Sales in the Mercedes-Benz Cars division also reached a new high in January by handing over 94,526 passenger cars of the Mercedes-Benz, smart and Maybach brands to customers (+5.8%). Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars: “We continued the positive development from the record year 2011 in January and started successfully into the new year. We intend to maintain this pace over the coming months and are expecting substantial sales growth in the first quarter. The new B-Class in particular is getting an excellent response from customers. The imminent production start-up in Kecskemét means that we will have even more vehicles at our disposal, which will allow us to even better accommodate the high demand.”

In addition to the B-Class, in 2012, the company is expecting further tailwind among others from the sustained high demand in the C-Class segment, continued growth in SUV sales and the launch of the new A-Class and the CLS Shooting Brake.

Dr. Schmidt continued, “This year, we want to exceed our record sales from 2011 and once again plan to achieve the best year in the company’s history.”

In the USA Mercedes-Benz achieved a very strong start into the year with record sales in January. With 20,306 units sold, sales increased by 23.8%. Thus, Mercedes-Benz was the most successful premium brand in January in the U.S. The brand also enjoyed a very positive performance in Canada, where it was the market leader in the premium segment in January. After record sales in the full year 2011, deliveries in January reached a new monthly high with1,773 units (+26.5%). Mercedes-Benz repeated this success in Mexico (+22.4%) and the entire NAFTA region, where the brand increased its sales by 24.0% in January to 22,660 units.

Mercedes-Benz also started with an excellent performance into the new year in its home market. With brand sales of 12,627 vehicles, corresponding a growth of 14.0%, Mercedes-Benz underlined its position as the strongest premium brand in Germany as it did in 2011 as a whole. This development was driven in particular by the high demand for the new B-Class, which led its segment in the new vehicle registration statistics of Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA) in January. At 21,578 units, Mercedes-Benz’ sales in Western Europe (excluding Germany) were over previous year’s level (+1.4%).

Due to the excellent sales performance in December 2011 as well as the capacity expansion at BBAC and the associated production downtime, in China some models were just partially available in January. Overall sales (incl. Hong Kong) totaled 14,463 units (-7.0%). As in full-year 2011, Mercedes-Benz generated record sales in the growth markets Russia (+41.7%) and India (+17.0%).

The S-Class sedan was the best-selling vehicle in its segment in 2011. In January, the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz brand developed excellently, too. A total of 5,302 units (+0.4%) were delivered to customers. Also a very positive start to the year saw the C-Class sedan. With 18,235 units sold, deliveries were up 4.3% compared to the first month of the previous year. On the road to success is also the C-Class estate, whose sales in January rose by 10.8%.

The new B-Class also enjoyed a strong January with sales rising by 7.8%. The company expects to see a further sales boost over the coming months with the first of a total of five new compact models. From the second quarter, the B-Class will be fully available in other markets as a result of the additional production in Kecskemét.

Among the SUVs, the new M-Class (+15.2%), the G-Class (+17.1%), and the GL-Class (+9.6%) enjoyed especially positive development. There was even more reason for the new M-Class to celebrate at the start of the year: It was chosen best in its category within the “Best Cars of 2012” awards voted by readers of the German car magazine “auto, motor und sport”. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class took second place.
The smart fortwo started the year with a brilliant increase in its January sales by 13.7% to a total of 7,605 vehicles. Once again, the two-seater was particularly successful in China (incl. Hong Kong), where 1,464 vehicles were handed over to customers. Sales in the U.S. also developed very positively, rising by 38.5% compared to the same period of the previous year. The smart fortwo also enjoyed increased demand in the UK (+52.8%), Spain (+47.4%), and Mexico (+9.0%). In 2012, the smart will get further positive momentum from two highlights: the smart ebike and the third generation of the smart fortwo electric drive.

Source: Daimler AG

First presented in 1953, the “iF product design award” ranks among the world’s most important design awards and represents the seal of approval for good design. For 2012 the 24-member jury was again faced with the task of choosing its favourites, this time from more than 2000 candidates. Four models from Mercedes-Benz stood out in particular: the M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster and the Concept A-CLASS show car.

The M-Class won thanks to its characteristically distinctive SUV design and its variable interior with high wellness factor. The open-top SLS AMG Roadster, meanwhile, owes its victory to its exciting lines, which are reminiscent of the legendary 300 SL from the 1950s. The SLK Roadster also dominated the competition with its powerful sports car design, which portrays its outstanding qualities to brilliant visual effect – stylish comfort, light-footed sportiness and exemplary ecology.

With the Mercedes-Benz Concept A-CLASS, the jury acknowledged the birth of a new vehicle generation which provides a glimpse of the expressive design of the future A-Class.

As an overall concept, the trend-setting developments achieved by the automotive brand smart in the field of electric mobility also received the coveted “iF product design award 2012″. For its innovative e-mobility concept, smart created one-off vehicles such as the open-top smart forspeed, the smart e-scooter and also the smart e-bike, which is to be incorporated into the smart product line this year.

Source: Daimler AG

The 31 year-old Australian has had a hugely successful year, including his best finish at a Major championship when he finished in tied second place at The Masters in Augusta. He also triumphed at the 2011 WGC-Bridgestone International, earning him his first career World Golf Championship.

The Australian is currently ranked 10th in the Official World Golf Rankings. The association with Mercedes-Benz will begin in January 2012, and will entail global TV advertising, global print advertising, international PR and social media.

Scott commented: “It’s a real honour to be involved with Mercedes-Benz – a brand with a reputation which is second to none, and whose values mirror those of golf. The company is a huge supporter of the sport around the globe, partnering three major tournaments; The Masters, The Open, and The USPGA Championship as international automobile partner. Its involvement also impacts the amateur game with The MercedesTrophy, a tournament in its 22nd year, which attracts 60,000 amateur golfers from over 60 countries annually.”

Scott continued: “It’s great to be part of a brand that is extensively engaged not only in the world of golf but also other platforms that fit so well with my personal interests. Its motorsport activities are a given, but its sponsorship of Fashion Weeks across the world are fantastic.”

Mercedes-Benz Global Marketing Director, Lüder Fromm, commented: “I’m delighted to welcome Adam Scott to the Mercedes-Benz family – our values of fascination, perfection and responsibility fit perfectly with Adam’s own principles. He has had such a great year, and we believe that he will be a valuable asset to the Mercedes-Benz golf. He’s a new breed of golfer who embodies Mercedes-Benz values both on and off the course – the best or nothing.”

Source: Daimler AG

2011 was also the best sales year in the history of the brand Mercedes-Benz Cars. With 1,260,912 units sold and an increase of 8.0% compared to the prior year the previous sales record of 2007 (1,185,200 units) was clearly exceeded. Since the beginning of the year sales of the brand with the star have been up every month. Particularly successful was the sales development in the fourth quarter. 341,624 delivered units made it the best-selling quarter in the company’s history. In December alone, worldwide deliveries rose by 15.1% to 124,387 vehicles despite the very good result achieved already in December 2010. Thus last month, more vehicles were sold than ever before in this period.

“We’re very satisfied with our sales development. In 2011 we sold more vehicles than ever before,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “We also set the course for the future: The newly introduced generation of the C-Class, the C-Class coupe, the SLK, and the CLS are extremely popular among customers. The same applies to the new B-Class and new M-Class, which were introduced in Europe only recently. The full-year 2011 was also shaped by our strong development in important growth markets such as the BRIC countries and positive development in the U.S.”

Positive outlook for 2012 – new models to provide additional momentum
The year 2012 provides a good base to pursue last year’s success. Dr. Zetsche: “In 2012 we will consequently continue our product offensive and launch additional attractive vehicles on the market, which will give us a further boost. The vehicles will be spearheaded by the new A-Class, which will allow the brand to reach out more strongly to younger target groups. The new CLS Shooting Brake will underscore our leading role when it comes to innovative vehicle concepts and design.”

The new SL will also celebrate its market launch in 2012 just in time for the model series’ 60th anniversary. After the successful introduction of the new M-Class in 2011, additional demand will be generated in the SUV segment by the new GL, the new generations of the GLK and the time-honored G-Class.

Once again sales record in China, Russia, and India; dynamic development in Brazil
Mercedes-Benz continued to do outstandingly well in China (including Hong Kong) last year, where the brand surpassed its sales record of 2010 by 30.6%. The brand therefore substantially exceeded its full-year target of increasing sales in China by at least 20%. A total of 193,339 customers opted for a vehicle bearing the Mercedes star. In December alone, 23,227 people purchased a new Mercedes-Benz passenger car (+29.5%).
Over the past twelve months, Mercedes-Benz did also well in all other BRIC countries. The previous year’s record sales were substantially exceeded in both Russia (29,058 units; +47.3%) and India (7,089 units; +22.7%). In Brazil the brand built on the dynamic development of 2010, boosting sales by 35.3% in full-year 2011, to 10,197 vehicles. Summed up, Mercedes-Benz therefore reported a sales increase of 32.4% in the BRIC-countries in 2011.

Over the past twelve months, Mercedes-Benz also saw sales rise to all-time highs among others in Taiwan (+31.7%), South Korea (+18.8%), Mexico (+17.7%), Denmark (+15.0%), and Sweden (+12.2%). The development in Japan is also notable. Despite the strong earthquake in March and the serious consequences for the country, Mercedes-Benz sold 7.1% more vehicles in Japan last year (32,405 units) than in 2010.

Outstanding development in the U.S.; record sales in Canada and the entire NAFTA region
As in 2010, Mercedes-Benz posted double-digit growth in the U.S. and grew faster than the total market. From January to December 2011, sales rose by 13.3% to 245,231 units. Thus the United States were once again the brand’s second-largest market. Driven by the new generation of the C-Class and the new M-Class, sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles rose to 25,701 units in December (+27.9%). In Canada a total of 28,584 (+1.8%) vehicles with the Mercedes star were sold during 2011. Following the record set in 2010, this result represents a new all-time high. Mercedes-Benz also achieved a record result in the entire NAFTA region in 2011, with sales amounting to 279,946 vehicles (+12.2%).

Mercedes-Benz leads Germany’s premium segment in 2011
In Germany Mercedes-Benz has been the Number One automaker in the premium segment since 1993. Despite the sometimes limited availability of the high-volume A- and B-Class due to the changeover of production to the new models, the brand’s sales in its home market totaled 262,256 vehicles in 2011, which was almost as high as in the previous year (2010: 265,000 units). In December sales of the brand with the star rose by 16.8% (25,290 units). In Western Europe (excluding Germany) deliveries also nearly matched the previous year’s level (2010: 291,853 units) at 289,285 units in the past twelve months. A sales increase was recorded among others in the UK (+10.1%).

New generation of the C-Class with outstanding customer response – sedan model leader in its segment
In 2011 the C-Class confirmed the vehicle’s standing as a very successful model also with its new generation. In the C-Class segment, Mercedes-Benz recorded growth of 16.8% over the past twelve months to 401,340 units. Very popular and once again the most successful model in its segment during the year as a whole was the C-Class sedan. A total of 270,968 units were delivered to customers (+8.1%). In the year of the facelift, deliveries of the C-Class estate rose to a new all-time high of 76,446 vehicles (+21.6%). Demand for the new C-Class coupe has also been very high ever since the vehicle was launched on the market last June. To date, 23,698 units of the sporty coupe have been delivered to customers. The SLK also did well last year, with 26,756 customers buying one of the roadsters from January through December 2011. This corresponds to an increase of 85.7%.

E-Class segment attains new record result in 2011
Following the record sales of the previous year, sales in the E-Class segment rose by 4.7% in 2011 to a new all-time high (338,386 units). Deliveries of the E-Class sedan and estate totaled 244,341 units last year (2010: 252,775 units). 32,533 customers opted to buy the CLS model, which was introduced in January 2011 (+210.4%).

Sales of S-Class sedan surpass previous year’s high level
Despite having to face much younger competitor models, the S-Class sedan once again increased sales compared to the prior year. Since the car’s market launch in 2005 more than 440,000 units of the brand’s flagship vehicle have been sold. Sales of the CL also rose, with deliveries increasing by 6.9%. The SLS AMG has also met with a great response from customers. More than 5,000 units of the super sports car have already been sold since the vehicle was launched on the market in March 2010.

At more than 200 units, sales of the high-end luxury sedan Maybach were higher than in each of the two previous years.

SUVs post monthly record sales from January through December
The SUVs from Mercedes-Benz enjoyed another great year in 2011. They achieved new sales records each month from January through December, enabling them to surpass last year’s record figure by 24.0% (248,574 units). More customers decided to buy a GLK than ever before in a single year (93,836 units; +24.0%). The compact SUV is also popular in China, where it has been produced for the local market since early December. All other model series did very well throughout the world in 2011, increasing sales substantially compared to the previous year. Sales of the R-Class rose by 45.5%, while those of the G-Class increased by 28.3%. The GL boosted sales by 28.2%, and deliveries of the M-Class increased by 17.9% despite the model changeover.

B-Class does well during phase-out
In spite of production changes resulting from the B-Class model changeover and the associated limited availability of A- and B-Class models, Mercedes-Benz sold 194,133 units in this segment last year (2010: 222,373 units). Sales of the B-Class even continued to increase until shortly before the new model was launched on the market.

Sales of smart fortwo pass 100,000 mark
The smart fortwo did extremely well in 2011. Sales passed the target of 100,000 units, rising to 101,996 vehicles (+4.6%). Dr. Dieter Zetsche: “The development of the smart fortwo last year by far exceeded our expectations. Also for 2012, all lights are on green. The third generation of the smart fortwo electric drive and the smart ebike are two genuine highlights that will be introduced in the coming twelve months. We expect them to give the brand another boost.” In full-year 2011 the innovative two-seater was especially popular in China (including Hong Kong), where a total of 11,045 buyers drove home from the dealership in a smart fortwo (2010: 3,900 units). The smart fortwo also posted very high growth rates in other countries, including Mexico (+57.1%), Poland (+50.7%), the Czech Republic (+26.6%), and Taiwan (+21.4%). In Germany the smart fortwo defended its segment leadership throughout the year, with customers buying a total of 29,005 units (+3.3%). More than 1.5 million units of the brand have been sold since the first generation of the compact urban vehicle was introduced on the market in 1998.

Source: Daimler AG

The efficient off-roader and the compact sports tourer are available with immediate effect as high-grade miniatures in scale 1:87, 1:43 and 1:18. Developed in collaboration with renowned manufacturers Busch, Herpa, Minichamps and Norev, these collectors’ models are being sold through Mercedes-Benz outlets, Mercedes-Benz dealerships, the Mercedes-Benz Museum and the online shop.

As is customary for the Mercedes-Benz Collection, a huge amount of emphasis was placed on authenticity. It’s why the model cars are available in many of the original paintwork colours and with popular special equipment features such as ILS headlamps and panoramic roofs. The miniatures in scale 1:43 and 1:18 even have the same interior trims as their full-size equivalents. Brown burr walnut or the honeycomb and matrix looks are the trim options for the B-Class, while aluminium, poplar anthracite or brown ash are used in the M-Class, depending on its paintwork colour.

The front doors and tailgate and the bonnet and boot lid of the 1:18 models can be opened. Their interiors and boots are flocked, and the rear seat bench can be folded forward in the B-Class model.

All model cars in the Mercedes-Benz Collection come in Mercedes-Benz designer packaging. A screwdriver is even enclosed with the 1:18 scale models, allowing the model to be removed from its screw-fastened packaging with the minimum of fuss.

Collectors’ items: Mercedes miniatures down to the last detail
Since the invention of the automobile, Mercedes-Benz has built its vehicles out of conviction and passion. Such is the extent of this passion that even the miniature vehicles bearing the three-pointed star are produced with enormous attention to detail – so much so that they even stand up to comparison with their full-size counterparts. As soon as you see a new Mercedes-Benz on the road, you can be sure that a miniature version – available in a range of colours and scales – will be waiting for enthusiasts at Mercedes-Benz outlets.

But before that stage is reached, much work has to be done. After all, behind every miniature is a story of engineering excellence, creativity and precision craftsmanship – just as for the real thing. Before any actual work on the miniature begins, the developers first turn their attention to the original, using state-of-the-art CAD technology to precisely map the basic shape and size. This digitalised design data constitutes the DNA of a genuine Mercedes-Benz. Modelling specialists then modify and process this information for use on a smaller scale. Only then can the exact configuration of the model car begin. Certain special equipment features are also replicated from the real-life originals – from the engine and the interior trim to the choice of alloy wheels.

Shot after shot: 800 photos for maximum authenticity
A detailed photo of the door hinge is just as important in the overall scheme as one of the cockpit controls and the texture of the leather-upholstered seats. In a painstaking process, the modelling experts integrate the countless individual photos of the genuine article into the CAD data and use them for a final comparison with the original. It can take up to three months to go through this development process and to achieve the aim of getting as close to the original as possible. Extremely ambitious considering that a finished model car in scale 1:18 is made up of up 120 individual parts.

Benchmark brand design: the first working model
Design plays a key role at Mercedes-Benz. And it’s no different for its miniature masterpieces. The model should be more than simply a ‘dinky’ version of the original. It should reflect the emotional appeal of the brand. At the Sindelfingen design studios, product managers and specialists work hand in hand to bring the same appeal to the first working model. Meticulous checks are made to key elements for the overall look such as the light-catching contours. The proportions of the individual components, right down to the windscreen wipers and exterior mirrors, must correspond exactly to the size of the vehicle.

Once the design is perfect, work begins on the moving parts. The boot lid, bonnet and doors all have to open and close in the same way as the original. Even the tiniest discrepancy is picked up on and corrected at this stage. Meticulous hand-craftsmanship is called for. The modellers smooth, file and cut away until the new working prototype made out of synthetic resin meets the demanding Mercedes-Benz standards, ready for the sample to be approved by the vehicle designers.

It can take up to four months to develop the first working model – another three to four months is invested in the ‘first shot’, the initial, unpainted metal model. Only now is the miniature ready for series production.

The best or nothing – no compromises in colour
The paintwork of the models should be virtually a 100 per cent match to the original. This is achieved in a number of stages. First, a colour chart corresponding to the exact shade of the production vehicle is analysed and the paint remixed. Several complex comparisons are carried out to verify how close it comes to the original. The miniature vehicle body then enters the firing chamber, just as its full-size counterpart would. At the end, the model is covered by three coats of paint. The light-catching contours gleam with perfection – and the Mercedes miniature is ready to step out from the shadows of its real-life counterpart.

Source: Daimler AG

The title “The Imported Car of the Year Japan” is traditionally awarded at the Tokyo Motor Show for the automobile with the best concept and the most innovative technology. As in the previous year, the title for 2011/2012 went to the C-Class Saloon and Estate. C-Class models also claimed Australia’s most important independent automobile award. The Australian Automobile Association presented the C 250 CDI as the best of the best premium mid-size cars. The C 63 AMG Coupé won its award category as best sports car.
Mercedes-Benz carried out a comprehensive upgrade of the C-Class in the spring of 2011. The new generation boasts a dynamic design and numerous new assistance systems: from the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system to proximity control with DISTRONIC PLUS, it offers a new standard of safety in this segment. In addition, fuel consumption has been cut by up to 31 percent in comparison to the previous generation.

Source: Daimler AG

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars: “With record sales in November, we have sold more cars than in the same months of last year for over two years in a row. This shows that Mercedes-Benz is on the right track and that our products are very popular among customers. Further evidence is provided by the outstanding customer response to the new B-Class and
M-Class models, which were launched on the European market at the end of last month. Already now it is certain that we will reach our target of selling more cars over the entire year than ever before.” From January through November, the Mercedes-Benz Cars division sold 1,230,863 (+7.1%) Mercedes-Benz and smart fortwo vehicles, which is a new record, as well.

As many cars as never before in a month, Mercedes-Benz sold in China (including Hong Kong) in November. In total 18,067 units were delivered to customers (+24.1%). Since January sales in China now total 170,112 cars (+30.8%), after the brand had already surpassed last year’s sales total in October. Mercedes-Benz is also reporting record sales during the year to date as well as in November in Russia (+18.2%), Mexico (+17.6%), and South Korea (+10.4%). Since January, more vehicles than ever before have also been delivered to customers in Taiwan (+38.0%), India (+23.6%), Sweden (+13.1%), Denmark (+12.2%), and Turkey (+8.5%). With a 30.8% increase in sales, the Japanese market remained very dynamic in November — as did the market in Brazil (+49.3%).

With a new sales record, November was also a very successful month for Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. Sales grew by 47.2% to 26,796 units. As in October, Mercedes-Benz was therefore the best-selling automotive premium brand in the United States. The brand delivered 219,491 vehicles (+11.8%) to customers in the U.S. during the last eleven months. In Canada, Mercedes-Benz reported another record month in November, with sales totaling 2,685 units (+12.7%). Sales are also at a record level in Canada for the year to date (26,078 units; +2.7%).

As in the previous months, Mercedes-Benz was Germany’s leading premium car manufacturer in November. Deliveries totaled 24,326 vehicles (November 2010: 27,731; -12.3%). Toward the end of the month, the new models of the high-volume B-Class and the new M-Class celebrated successful market launches in Germany. Altogether, dealers welcomed around 300,000 visitors to the models’ premieres in their showrooms. The company expects sales to get a further boost by these models in the months ahead. According to the new vehicle registration statistics of Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), the CLS as well as the E-Class coupe, followed by the SLK, were once again at the top position in their respective classes in November. Since the beginning of the year, 236,966 vehicles have been delivered to customers in Germany (January-November 2010: 243,728; -2.8%). For the year to date, sales in Western Europe (excluding Germany) have remained at last year’s very high level. A total of 265,549 units were delivered to customers between January and November (-0.8%). During this period, Mercedes-Benz sales developed particularly well in the UK (+10.3%).

Since the beginning of this year the C-Class sedan is the top seller in its respective segment. Combined, the C-Class sedan and estate set a new sales record for the month with a sales increase of 14.3%. The E-Class segment also achieved a new record with sales of 27,209 vehicles (+4.0%) in November. In addition, deliveries reached a new peak for the year to date, totaling 306,763 units (+4.3%). The
Mercedes-Benz flagship, the S-Class sedan, developed also positively with sales of 61,808 units (+3.5%) during the last eleven months of the year. At 25,552 units (+23.4%), Mercedes-Benz’ SUVs achieved another monthly sales record in November. The successful run-out of the M-Class was particularly noteworthy, as was the excellent start of its new models in the U.S. In total, M-Class sales rose to a new November-record by +43.3%. Also new peaks in the previous month were set by the GL (+38.0%) and the GLK, of which deliveries are also at a record high since the beginning of the year (+25.6%). From January through November, Mercedes-Benz delivered a total of 221,518 SUVs (+24.3%) to customers — more than ever.

Following the positive development in October, sales of the smart fortwo developed excellently in November. Totaling 8,466 units, sales rose by 18.2% last month. Since the beginning of the year deliveries have risen by 4.9% (94,338 units). Developments continue to be particularly positive in China (including Hong Kong), where smart sold 1.142 units in the previous month. As a result, the brand has delivered more than 10,000 smart fortwo to Chinese customers during the year to date. In November, the two-seater also posted strong growth in Mexico (+171.2%), Austria (+122.9%), the U.S. (+96.2%), Spain (+51.1%), and Italy (+10.8%). A total of 27,156 smart fortwo have been delivered to customers in Germany since January — an increase of 5.5%. Therefore the car continues to lead its comparative segment. For full-year 2011, the smart continues to be on track to meet the sales target of 100,000 units.

Source: Daimler AG

After sales had fallen by almost 25 percent in March, Mercedes-Benz already registered a slight sales increase in April. The following months, with sales growing at double-digit rates, enabled the brand with the star to climb back up to the previous year’s level in July. In October, Mercedes-Benz sold 18.8 percent more vehicles than in the same month last year (+1,707 units), allowing it to successfully defend its market position: Mercedes-Benz accounts for 37 percent of the vehicles sold in Japan by Germany’s premium car manufacturers. Sales of the smart fortwo have also increased substantially in Japan. Since the beginning of the year, deliveries of the two-seater have risen by 29.0 percent compared to the same period of 2010 (+1,042 units). Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars: “We are very pleased to see Japan back on its feet. I am confident that the Japanese automotive market will further strengthen and that our growth rate will accelerate, too.”

Nine of Mercedes-Benz’ most recent car models celebrated their Japan premieres today at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show. Until December 11, the Stuttgart-based premium car manufacturer will display 23 vehicles of its Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, and smart brands at the international car and commercial vehicle show in Tokyo. These vehicles include the new Mercedes-Benz B-Class and M-Class as well as the SLS AMG Roadster and the new smart fortwo electric drive. All those vehicles will be launched in the Japanese market in 2012. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz’ Concept A-Class is providing a preview of the new A-Class, which will become available in Japan in 2013. With the F 125! research vehicle the brand is looking even further into the future. The luxury class sedan is equipped with a fuel cell plug-in hybrid with a range of 1,000 kilometers. The smart brand shows futuristic design and technologies that enhance energy efficiency, lightweight construction, and temperature management with its smart forvision concept car. Traditionally, the Tokyo Motor Show focuses more on innovative future technologies in automotive engineering than other international auto shows.

Dr. Schmidt: “At the Tokyo Motor Show we are presenting an overview of our product and technology offensive. All these new cars contribute to our growth strategy and underscore our ambition to lead in the premium segment.” As part of its “Mercedes-Benz 2020” growth strategy, the brand will expand its product portfolio with ten new models until 2015. In the future there will be five Mercedes models in the compact segment alone. By 2020 the company plans to be the leading manufacturer in the premium segment. Therefore, Mercedes-Benz also aims to grow on the Japanese market.

Japan is currently one of Mercedes-Benz’ top ten sales markets. Since January, Mercedes-Benz has posted its strongest sales growths in Japan within the C-Class segment (10,260 units, +29.7%). The C-Class estate has achieved year to date record sales of 3,456 units (+43.3%).The C-Class’ great popularity in the country is also demonstrated by the fact that it was voted among the top ten contenders for the Car of the Year 2011 award. Moreover, with the C-Class sedan Mercedes-Benz is the market leader among the importers in its segment. The new generation of the SLK, which was introduced this year, is also very well received by customers. In the luxury car segment, the S-Class sedan is leading the import manufacturers. In the J.D. Power Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) for 2011, Mercedes-Benz was the top-ranking import brand in Japan.

Especially with regard to alternative power train systems, the Japanese market plays an important role. The demand for electric vehicles, for example, is rapidly increasing. That is why Daimler’s smart brand has been operating a test fleet of ten second generation smart electric drive in Japan since last year. The smart electric drive is currently being tested in 18 markets worldwide. From the very start, the two-seater was also designed for electric operation. The first generation of the vehicle was tested in London back in 2007. The third generation of the car will be launched in the market next year. It is the first series-produced electric vehicle from Europe and will be available in more than 30 countries. Dr. Annette Winkler, head of smart: “Response to the third generation smart fortwo electric drive has been overwhelming so far. I am really proud to present it here in Tokyo, one of the megacities the smart has been developed for. As electric mobility has a high status in Japan, we are very happy to offer our Japanese customers the innovative electric smart fortwo starting 2012.” More than 26,000 smart brand vehicles have been sold in Japan since the car was introduced into the market eleven years ago.

The wholly owned Daimler subsidiary Mercedes-Benz Japan Co., Ltd. is responsible for importing, selling, and marketing products of Mercedes-Benz Cars in the Japanese market. The company maintains a comprehensive sales and service network in Japan, encompassing 73 dealers with 204 sales outlets as well as 227 service workshops. Since 1993, Mercedes-Benz has been operating one of its five Advanced Design Centers near Yokohama. Besides Mercedes-Benz Japan Co., Ltd., Daimler AG is also represented in Japan by its subsidiaries Daimler Financial Services Japan Co., Ltd. and Mercedes-Benz Finance Co., Ltd. In addition, Daimler owns almost 90 percent of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation (MFTBC), one of Asia’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers. MFTBC is an integral part of the Daimler Trucks division of Daimler AG. All in all, Daimler employs around 13,000 men and women in Japan.

Source: Daimler AG

In a video message, Dr Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG, welcomes the fans and interested parties of the brand with the three-pointed star. In addition, the community can look forward to a spectrum of information and experiences centred around Mercedes-Benz, which is constantly updated and expanded.

The Stuttgart-based premium brand is already a part of the Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, foursquare and Vimeo communities. Moreover, it has its own platforms, such as www.mixed-tape.com and the Mercedes-Benz Reporter Blog (www.reporter.mercedes-benz.com). With its presence in Google+ Mercedes-Benz is expanding its involvement in social networks even further. Google+ structures the interactions with persons, companies and brands online in a life-like manner, and offers a broad spectrum of social contact and dialogue elements.

The Mercedes-Benz Google+ profile can be found at: https://plus.google.com/106129845850785943761

Source: Daimler AG

A total of 1,022,666 units have been delivered since January, an increase of 7.1%. Mercedes-Benz thus set a new sales record in the first ten month of the year and passed the one million units mark a month earlier than in 2010.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars, said, “Since the beginning of the year we have recorded higher sales in every month compared to the results in the same period of last year. The growth was driven above all by the new generation of the C-Class. Also in the fourth quarter we want to continue the trend of the recent months and grow further. We expect strong momentum particularly from the market launches of the new B-Class and M-Class in November. Even though these vehicles have not yet arrived at the dealerships, the customer response has been outstanding. So we are still on track to sell more vehicles in the full year than ever before.” From January through October the Mercedes-Benz Cars division sold 1,108,538 (+6.9%) Mercedes-Benz and smart fortwo vehicles, also setting a new record.

In October, Mercedes-Benz once again posted record sales in many markets. In China (incl. Hong Kong) 16,539 vehicles (+22.9%) were delivered to customers. With a total of 152,045 units delivered (+31.6%) the overall sales from January to October 2011 have already exceeded the level recorded there in all of 2010. Last month Mercedes-Benz also posted record sales in South Korea (+23.0%), Russia (+34.6%) and Sweden (+2.2%). Sales in these countries have also reached a record-breaking level for the year to date.

Mercedes-Benz also set new sales records in the first ten months of 2011 in Taiwan (+38.5%), India (+24.4%), Mexico (+18.2%), Denmark (+13.1%) and Turkey (+11.5%). High growth rates in October were also recorded for example in the UK (+14.9%) and Japan (+18.8%).

In its home market, Mercedes-Benz once again outperformed its competitors in October. One month before the launch of the new versions of the in Germany popular B-Class and M-Class, 22,603 units were delivered to customers (January – October in 2010: 26,956; -16.1%). During the year to date sales totaled 212,640 units (January – October 2010: 215,997; -1.6%). In the ranking by Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), the CLS as well as the E-Class coupe, followed by the SLK, took the top positions in their respective classes in October. In Western Europe (excluding Germany), sales from January through October were at the very high level reached during the same period of last year. Mercedes-Benz delivered 243,913 (January – October 2010: 244,572; -0.3%) passenger vehicles to customers.

Since the beginning of this year the C-Class sedan and the S-Class have been the top-selling vehicles in their segment. From January to October a total of 56,283 S-Class have been delivered to customers (+5.0%). During the same period, sales of the C-Class sedan rose 6.2% to 219,377 units. The C-Class estate is also continuing to generate very positive results, with record-breaking sales in October and in the period since January of this year. Last month sales of the new SLK developed successfully, again. Sales of the sporty roadster increased by 169.3% compared to the same month last year. Higher growth rates were only recorded for the new CLS. In October more than four times (+331.5%) as many customers chose the four-door coupe as in the same month in 2010. With 26,534 units (+0.4%) sold in the previous month and 279,554 (+4.3%) vehicles delivered since January, sales in the E-Class segment reached a record level. The SUVs from Mercedes-Benz are also setting one record after the other. From January through October a total of 195,966 units were delivered to customers. The GLK has also been a record-setter in October and during the business year so far, with deliveries up by more than one fourth (+28.1%) since January. Also the M-Class developed very strong in October. Despite the model changeover sales rose once again by 22.2%.

Deliveries of the smart fortwo developed positively in October. With 8,305 units (+5.3%) sold, sales increased on the strong performance in the same month last year. A total of 85,872 smart fortwo vehicles were delivered from January through October (+3.7%). A new sales record in October and since the beginning of the year was set in China. Since January 9.484 (+161.3%) smart fortwo were delivered. Demand for the innovative two-seater in October was also high in Spain (+43.6%), Italy (+23.2%), Belgium (+16.4%) and France (+13.7%). In Germany, 24,699 smart fortwo vehicles were sold to customers since the start of 2011, an increase of 7.0% that keeps the car in its leading position in its competitive class. For the full-year 2011 the smart fortwo will significantly surpass its original sales target of more than 90,000 units and is now looking to sell approximately 100,000 vehicles.

Source: Daimler AG

The highest volume performers for the month were the C-Class and E-Class model lines. The all-new 2012 sporty C-Class – gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – led the pack with sales of 7,084, up 87.9% from October 2010. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 4,516 and the all-new versatile M-Class, finished third in volume with monthly sales of 4,091. Additionally, sales of the 2012 CLS-Class posted a 192.3% increase for the month and sales of the new SLK roadster were up 58.2% over October 2010.

Total diesel units sold for October were up 110.9% with sales of 1,930 (vs. 915 units sold in Oct. 2010).

At the high end, the company sold 13 of its supercar — the SLS AMG — bringing its year-to-date sales to 467.

Sales of Sprinter Vans also increased by 104.8% for October with sales of 1,485 – bringing a year-to-date total of 13,937 (up 119.4 %).

Sales of the smart fortwo totaled 327 vehicles for the month (compared to the 367 vehicles sold in October 2010).

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,571 vehicles in October 2011, a decrease of 21.8%. On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 62,929 vehicles, a decrease of 7.6% over the comparable period last year.

Source: MBUSA

Since January 2011 sales now total to 919,288 Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles, an increase of 7.6%. “We continue to grow,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. “After posting a record in the second quarter, we also achieved our highest sales ever in September and for the third quarter as a whole. Positive momentum was generated especially in China, where we also noted record sales this month. We will continue to grow in the fourth quarter as well, so we are on track to make 2011 the most successful year in our company’s history.” The Mercedes-Benz Cars division has delivered 996,855 (+7.3%) Mercedes-Benz and smart fortwo vehicles to customers since the beginning of the year, which is also a new record.

Dr. Schmidt: “According to the latest Interbrand study Mercedes-Benz is already the most valuable brand in Europe. From November the new M-Class as well as the new B-Class will generate additional sales momentum for us and will enhance the brand’s image in public even further.”

As in the past few months, Mercedes-Benz was able to rise sales in many of its markets in September. In China (including Hong Kong), the brand with the star increased its sales in September by 12.7% to the record level of 15,272 units. A total of 135,506 vehicles have been delivered to customers in China since January (+32.8%), more than ever before. Last month records were also posted in Taiwan (+57.9%), Russia (+44.6%), South Korea (+37.4%), and India (+14.1%). Sales development was also very dynamic in Brazil (+64,8%), South Africa (+21.7%) and Turkey (+10.5%).

In Germany, Mercedes-Benz remained the most successful premium brand in September. Following a very strong performance in September 2010 (27,273 units) and shortly before the market launch of the new B- and M-Class a total of 24,514 units have been delivered within Germany. At 190,037 vehicles since the beginning of the year, sales were up slightly (+0.5%) from the high figure recorded during the same period in 2010. A total of 222,926 vehicles (+0.1%) have been delivered to customers in Western Europe (excluding Germany) since the beginning of the year; September sales totaled 32,425 units.

Last month, the new C-Class sedan was the top-selling vehicle in its class for the sixth month in a row. A total of 26,816 units of that model were delivered in September (+8.9%). Outstanding sales also put both the new SLK (+135.8%) and the new C-Class coupe at the top of their comparative segments in September. Total sales in the C-Class segment rose by 19.5%. A vehicle with the star has also remained the best-selling model in the luxury segment since the beginning of the year: Sales of the S-Class sedan increased by 8.4% to 51,665 units from January through September. During that same period, Mercedes-Benz delivered 253,020 vehicles from the E-Class segment to customers, an increase of 4.7%. Sales of the new CLS performed particularly well once again in September, being the best-selling vehicle in its segment (+187%). SUVs with the star have also been on the road to success since the beginning of the year, with deliveries totaling 174,612 units, around one-fourth (+25.5%) more than during the same period in 2010. Worth mentioning are the sales of the M-Class, as they have risen by more than ten percent since January, despite the upcoming model changeover. The other SUVs are also developing very dynamically. Deliveries of the R-Class are up 67.9%, those of the GLK rose 29.8%, and G-Class sales increased by 43.8%.

Sales of the smart fortwo continue to rise as well since the beginning of the year: A total of 77,567 units of the model were sold from January through September 2011 (January-September 2010: 74,885). The innovative two-seater has been particularly successful on the Chinese market, where a record of 8,445 units (+217%) have been delivered to customers since the beginning of the year. smart fortwo sales were also very high in Germany during the same period. At 22, 335 units, deliveries were up by 8.7%. This makes the smart fortwo the best-selling vehicle in its segment during the year to date in Germany. A total of 8,494 units of the model were sold worldwide in September (January – September 2010: 10,066 units). The sales figure for September 2010 was exceptionally high due to the first deliveries of the facelifted model in that month. The smart fortwo will significantly surpass its sales target of more than 90,000 units for full-year 2011 and is therefore looking to sell approximately 100,000 vehicles.

Source: Daimler AG

The highest volume performers for the month were the C-Class and E-Class model lines. The all-new 2012 sporty C-Class – and gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – led the pack with sales of 6,865, up 32.1% from September 2010. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 5,122 and the full-sized SUV, the GL-Class, finished third in volume with monthly sales of 2,541. Additionally, sales of the newly launched 2012 CLS-Class posted a 399.3% increase for the month and sales of the new SLK roadster were up 50.8% over September 2010.

At the high end, the company sold 25 of its supercar — the SLS AMG — bringing its year-to-date sales to 454.

Sales of Sprinter Vans also increased by 121.3% for September with sales of 1,779 – bringing a year-to-date total of 12,452 (up 121.3 %).

Sales of the smart fortwo totaled 469 vehicles for the month (compared to the 422 vehicles sold in September 2010).

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,707 vehicles in September 2011, a decrease of -8.6%. On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 57,359 vehicles, a decrease of -5.9% over the comparable period last year.

Source: MB USA

The entire drive programme is also completely new: four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines with direct injection and turbocharging, dual clutch transmission and manual transmission. Ten new assistance systems support the driver. Future B-Class customers will benefit from this quantum leap in terms of exemplary low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions combined with driving pleasure, plenty of space and the highest standard of safety that has ever been available in this class. The compact sports tourer is available for ordering now, with delivery to customers commencing in November. Prices begin at 26,001.50 euros (incl. 19% VAT.) for the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY.

This means that the new model is being launched at the same price as its predecessor of the same name, despite marked improvements to the equipment and appointments. As a world first in the compact segment, for example, the new B-Class features COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST as standard. This radar-based system with adaptive Brake Assist helps to reduce the danger of a rear-end collision. Other standard features include the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness warning system, a kneebag for the driver, four power windows, LED daytime driving lights, a six-speed manual transmission and the Audio 20 CD entertainment system with USB connection and Bluetooth.

The B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY rated at 90 kW (122 hp) offers five kW more power than its predecessor, but consumes substantially less fuel. The sales start for the new B-Class marks the launch of the first model representing the new compact cars from Mercedes-Benz. “The new B-Class kicks off our offensive in the premium compact segment, which harbours vast potential for growth worldwide,” explains Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Member of the Management Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales & Marketing. “With an attractive portfolio comprising five fascinating, distinctive models, we are opening up our brand to new categories of customer and once again setting new standards in safety, efficiency, comfort and aerodynamics. Our sales volume and our market share in this segment are set to rise sharply once again across all variants.”

Here is an overview of the prices:
B 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY – € 27,578.25
B 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY – € 29,809.50
B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY – € 26,001.50
B 200 BlueEFFICIENCY – € 27,935.25

Fuel consumption: up to 21 percent less than its predecessor
The fuel consumption of the new B-Class undercuts its predecessor by up to 21 percent. All the engines have been developed in-house. Both diesel models (B 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and B 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY) now run on 4.4 litres per 100 km (114 and 115 g CO2/km respectively) – their predecessors required 5.2 litres per 100 km. The B 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY attains a CO2 value of 115 g/km with automatic transmission – an improvement of 21 percent on its predecessor (146 g/km). The petrol-engine variants have also made great strides: despite a substantial improvement in performance, the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY and B 200 BlueEFFICIENCY now run on 5.9 litres per 100 km (137 and 138 g CO2/km respectively), undercutting their predecessors by up to twelve percent.

Another premiere from Mercedes-Benz is the new 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission, which can be combined with any of the engines (2,165.80 euros). Its seven gears make it extremely versatile in adapting to engine speeds. An electric oil pump provides the transmission with start/stop capability. It shifts gear without any interruptions in tractive power and combines the comfort of an automatic with the efficiency of a manual transmission, particularly when moving off.

Highest standard of safety in the compact class
The Collision Prevention Assist assistance system is able to provide a driver who may be distracted with visual and acoustic warnings and to prepare Brake Assist for precision braking. Braking is initiated as soon as the driver steps emphatically on the brake pedal. The ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system also features as standard.

The PRE-SAFE preventive occupant protection system (392.70 euros) which features in the B-Class is available for the first time in this vehicle category. Core features of PRE-SAFE are reversible belt tensioning, the closing of side windows and sliding sunroof in case of critical lateral dynamics and adjustment of the fully electric front passenger seat to an ideal position for maximum effectiveness of the restraint systems.

The B-Class protects its passengers with up to nine airbags. The standard complement comprises driver and front-passenger airbag, a kneebag for the driver, large pelvisbags incorporated in the seat to protect the chest, stomach and pelvis area and windowbags. Sidebags for the rear are optionally available (446.25 euros).

EASY-VARIO-PLUS system: variable luggage compartment, adjustable rear seats
The B-Class offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage. The rear seat backrest comes as standard as a folding variant with a 60:40 split. Alternatively, the B-Class is available with the so-called EASY-VARIO-PLUS system (672.35 euros). This enables flexible reorganisation of the interior in next to no time. Features of the EASY-VARIO-PLUS system include separate fore/aft adjustment of the rear seats by up to 140 millimetres. The luggage capacity then increases from 486 to 666 litres. Up to 1545 litres of stowage space is available when the rear seats are folded down.

The inclination of the rear seat backrest is also adjustable. In so-called cargo position, a washing machine can be transported with the tailgate closed without folding the backrest down, for example.

COMAND Online multimedia system with internet access
The B-Class features the latest multimedia generation available from Mercedes-Benz. Major features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, phone book transfer, display of SMS messages, wireless music reproduction via Bluetooth and a USB interface.

The multimedia system COMAND Online (from 3,117.80 euros) now provides internet access for the first time via a web-enabled mobile phone, plus various Mercedes-Benz services on the move. These include weather information and a special destination search via Google, as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google Maps and sent to the car.

The Becker® MAP PILOT (856.80 euros) makes a low-cost 3D navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the standard Audio 20 CD radio. The navigation system boasts voice-controlled input of destinations and an intuitive user interface. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the central controls and the Audio 20 display, a concealed location in the glove compartment and updating via an internet portal.

The launch of the predecessor model series from Mercedes-Benz in 2005 laid the foundations for a new, future-viable market segment, attracting more than 700,000 delighted customers worldwide. The B-Class continues to enjoy great popularity in the year of the model change.

73,046 vehicles have been delivered to customers since January. This corresponds to a growth rate of 7.6 percent. In Germany, the largest market for the B-Class, sales are up by 5.6 percent. The second-largest market for the B-Class is China, where it was launched with great success in 2009. This year alone has seen sales rise since January in the order of 46.8 percent, to 9,738 units.

Source: Daimler AG

“Thanks to our global presence, Daimler Buses can easily deal with disparate economic developments in different regions,” said Hartmut Schick, Head of Daimler Buses, at the press conference during the run up to Busworld 2011. “At the moment, we are, for example, benefiting from the dynamic growth being experienced by markets such as Brazil, Mexico, and Turkey. This growth enables us to partially offset the continued low demand in Europe and North America. The most important thing, however, is that Daimler Buses continues to lead the way in the bus sector. And we will therefore continue to rigorously follow this path.”

Daimler Buses puts in an impressive performance in Latin America
In the first half of 2011, the bus markets developed in very different ways. Demand increased appreciably in Latin America, India, and Turkey, leading to substantial market growth. In the key growth market of Brazil, Daimler’s bus division maintained sales at last year’s high level, selling a total of around 8,900 units.

That makes Daimler Buses the undisputed market leader in the country, with a market share of over 43 percent. Sales in Mexico even increased by about 27 percent to more than 1,430 units. Daimler Buses posted its highest growth in South America in Argentina, where vehicle sales rose by 24 percent to around 2,000 units. In Turkey, Daimler Buses delivered almost twice as many travel coaches to customers as in the first half of last year, increasing sales to just under 700 units.

The picture is different on the European and North American bus markets. In both of these regions, the challenging economic developments of 2009 and 2010 continue to affect bus sales. With regard to Europe, Schick stated that “the economic crisis of 2009 continues to impact the European bus business, especially in the city bus segment. We’ll reach the low point this year — two years later than in other sectors. The reason for this is simple: Budgetary constraints in the public sector resulted in significantly fewer purchases.”

Despite the difficult market conditions in Europe, Daimler Buses saw sales in the intercity bus and travel coach segments increase. Compared to the same period last year, sales of Mercedes-Benz and Setra brand vehicles rose slightly by three percent to 2,145 units, due primarily to high sales figures in Turkey. Several major orders for city buses, including the delivery of 300 Mercedes-Benz Citaros to Singapore, have helped consolidate the results for the first half of the year.

Daimler Buses continues to pursue its growth strategy
In full-year 2011, Daimler Buses expects that global demand will primarily come from Latin America, India, and Turkey. At the same time, the bus manufacturer does not yet expect the European market to experience a major rebound.

In view of this situation, Schick stated that “Daimler Buses has for many years focused on pursuing a global strategy with the clear goal of achieving growth in traditional as well as in new markets. We will reach this goal due to our outstanding products, continuous efficiency increases, and the fact that we have the best employees in the industry. I’m therefore convinced that we will remain the number one company in the bus business and attain a positive overall result in 2011, despite it being a challenging year for buses.”

To enable Daimler Buses to continue to set the pace in traditional markets and forge ahead with its strategic pillar for “Growth in established markets,” the unit has thoroughly enhanced its product range’s flagship vehicle. This vehicle, the new Mercedes-Benz Citaro city bus, was unveiled in May. With sales of approximately 32,000 units, the first generation of the Citaro was Europe’s most successful city bus of all time. Daimler Buses is building on this success story with the new vehicle, which sets new standards for quality, safety, efficiency, comfort, and design. In addition, the new Citaro is very convincing when it comes to fuel consumption and service.
In Latin America, Daimler Buses is focusing its further growth on the chassis business and consistent expansion of its product range. These chassis from Mercedes-Benz comply with local Euro IV and Euro V emission limits.

With regard to its strategic pillar for “Growth in new markets,” Daimler Buses is giving India priority because it is an important future market. In the area of travel coaches, Daimler Buses has been cooperating with the Indian body builder firm Sutlej since 2007. Daimler Buses will achieve further growth in India with a new generation of city buses, which it will introduce to the market in early 2012.

According to Schick, the so-called Next 11 countries, such as Indonesia, also offer potential for profitable growth. “The Indonesian market has already been recording strong growth over the last few years through the modernization of urban bus fleets and infrastructure,” he said. “In fact, market volume in that country will nearly double over the next eight years. Our market share in the country is about 40 percent and we’re very confident that we’ll be able to benefit from growth there in the coming years as well.”

In the area of “Technological leadership,” Daimler Buses continues to be the driving force in the bus sector. North America, for example, is home to the world’s biggest fleet of hybrid buses (more than 3,000 units), all of which come from Daimler Buses. In Europe, more than 50 Mercedes-Benz Citaro BlueTec Hybrid urban buses will be in operation by the end of the year in cities such as Stuttgart, Hamburg, Krefeld, Dresden, Muelheim, Rotterdam, and Milan. In addition, 11 fuel cell buses will enter operation before the end of the year.

Daimler Buses at Busworld 2011: The first Euro VI-compliant travel coach is supplied by Mercedes-Benz!
Daimler Buses will present a total of 13 Mercedes-Benz and Setra bus and coach models at Busworld in Kortrijk, Belgium, the largest bus show of 2011. The Mercedes-Benz stand will celebrate the world premiere of the Mercedes-Benz Travego “Edition 1”, which is the first travel coach to meet the Euro VI emissions standard. Featuring a new and powerful BlueEfficiency engine, a new transmission, and a new driver area, the coach will also boast the Attention Assist safety system, which is found in no other travel coach in the world.
Just as spectacular as the new Travego is the new-generation Mercedes-Benz Citaro urban bus, which will be having its motor show debut at Busworld in Kortrijk. Mercedes-Benz Buses will also celebrate the 125th anniversary of the invention of the automobile by Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler by introducing the attractive “125! years of innovation” special edition model of the high-deck Tourismo travel coach. The Sprinter City 77 — the current flagship vehicle of Mercedes-Benz’ minibus lineup — will also be represented at the stand. The vehicle is 8.7 meters long and can transport up to 40 passengers.
The Setra brand will be represented at the bus show by eight vehicles from all three of its production series, thus demonstrating its leading position in the travel coach and regular service intercity bus segments. Highlights of the show at the Setra stand will include the successful ComfortClass 400, and the MultiClass 400 S 415 H high-floor bus and S 416 H. The focus inside is on an innovative, state-of-the-art infotainment system for satellite TV and radio. Screens are built into the backs of the passenger seats, as well as behind the driver, at the entrance, and into the back wall of the onboard galley. The image from the driver camera can be connected to these screens as well. In addition, Setra will present the S 415 GT-HD “Final Edition” to the trade visitors at Busworld. The vehicle has high-quality interior appointments as well as a comprehensive equipment package and exclusive side trim made of brushed stainless steel.

To mark its 60th anniversary, the Setra brand presented the limited “Special Edition” vehicle in a number of different equipment variants at the beginning of the year. A variant that will be shown in Kortrijk will be the TopClass S 416 HDH with displaced seating.

Omniplus provides a unique range of bus-related services, including professional maintenance and repair work, efficient driver and service training programs, a broad selection of pre-owned vehicles, and customized financial services. Omniplus operates more than 600 authorized service centers in Europe, making it the largest bus-specific service network on the continent.

In Kortrijk, the service brand will present several new offers for bus operators, including a new, graduated ServiceCard concept, and the BusMobility package, which provides all-round breakdown assistance in 40 European countries. Thanks to a dense network of service centers, the mobility package minimizes the customer’s financial risks and ensures downtimes are short no matter when a breakdown occurs.

Daimler Buses is the world’s leading manufacturer of buses and coaches and employs about 17,000 men and women.

Source: Daimler AG

The brand delivered a total of 87,384 vehicles (August 2010: 81,010) to customers worldwide. Since the beginning of the year, Mercedes-Benz has delivered 798,306 units (January-August 2010: 735,428), representing an increase of 8.5 percent and the highest sales figure ever attained in this eight months period.

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

New products such as the M-Class and B-Class will generate additional momentum in the coming months. The new M-Class will be introduced to Europe in November, while sales of the new B-Class will start on September 15. “One of the many highlights we’ll present at the IAA will be the world premiere of the new B-Class,” adds Dr. Schmidt.

“Together with three other models of our upcoming premium compact car generation, it will set new standards in this segment allowing us to capture new customers and markets.”

Mercedes-Benz grew rapidly in many markets in August. In Germany, the brand increased deliveries by more than one-fifth. Sales increased by a total of 23.2 percent to 19,412 units (August 2010: 15,754). Mercedes-Benz thus remained the strongest premium brand in Germany. The SLK and the E-Class coupe were the leading vehicles in their class. The new generation C-Class achieved the highest sales volume among the premium competitors in the mid-size segment. Since January, deliveries totaled 165,523 units (January–August 2010: 161,768), 2.3 percent more than in the same period of 2010. In Western Europe, Mercedes-Benz surpassed last year’s August figure by 13.8 percent (32,940 units; August 2010: 28,951). Besides Germany, sales were up in the UK (plus 3.4 percent), France (plus 16.6 percent), the Netherlands (plus 10.1 percent), and Sweden (plus 31.0 percent).

Mercedes-Benz has boosted sales in China (incl. Hong Kong) by 35.8 percent since the start of the year, expanding at a much faster pace than the total market. Deliveries rose to the record level of 120,234 units (January–August 2010: 88,509). A new record was also posted in August with 13,812 vehicles (August 2010: 13,382) being sold. Sales thus increased by 3.2 percent compared to the high volume achieved in August 2010. The company expects sales to get a further boost in the coming months due to the greater availability of single model ranges, the ramp-up of local production for the new generation C-Class as well as the market launch of new products such as the new SLK, the C-Class coupe and the CLS.

Record sales and remarkable growth in August and during the year to date were also achieved in Taiwan (August: plus 6.7 percent, January-August: plus 40.1 percent), South Korea (August: plus 10.1 percent, January-August: plus 16.1 percent), Russia (August: plus 52.8 percent, January-August: plus 62,3 percent) and India (August: plus 20.0 percent, January-August: plus 31.1 percent). Deliveries also rose sharply in Brazil in August (plus 40.3 percent) and for the year to date (plus 38.4 percent). In South Africa, last month was also a very strong one (plus 40.0 percent).

In the U.S., sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles increased by 6.1 percent since January (148,409 units; January–August 2010: 139,867). Due to model year changeovers particularly among the high volume C-Class, sales totaled 18,477 units in August (August 2010: 18,826), nearly reaching last year’s level. Beginning in September, the company expects further positive impact from the market launch of the new M-Class and the new-generation C-Class.

In August, in particular the SUVs saw sales pick up and reach new records. The M-Class continued to be in great demand even shortly before the introduction of its successor, with sales rising by 8.1 percent in August and 13.6 percent since the beginning of the year. Sales of the other SUV models also increased substantially, with those of the GLK reaching a new record. The brand sold a total of 16,852 SUVs in August (plus 16.2 percent); since January, sales have risen by 28.4 percent.

Last month, the new C-Class sedan was the top-selling vehicle in its class for the fifth month in a row. Sales in the C-Class segment rose by 9.7 percent in total. The new SLK continued to increase deliveries as well (plus 144.6 percent), ensuring its position as the best-selling vehicle in its segment. The S-Class was the world’s best-selling luxury sedan during the year to date. Since the beginning of the year, sales have increased by 11.4 percent to 45,703 units. In the E-Class segment, 5.6 percent more vehicles have been chosen by customers from January to August (221.682 units). The E-Class convertible did especially well, with sales jumping by 50.2 percent. Last month, very high growth rates were again posted by the A-Class, sales of which climbed 66.3 percent to 8,774 vehicles. The B-Class continued to perform well in the year in which its successor will be introduced, with sales rising by 7.6 percent during the year to date (73,046 units) compared to the same period in 2010.

The presentation of the third generation smart fortwo electric drive will be another highlight at the IAA. It is available beginning in spring 2012 in more than 30 markets and provides zero-emission motoring with even more driving fun. The current generation of the smart fortwo continued to develop positively in August. At 5,778 units, deliveries of the two-seater were above last year’s level (August 2010: 5,748). Deliveries rose by 6.6 percent since the beginning of the year (January–August 2011: 69,073 units; January–August 2010: 64,819). In Europe, smart sales developed especially well in Germany and France. In the vehicle’s home market, sales increased by 13.0 percent to 20,286 units since the beginning of the year. As a result, the smart is the best-selling vehicle in its segment during the year to date. In France, it attracted 7.1 percent more customers during the same period. In China, the innovative two-seater continues to post record results, selling nearly four times as many vehicles in the year to date than in the period from January to August 2010. In August, sales jumped another 141.5 percent.

Source: Daimler AG

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “Demand for our products is higher than ever before. July was another record month, which successfully followed our very good sales results in the first half of the year. We expect strong sales for the second half of the year and want to continue to grow. The greater availability of our vehicles will contribute to this development. We are working additional shifts at many of our plants, such as those for the C-Class, and will keep production running all summer.” In the second half of the year, growth will especially be boosted by the models of the new C-Class generation, while the market launch of the new M-Class in the fall will speed up the pace of sales even further. Customers have been able to order the new M-Class since July 11. Dr. Schmidt: “We will start our foray into the premium compact car segment in November with the launch of the new B-Class, which we will unveil at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in a few weeks. Overall, we are in an excellent position and are set to sell more than 1.35 million Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and smarts in 2011, which would make it our all-time best year.”

Mercedes-Benz continued to grow in the U.S. last month, with sales increasing by 9.4 percent to 19,006 units (July 2010: 17,367). Since January, deliveries have risen by 7.3 percent to 129,932 vehicles (January-July 2010: 121,041).

Mercedes-Benz obtained high double-digit growth rates in many markets in the Asia-Pacific region. During the year to date, sales of Mercedes-Benz reached a dynamic growth rate of 41.7 percent in China (incl. Hong Kong), thus expanding at a much faster pace than the total market. Deliveries rose to a new record of 106,422 vehicles (January-July 2010: 75,127). As a result of the model changeover of the high-volume C-Class, sales in July amounted to 14.248 passenger vehicles (July 2010: 14,616/minus 2.5 percent). Thanks to the greater availability of vehicles and the launch of the new C-Class generation, the company expects to achieve substantial growth in China in the third quarter overall.

In July, high growth rates were posted in Taiwan (plus 46.5 percent) and South Korea (plus 20.3 percent), where the brand achieved a new record. In Japan, sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles climbed strongly by 29.2 percent. Last month, deliveries were also at a record level in Russia, where sales increased by 37.0 percent. In India, sales for the year to date are 33.0 percent higher than for the same period of 2010. In Brazil, sales rose by 59.5 percent in July. The previous month was also a very good one with record sales in South Africa (plus 28.0 percent) and Turkey (plus 29.3 percent).

In its biggest market, Germany, Mercedes-Benz’ market share of 10.1 percent was once again the highest of any premium brand. The CLS and the S-Class were the top-ranking vehicles in the German Federal Motor Transport Authority’s (KBA) luxury car segment, while the E-Class coupe and the SLK were the leading sports cars. The C-Class sedan was the number one among its premium competitors in its respective segment. Sales in Germany amounted to 23.098 units in July, nearly reaching the high volume of July 2010 (23,556). Since January, sales amounted to 146.111 units, thus matching the level achieved in the same period last year (January-July 2010: 146,014). In Western Europe, demand for Mercedes-Benz vehicles was particularly strong during the first seven months of 2011 in Belgium (plus 10.6 percent) and Sweden (plus 19.2 percent).

In July, the new C-Class models and the SUVs in particular were strong growth drivers. Since its market launch, the new generation C-Class sedan has defended its market-leading position in its class for the fourth month in a row. Sales in the C-Class segment as a whole rose by 16.8 percent in July. More than three times as many customers bought a new SLK in July compared to July 2010, making it the number one in its segment (plus 207.3 percent). Mercedes-Benz set a new record in the SUV segment with sales climbing by 26.5 percent to 18.479 units. All model ranges substantially surpassed last year’s results, for example the GLK (plus 14.6 percent) and the M-Class (plus 22.4 percent), which continues to be in great demand even close to the launch of its successor. Meanwhile, the S-Class continues to set the pace in the luxury segment. It has been the most popular sedan in its class from January to July with sales rising by 14.3 percent. Customers are also very enthusiastic about the new CL-Class (plus 28.5 percent). In the E-Class segment, the company has boosted sales by 5.6 percent since January, with the E-Class convertible continuing to perform especially well (plus 60.1 percent). Deliveries of the new CLS have almost trippled since the beginning of the year (plus 165.6 percent).

Compared to the previous months, sales of the A-Class developed much better in July. At 10.358 units, they were up 3.1 percent compared to July 2010. This was due to the greater availability of the vehicles after the production changeover to the new A-Class and B-Class at the Rastatt plant had caused temporary delays. In Germany, deliveries of the A-Class increased by 9.3 percent compared to July 2010. Sales of the B-Class, whose successor will be celebrating its world premiere in a few weeks, have risen worldwide by 12.4 percent since January (68.691 units).

Sales of the new generation smart fortwo continued to pick up in July. A total of 8,521 units (July 2010: 8,348) were sold, representing an increase of 2.1 percent. Sales of the two-seater have increased 7.2 percent since January, to 63,322 units (January-July 2010: 59,071). China remains a success story, with over three times as many people buying a smart in July than in the same month of last year. Since January, a total of 6,371 customers have opted for a smart (January-July 2010: 1,471/plus 333.1 percent). Demand in Germany also continued to develop positively in July (plus 7.9 percent) and in the year to date (plus 17.4 percent). Last month, the smart defended its leading position in its segment for the 17th month in a row.

Source: Daimler AG

The dynamic world of Formula 1 is the theme on which the Formula One Selection 2011 is based. Men’s T-shirts in black with Michael Schumacher’s name (also available for children), or in white and featuring Nico Rosberg’s name, as well as caps in the team colours of grey/white/petronas green with the signatures of one of the two Grand Prix drivers, all give their wearers the opportunity to create their own motorsport look. All items also bear the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS logo.

123►

For those who do not have a favourite driver but still want to feel part of the exciting motorsport scene, there is also a choice of fashionable clothing and caps without the drivers’ names. For example, the Team Selection range includes an authentic team shirt in silver-grey with cutaway collar and Mercedes-Benz and PETRONAS logo, as well as all of the sponsor logos. The same style is reflected in the men’s and women’s team polo shirts in black. By way of exceptional accessories, the Formula One Selection 2011 includes a lanyard with carabiner hook, a set of earplugs presented in a small, elegant aluminium case, or a drinking bottle finished in matt black aluminium with insulating neoprene lid.

The special fascination for the DTM race series has been expressed in another selection of products, also comprising a men’s black T-shirt and a cap – each featuring a printed or embroidered DTM vehicle and DTM logo.

In addition, the Mercedes-Benz Motorsports Highlights Selection 2011 is also made up of attractive fashions and popular accessories which do not reference any specific race series but nevertheless reflect the close connection with Mercedes-Benz motorsport thanks to Mercedes-Benz motorsport logos and various printed motorsport elements. This collection includes a functional waterproof men’s jacket in black with inner mesh lining, zip with star emblem, mobile phone pocket and two inside pockets with Velcro fasteners, a men’s polo shirt and also men’s and women’s white T-shirts. The women’s shirts feature a rhinestone Mercedes-Benz star on the chest area.

The glittering star is also to be found on the front of the matching women’s cap in white, with elegant coloured embroidered Mercedes-Benz motorsport logo. The men’s cap in black has light grey mesh inserts on the sides, which help the wearer to keep a cool head even in the heat of the racing action.

Thanks to their stylish design, the attractive accessories of this selection are bound to be the centre of attention. Prestigious manufacturers help to ensure high quality. The same applies to the three new models of watch – two of which have real carbon dials, while the third is limited to 1500 examples – as well as a pair of high-quality Rodenstock sunglasses, a carbon-fibre ballpoint pen, a highly functional sports bag with toiletry bag, wash bag and shoe bag, a rucksack made by Deuter with special back system for high wear comfort, a stylish beach towel from Möve, an innovative kite-shaped, two-person golf umbrella, seat cushions, wallets and children’s earmuffs from UVEX.

Finely-made and highly-detailed models from well-known manufacturer Minichamps provide an opportunity for enthusiasts to add the world of Mercedes-Benz racing cars to their collection. One particular highlight is Michael Schumacher’s Formula 1 car from the 2010 season, faithfully recreated in 1:18 scale. The 2010 season MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula 1 cars of Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg are also available in the popular scale of 1:43, while other 1:43-scale models include the AMG-Mercedes C-Class vehicles, which caused something of a stir during the last DTM race season. The prototypical miniature cars are finished in the colours of drivers Gary Paffett, Bruno Spengler, Paul di Resta, Ralf Schumacher and David Coulthard.

Source: Daimler AG

Thanks to the strong sales in June, the second quarter of this year was the highest-volume quarter ever; sales increased 7.2 percent to a total of 329,979 units (Q2 2010: 307,733). In the first half of the year overall, Mercedes-Benz thus sold more vehicles than in the first half of any previous year. From January to June, 610,531 customers (Jan.-June 2010: 556,691) decided to buy a Mercedes-Benz brand vehicle, an increase of 9.7 percent.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The first half of the year went very well for Mercedes-Benz. We achieved double-digit increases in many markets, our products are in demand, and we succeeded in setting a new record. Our aim is to continue this trend. In the second half of 2011 we want to achieve further growth compared to last year.” In addition to the very popular new C-Class generation, the new M-Class will also be a driver of the positive development. Customers can order the M-Class starting on July 11, the market launch in Western Europe will be in fall. Dr. Schmidt: “We’re on the right track, and this year we have our sights set on achieving an all-time sales record by selling more than 1.3 million Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and smart fortwo.”

The first half of this year was marked by dynamic development and high growth rates, particularly in Asia and the BRIC countries. Sales of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in China rose 52.3 percent to the record-setting level of 92,174 units (Jan.-June 2010: 60,511). Deliveries in June were up 19.1 percent compared to June 2010, with 16,278 units (June 2010: 13,667) sold – yet another new record. Dr. Schmidt: “In China we will begin production of the GLK for the Chinese market later this year. From 2013, we will gradually start with the local production of three of our new compact cars, thus establishing the conditions for continued dynamic growth of Mercedes-Benz in China. We expect to sell 300,000 units there in 2015.”

Good news was also reported in the other Asian markets: In Taiwan (plus 45.0 percent) and South Korea (plus 16.6 percent) Mercedes-Benz surpassed the previous best marks in the first half of the year. This was also the case in India (plus 40.3 percent) and Russia (plus 70.6 percent). Mercedes-Benz sales in Brazil were up 34.7 percent compared to the first half of 2010. In June, Mercedes-Benz achieved the best month of the company’s history in Brazil and Russia.

The brand was also very successful in its second largest market, the U.S. Sales were up 13.0 percent to 20,652 passenger cars in June (June 2010: 18,269). Deliveries to American customers totaled 110,926 units (2010: 103,674) for the first half of the year, an increase of 7.0 percent. In Canada, Mercedes-Benz set a new record for the period of January through June (14,503 units, plus 1.5 percent).

Mercedes-Benz remained the best-selling premium brand in Germany last month. Sales totaled 26,747 vehicles, nearly reaching the high sales volume of June 2010 (26,974). Since the beginning of the year, deliveries have risen slightly to 123,013 units (Jan.- June 2010: 122,458). In Western Europe (without Germany), Mercedes-Benz sold 153.830 passenger cars in the first half of 2011, a slight increase compared to last year (Jan.-June 2010: 152.332) – despite decreases in many of the total markets. There was especially strong demand for Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the U.K. (plus 11.7 percent), Belgium (plus 13.0 percent), and Sweden (plus 20.0 percent).

The new-generation C-Class, the S-Class sedan, and the SUVs were important growth drivers in the first half of the year. Since its introduction, the new generation C-Class sedan has been defending the leading position in its class – and did so once again in June. Sales in the C-Class segment increased 11.4 percent in the first half of the year; in June, they were up 18.7 percent. The C-Class estate, in particular, has recorded high growth since January (plus 38.5 percent). And the new SLK continues to be a strong performer: Sales of the car increased 23.9 percent in June. The S-Class succeeded in defending its position as the best-selling luxury-class sedan – in the month of June and in the first six months of the year, with a sales increase of 18.1 percent to 35,956 units since January. In the SUV segment Mercedes-Benz has set new records every month since the beginning of the year with sales rising by 30.7 percent to 118,629 units. Deliveries of the GLK were up 43.1 percent compared to the same period last year, and sales of the new generation of the R-Class increased by 67.5 percent. Shortly before the market launch of the new M-Class, sales of the vehicle rose another 13.2 percent. Also very popular was the G-Class with an increase of 59.7 percent compared to the first half of 2010. In the E-Class segment, Mercedes-Benz recorded growth of 8.0 percent in the first six months of 2011. Demand was especially strong for the E-Class convertible (plus 80.1 percent). The new CLS also performed very successful during the first six months of this year (plus 155.4 percent).

The facelifted smart fortwo continues to set a dynamic pace. In June the two-seater posted worldwide growth of 7.9 percent, with 10,314 units delivered (June 2010: 9,560). Deliveries to customers worldwide totaled 54,801 units in the first half of the year (Jan.-June 2010: 50,723), an increase of 8.0 percent. In Germany, demand for the smart rose 19.2 percent to 15,729 units, making it number one in its segment in every month from January to June. Sales development was also very positive in France, where smart deliveries increased 11.4 percent in the first six months of 2011. In China the smart continues to write a dynamic success story: Since January, more than four times as many customers chose the two-seater as was the case in the same period last year, 5,493 vehicles were delivered (Jan.-June 2010: 1,204 units).

Source: Daimler AG

“The B-Class enabled Mercedes-Benz to set new benchmarks in the premium compact segment,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt. “Although its successor is about to be introduced, the B-Class is still extremely popular with customers. Since the beginning of the year, the vehicle has been posting especially strong growth in its two main markets, Germany and China.”

The future B-Class, which Mercedes-Benz will present at the IAA in September will be the first vehicle of a new generation of compact cars. The first units of the new B-Class will be delivered to customers in Western Europe later this year. “We want to further increase our market share in this segment through the launch of the successors to the current A-Class and B-Class as well as of two other sporty and emotional variants,” adds Dr. Schmidt. “We also want to tap new customer groups and additional markets. In the process, we will demonstrate that premium status is not a matter of external dimensions; it is primarily a question of perceived value, quality, and style. We will also be setting new benchmarks in the premium compact segment when it comes to safety. The new B-Class, for example, will be fitted with an emergency braking assistant as standard.”

With regard to comfort, safety and perceived value, the future B-Class will meet the customers’ premium requirements in every way. In addition, the latest Mercedes-Benz powertrains will ensure that the car is equipped with an extremely effective and appealing range of engine and transmission variants.

Current B-Class continues to be successful on the market
A total of 52,640 customers worldwide have opted to buy a B-Class car since January, representing an increase of 26.8% from last year. In Germany, sales rose by 31.5% during the first five months of the year, to 17,826 units. The most important market for the B-Class is Germany, which accounts for about one third of the series’ sales worldwide, followed by China and Italy. In 2009, the B-Class was introduced to China, where it has met with great success, with sales rising by 140.3% last year, to 12,217 units. Sales have continued to be very dynamic this year as well, rising to 5,966 units (January-May 2010: 3,030).

Production of the B-Class
Since June 2005 the B-Class has been produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Rastatt, which is Daimler Group’s competence center for compact vehicles. The A-Class has been rolling off the assembly line there since 1997. The approximately 6,000 employees at the plant produced a total of 238,351 vehicles last year. “The great demand for the B-Class also reflects the outstanding performance of the team at the plant,” says Peter Wesp, Head of the Mercedes-Benz plant Rastatt. “We are now focusing on the production of the new B-Class with the same passion.”

The new compact cars from Mercedes-Benz will be manufactured in a production network encompassing the Rastatt plant and a new facility in Kecskemét, Hungary. Three of the four new models will roll off the production line in Rastatt, while two will be manufactured in Kecskemét. The new B-Class will be produced at both locations. This approach significantly increases the production network’s flexibility, as it enables capacity to be optimally utilized at both plants. Production of customer vehicles will commence in Rastatt this fall and in Kecskemét in the first quarter of 2012.

Source: Daimler GA

The C-, E- and M-Class each scored the best marks in their respective segments. In the category Service Satisfaction, the three-pointed star also once again secured first place among the premium brands. In addition, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has won silver in the editorial awards presented by the German magazine AUTO TEST, based on more than 500 tests and pre-purchase consultations.

The strengths and weaknesses of a car are best shown in its day-to-day running. This realisation lies behind the J.D. Power 2011 Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study (VOSSSM), a far-reaching survey of how satisfied car owners are with their vehicles. The results appear as a list that ranks more than 100 models from 28 manufacturers in eight categories. The current study shows Mercedes-Benz models in first place three times, while the brand also scores exceptionally well when it comes to service:

• In the ranking “Overall VOSSSM – Compact Executive”, the top slot is taken by the
  C-Class, reflecting the fact that its customers are the most satisfied among those of all models in the Midsize Premium category.
• The E-Class takes first place for customer satisfaction in the Executive Luxury Car ranking, followed by the S-Class.
• The M-Class trails all other models in the “SUV” segment in its wake when it comes to customer satisfaction.
• Mercedes-Benz took first place ahead of all other premium-brand manufacturers in the service satisfaction category.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and CLK were already the winners in their segment in 2010. First place across all brands was taken by Mercedes-Benz. In the category of service satisfaction, Mercedes-Benz was also already placed well ahead of its premium-class competitors in the 2009 and 2010 studies. Customers were asked for their views on criteria such as the friendliness of the service advisor, the condition of the equipment used and the thoroughness with which any servicing or maintenance work was undertaken.

Dr Joachim Schmidt, Member of Mercedes-Benz Cars Management responsible for Sales and Marketing: “We are delighted that our customers are able to experience this high level of quality on a day-to-day basis and have shown their recognition in this way. Our aim is to offer products that delight, coupled with excellent customer care and the best service. All this is integral to the Mercedes-Benz brand. The results of these latest studies provide confirmation for the work we do.”

The J.D. Power Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study undertaken by the global market research company J.D. Power, based in Los Angeles, is seen as an important guide for buyers.

For this current study, the market research specialists undertook an online survey of more than 17,000 motorists in Germany, asking about their experience with their vehicle. All of them had at that point been driving the car for around two years and driven almost 39,000 kilometres. The survey is therefore based on the experience of over 650 million kilometres of everyday driving. In order for a reliable assessment of the strengths and weakness of each model to be made, the owners were asked to give marks for overall satisfaction, quality and reliability, vehicle appeal, service and ownership costs.

The positive image of the premium automotive brand Mercedes-Benz is rounded off by the silver award presented for the E-Class by the editors of the German magazine AUTO TEST. The results are based on more than 500 tests and pre-purchase consultations as well as on almost two million driven kilometres, and add up to a well-founded guide for buyers.

Mercedes-Benz vehicles thus take the lead among some of the most desirable premium passenger cars, whilst also proving themselves in terms of their excellent reliability and value retention.

Source: Daimler AG

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The upswing we’ve experienced in recent months continued in May with a new sales record. Once again, growth was in particular driven by the BRIC countries. We achieved high growth rates in all of them. The strong demand for our new C-Class generation is also contributing to our dynamic development. This will also be the case with the new C-Class coupe, which hit dealerships last Saturday and has already met with an outstanding customer response.”

In the course of the year Mercedes-Benz will introduce additional new models to the market, including the new M-Class, which will celebrate its world premiere this week. Sales of the vehicle will start in Europe on July 11, and the first units will be delivered to customers in fall this year. Dr. Schmidt added, “Beginning in fall, the pace of our growth will be further increased by the new M-Class, which will help us reach our goal of making 2011 the best year in our company’s history. We want to sell more than 1.3 million Mercedes-Benz cars and smart fortwo overall.”

Mercedes-Benz substantially increased sales in many markets in May. Sales in China (including Hong Kong) were once again at a record level, amounting to 16,401 units (May 2010: 11,463) and representing a 43.1 percent increase on the high sales volume achieved in the same month of last year. Since the beginning of the year, passenger car sales have thus risen by 62.0 percent to 75,896 units (January – May 2010: 46,844), which is also a new all-time high. The pace was similarly dynamic in the other BRIC countries. Mercedes-Benz surpassed its previous sales records of May in both India (plus 39.8 percent) and Russia (plus 49.2 percent). This was also achieved in South Korea (plus 29.1 percent) and Taiwan (plus 37.0 percent). High growth rates were also recorded in Brazil (plus 55.9 percent) and Turkey (plus 49.9 percent).

Mercedes-Benz delivered 18,886 vehicles to customers in the U.S. in May, an increase of 1.8 percent on the same month last year (May 2010: 18,548). During the first five months as a whole, deliveries totaled 90,274 units (January – May 2010: 85,405), an increase of 5.7 percent on the same period last year. Mercedes-Benz Canada delivered a record-breaking total of 3,052 units to customers (plus 11.0 percent) in May, which represents the best ever sales result for a month. Also the year-to-date growth brings a record with 11,715 units (January – May 2010: 11,535).

Mercedes-Benz was once again the best-selling premium brand in Germany in May. At 24,647 units (May 2010: 24,688), sales were at previous year’s level. Deliveries have risen to 96,266 units since the beginning of the year (January – May 2010: 95,484). In Western Europe, Mercedes-Benz has delivered a total of 219,782 passenger vehicles since January (January – May 2010: 216,669), representing a slight increase on the same period last year. In May, the cars bearing the star emblem were especially in demand in Sweden (plus 17.3 percent) and the UK (plus 12.7 percent).

The luxury segment continues to be dominated by the S-Class sedan. Ever since it was introduced on the market in 2005, the vehicle has defended its lead in the segment every year. Around 400,000 units of the luxury sedan have been delivered to customers to date. The car continued to be the market leader in May, with sales rising by 9.9 percent to 6,224 units. Mercedes-Benz also continues to grow in the E-Class segment, with sales rising by 5.8 percent on the same month last year, to 30,820 vehicles. Especially the new E-Class convertible has been popular in the year to date (plus 126.4 percent). But the new models are very favoured as well. The new CLS, which is available since January, and the in March introduced SLK continue to develop very dynamically, with sales increasing by 164.2 percent and 53.2 percent in May. With 24,833 units the C-Class sedan was the market leader in its segment, and together with the new C-Class estate sales increased by 25.6 percent on the same month last year. Mercedes-Benz continues to post successes in the SUV segment as well last month, with demand rising by 30.6 percent to the record level of 21,766 units. Sales rose sharply for all of the production series, including the G-Class (plus 57.4 percent) and the new generation of the R-Class, which nearly doubled its deliveries (plus 98.9 percent). With an increase of 51.2 percent, the GLK achieved the best month ever.

Sales of the smart fortwo continue to rise as well. Last month 10,165 customers bought one of the innovative two-seaters, 8.6 percent more than in May 2010. Sales have thus risen by 8.1 percent since January, to 44,487 units (January – May 2010: 41,163). Growth continues to be particularly strong in China (including Hong Kong), where sales increased to 1,011 vehicles last month (plus 188.9 percent), triple the sales posted in the same month last year (May 2010: 350). The smart continues to speed ahead in the German market as well, coming in at the top of its segment for the 15th month in a row in May and seeing sales rise by 21.8 percent to 3,196 units.

Source: Daimler AG

“Until today we have delivered more than 500,000 vehicles of the E-Class family to customers, and the E-Class is and will remain a key pillar of growth for Mercedes-Benz. We offer our customers an unparalleled range of products in this segment, encompassing a sedan, an estate, a coupe, and a convertible. At the same time, the E-Class is setting benchmarks not only for market success but also with regard to safety, profitability, and efficiency. Thanks to new engines, the new E-Class’ fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 20 percent. The automatic transmission version of the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, for example, consumes only 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers in the NEDC and emits 129 grams of CO2 per kilometer.”

Persistent market success
Around 376,000 sedans, 64,000 estates, and more than 110,000 coupes and convertibles have been sold to date. As a result, a total of about 550,000 customers have bought a vehicle of the E-Class family. The sedan was launched in March 2009, followed two months later by the coupe in May and by the estate in November. The
E-Class family has been complete since the introduction of the convertible in March 2010.

Sales in the E-Class segment put on further at the beginning of the second quarter. Sales have increased by a total of 13 percent since January, to 107,278 units (63,517 sedans and 12,553 estates). Sales of the E-Class convertible are continuing to grow very dynamically, increasing more than fourfold (plus 229 percent) from the previous year. The E-Class convertible and the coupe thus defended their market leadership worldwide.

The E-Class sedan is the market leader in its comparative class in the U.S., which is also the vehicle’s largest market, accounting for around 20 percent of global sales. The second-largest market is China, followed by Germany. The largest market for the
E-Class estate is Germany. The coupe and convertible models are most frequently bought by customers in the U.S., with Germany and the UK being other major markets for these vehicles.

The predecessor of the current E-Class was also successful worldwide, and a total of 1.6 million sedans and estates of the 211 series were delivered to customers in the years after the vehicle was introduced on the market in 2002.

A benchmark for efficiency, safety, and economy
More than ever before, new gasoline engines and an optimized powertrain have made the Mercedes-Benz E-Class the benchmark for efficiency in its segment in 2011. All of the car’s gasoline and diesel engines are now equipped with direct injection. Other features that help to reduce fuel consumption by up to 20 percent include the standard-fitted ECO start-stop function and the optimized 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission, which is now also available for the four-cylinder engine variants. The automatic transmission versions of the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (125 kW/170 hp) and E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (150 kW/204 hp) consume only 4.9 – 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers in the NEDC and emit 129 – 138 grams of CO2 per kilometer. This makes the E 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY the most efficient upper-range diesel model for its output rating.
An internationally unparalleled combination of state-of-the-art assistance and protection systems make the E-Class the trendsetter in the field of safety. Around a dozen different assistance systems are available to customers, including the standard-fitted ATTENTION ASSIST system, which monitors more than 70 parameters to determine a driver’s level of concentration, enabling it to warn the motorist in time if he or she is suffering from fatigue. Just as unique is the optional Adaptive High-Beam Assist.

The E-Class also scores well among customers when it comes to value: It was declared the “2011 Value Champion” as a result of an assessment carried out by Auto Bild magazine and EurotaxSchwacke. According to the residual value forecasts of the market researchers, a four-year-old E-Class vehicle will have the lowest loss of value in the upper-range segment.

Source: Daimler AG

Sales were at record levels in each month and rose a total of 77.2 percent to 7,764 passenger cars. In full-year 2010, Mercedes-Benz sold 19,724 units in Russia. This is a new all-time high and represents an increase of 63.7 percent. Over the past ten years, sales in Russia have risen nine fold.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars, said, “Along with China, Russia is one of our most important growth markets and will remain so for the next years. We’re very satisfied with our development there. Since the beginning of the year, we have been the premium brand with the highest sales volumes and we are growing faster than our core competitors. We want to maintain this position for the full year as well. In 2011, we aim to surpass last year’s sales record and to grow faster than the total market. We are creating the conditions for this also by further expanding our dealership network.”

Russia has one of the world’s fastest growing automotive markets. The overall market grew by 30 percent last year, with the number of new passenger car registrations rising to 1.8 million. The company currently expects substantial growth in 2011 as well, with the total passenger car market expanding by 25 percent.

Mercedes-Benz has 54 dealerships and franchise service workshops in Russia and plans to add ten more this year. As a result, Mercedes-Benz is represented in 37 cities throughout Russia. The national subsidiary Mercedes-Benz RUS is responsible for sales of Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles in Russia. After its foundation in 1994, it was the first sales company of a Western automaker in Russia.

Mercedes-Benz leads the market with the E-Class sedan and in the SUV segment
Since the beginning of the year, Mercedes-Benz has posted high double-digit growth in all product segments in Russia. The best-selling model is the E-Class sedan. Sales of the sedan have increased by 75.0 percent to 1,827 units since January, enabling it to remain the market leader in its segment. The company sold 4,788 sedans in full-year 2010 (+112.1%). The C-Class sedan is also very popular, with 1,039 customers opting for this vehicle between January and April. This represents an increase of 83.6 percent. A total of 2,847 units were sold in 2010 (+89.2%). The new-generation C-Class was introduced in Russia in April, further boosting sales in the country. In July, it will be followed by the new SLK. Mercedes-Benz is also the market leader in the SUV segment. Sales doubled during the past four months, rising to 3,398 units. Deliveries of SUVs totaled 7,979 units in all of last year (+63.9%). Sales of the S-Class sedan are also growing at a dynamic rate, increasing by 18.6 percent to 478 units. In all of 2010, a total of 1,718 customers (+28.8%) decided to buy one of the luxury sedans.

Daimler Trucks, Mercedes-Benz Vans, and Daimler Financial Services in Russia
The Russian market is also very attractive for Daimler Trucks. Since last year, the Mercedes-Benz Trucks Vostok joint venture between Daimler and the Russian truck manufacturer KAMAZ has been producing commercial vehicles at Naberezhnye Chelny. A joint venture was also established last year between the Daimler subsidiary Mitsubishi Fuso and KAMAZ in order to produce the Fuso Canter in Russia. In December 2010, Daimler and the Russian commercial vehicle manufacturer GAZ signed a memorandum of understanding with the goal to produce the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter in Nizhny Novgorod. Daimler Financial Services has been offering leasing and motor insurance in Russia since 1999, and Mercedes-Benz Bank Rus was established for the financing business in 2007. As a result, Daimler became the first foreign automaker to operate both a bank and a leasing company in Russia. At the end of the first quarter, Daimler Financial Services had a contract volume of €203 million in Russia.

Source: Daimler AG

Mercedes-Benz also caters for children with a particularly variable kids’ bike, which can be converted into a straddle-bike in a trice. All the products in the Bike Selection were developed and produced in cooperation with the Hessian premium bike manufacturer ADP Rotwild, and feature modern, innovative technology together with quality in keeping with the Mercedes-Benz brand.

In its Bike Selection 2011, Mercedes-Benz combines uniquely attractive and innovative frames with dedicated, up-to-date components by well-known manufacturers such as SRAM, Fox Racing, DT Swiss and Topeak. One of the stars in this exclusive range is the new All Mountain mountain bike, which particularly shows its strengths off the beaten track. Efficient and safe handling is ensured by a Fox Racing F32 RL suspension fork and a DT Swiss suspension strut, each with a spring travel of 120 mm. Gears are shifted by a 30-speed SRAM X.9 system, and the brakes are hydraulic AVID Elixir 5 disc brakes with a disc diameter of 185 mm. DT Swiss X1900 wheels complete this functional package. The Mercedes-Benz All Mountain mountain bike weighs 12.8 kg and is available in frame heights 47 cm, 50 cm and 53 cm.

The fitness bike with a lockable Suntour XCR suspension fork and hydraulic disc brakes has become a classic among Mercedes-Benz bikes. An unmistakable frame design and a fashionable white paint finish underline the sporty character of this bike model. The fitness bike is available in three frame heights (48 cm, 51 cm, 54 cm).

The trekking bike has the same attractive genes as the fitness bike. Equipped with a mudguard, luggage carrier and a Busch & Müller lighting system including a Shimano hub dynamo, this is a reliable day-to-day companion equally suitable for extended recreational bike tours. The trekking bike is available in frame heights 51 cm and 54 cm.

The Limited racing bike weighs only 6.8 kg thanks to its carbon-fibre frame, which is produced on the tube-to-tube principle. Its exclusive features include SRAM Red gearshift and brake components, as well as lightweight DT Swiss RR 1450 racing wheels. Formula 1 drivers Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg also use this high-end bike to prepare for the new Grand Prix season. The racing bike is available in frame heights 49 cm, 53 cm, 56 cm, 58 cm and 61 cm and is a limited edition of 100.

The kids’ bike is a particularly clever solution as a flexible companion when learning to ride a bicycle. Thanks to its 2-in-1 concept, it can be quickly converted from a 16“ kids’ bike into a straddler. In straddler form it makes the first biking attempts particularly easy and enjoyable, develops the sense of balance and considerably eases the child’s entry into the world of bikes with pedals. The kids’ bike is available in the colours white, red metallic and pink metallic, is suitable for children aged 3 to approx. 6 years.

The Mercedes-Benz Bike Selection also includes high-quality bike clothing and useful accessories for cyclists. These products were developed in cooperation with well-known companies such as deuter sport, uvex, Topeak and Sigma Sport.

Further information about the Mercedes-Benz Bike Selection is available online at www.mercedes-benz-accessories.com

Source: Daimler AG

Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars: “Our sales figures in April marked a successful start into the second quarter and increased significantly in many markets. China, where we set a new sales record in April, continues to play an important role in driving our growth. We continue to be optimistic about the second quarter, during which we want to boost sales above last year’s level.”

Growth in the second quarter will be based on the success of the current product range and particularly on new products such as the facelifted C-Class and the new SLK. Demand for both models was already very high in the first month after the market launch. 20.965 units of the C-Class sedan were delivered, capturing the market leadership in its segment right from the start. Including the new estate, sales in April rose 14.3 percent compared to April 2010. In the first month following its market launch, sales of the new SLK also climbed sharply, starting the convertible season with an increase of 47.7 percent. The new C-Class coupe is waiting in the starting blocks to continue the success of the new C-Class generation. It will be in dealers’ showrooms beginning in June. Mercedes-Benz will introduce additional new models to the market later this year: the new M-Class and the SLS roadster, which will hit showrooms this fall, and the new B-Class, which will be launched at the end of the year.

“This attractive product lineup gives us a very good competitive position,” added Schmidt. “In the full year, we aim to achieve a new sales record and want to sell more than 1.3 million Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and smart fortwo.”

In April, sales of Mercedes-Benz in China (including Hong Kong) rose by 46.9 percent compared to the high volume recorded in the same month last year. As a result, the brand achieved a new record result of 16,536 units (April 2010: 11,254). During the first four months of the year, sales jumped by 68.2 percent to 59,526 passenger cars (Jan. – April 2010: 35,381). In April, sales also rose substantially in South Korea (plus 56.6 percent) and Taiwan (plus 19.7 percent). In India (plus 61.3 percent) and Russia (plus 59.5 percent) Mercedes-Benz achieved a new record.

A total of 18,042 units (April 2010: 17,628) were sold in the U.S. last month, an increase of 2.3 percent on the result posted in April 2010. Since January, deliveries totaled 71,388 units (Jan. – April 2010: 66,857), an increase of 6.8 percent on the same period last year.

In Germany, demand rose 3.3 percent in April to 22,270 units (April 2010: 21,551). Mercedes-Benz thus remained the strongest premium brand in its home market. Sales were also above last year’s level for the first four months, totaling 71,588 units (Jan. – April 2010: 70,796). In Western Europe, Mercedes-Benz grew by 2.2 percent overall, delivering 46,817 cars to customers (April 2010: 45,801). Growth rates were recorded, for example, in France (plus 8.9 percent), Spain (plus 4.4 percent), Belgium (plus 11.6 percent), and Sweden (plus 19.6 percent).

In the luxury class, the S-Class sedan once again set the benchmark for its segment in April. At 6,305 units, sales were up by 34.3 percent, making it the number one car in its competitive class. Mercedes-Benz also continues to grow in the E-Class segment, with customer deliveries rising by 8.1 percent to 28,708 vehicles. The new E-Class convertible was particularly popular last month (plus 84.7 percent) and remained the market leader. The new CLS which is available since January has also been on track for success, with sales rising by 70.4 percent compared to April 2010. Demand also continued to be dynamic for all Mercedes-Benz SUVs, with sales increasing to the record figure of 19.640 units (plus 21.4 percent). One of the reasons for this success were strong growth rates for the GLK (plus 62.1 percent). In the compact car segment the B-Class continued to increase sales in April (plus 26.2 percent).

Sales of the smart fortwo continued to develop positively in April and totaled 9,341 units last month, representing a 3.2 percent increase on the previous year (April 2010: 9,053). During the year to date, sales of the two-seater have risen by 7.9 percent to 34,322 vehicles (Jan. – April 2010: 31,806). Demand for the smart continues to be strong in China (including Hong Kong), where sales rose almost five-fold in April, to 1,026 units (April 2010: 210). In Germany, the two-seater was at the top of its segment in April for the 14th consecutive month.

Source: Daimler AG

Nicholas Cole, President and CEO of car2go Canada Ltd., and Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson made the official announcement this morning to the press as well as to business, political and civic leaders who also took this opportunity to test drive the smart “car2go edition” vehicles and learn about car2go’s unique approach to car sharing.

First launched with great acclaim in Ulm, Germany, three years ago, car2go was successfully rolled out a year later in North America in Austin, Texas. To date, a total of more than 35,000 customers have joined the car2go program in Ulm and Austin. There have been more than 600,000 fully automated rental transactions, averaging between 10 and 60 minutes. car2go was also recently introduced in Hamburg, Germany, and becomes operational in Amsterdam in the Netherlands at the end of 2011. As a city whose mandate is to become the world’s greenest city by 2020, Vancouver was a natural choice for the expansion of car2go in North America.

“We’re very excited that car2go will be making its Canadian debut in Vancouver,” said Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson. “Our goal is to become the greenest city in the world by 2020, and providing cleaner transportation options is a big part of that. We want to ensure that we provide a full range of sustainable transportation options for our citizens, and car2go’s unique car-sharing model is a great fit for Vancouver.”

A Different Way to Car Share
car2go uses a “free-floating” model of car sharing, where cars are available throughout the city and can be accessed “on-demand” or reserved up to 24 hours in advance. car2go members can use car2go smartphone apps, the car2go website or a telephone hotline to find the nearest vehicle within the 47-square-kilometre pickup and drop-off area which consists of the following quadrant: the south border follows 41st Avenue to the north border which follows the Burrard Inlet. The east border is Nanaimo Street and the west border is Alma Street.

Members can drive the car when and where they want, and then they can simply leave it in any available “permit only” on-street parking spot in downtown or residential neighbourhoods within the defined business area, or in one of the specially marked car2go parking spaces. In essence, every trip is a one-way rental, with no need to return to the location where the driver picked up the vehicle.

car2go charges customers only for the actual use of the vehicle, with rental periods as short as a per-minute basis. The rental prices in Vancouver are $0.35 CAD per minute, $12.99 CAD per hour and $65.99 CAD per day which includes fuel, parking, mileage,insurance,maintenance, cleaning, GPS navigation and a 24/7 hotline customer support.

The smart “car2go edition” vehicles, developed in collaboration by car2go and smart in Germany, are the world’s first series-produced automobiles designed and manufactured specifically for car sharing. Every car2go vehicle is outfitted with a solar roof and innovative telematics hardware, including an onboard computer with an easy-to-use touch screen with radio and GPS controls. The smart “car2go edition” vehicles for Vancouver are provided by Mercedes-Benz Canada and its Vancouver Retail Group.

A network of 225 fuel-efficient, low-emission smart “car2go edition” vehicles will be available to Vancouver car2go members as of June 2011. Starting today until May 29, 2011, Vancouver residents can pre-register for their car2go membership without having to pay the registration fee (a $35 CAD value) at www.car2govancouver.com using Promo Code: VAN, or in person at the car2go office at 45 Water Street in the Gastown area of downtown Vancouver.

car2go Test Run Successfully Completed
car2go conducted a trial assessment of its service in Vancouver from June 2010 to March 2011with select test users from well-known and respected local organizations like Wavefront, the Vancouver Public Library, the Vancouver Film School and Bard on the Beach. The assessment was used to validate and refine business processes and technical systems prior to the large-scale rollout. The strong support for the car2go model throughout the pilot helped cement Vancouver as the first Canadian city for this unique service.

“Vancouver is a dynamic, progressive city committed to smart urban living and sustainable transit,” said Nicholas Cole, President and CEO of car2go Canada Ltd. “The Mayor and his staff, the City Council and the participants in our trial assessment were central to our planning process. We would not be here without the valuable insights and guidance of these dedicated forward-thinkers. We’re confident everyone will find car2go an easy, cost-effective and environmentally responsible way to get around Vancouver.”

Join car2go, Support Canuck Place Children’s Hospice
In addition to waiving registration fees for the next 30 days, car2go will also donate two dollars from every annual membership fee to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice over the course of the next 12 months. Canuck Place Children’s Hospice provides specialized paediatric palliative care for children living with a life-threatening illness and support for their families throughout British Columbia.

“Canuck Place relies on the generosity of individuals, corporations and various organizations to raise approximately 80 percent of its operating costs,” said Robyn Zylstra, Head of Community Partnerships for Canuck Place. “With the support of car2go, Canuck Place can continue to provide world-class paediatric palliative care to more than 400 children and their families.”

“Canuck Place Children’s Hospice is a recognized global leader in its field and a living example of how Vancouverites work together to support community needs. We applaud their accomplishments and are honoured to give car2go members the opportunity to help Canuck Place Children’s Hospice,” said Cole. “We look forward to being good neighbours in this community for a long time to come.”

Source: Daimler AG

The track “Benz”, by Grammy award winning producer David Banner, is an upbeat, celebratory track inspired by his Mississippi roots. The three artists composed a brand new melody and lyrics. Their different musical styles flowed together resulting in an impactful and harmonious crossover, recorded at Record Plant, Los Angeles. Thrilled about the idea, Mercedes-Benz supports the project.

On 18th April, BLAG will release the brand new track and video ‘Benz’ via iTunes internationally. Additionally the debut BLAG Deluxe App for iPad and coffee table magazine will also be released, both will feature the making-of, photos and interviews with Estelle, David Banner and Daley.

On hearing about the idea, Mercedes-Benz was thrilled by the concept and decided to support BLAG and the three artists involved with this project. The world debut live performance will take place during the Mercedes-Benz press conference at the Shanghai Auto Show on 19th April 2011.

“Even though it was created before we were all born, the original Janis Joplin track resonates with all of us. We all came together on the meaning for the new version and thought it should be about ambition and triumph. The fact it’s the 125th Anniversary of the car is a perfect tie-in too,” said Sally A. Edwards, who co-owns BLAG together with her twin Sarah J. Edwards. The BLAG founders love bringing people together and decided to invite Estelle, David Banner and Daley, specifically picking them for their different styles and musical backgrounds.

The artists are real fans of the original track and were genuinely excited by the idea of working together, and Mercedes-Benz is equally as thrilled. “When BLAG introduced us to the idea for the song and the artists, we immediately decided to lend our support to the project. We are especially honoured that these young artists have chosen to record a song about the brand Mercedes-Benz,” said Christoph Horn, Director Global Communications Mercedes-Benz Cars.

About BLAG and the participating artists
BLAGis a high-end British music, fashion, art, film, culture and design magazine and iPad App with global distribution, created entirely by founders Sally A. Edwards and Sarah J. Edwards. They possess excellent contacts in the cultural, music and art scenes.

David Bannera Grammy Award winning producer, rapper, actor and philanthropist achieved his musical breakthrough with the 2003 single “Like a Pimp” and the album “Mississippi – The Album”. He has since released 5 albums including “The Greatest Story Ever Told” in 2008 which featured several guest appearances by the likes of Yung Joc, Snoop Dogg, Akon and Chris Brown. His most recent album “Death Of A Popstar” is a joint effort with 9th Wonder, and in stores now. His past production credits include: Lil Wayne, Kanye West, T.I., Nelly, Maroon 5, Snoop Dogg, Quincy Jones, Jamie Foxx, Anthony Hamilton, Chris Brown, Busta Rhymes and Zac Brown.

Grammy award winning singer-songwriter Estelle released her first studio album “The 18th Day” in 2004 from which three singles (“1980”, “Free” and “Go Gone”), made the UK Top 40 charts. In 2008 Estelle landed at the top of the UK and US charts with ‘American Boy’ featuring Kanye West. The single took a Grammy Award for Best collaboration and was Song of the Year nominee. ‘American Boy’ received a huge amount of airplay in Europe, the US and Canada and made history as the third ever number one UK single to be certified platinum by the RIAA for digital sales alone exceeding one million. The single was taken from Estelle’s second album ‘Shine’ where she also collaborated with Cee-Lo Green, Will.I.Am, Kardinal Offishall and John Legend. Estelle has since worked with David Guetta on ‘Freak’ for her third album, ‘All of Me’ which will be released in 2011. Besides music, Estelle is heavily involved in philanthropy and set up the ‘All of Me Foundation’ with a mission to educate, enlighten and expand the horizons of young people.

British soul singer Daley is considered an exceptional talent. His unique and extraordinarily expressive voice led to his discovery by the BBC in 2009 and in 2010 he was named in the “BBC’s Sound of 2011”. He collaborated with the British band Gorillaz as lead vocalist on their latest single “Doncamatic” in November 2010.

Information and facts on production of the video and song “Benz”
Initiator and Publisher: BLAG Magazine
Sally A. Edwards & Sarah J. Edwards
Music: David Banner
Lyrics and Vocals: David Banner, Estelle and Daley
Producer: David Banner
Executive Producers Song: Sally A. Edwards, Sarah J. Edwards and Corey Smyth
Video Directors and Producers: Sally A. Edwards & Sarah J. Edwards
Video Producers: Matt Goldberg and Brandon Carroll, Herzog and Company, Los Angeles
DP: David Robert Jones
Production Designer: Melanie Jones
Video Editor: Jared Varava
Car in Video: Mercedes-Benz 280 SE Convertible (Model W111, built in 1971)

Source: Daimler AG

To power the C-Class Coupé there is a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines from the latest generation. All are equipped with direct injection and the ECO start/stop function as standard. All the engine variants are classed as BlueEFFICIENCY units, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally friendly in their use of fuel. The engines are also all available with the new, enhanced 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission (standard on the C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY and C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY).

Representing a generational shift in technology, the new V6 petrol engine in the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY features the efficient BlueDIRECT method of injection. It delivers 225 kW (306 hp) and 370 Nm and travels from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds. Average fuel consumption is 6.8 litres per 100 km. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 159 grams per kilometre. The most economical coupé model is the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with manual six-speed transmission. It has an average diesel consumption of 4.4 litres per 100 km. This corresponds to 117 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

Prices at a glance:
C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé 33.290,25 Euro
C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé 41.174,00 Euro
C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé 47.540,50 Euro
C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé 37.455,25 Euro
C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Coupé 41.174,00 Euro

The AGILITY CONTROL suspension, which is standard equipment, complements the dynamic engines to perfection. This is based on an amplitude-dependent damping system: when driving normally with low shock absorber impulses, the damping forces are automatically reduced for a noticeable improvement in ride comfort – but without any compromise in handling safety. When shock absorber impulses are greater, for example when cornering at speed or performing evasive manoeuvres, the maximum damping forces are set and the car is effectively stabilised. In addition to the AGILITY CONTROL suspension as standard, there is an optional extra for €452.50 in the form of a 15 mm lower sports suspension with harder, shorter springs, tauter shock absorbers and stronger torsion bars.

The sports suspension also forms part of the AMG Sports package (€2,499), which gives the coupé an even sportier look. Appointments include the three-spoke multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and seven-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with 225/40 R18 tyres at the front and 255/35 R18 at the rear to enhance the vehicle’s individuality and boost driving enjoyment.

In the interior the sporty appeal continues: for the first time in automotive engineering, the trim parts in the style package are available in a porcelain piano-lacquer look which emphasises the lounge feel. Other features in this package of appointments (additional charge from €654.50) are upholstery in black ARTICO man-made leather with contrasting seams in porcelain, the three-spoke multifunction steering wheel with 12 buttons in two-tone nappa leather and the centre console and gearshift boot with contrasting seams in porcelain.

With a number of driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the coupé provides a comprehensive level of driver support and protection. The assistance systems are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology. There are basically two packages to choose from. The Lane Tracking package (€892.50) with Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist combines systems that give a warning in hazardous situations.

The Driving Assistance package PLUS (€2,320.50) comes with DISTRONIC PLUS, BAS PLUS, PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist – assistance systems which actively intervene if necessary after providing a warning.

The C-Class Coupé features the latest multimedia generation available from Mercedes-Benz. Major features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, phone book transfer, display of SMS messages, wireless music reproduction via Bluetooth and a USB interface.

The multimedia system COMAND Online (from €3,070.20) now provides internet access for the first time via a web-enabled mobile phone, plus various Mercedes-Benz services on the move. These include weather information and a special destination search via Google, as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google Maps and sent to the car. The navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with plastic city views.
The Becker MAP PILOT (€892.50) makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the standard Audio 20 CD radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the central controls and the Audio 20 display, a concealed location in the glove compartment and updating via an internet portal.

Source: Daimler AG

these are up to 25 percent (SLK) and 31 percent (C-Class) more fuel-efficient than their predecessors. Both have extensive safety features and a number of innovative assistance systems, as well as the new-generation telematic systems. The multimedia system COMAND Online provides internet access for the first time. Customers are able to surf the internet freely while stationary, or access Mercedes-Benz online services while on the move. It is also possible to specify individual destinations and routes using Google Maps, and send these to the vehicle.

And yet they are completely different: the third-generation SLK Roadster is designed for sheer driving pleasure for two, with a striking sports car design and absolute day-to-day suitability. With the new generation of the C-Class Saloon and Estate models, this high-volume model series has now been comprehensively modernised.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK model range:
SLK 200 BlueEFFICIENCY with 135 kW (184 hp): € 38,675 1
SLK 250 BlueEFFICIENCY with 150 kW (204 hp): € 44,256.10
SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY with 225 kW (306 hp): € 52,300.50

All-weather driving enjoyment – open and closed, in leisure-time and everyday use – is firmly anchored in the SLK’s genes. This is also aided by the vario-roof, which is available in three versions for the first time: painted in the vehicle colour, as a panoramic vario-roof or as a world first, the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL (€ 2,368.10). This glass roof can be switched to light or dark at the touch of a button. When light it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up when the sun’s rays are very intense.

The first feature to catch the eye is an upright radiator grille that stands proud and confident in the wind and bears the new Mercedes-Benz brand look. It facilitates the long bonnet, which is followed by the compact passenger compartment set well to the rear and a short rear end.

The interior is characterised by stylish sportiness and high-quality materials. Even in the base version the centre console and other trim parts gleam in brushed aluminium.

The exemplary efficiency, with fuel consumption reduced by up to a quarter compared with the preceding models, is also due to the ECO start/stop system which is fitted as part of the standard specification in all models.

With respect to safety, the new Mercedes-Benz SLK sets new standards in the roadster segment. Standard features include the Mercedes-Benz developed drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST. On request, the unique, preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE (€ 392.70), DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control with Brake Assist BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE Brake (€ 1844.50) and other driving assistance systems are available.

To mark the launch of the new SLK, Mercedes-Benz is offering an “Edition 1″ special model with the special paint finish designo glacier grey magno for a limited period. The standard specification of the “Edition 1″ includes the panoramic vario-roof, the Dynamic Handling package, AMG bodystyling and two-tone designo nappa leather with contrasting topstitching. The additional cost ranges from € 10,103.10 to € 10,698.10, depending on the base model.

The new Mercedes-Benz C-Class Saloon range (Estate model in brackets):
C 180 BlueEFFICIENCY, 115 kW (156 hp): € 32,695.25 (€ 34,361.25) 2
C 200 BlueEFFICIENCY, 135 kW (184 hp): € 34,718.25 (€ 36,384.25)
C 250 BlueEFFICIENCY, 150 kW (204 hp): € 39,359.25 (€ 41,025.25)
C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, 225 kW (306 hp): € 46,529 (€ 48,195)
C 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, 225 kW (306 hp): € 48,909 (-) 3

C 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 88 kW (120 hp): € 32,814.25 (€ 34,480.25)
C 200 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 100 kW (136 hp): € 34,599.25 (€ 36,265.25)
C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 125 kW (170 hp): € 36,860.25 (€ 38,526.25)
C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 150 kW (204 hp): € 39,121.25 (€ 40,787.25)
C 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, 150 kW (204 hp): € 43,881.25 (€ 45,547.25)
C 300 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, 170 kW (231 hp): € 47,540.50 (€49,206.50)
C 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, 195 kW (265 hp): € 47,540.50 (€ 49,206.50) 4

Dynamic, resolute, self-assured: the exterior of the new C-Class
The front bumper is more assertive and dynamic. The front end has now been aligned with the new design idiom of the brand. The Saloon and Estate now have a new aluminium bonnet, which contributes to weight reduction and therefore fuel efficiency. Its contour in the area of the headlamps and radiator grille emphasises the V-shape of the front section more heavily than before. In conjunction with the newly designed headlamps, this gives the front section a more resolute impression.

Sporty, high-quality interior
A main focus of the design work in the interior was the restyling of the dashboard, with the aim of creating a powerful, sporty and high-quality look. This redesign also involved enhancing the trim concept. The surfaces of the control elements are more finely detailed and galvanised. The stepped extension to the instrument cluster now also accommodates the central display. The instrument cluster and a discreet light-catching contour continue into the front passenger side. The central, trapezoidal air vents and the round vents on the outside are highlighted in detail by galvanised trim.

More power, lower consumption: the engines
Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 31 percent. The start/stop system is standard equipment for all engine variants, whatever the number of cylinders, fuel type or number of driven wheels. The same applies to the availability of the fuel-efficient seven-speed 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The only exception is the 6-cylinder all-wheel drive diesel (C 300 CDI 4-MATIC), which continues to have the well-proven 7G-TRONIC transmission.

All the engine variants are now classed as BlueEFFICIENCY models, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally compatible in their use of fuel. The most economical Mercedes C-Class model is the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with a manual six-speed transmission, the ECO start/stop function as standard and an average diesel consumption of 4.4 litres/100 km – 0.4 litres less than before. This corresponds to 117 grams of CO2 per kilometre.

Warning and intervening: the new driving assistance systems
With a total of ten new driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the C-Class reaches a new level of safety. The assistance systems are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology, and cover frequent accident causes such as driving too closely, fatigue and darkness.

1 all prices include 19% VAT
2 all prices include 19% VAT
3 not available as Estate
4 available from June 2011

Source: Daimler AG