten” edition will be built by hand in a small-series production run. Alternatively the BRABUS E V12 is also offered in a version with 750 hp / 552 kW and a pointedly subtle bodywork without cowlings and rear wing.

BRABUS E V12 “one of ten” – Technical Data

Body

4-door sedan based on Mercedes-Benz E-Class, model series W 212.

Unibody, with BRABUS fender flares and steel body widened by 36 millimeters (1.4 inches). BRABUS E V12 “one of ten” carbon-fiber aerodynamic-enhancement kit with front apron, air vents in front fenders, ‘speed spads’ wheel-house cowlings, rear spoiler lip and rear diffuser. BRABUS hood with integrated RAM-air system.

Dimensions:

Wheelbase 2,760 mm – 108.7 in.
Length 4.891 mm – 192.6 in.
Width 1.908 mm – 75.1 in.
Height 1.422 mm – 56.0 in.
Curb weight 1.980 kg – 4,365 lbs.
Gross vehicle weight 2.390 kg – 5,269 lbs.
Fuel tank/reserve 80 l / 9.0 l – 21.1 gal. / 2.4 gal.

Engine

BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 displacement engine based on Mercedes 600.

V12-cylinder 3-valvel light-alloy engine with two turbochargers
Displacement 6,233 cm³
Compression ratio 9.0 : 1
Rated power output 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm
Torque 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft) from 2,100 rpm (electronically limited to
1,100 Nm / 811 lb-ft)
Fuel Super plus (98 ROZ) / Premium gasoline 98 octane
Motor oil: ARAL

BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 engine conversion consists of:

Displacement increase to 6.3 liters with special crankshaft with longer stroke and larger cylinder bore and corresponding pistons. Inlet and outlet ports of both cylinder heads optimized for mixture flow including installation of special camshafts. BRABUS SV12 R Biturbo 800 system with two high-performance turbochargers and special exhaust manifolds with integrated turbine housings, four water-to-air intercoolers and special air intake tract. BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts. Newly programmed mapping for engine electronics and on-board diagnostics.

Powertrain

RWD, ESP

Reinforced five-speed automatic transmission

Gear ratios
1st gear 3.59
2nd gear 2.19
3rd gear 1.41
4th gear 1.00
5th gear 0.83
Reverse gear 3.16

BRABUS limited-slip differential with locking rate of 40 percent

Final drive ratio either 2.65 : 1 (V/max 315 km/h / 196 mph) or 2.24 : 1 (V/max more than 370 km/h / 230 mph), electronically limited for use on public roads to 350 km/h / 217 mph).

Suspension

Independent suspension front and back with height-adjustable BRABUS coil-over sport suspension.

Front axle:
Three-link axle, anti-dive geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks with ten selectable settings for compression and rebound, BRABUS sport sway bars.

Rear axle:
Multi-link suspension. Anti-squat and anti-dive geometry. Height-adjustable BRABUS struts with coil springs and gas-pressure shocks with ten selectable settings for compression and rebound, BRABUS sport sway bars.

Wheels:
BRABUS Monoblock Q light-alloy wheels with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA high-performance tires.
Front: 9.5J x 19 H2 with size 255/35 ZR 19 tires
Rear: 9.5J x 19 H2 with size 285/30 ZR 19 tires

Brake system

Dual-circuit brake system with Brake Assist and BRABUS high-performance brakes

Front: BRABUS 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 mm (15.0 x 1.5 inches)
Rear: BRABUS six-piston aluminum fixed calipers with vented and grooved steel discs measuring 360 x 28 mm (14.2 x 1.1 inches)

Performance

0 - 100 km/h (62 mph): 3.7 sec.
0 - 200 km/h (124 mph): 9.9 sec.
0 - 300 km/h (186 mph): 23.9 sec.

Top speed: More than 370 km/h / 230 mph (for tire safety reasons limited electronically for use on public roads to 350 km/h / 217 mph)

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Stuttgart, Germany, Sep 16, 2009 – At the 2009 International Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz is allowing visitors to take a detailed look behind the design scenes. Right on the spot, Mercedes-Benz designers show how e.g. the SLS AMG or the E-Class Coupé is created – from the first design sketch to the finished model. The spectators are right up close, and can witness the design process at first hand, understand it and be amazed. They find out about the design features that give Mercedes-Benz vehicles their fascinating and unmistakable appearance – and are able to take a look into the future of Mercedes-Benz design with the professionals who are responsible for it.


"Crossing boundaries and setting trends – that is emphatically what our design is all about", says Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. "We develop existing forms further, and take them to new, exciting dimensions."

This year, visitors to the International Motor Show are able to see this exciting design process at first hand, and witness how familiar Mercedes features are reinterpreted using innovative design concepts to form a dramatic composition of tradition and progress. The designers of the premium automobile brand have allowed outsiders to gain an insight into their work. In numerous individual stages, they show how a new Mercedes-Benz model is created from an idea.

To provide this authentic experience, Mercedes-Benz has constructed a special bay on its stand at the show in Frankfurt. This is where the designers lend their personal, creative touch to the subject of "Mercedes-Benz Design" by demonstrating their work live at several display stations. At the drawing board, for example. Or during a live-tape event, where the designers magically project the 1:1-scale exterior of the AMG SLS Gullwing and the E-Class Coupé on the wall. To do this they use special, usually black adhesive tape in various thicknesses and transparent foils. This so-called "taping" is a flexible way of presenting design perspectives. In practice it is used as a first reconciliation between the proportions and the dimensional concept.

A number of clearly presented exhibits demonstrate aspects of the interior design work. In addition to styling, this is about functionality, materials, colour, touch or instrument design – to ensure that the aesthetics of the interior are in harmony with the exterior.

A film with authentic scenes from the design department also shows the development of the SLS from what amounts to a "backstage" perspective, something which is normally covered with a veil of secrecy for outsiders. Visitors to the stand are able to judge the quality with which the design ideas have been realised by displays of design icons such as the E-Class Coupé, CLS, CL, SL and SLK.

Direct communication with Mercedes-Benz designers heightens this first-hand experience. They describe their work, explain the secrets of the Mercedes-Benz strategy and design philosophy in a logical and clear way even for the layman, point out the characteristic design features of the Coupé and Roadster, and provide an insight into design thinking for the Mercedes-Benz sports cars.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Woking, United Kingdom, Sep 14, 2009

The Vodafone McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 team is delighted to announce an extension to its Corporate Partnership with Santander, with the high-profile Santander branding present on all four Vodafone McLaren Mercedes drivers.


Since the start of our winning relationship in 2007, Santander has seen its brand awareness rise in the UK from 20% to 82%, supported by Vodafone McLaren Mercedes and its drivers, including reigning World Champion Lewis Hamilton. This increase has coincided with the Santander Group's move to bring together Abbey, Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley to operate under the single Santander brand.

Martin Whitmarsh, Team Principal of Vodafone McLaren Mercedes, said: "We are extremely pleased to have extended our hugely successful global Partnership with Santander. As one of the world's leading banks with a significant presence in Europe, Brazil, Mexico, Chile and the United States and other countries, Santander is a great 'fit' with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes and our triumphs on the global stage of Formula 1.

"The year 2009 marks Santander's third season of association with our sport, and during this time they have successfully title-sponsored three of the most prestigious and historic races: the British, German and Italian Grands Prix. We are very proud of our relationship with Santander and to be part of their ever-expanding Formula 1 involvement. We welcome, and wish them well with, their other activities - including, but not limited to, the afore-mentioned race sponsorships."

António Horta-Osório, Abbey's Chief Executive, added: "Since its inauguration in 2007, our corporate partnership with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes has been extremely successful, especially in the UK, which is why we are delighted that we will continue to develop our alliance with the UK's number-one Formula 1 team for the benefit of our 20 million UK clients."

"The year 2010 will create a newly-refreshed scenario for Santander in terms of Formula 1 sponsorship. Our continuing partnership with Vodafone McLaren Mercedes - and especially with Lewis Hamilton - will fit very well with our ongoing development of the Santander brand, not only in the UK but globally too," said Juan Manuel Cendoya, Senior Vice President of Communications, Corporate Marketing and Research.

Lewis Hamilton added: "Some of the most enjoyable activities I have ever done off track during my Formula 1 career have been with Santander. Everything we do together is always thinking outside of the box, and I am looking forward to continuing that work together with them and the team. Over the past couple of years we have filmed some great TV ads - one of them turned me into an Airfix kit and then in the other I got to play on a life-sized Scalextric set! The Santander people are very cool and push home the value and strength of teamwork. With Santander I have also had the opportunity to attend some events in Spain. I love racing in Spain, too - Spanish motorsport fans are always so enthusiastic."

Heikki Kovalainen commented: "As with all our Partners, the work we do with Santander is put to very effective use across the world. For example, I was recently involved in a campaign in the German market. Santander are a real part of the McLaren Mercedes family, and we are obviously all very pleased that our relationship will continue. It demonstrates that Santander have achieved a superb return on their investment in our team."

Copyright © 2009, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Affalterbach, Germany, Sep 15, 2009 - Pole position for the new E 63 AMG Estate: the high-performance estate develops 386 kW/525 hp, accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, offers a maximum luggage compartment capacity of 1950 litres – all with a relatively low fuel consumption of 12.8 litres per 100 km (combined, provisional figures). With these dream figures, the new E 63 AMG Estate adds up to an extraordinary combination of driving dynamics, high utility value and superb efficiency.


The top-of-the-line E-Class not only features its distinctive styling but also the all-new AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension including electronically controlled damping system and a new front axle. A composite ceramic braking system is available for the first time for the E 63 AMG Estate. The unrivalled combination of groundbreaking driver assistance systems raises the bar in terms of active and passive safety in this vehicle class.

Largest luggage compartment and lowest fuel consumption – the E 63 AMG Estate sets new standards. With a luggage compartment capacity of 695 to 1950 litres and fuel consumption of 12.8 litres Super Plus per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined), the new high-performance estate from AMGstands on pole position. None of its rivals can match this extraordinary combination of performance, utility value and efficiency. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine with its 386 kW/525 hp develops 8 kW/11 hp more than the previous model, yet betters its fuel consumption figures by almost twelve percent.

This improvement was achieved thanks to a whole raft of efficiency-enhancing measures. The on-demand delivery of fuel and generator management with recuperation of braking energy on the overrun has helped reduce fuel consumption, just like the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission: a wet start-up clutch that runs in an oil bath replaces the conventional torque converter, while the even more fuel-efficient driving mode "Controlled Efficiency" utilises early upshifts to keep engine speeds as low as possible.

The new E 63 AMGEstate delivers a compelling proposition with its two fundamentally opposed traits: it masters the sedate driving of an executive estate suitable for long journeys just as consummately as the enormously dynamic manoeuvres on the racetrack. The AMG high-revving, naturally aspirated engine with a displacement of 6208 cc and 630 Nm of torque impresses with its agile responsiveness, muscular power delivery and great flexibility. The E 63 AMG Estate reaches 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). The newly composed V8 sound is a thrilling accompaniment for mile after mile, while the smooth-running engine guarantees typical Mercedes ride comfort. A newly designed water cooling system ensures maximum endurance even under enormous stresses.

Key data at a glance: Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG Estate*

Cylinder arrangement/valves per cylinder - V8/4
Displacement - 6208 cc
Bore x stroke - 102.2 x 94.6 mm
Output - 386 kW/525 hp at 6800 rpm
Max. torque - 630 Nm at 5200 rpm
Fuel consumption NEDC combined - 12.8 l/100 km
CO2 emissions - 299 g/km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h - 4.6 s
Top speed - 250 km/h**

* provisional figures;
** electronically limited

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission meets the driver's most disparate requirements: the transmission is equipped with four drive modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual), which can be selected using a rotary electronic switch in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In the even more fuel-efficient drive mode Controlled Efficiency, the transmission shifts the gears decidedly smoothly, and the transmission control unit is programmed to perform early upshifts to keep engine speeds as low as possible.

In Sport plus and Manual modes, the 7-speed sports transmission allows gearshifts to be performed in 100 milliseconds. Partial suppression of individual cylinders by interrupting ignition and injection briefly during gearshifts under full load leads to considerably faster shift times. Fast, spontaneous multiple downshifts ensure first-class agility in conjunction with the double-declutching and RACE START function: this enables the E 63 AMG driver to call on the maximum acceleration potential automatically.

Driving dynamics and ride comfort – the E 63 AMG Estate delivers on both counts
Like the engine and power transfer, the newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension offers the ultimate in individuality. Outstanding driving dynamics and typical Mercedes long-distance comfort go together as an optimum synthesis in the E 63 AMG Estate. While new steel spring struts are used on the front axle, the rear suspension features AMG-specific air springs. The advantage of this solution is that the front steel springs ensure more sensitive responses while the rear air struts with their automatic level control system keep the vehicle at a constant height irrespective of the load.

A new, electronically controlled damping system automatically varies the damping characteristics according to the driving situation, reducing the roll angle of the body. The result is instant modification to provide the best possible ride comfort
together with the greatest possible agility. In addition the driver is able to choose between the three suspension modes of Comfort, Sport and Sport plus at the touch of a button. The E 63 AMGEstate is also equipped with a newly developed, dedicated front axle with a 56-millimetre wider track, a tubular stabiliser, new control arms, new elastokinematics and new hub carriers for more negative camber – thereby providing more grip when taking bends at speed. This is a highly sophisticated axle design whose principle has already proved its worth in the C 63 AMG Estate. The rear axle likewise has more negative camber, optimised elastokine-matics and a new subframe mounting for greater stability at the physical limits.

Newly developed power steering and individual 3-stage ESP®

A more direct steering feel comes courtesy of the all-new speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering. The steering ratio of 14 : 1 is 22 percent more direct than in the standard production models, while a more rigid steering column plus the reconfigured characteristic mapping of the speed-sensitive servo assistance ensure better steering precision and improved road contact.

The 3-stage ESP® familiar from the SL 63 AMG and C 63 AMG enables individual settings to be selected – with clear benefits in terms of driving pleasure. The ESP® button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT allows the driver to choose between "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" – with the currently active mode shown in the central display of the instrument cluster. Perfect deceleration even when driving extremely briskly is ensured by the AMGhigh-performance braking system with 360-millimetre, internally ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round. Particularly resistant, motorsports-tested composite technology is used at the front axle. The newly developed, optional ceramic composite brakes with larger brake discs guarantee even better brake performance and a longer service life. The ceramic brake discs will perform reliably at even higher operating temperatures thanks to their greater hardness, all combined with an impressive weight reduction of around 40 percent. The reduced unsprung masses translate into even more agile handling, particularly on fast motorway bends.
Optimum grip is ensured by the 18-inch, titanium grey, high-sheen AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels with a width of nine and 9.5 inches and mixed tyre sizes of 255/40 R 18 at the front and 285/35 R 18 at the rear. Lightweight, forged 19‑inch AMG light-alloy wheels with size 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear are also available as an option.

AMG bodystyling and wider front wings

The newly developed front axle with its wider track calls for wings that are
17 mm wider. The stylish integrated "6.3 AMG" lettering leaves the connoisseur in no doubt about the unique credentials of the high-performance estate. The AMG bodystyling also includes a front apron with large cooling air intakes, air outlets at the side and the AMG-specific LED daytime driving lights. In conjunction with the optional Intelligent Light System (ILS), the E 63 AMG Estate is equipped with tinted main headlamps. The side skirts and the rear apron with its black insert also guarantee the car's striking looks. Both styling features combine effortlessly with the graceful line that follows the rear wheel arches and lends a clear shape to the imposing, muscular contours of the rear wings. The standard specification includes ultra-fast LED tail lights and direction indicators. To create a lasting impression – on the eye and the ear – the sports exhaust system has two newly designed, chrome-plated twin tailpipes.

Luggage compartment with the largest capacity and great practicality

Thanks to the wheelbase that has been enlarged by 20 millimetres, the E 63 AMG Estate not only offers better ride comfort but also more space and luggage compartment capacity than the previous model. With its capacity of 695 to 1950 litres, the luggage compartment is not only larger than before but also leaves
the competition standing when it comes to the essential luggage compartment dimensions and capacity. This highly practical concept paves the way for numerous options for transporting sports equipment, holiday luggage or high-quality designer furniture.

Standard equipment for the E 63 AMG Estate includes the main components of the EASY-PACK system such as the folding load compartment floor with two loading levels and collapsible crate, the load compartment cover, quickfold to fold down the 1/3:2/3-split rear backrest easily and the EASY-PACK tailgate, which can be opened and closed electrically.

Interior with sporty feel-good atmosphere

The newly designed interior of the high-performance estate is an exciting blend of high-grade materials and functional sportiness. Exclusive features include the dedicated, electrically adjustable sports seats with improved lateral support and the sports steering wheel in a four-spoke design with aluminium shift paddles. The AMG DRIVE UNIT provides adjustments for the MCT sports transmission, the 3-stage ESP®, the suspension set-up and the AMG drive modes. The E-SELECT selector lever in the centre console is a completely new feature for the DRIVE UNIT. The driver can shift directly between R, N and D simply by nudging the lever, all thanks to drive-by-wire; the parking lock P can be selected conveniently by pressing a button. Standard equipment also includes high-grade leather upholstery in three different colours, the AMG instrument cluster with an AMG main menu as well as the door entry sills with AMG lettering and a sports pedal cluster – both in brushed stainless steel.

Optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio are also available ex factory:

- Lightweight, forged 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels with size 255/35 R 19
tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear
- AMG composite ceramic braking system
- Brake callipers, painted red
- Rear axle locking differential with 40 percent locking action
- AMG Performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design with Alcantara® inserts in the grip areas
- AMG carbon-fibre trim elements
- Illuminated AMG door entry sills
- AMG Driver's Package (top speed increased to 280 km/h, attendance at driver training at the AMG Driving Academy)
- AMG floor mats

Other optional extras include:

- AMG Exclusive package: nappa leather for seat upholstery, top section of the dashboard, beltline, armrests on the doors as well as the centre console and door centre panels. Roof liner with sun visors and A, B and C-pillars in Alcantara®, AMG floor mats
- COMAND APS
- designo range: ten colours and nine leather upholstery options
- EASY-PACK load securing rails to secure the cargo incl. EASY-PACK load sill guard
- Driving Assistance package
- KEYLESS-GO package
- Media interface
- Reversing camera for PARKTRONIC
- Surround sound system

Active and passive safety at a new level

Just like the E 63 AMG Saloon the new AMG Estate meets the very highest expectations with respect to active and passive safety. Standard features include the new drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the unique anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, seven airbags and crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints. On request the safety features can be brought to a level unprecedented in this vehicle class with the Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist systems, the PRE-SAFE® Brake with an automatic emergency braking function, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Night View Assist and Speed Limit Assist.

The market launch of the new E 63 AMG Estate is scheduled for February 2010.