car2go provides Lyon residents with a fleet of 200 low-emission, self-service smart fortwo micro compact cars. As the world’s first mobility program with maximum flexibility and without fixed rental locations, car2go offers its members an opportunity to spontaneously rent vehicles anytime and anywhere without having to specify a time or place of return in advance.

“Innovative urban mobility solutions like car2go offer a way to help meet the challenges of urban congestion, reducing carbon emissions and improving quality of life,” said Gérard Collomb, Mayor of Lyon and President of ”‘Grand Lyon”. “Following the actions we initiated in 2005 with Velo’v, the first self-service bike sharing system, Lyon is innovating again with car2go, a new approach to car sharing which is complementary to other initiatives enabling our residents to move around town. Choosing Lyon, Europcar and Daimler strengthen the role of our city being one of the European leaders in terms of sustainable mobility.”

“We are excited to make our French debut in a city which is well-known for its innovation in the sector of urban transportation,” said Marcus Spickermann, Chief Financial Officer of the car2go Group. “More than 60.000 customers worldwide are using car2go in their daily lives, and we are convinced that car2go is a perfect fit for Lyon residents too.”

The car2go vehicles can be rented and returned within an operating area of 44 square kilometres covering the Lyon city centre. Members can find car2go vehicles spontaneously on the street, via the internet at www.car2go.com, and with the help of several smartphone applications. The vehicle selected can be unlocked using a personal membership card. At the end of the trip, car2go drivers do not have to bring the car2go back to where the trip started. They can simply leave the car at their destination – at any public parking space and at all Lyon carsharing-stations inside the car2go business area. Parking fees are included in the per-minute rental fee at no additional cost.

Lyon residents can register at www.car2go.com, and at the new car2go shop at Le Terra Mundi – 2 place de Francfort in Lyon. Until February 11th, 2012, Lyon residents can benefit from the special launch discount and save more than 10 Euro by only paying 4,90 Euro registration fee and receiving 60 free driving minutes. For members who register after February 11th, 2012, there will be a one-time registration fee of 14,90 Euro.

Customers pay only for the actual time they use the vehicle, by the minute, with discounted rates for hourly and daily use. The rental prices in Lyon are 0,29 Euro per driving minute, 12,90 Euro per hour and 39 Euro per day (24 hours). During stopovers, which can be used for example while shopping, a special parking rate of 0,09 Euro per minute will be calculated. Fuel, insurance, taxes and parking costs are fully included in the price that furthermore includes mileage up to 20 kilometres. Additional kilometres will cost 0,29 Euro each. Experience shows that the average range of a car2go rental is between 5 and 10 kilometres so the extra mileage costs are only relevant for those members who wish to leave the city and come back.

“The 2010 Europcar’s Transportation and Mobility Observatory showed that 47% of European urban drivers are considering giving up their cars and 61% of them consider that cars available in self service are an attractive mobility option. car2go will provide Lyon people with a fully-flexible service, combined with short term car rental services for a fully comprehensive mobility solution” said Philippe Guillemot, CEO of Europcar Groupe.

Thanks to a cooperation between car2go and the bikesharing service Vélo’v, Vélo’v customers will benefit from the reduced car2go registration fee of 9,90 Euro including 30 free driving minutes at any time.
car2go has already been successfully launched in seven cities: in Ulm and Hamburg (Germany), in Amsterdam (Netherlands), in Vienna (Austria), in Austin and San Diego (USA), and in Vancouver (Canada). The German city of Düsseldorf is going to follow soon – Lyon is the first home of car2go in France. A total of more than 2.000 car2go vehicles are currently on the road and more than 60.000 members have registered for the service worldwide.

Source: Daimler AG

The name Citan combines the words “city” and “titan,” thus making it clear that the vehicle is a first-rate specialist for city logistics — one that was specifically developed to meet the tough challenges faced in day-to-day operations.

New van series to boost sales
With the introduction of the new urban delivery vehicle, Mercedes-Benz is adding another production series to its family of vans. The Citan is supplementing the Vario (6.0 to 8.2 tons), Sprinter (3.0 to 5.0 tons), and Vito (2.77 to 3.2 tons) to broaden the range of products in the lower weight classes of the van market, where it will significantly boost sales.

Whereas the small vans segment was still a niche market in the mid-1990s, it has now grown to around 700,000 units in Europe. Mercedes-Benz Vans plans to gain a market share of four to five percent in this segment. Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans, is convinced that the Citan will be a big success. “We will take advantage of the trend toward city vans, which our brand will be able to exploit thanks to its attractively priced vehicles and the high quality of our products and services,” says Mornhinweg. “Our typical Mercedes-Benz reliability, 24/7 service, and, last but not least, our great brand image are key selling points as far as our commercial customers are concerned.”

Due to its large number of variants, the new urban delivery van with the star is suited for a broad range of commercial applications. Not only will the Citan be offered as a panel van, a crewbus, and a mixed-use vehicle; it will also be available in a variety of lengths and weights.

The Citan will be launched on the market in fall 2012. The vehicle will be unveiled to the general public for the first time at the IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover in September.

The Citan — the ideal partner in city traffic
The Citan was developed and tested in line with Mercedes-Benz’ demanding quality standards. The vehicle is correspondingly durable and robust. At the same time, it meets the requirements of customers from the service, sales, and trade sectors, offering them a large cargo space despite the vehicle’s compact dimensions. In addition, the van boasts attributes typical of the brand, such as great quality, economy, safety, excellent handling, as well as high fuel efficiency and correspondingly low CO2 emissions. The drive concept encompasses a broad range of low-emission, fuel-efficient diesel and gasoline engines and includes a BlueEFFICIENCY package. An electric drive version is also being planned.

The Citan’s operation, interior, materials, and workmanship are of the same high quality as in other Mercedes-Benz vans. The new urban delivery van can therefore be justly called the “little brother” of the Sprinter and Vito, to which it is in no way inferior. As is the case with every Mercedes-Benz vehicle, safety plays a big role in the new van, all variants of which come with ESP as standard.

New markets for Mercedes-Benz vans
Mercedes-Benz has greatly expanded its vans business in recent years. In line with the slogan of “Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global,” the brand is not only manufacturing vans in Düsseldorf (Sprinters), Ludwigsfelde (Sprinters and Varios), and Vitoria, Spain (Vitos), but also in the U.S., Argentina, and China.

It is also planning to strengthen its presence in the Russian market through a partnership with GAZ, the leading manufacturer of commercial vehicles in Russia. Over the medium-term, the GAZ factory near Nizhny Novgorod will produce 25,000 Sprinters each year, and do so strictly according to Mercedes-Benz’ quality standards.

Mercedes-Benz already is the undisputed market leader for mid-size and large vans in Western Europe.

Source: Daimler AG

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

Among those companies who really appreciate the Unimog is the scaffolding company Schneider Ltd. and its working relationship with this competent all-rounder goes back for about 30 years. Scaffolding erected by this Sonthofen company on churches, hospitals, schools, industrial buildings and mountain railway stations can be anything up to 50 metres high. One of the scaffolding company’s key operations is renting out over 40 self-propelling aerial working platforms. This is where the Unimog U 400 comes into its own as it is able to do a really good job with its additional customised implements. The U 400 delivers all the equipment directly to the construction sites, taking even challenging mountain passes in its stride.

Top marks for Unimog after-sales service
Three generations of scaffold-builders at Schneider Ltd have been impressed by the after-sales service provided by Wohlgschaft in Wangen, the Unimog general distributor for the region. In particular the scaffolding company appreciates the Unimog GD’s pick-up and delivery service, as well as its servicing of both equipment and vehicles. And Schneider passes on Wohlgschafft’s reliability to its own customers by being able to stick to agreed-on dates. This is vital for renting out aerial working platforms and supplying the equipment on the agreed date has to be guaranteed.

The experts at the UGD in Wangen also do the configuration for the high performance U 400 fleet. Two trailer couplings – ball type and jaw type – for various types of trailer, compressed air connections for tricky manoeuvring, winches on the flatbed and implements for winter services ensure that the Unimog is kept busy year-round doing various kinds of work.

As usual, the U 400 product range also cuts a good figure in the scaffolding business with its off-road capabilities, manoeuvrability, handling and comfort, as well as with its narrow outer width of 2.20 metres. The Sonthofen scaffold- builders emphasise that the Unimog is unrivalled in the way it deals with the mountainous terrain and inaccessible construction sites found especially in the Allgäu area. And here the U 400 ensures that scaffold-builder Schneider’s principles –punctuality and quality – are here to stay.

Source: Daimler AG

The substantially revamped smart fortwo sports a markedly more dynamic appearance, featuring a larger radiator grille with integrated logo, striking front aprons in a new design, horizontally arranged LED daytime driving lights, muscular side skirts and modified rear aprons. “The way in which the fortwo now displays the smart logo more prominently stands for the brand’s new self-confidence,” notes smart boss Dr Annette Winkler.” The smart fortwo has long become an icon that is a defining feature of urban traffic throughout the world.”

The chrome-coloured logo is now positioned directly in the black radiator grille. The air inlets under the number plate have been combined into a single unit, lending the smart fortwo a bolder appearance. The new, optionally available LED daytime driving lights are now arranged horizontally. There is also a choice of three new alloy wheels: the smart fortwo passion comes with a new 9-spoke alloy wheel; two additional alloy wheels fitted with wide tyres and featuring a 3-spoke and 3-twin-spoke design respectively round off the range. The choice of colours comprises seven options, including matt anthracite for the first time. The smart fortwo BRABUS Xclusive is now also optionally available in white. In addition to the three soft top colours for the smart cabrio which were previously available from the smart programme (black, red, blue), the smart BRABUS tailor made programme offers six other soft top colours.

While the main focus of this facelift is on the exterior, there are changes inside the car, too. These include a new, high-quality interior package in crystal grey, comprising a fresh leather/fabric combination for the seats, an imitation leather/fabric mix for the door trims and black imitation leather for the instrument panel in combination with a grey knee pad.

The pulse and passion equipment lines are generally more colourful options than the basic pure model. pulse and passion highlight the frame of the front grille and the rear trim strip in silver, for example, while the front spoiler, side skirts and rear apron are painted in the car’s exterior colour. The door mirror caps are finished in the tridion colour. On the smart pure, these components are black.
The five lines – pure, pulse, passion, BRABUS and BRABUS Xclusive – are to be retained. Similarly, the smart fortwo will continue to be available as a coupé and cabrio version and with six engine and motor variants. The spectrum ranges from the particularly environment-friendly electric power train in the fortwo electric drive and the efficient micro hybrid petrol engine through the powerful turbo petrol engine to the fuel-efficient cdi turbodiesel. Prices begin at € 10,275 for the smart fortwo 45 kW mhd pure.

Here is an overview of the engine range:

The new model generation for 2012 represents the continuation of a unique success story for smart: as a trendsetter the smart fortwo has been redefining individual urban mobility for more than ten years now. It combines responsibility to the environment and high ecological standards with joie de vivre and a high fun factor. With its compact dimensions the two-seater takes up less road and parking space than any other car around.

More than 1.3 million smart fortwos have been delivered to customers since the first model was launched in 1998. 101,996 smart fortwos were handed over to customers worldwide in 2011 – 4.6 percent more than in the previous year.

The car2go mobility service is also attracting growing numbers of fans. Over 2000 smart fortwos are currently in operation for 60,000 customers in seven cities around the globe. car2go is already successfully up and running in Ulm and Hamburg (Germany), Austin and San Diego (USA), Vancouver (Canada), Vienna (Austria) and Amsterdam (Netherlands). car2go will be launching in Lyon (France), Düsseldorf, Stuttgart, Washington D.C. and other cities in 2012.

Source: Daimler AG

“We are proud to have been granted an opportunity to support this highly significant cooperation for the region of Luxembourg and Belgium with our vehicles,” said Lothar Holder, Setra brand spokesman at EvoBus GmbH, when the first ten coaches were handed over at the Setra customer centre in Neu-Ulm. “This handover also highlights the true partnership and close collaboration which have existed between our brand and Voyages Léonard for over 40 years now.”

At the handover ceremony, which was also attended by a large group of employees, tour guides and customers who had travelled to Neu-Ulm to witness the event, the two managers, Daniel and Pascal Léonard, took receipt of five S 431 DT double-decker coaches as well as the company’s first high-deck coaches from the current Setra TopClass generation, in the guise of four S 416 HDH coaches and one S 415 HD. With features such as glass roofs and multichannel sound systems, the HD and HDH vehicles offer superlative touring comfort. They additionally all incorporate the most cutting-edge safety systems available on the market. A further seven vehicles are to be delivered in the course of this year.
Founded in 1946, the Belgian company is currently run by the family’s third generation, operating in the fields of coach transfer, coach, air and self-drive tours and travel sales. Voyages Léonard currently has a workforce of around 80 and operates a 30-strong fleet consisting exclusively of Setra coaches.

Source: Daimler AG

At least, this is what the renowned “Allgemeine Automobil-Zeitung” (AAZ or “General Automotive Magazine”) felt upon the presentation of the new 3.2-litre motor car. With this model Mercedes-Benz broke new ground in this particular vehicle class, which in those days was characterised by extreme competitiveness. Its traditional strong rivals were Horch with its 930 V and 830 BL models, Opel with the newly presented Admiral model and Ford with its 3.6-litre V8.

Initially, Mercedes-Benz offered two wheelbases. For the short-wheelbase versions – 2880 millimetres – the following bodies were available:
Chassis 6,500.00 RM
Cabriolet A 11,800.00 RM
Combination coupé with removable roof 12,300.00 RM

However, the version with a regular chassis and a wheelbase of 3300 millimetres was the one that found the greater acceptance with customers. The following bodies were available for this variant:
Saloon with 4 doors & 4 windows 8,950.00 RM
Cabriolet B with 2 doors & 4 windows 9,800.00 RM
Cabriolet D with 4 doors & 4 windows 10,400.00 RM
Pullman saloon with 4 doors & 6 windows 9,800.00 RM
Cabriolet F with 4 doors & 6 windows 12,500.00 RM
Open touring car with 4 doors & 6 windows 9,900.00 RM
Cabriolet A with 2 doors & 2 windows 13,500.00 RM
Roadster with 2 doors & 2 windows (only 1937) 13,500.00 RM
Streamline saloon (until 1938) 14,500.00 RM
Chassis 6,800.00 RM

The Mercedes-Benz 320 was a further development of the 290 model (W 18), which was offered from 1933 to 1936. Its M 18 engine delivered a modest output of 68 bhp (50 kW), which only permitted a moderate driving performance. When the engine was re-worked for the car’s successor, the focus was on achieving a high level of handling comfort and a significantly greater engine output, without however abandoning the concept of the vertical valve, 6-cylinder pushrod engine.

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In order to boost the engine’s output, the Untertürkheim engine designers under the direction of Albert Heeß made use of well-known methods. By increasing the cylinder bore from 78 to 82.5 millimetres, the engine’s displacement was increased from 2.9 to 3.2 litres. Its smooth running characteristics were further enhanced by adding 12 counterweights to the crankshaft – a measure that was resoundingly successful. Another step taken towards increasing output was the change from a simple updraught carburettor to a dual downdraught carburettor. Thanks to all these modifications, the engine’s output was raised to 78 bhp (57 kW). The downdraught carburettor additionally led to a more spontaneous throttle response when accelerating.

With the transition from model series W 18 to model series W 142 the four-speed transmissions used until then were also abandoned. These were in actual fact three-speed transmission systems with overdrive, and were replaced by fully-synchronised four-speed transmission systems with a direct-ratio fourth gear – a transmission that found general acceptance and praise in contemporary opinion because of its gearshifting comfort.

The suspension was taken from the W 18 and re-adapted. The front axle featured special independent wheel suspension, with a transversal leaf spring underneath. At top the wheel was attached to a suspension arm that rested on a helical spring on the inside. The rear dual-joint swing axle had two helical springs on each side, one behind the other. The two compensating springs under the differential in model 290 were no longer featured by the 320 model. Dual-action hydraulic lever-type shock absorbers were installed on both front and rear axles. Both the driving comfort and the handling safety were highly praised by contemporary testers, at a time when many competitors were still using rigid front and rear axles. The box-type frame with cross-beams was in line with the standard designs of the time.

Mercedes-Benz offered a great variety of vehicle bodies on the occasion of the premiere of model 320, whose short-wheelbase version was designated Type 320 n. One particularity was the so-called combination coupé that could be built up on it: a cabriolet with an early example of a removable hardtop. However, only one roof version could be used at a time, while the other had to remain in the garage. Type 320 n was designed as a short, sporty-elegant variant of the model series, in a similar manner to the Mannheim 370 S six years before. In spite of its very handsome bodies, the 320 N did not fulfil the expectations set in it, for between 1937 and 1938 only 19 units were built in the Untertürkheim factory. On the price list of February 1939 it no longer appeared. A strengthened chassis with the same dimensions was used as the basis to build 202 “Kuebelwagen” jeeps for the German Army in 1938.

The long-wheelbase version, on the other hand, did meet with success. The four-door saloon and the “B” and “D” cabriolets had boots accessible from the outside, whereas in the Cabriolet A, the combination coupé and the roadster the luggage spaces could be accessed from inside. The Pullman saloon, the Cabriolet F and the open touring car had no boot at all. Luggage was carried on a folding luggage rack. Special containers for luggage, available as optional extras, could be mounted on the luggage rack.

The response to the Type 320 was overwhelmingly positive. It was deemed a comfortable, convenient and safe touring car enabling long-distance travel without fatigue. A particularly interesting assessment came from the strongest competitor, Horch, whose sales management had acquired a Mercedes-Benz Type 320 and a Maybach SW 38 for study purposes in late 1937. The sales management reached the following verdict concerning the model 320: “Advantages of the 3.2 DB Sport Cabriolet over our 930 V sports cabriolet: the engine of the 3.2 l DB acquires a remarkable smoothness after only a few kilometres. Apart from this, the gear changes when accelerating are very elastic and energetic in every gear, so that the general impression is created that the DB unit will be superior to our 3.5-litre machine up to a speed of around 60 km/h. We reckon that the top output of both engines is the same. When running in idle, the DB engine is considerably better than ours, for it runs absolutely silently. Furthermore, the clutch pedal is significantly easier to operate. As for the body, the main advantage compared with our sports cabriolet is that the Daimler-Benz motor car allows all the windows to be pulled down completely. Sealing of the two rear front panes appears to be more rustic, but is better than ours. The upholstery on both the front and rear seats has been solved extremely skilfully, so that one sits perfectly firmly. Disadvantages: the cabriolet has small, badly fashioned trunks and no luggage rack. Mudguards are cheap. Nor is the paint finish of the same quality as ours. Moreover, the front seats are narrower than ours. The petrol tank cover beneath the mudguard is impractical. There is no oil thermometer. The metal upright between the two panes in the divided windscreen is too wide.”

The Mercedes-Benz 320 (W 142 series) with a 3.4-litre engine
At the IAMA in February 1939, Mercedes-Benz presented a revised version of the 320 model. Although no particular emphasis had been placed on the fact, the car was already available with the larger engine from the autumn of 1938. The background was the increasingly inferior fuel quality with lower octane numbers, something that began to be felt in 1938. Other manufacturers, such as Maybach and Horch, were also forced to take similar measures in order to maintain engine output levels.

The cylinder bore was increased to 85 millimetres, so that a displacement of 3405 cubic centimetres was now available. Output and torque values remained unchanged.

The innovation this engine presented consisted in an additional high-speed gearbox from ZF (Zahnradfabrik Friedrichshafen), called the “ZF high speed box”. This gearbox, which could be connected by means of a separate lever to any of the gears, reduced the rev speed by 26 per cent and was mainly intended for long motorway journeys in order to reduce the rev speed and consequently fuel consumption.
Apart from streamline saloon and the roadster, no longer offered, the most conspicuous innovation in the new model was the integrated boot in the Pullman Saloon – something that was not only an objective improvement but an advance in terms of design as well.

The last Mercedes-Benz Type 320s were built in 1942 at the Untertürkheim and Mannheim plants. Between 1937 and 1942 a total of 6861 vehicles were made, 1764 of which were bucket seat vehicles for the German Army

Source: Daimler AG

Here, at 2935 metres above sea level, is where the hiking trail begins for those tourists who want to be as close as possible to the lava fields. More than 300,000 tourists are drawn each year to Sicily by the prospect of climbing Mount Etna.

The Unimog range, which has been built since 2002 at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth, is the ideal candidate for use in the harsh conditions that prevail on Etna: the only vehicle concept of this type in the world, it guarantees the ultimate off-road capability. A flexible ladder frame, all-wheel drive with differential locks in both axles, which are in fact portal axles, and the central tire inflation system Tirecontrol – every single technical detail plays its part in ensuring that the “Universal-Motor-Gerät”, or “Universal Motor Device” – the German version of which provides the acronym that makes up the Unimog name – remains a dependable partner on the rough tracks and ash fields of Europe’s highest active volcano.

Transport, maintenance procedures, construction work – full programme on Mount Etna
The extremely versatile Unimog carries out vital duties against a spectacular backdrop: a bus body on the U 5000 provides seats for the tourists, carrying them safely from the cable car station all the way up the steep track. Also in service on Etna is a U1550 L, fitted with the necessary attachments for its task of clearing snow or ash from the tracks. The versatility of the Unimog has also come into its own during the building of a new cable car to replace one that was destroyed by volcanic eruptions.

Award-winning model series with a 60-year history
In 2011, the readers of the specialist magazine “Off Road” voted the series 4000 to 5000 Unimog the best off-road vehicle of the year in the category of special-purpose vehicles. Its use on Mount Etna provides renewed evidence of how worthy of the honour the award-winning Unimog is. The principle areas of application for this model series are in tricky off-road terrain far off the beaten track, for example in situations involving the fire services, disaster control or expedition support, or for service and maintenance work in poorly accessible areas.

The broad scope of its potential areas of operation, the unique vehicle concept and the longevity of the vehicles all help to explain the popularity that the various Unimog model series have enjoyed for over sixty years now. Since production started, more than 380,000 units of the Unimog have been built.

Source: Daimler AG

The motoring magazine “auto motor und sport” has been conducting its vote for the “Best cars of the year” in ten different categories since 1977. This year around 210,000 readers from 14 European countries, as well as China and Brazil, took part in the longstanding survey to decide the best cars of 2012. When it came to off-road vehicles, the majority of readers voted for the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, thereby acknowledging not only its characteristically distinctive design and variable interior, with that all-important sense of wellbeing, but also its excellent energy efficiency and thus environmental acceptability. In addition, the permanent all-wheel drive system of the M-Class also impressed with its well-balanced ride comfort combined with excellent driving dynamics both on and off road, along with the car’s outstanding range and high level of safety. The G-Class picked up second place.

In the case of the cabriolets, the readers of “auto motor und sport” placed the SLS AMG Roadster in pole position, honouring it as the best car of 2012 in its category and as such paying tribute to both its uniquely exciting design as well its exquisite engineering and technology. The super sports car excels with its uncompromising lightweight construction, superior driving dynamics and exemplary safety. These attributes are ensured by a unique technology package consisting of a lightweight aluminium spaceframe body, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine producing 420 kW (571 hp), seven-speed dual clutch transmission and a sports suspension with aluminium double wishbone suspension. This combination guarantees dynamic performance at the very highest level.

Source: Daimler AG

This certification is based on a comprehensive ecological life cycle assessment of the B-Class, documenting every detail of ecological relevance.

“The new B-Class is the first model of a completely new generation of compact vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. It sets clear benchmarks in two fields which are crucial to efficiency – aerodynamics and the drive system,” explains Professor Dr Herbert Kohler, Chief Environmental Officer at Daimler AG. “The high level of environmental compatibility goes beyond reductions in fuel consumption, as the Environmental Certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062 now confirms.”

Mercedes-Benz analyses the environmental compatibility of its models throughout their entire life cycle – from production through their long years of service to recycling at the end of their lives. This analysis goes far beyond the legal requirements. The Environmental Certificate and supplementary information are made available to the public in the “Life Cycle” documentation series, which can be found at http://www.mercedes-benz.com

Over the entire life cycle of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class – from production and service over 160,000 kilometres to recycling – the new model in the guise of the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY with 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission causes 16 percent less CO2 emissions than its predecessor when the latter was discontinued in 2011. The energy balance shows a similarly positive picture, with primary energy consumption over the vehicle’s entire life cycle cut by 14 percent in comparison to its predecessor. This corresponds to the energy content of around 2400 litres of petrol.

The marked reductions in fuel consumption represent a substantial contributory factor here. By way of example, the fuel consumption of the B 180 BlueEFFICIENCY petrol model with dual clutch transmission ranges – depending on the fitted tyres – from 5.9 to 6.2 l/100 km in comparison to 7.3 to 7.5 l/100 km for its predecessor (at the time of its discontinuation in 2011). This corresponds to a substantial reduction in fuel consumption of up to 19 percent. These fuel savings are ensured by an intelligent package of measures – the so-called BlueEFFICIENCY technologies. These include optimisation measures in the area of the powertrain, energy management, aerodynamics, tyres optimised for minimum rolling resistance, weight reduction through lightweight construction and driver information to encourage an energy-saving style of driving. An outstanding drag coefficient of Cd = 0.26 places the new B-Class at the forefront of its market segment.

The B-Class already meets the recycling rate of 95 percent by weight which will be mandatory as of 1 January 2015. In all, the B-Class incorporates 75 components representing a total weight of 39 kilograms which can be produced with the partial use of high-quality recycled plastics. This results in a 13 percent increase in the weight of approved recycled components in comparison to the previous model. Typical areas of use are wheel arch linings, cable ducts and underbody panels, which consist for the most part of polypropylene.

There is also an increased emphasis on closed automobile materials cycles: a recyclate is used for the front wheel arch linings, for example, which is produced from reprocessed vehicle components such as starter battery housings, bumper panels from the Mercedes-Benz Recycling System (MeRSy) and production waste from cockpit units.

21 components in the B-Class, representing a total weight of 20 kilograms, are produced using natural materials – an increase of 29 percent over the previous model. Natural materials employed in series production of the new B-Class consist primarily of coconut and wood fibres and honeycomb cardboard in combination with various polymer materials.

The modular body-in-white concept means that the B-Class is designed to accommodate versions with an alternative drive: appropriate interfaces in the body shell enable the main floor panel to be modified and a step to be produced for the “ENERGY SPACE” on the versions with alternative drive. An underfloor compartment covering part of the area under the rear bench seat offers space for alternative energy accumulators.

Source: Daimler AG

“Timeless – 60 Years of the Mercedes-Benz SL” shows this sports car family for the first time and gathers no gaps, including the racing car 300 SL (W 194), the legendary winning car of the Carrera Panamericana in 1952, the 190 SL (W 121 ) of U.S. astronaut David R. Scott in 1958, the 1963 230 SL (W 113) Liege-Sofia-Liege rally car driven by Eugen Böhringer, the 2001 Formula 1 season Safety Car SL 55 AMG (R 230) and also the newest SL (R 231).

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Pictures: MB Passion

Mercedes-Benz caused a sensation with the presentation of these two vehicles at the 1954 International Motor Sports Show in New York. Specialists and the general public alike were enthusiastic. The 300 SL was presented for the first time as a series-production sports car (W 198 series), the famous “Gullwing” coupé. The totally newly-designed 190 SL (W 121 series) presented by the company as a roadster, created just as powerful an impact. This first-generation SL sports cars already allowed one to envisage the brilliant future that lay ahead of these attractive and innovative production vehicles with motor sport abbreviations in their designation.

Based on the legendary Gullwing coupé, the open 300 SL Roadster (W 198 II), which was built in parallel with the 190 SL, was launched in 1957. The body form of the two-seater open car was thus defined as the typical characteristic of the SL family. The 300 SL and the 190 SL together prefigured numerous features of later SL generations and both were thus the forerunners of all the SL series that followed.

In 1963 the SL, W 113 series arrived on the scene; it was dubbed the “Pagoda SL” because of the characteristic shape of its hardtop roof. It was followed in 1971 by the R 107 series that achieved the highest production volume of all SL series to date because of its long production life of 18 years. In March 1989 Mercedes-Benz introduced the R 129 series. Featuring numerous technical innovations, this car carried the SL-Class over into the new millennium. After a production period of twelve years and two facelifts it was replaced in 2001 by the R 230 series – the first one with a steel folding top. Finally, in the spring of 2012 the R 231 series is due to be launched as the next generation of the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.

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 impressive racing successes of the “gullwing” became the basis for the worldwide fascination for the SL model series from Mercedes-Benz which has continued undiminished to the present day. The trade fair presentation is organised in coordination with Mercedes-Benz France.

“At the Rétromobile in Paris we are showing three original vehicles from our collection, cars that achieved success at Le Mans” says Michael Bock, head of Mercedes-Benz Classic and manager of Mercedes-Benz Museum GmbH. “The race is one of the most gruelling in the world. Winning the race was a great distinction.” Next to an original 1952 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194 series), the brand is showing a 1931model SSK and a Sauber-Mercedes C9 from 1989 at its 400-square metre fair stand in Hall 3.

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Famous vehicles at the Rétromobile
300 SL – that was the designation of the competition vehicle with which in 1952 Mercedes-Benz returned to international motor sports for the first time since WW II. The development of the 300 SL can be traced back to the year 1950: the engineers pushed forward the development of the new racing car, some of whose components came from the Mercedes-Benz 300 representative saloon, the so-called “Adenauer Mercedes”. In June 1951 the Board decided to renew participation in racing sports, starting in 1952, and commissioned the construction of the 300 SL. The letters in its designation stand for “Super Light”.

In 1952 the Hermann Lang/Fritz Rieß team won the 20th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in their Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194 series), ahead of Theo Helfrich and Helmut Niedermayr. The entire 1952 racing season was exceptionally successful for Mercedes-Benz. The other racing results reaped by the 300 SL that year: second and fourth places in the Mille Miglia rally, a triple victory at the Bern Sports Car Grand Prix, a fourfold triumph at the Great Jubilee prize at Nürburgring and a double victory in the third Carrera Panamericana in Mexico. Thus, the brand made its comeback to motor sports – and through the publicity effect generated, to the international markets – with a mighty fanfare.

The 300 SL (W 194 series) on show at the Rétromobile 2012 is an original vehicle with chassis number 06. In all, 10 racing vehicles were made. The first 300 SL, the premiere car from 1952, no longer exists; it remained in company ownership and was eventually scrapped. The second car still exists and was painstakingly restored at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Fellbach in 2011. It is the oldest extant SL and, together with two other W 194s, belongs to the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection.

Racing sports as a driving force of innovation
The other Mercedes-Benz vehicles on exhibition at the Rétromobile 2012 underscore the innovation capacity of the brand as well as its competitive zest: the silver-coloured 1989 Sauber-Mercedes C9 was specially developed for the Group C series. Because, after more than 30 years’ abstinence from racing, Mercedes-Benz officially resumed its position at the starting line in 1988. Under the carbon-aramide-fibre reinforced synthetic bodywork, throbbed the heart of the featherweight 870 kilo Sauber-Mercedes C9: a water-cooled V8 engine delivering 720 bhp (520 kW). The 24-hour race that took place at Le Mans on 10-11 June 1989 was won by Mercedes drivers Jochen Mass/Manuel Reuter/Stanley Dickens and Mauro Baldi/Kenny Acheson/Gianfranco Brancatelli with a double victory – 37 years after the first– and until then, only – victory on that legendary racetrack.

The Mercedes-Benz SSK also on show at the Rétromobile 2012 is considered the summit of a six-cylinder series which debuted in the 1920s, in the times of the DMG (Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft or Daimler Engine Company). For many years the S, SS, SSK models and the lightweight variant SSKL dominated international racing – often with Rudolf Caracciola at the wheel. On 13 and 14 June 1931 the duo Boris Iwanowski/Henri Stoffel drove the fastest lap at Le Mans, 7 : 03 minutes (139.2 km/h), going on to reach the second place in the overall result of the 24-hour race.

Source: Daimler AG

In early 2012, the tropical cyclone “Andrea” brought particular challenges for the Unimog fleet operated out of the Felsenau depot near Feldkirch/Frastanz, which is responsible for road maintenance services on some two-thirds of the roads in the Vorarlberg region. More than ten metres of fresh snow fell on the Arlberg pass, the most important link between Austria’s most westerly region and Innsbruck, taking the highway maintenance authorities by surprise. The situation was similarly dramatic in the Montafon region, over towards the Silvretta high Alpine road, in the Great Walser Valley and on the Flexen route towards Zürs and Lech. The only vehicle up to the task was the 210 kW (286 hp) Unimog U 500 fitted with a Schmidt 105 front-end snow cutter – clearing width 2.60 metres. This combination proved extremely effective in clearing the exceptional volume of snow from the roads, according to Helmut Feuerstein, technical director of the Felsenau depot.

4-wheel steering for exceptional manoeuvrability in snow
The metre-high banks of snow on either side of the road demand precision work from the Unimog’s driver. It is in situations like this that the transferable steering system VarioPilot and the 4-wheel steering system really come into their own. With 4‑wheel steering the Unimog becomes considerably more manoeuvrable than it already is, while its turning circle is reduced by up to 30 percent. It means that the snow cutter can clear bends far more quickly these days. Before the advent of 4-wheel steering, it was necessary to begin by cutting extra bays into a bend in order to achieve the necessary curve radius. It was a long-winded process that involved a lot of turning and forward and backward manoeuv res. Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks now offers this unique technology as a variant for Unimog, Econic and all municipal and fire-fighting vehicles.

The Unimog fleet at the Felsenau depot comprises two U 500 models with 4-wheel steering as well as a third U 500. Then there are a U 1000 and a U 130, plus a 29-year-old U 406, known affectionately by the Felsenau team as the “Buffalo”. It is apparently indestructible and can be fitted with various attach­ments and implements to cope with even the trickiest operational situations that can arise on Alpine roads. Working in the heavy snow that fell earlier this year, the six Unimog vehicles were once again crucial to delivering the broad spectrum of activities demanded of the Felsenau fleet.

Best practice example for winter maintenance specialists from across Europe
The exemplary way in which the snow on the Arlberg was cleared – and the cost-effectiveness of this approach for the operator – also became a talking point among Alpine winter maintenance experts from across Europe. A stream of experts with an interest in this field have since made their way to the Vorarlberg to see the benefits of a Unimog with 4-wheel steering being demonstrated on the Arlberg Pass. Even the road maintenance service experts from Andorra, who have been Unimog customers for many years, were persuaded to come along and see for themselves the superior performance of the Unimog with 4-wheel steering. A demon­stration of its capabilities on the Arlberg so convinced Andorra’s representatives that they immediately placed an order for six Mercedes-Benz Unimog U 500 with 4-wheel steering.

Source: Daimler AG

The trip recorder also makes it possible to display the most recent journey made. The app enables operators to monitor how their vehicles are being used, their drivers’ working hours, the fuel consumption of their buses and coaches and the drivers’ driving style. It is even possible to show the status of doors and loading ramps. To use the FleetBoard app it is necessary to have a vehicle equipped with FleetBoard, with a FleetBoard service contract. The new FleetBoard app is available for a limited period free of charge from the App Store. The app has already been available for some time now for trucks and vans.

Until now, the telematics system for buses has been known as Omniplus BusFleet. The bus-specific telematics system for rural-service buses, touring coaches and urban buses from telematics provider Daimler FleetBoard GmbH has been available and undergoing further development for some weeks now. Trust is important but, as fleet operators know, transparency is even better – and an indispensable factor if a company is to operate economically and efficiently. The bus-specific FleetBoard fleet management system provides effective support here. Fleet operators are able to take advantage of the FleetBoard app for buses, even if they are out and about themselves.

The FleetBoard system can be fitted ex factory in any fully equipped Mercedes-Benz and Setra bus or coach, or – as also in the case of buses and coaches made by other manufacturers – retrofitted. Several bus and coach companies are already working successfully with FleetBoard and making extensive use of the bus telematics system in their daily operations. “We have more than ten years’ experience of working with commercial vehicle fleets. Especially when diesel fuel prices are high, our customers also appreciate the way in which FleetBoard can help make significant reductions in fuel consumption” commented Markus Lipinsky, Managing Director of Daimler FleetBoard GmbH.

Mapping: keeping tabs on buses around the world at all times
The fleet manager can locate the current whereabouts of a vehicle on a digital map that can be called up on any computer with internet access, or track its route at 30-second intervals. It is possible to switch between map and satellite views or to select a combination of both. Mapping can also be used to show important occurrences during the course of the trip, or to display warning and status messages. A geofencing function makes it possible to define specific areas where entry and exit are monitored: as well as providing resource planning information on both the bus and the driver, this is also a significant security feature in the event that the vehicle should be stolen.
Driver analysis: evaluation of driving style and realisation of potential savings
FleetBoard can help a company to optimise its economic efficiency, as the right driving style can reduce both fuel consumption and wear and tear by up to 10%. FleetBoard interprets driver and vehicle-related data, taking the assessment of driving style and the complexity of the route into consideration in the process. The underlying data relating to vehicle speeds, engine speeds, hard braking and other such information provide an objective basis for conclusions about the way the bus or coach is being handled. Such monitoring also provides feedback for the driver as to what measures he can take to improve his driving style and, ultimately and most importantly, to become a safer driver. Internal investigations by Daimler have shown that improving driving style to a score of 9.0 or more can reduce accident rates by up to 90%.

Trip recording: transparency in everyday operations
The data thus accumulated makes it possible to ascertain precisely the times and places at which the bus has been stationary or on the move. The company can get reliable information about whether the doors were open or closed at any particular point. This information can then be used, for example, to deal with customer issues by establishing whether a specific bus was on time and available for boarding at a given stop. Similarly, bus operators are able to produce data showing the use of the access ramp by passengers with restricted mobility.

The driver is able to use preset message buttons to send standardised messages back to the bus depot. In return, the company can also send messages to the display in the bus’s instrument cluster.

Time Management: automatic capture and archiving of tachograph data
The time management function facilitates optimum planning of working hours on the basis of drivers’ rest periods and remaining driving time. All relevant data can then be transferred automatically into a payroll system. With FleetBoard, the download of driver card data from the bus that is a required by law can be undertaken regardless of the time of day or the location of the vehicle. FleetBoard also allows the remote transfer of mass storage data from the digital tachograph on board the bus. Particularly in cases where a bus is away from its base for longer periods, this can bring significant savings in terms of both time and costs.

Service: evaluation of operating data and optimised maintenance scheduling
All key bus operating data, such as mileage or tank fill level, are displayed via FleetBoard. The system will also send selected warning messages from the vehicle, so allowing any necessary repairs to be made in a prompt and targeted fashion. Further messages transmitted by the vehicle allow evaluation of factors such as retarder use, or how long auxiliary heating systems or air conditioning are being kept on for. This in turn allows conclusions to be drawn about the condition of the vehicle and thus of its economic efficiency and the level of comfort provided. FleetBoard allows fleet operators to plan efficiently for any services that are due, or any time-consuming vehicle checks that need to be made.

The vehicle data are recorded via a standardised FMS interface in the bus and stored in the FleetBoard on-board computer before being transmitted. The transfer of data takes place via GPRS to a central FleetBoard server. Registered FleetBoard users have secure access via the internet to the bus client containing all the data and evaluation results.

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

The food company relies primarily on Mercedes-Benz Actros trucks, which make up about 90 percent of the firm’s total fleet of more than 240 vehicles. In addition to playing a major role in producing citrus fruits and other products and supplying them to wholesale markets in several large Turkish cities, Cekok Gida exports its high-quality goods especially to the member states of the European Union.

“We’re delighted that Mercedes-Benz Türk has once again posted a major three-figure order for the Mercedes-Benz Actros,” says Wolf-Dieter Kurz, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Türk. “Because Turkey is an essential sales market for Mercedes-Benz Trucks, we want to continue to boost sales here substantially in the future.” Following the sale of more than 200 Actros trucks to the chocolate manufacturer Tören Gida in November 2011, this constitutes another major order for the Turkish subsidiary.

At the symbolic handover of two Actros 1844 LS trucks in Istanbul, Ilhan Cekok, CEO of Cekok Gida, reiterated the reasons for the investment decision and expressed his trust in the brand with the star. “The great service network, low operating and maintenance costs, a high resale value, and especially the excellent partnership with Mercedes-Benz were the decisive reasons why we decided to add more Actros trucks to a fleet that already contained many Mercedes-Benz vehicles,” he said. “The Actros particularly shines with its low fuel consumption and handling stability.”

In his speech in Istanbul, Wolf-Dieter Kurz underlined that Mercedes-Benz Türk puts great emphasis on contributing to the business success of customers like Cekok Gida. “We are working hard to meet the different customer demands in a continuously growing and changing market,” he said. “We are closely monitoring market developments so that we can continue to offer state-of-the-art trucks of the highest quality. We are looking forward to continue to work with Cekok Gida.”

Source: Daimler AG

The two projects, each with 50 Vito E-CELLs, are intended to run over a period of four years. The final reports scheduled for the end of the promotional period indicate a positive result: the Vito E-CELL is ideally suited to use on inner-city routes. The vehicle has made the vision of emissions-free driving in commercial traffic a reality. A total of 230 Vito E-CELL vans are now in use in several model regions.

Automotive industry, commercial enterprises, energy suppliers and policy makers in successful collaboration
The projects serve to demonstrate how the automotive industry, together with commercial enterprises, energy suppliers and policy makers, can work together to provide crucial impetus to advance electric mobility in Germany. The German Federal Ministry for the Environment and Nature Conservation is lending its support to the Electrification of Mercedes-Benz Small Vans in Development and Production project (EMKEP) in Berlin. In Stuttgart, the Integrated Concept for Sustainable Electric Mobility project (IKONE) is being funded by the German Federal Ministry of Transport, Building and Urban Development. The two promotional initiatives are part of the German federal government’s second economic stimulus package.

Intelligent charging technology utilises green electricity
Mercedes-Benz and energy suppliers Vattenfall (Berlin) and EnBW (Stuttgart) have begun the implementation of new technologies in vehicles and their charging systems at both locations. The energy suppliers, for instance, have now provided charging stations to operators at their depots. The batteries of Vito E-CELL vans are recharged at these locations outside of operating hours.

Intelligent charging technology is used, based on the Smart Charge Communication Unit (SCCU) in the Vito E-CELL. The technology optimises the CO2 balance of the vans with certified green electricity, or even surplus wind energy (“Wind-to-Vehicle/W2V”). The charging technology can also be programmed to lower electricity tariffs to impact operating costs favourably. Where operators use several Vito E-CELL vans, the charging procedures are graded through a process of local charge management (LLM, in German: Lokales Lastmanagement) to ensure that the grid capacity is not overextended.

Highly diverse areas of application
Mercedes-Benz delivered the first vehicles for field testing to testing partners in Berlin at the beginning of September 2010, and in Stuttgart in January 2011. The areas of application are highly diverse: courier, express and package service providers (KEP, in German: Kurier-, Express- und Paketdienstleister), plant transportation in large corporations, service vehicles for plant maintenance, customer service, and assembly and internal transport within companies. The varied topography was a key factor in the selection of the regions. In contrast to the largely flat terrain of the greater Berlin area, the differences in elevation within the Stuttgart metropolitan area are as much as 350 meters, which presents a real stamina test for the range, recuperation performance and drive properties of the Vito E-CELL.

All-round positive assessment of Vito E-CELL van in daily use by customers and drivers
In both regions, the drivers’ assessment of the Vito E-CELL has been highly positive. Characteristics of drive performance, tractive force, steady acceleration without shifting gears and continuous braking were all rated favourably. Drivers also praised the quiet running. The sole drawback of a quiet drive system is that other road users do not always hear the van approaching; according to driver opinion, this necessitates increased attentiveness and an especially anticipatory driving style.

Range typically not exploited to the full
Initial concerns regarding a too limited range were not substantiated in practice. The vehicles proved capable of covering at least 80 km on a full battery charge, including in winter, which in most cases is a sufficient range. Specifically, this concerns KEP applications with fixed routes, trade companies, supply and municipal companies, and general use within the inner-city environment and within corporate facilities. In a survey conducted during testing in Stuttgart, for example, drivers rated the range of the Vito E-CELL as either good or satisfactory. The fact that the challenging topography of the region fails to limit the on-the-road capabilities of the Vito E-CELL was one of the key findings in field testing.

The charge level of the batteries is a key indicator of range. In Berlin, for instance, this typically fluctuated between 95 and 25 percent of available capacity. This indicates that the maximum range of the Vito E-CELL is seldom fully utilised. Comparatively short charging times of between one and three hours are thus the norm in both regions.

Top speed sufficient, drivers highly motivated
The speed of the Vito E-CELL is electronically limited to 89 km/h to preserve a maximum range. This allows the vans to be driven with ease within the flow of truck traffic on occasional trips on the autobahn. Often, the maximum speed is not reached: in Berlin, for instance, only 30 percent of electric vans were reported to reach top speed on a daily basis. Analyses revealed that, in most cases, the speed of the Vito E-CELL did not exceed 55 km/h in both cities. Speeds were largely in the 15 to 30 km/h range.

Technical design of the Vito E-CELL
The Vito E-CELL is based on the mid-length Vito panel van. With a load capacity of up to 900 kg and an unmodified usable load compartment, the Vito E-CELL is suitable for commercial applications without any restrictions. The bodywork as such remains unaffected.

The electric engine, power electronics, converter and AC/DC charger are housed beneath the bonnet. The electric engine develops 60 kW, with a peak torque of 280 Nm. The power is transferred to the front wheels. The high-performance and durable lithium-ion traction batteries are located beneath the load compartment floor. The nominal voltage is 360 V, with a capacity of 36 kWh.

The maximum speed is limited to 89 km/h to maximise the range, which according to NEDC is around 130 km. This enables the Vito E-CELL to keep pace with the flow of truck traffic on the autobahn. The vehicle accelerates quickly from 0 to 50/80 km/h in just 6.5/11 seconds.

Power supply is via charging stations at fleet depots. The batteries of the Vito E-CELL are charged at a mains voltage of 380/400 V, a process that takes a maximum of six hours. Later, charging will also be possible at a mains voltage of 230 V. Furthermore, the batteries are also charged while the vehicle is under way, through recuperation, in which brake energy is converted into power. Back-up for the Vito E-CELL during the two field tests was provided by the local subsidiaries. Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the Vito E-CELL is also fully integrated into the Star Diagnosis diagnostics system.

Fully fledged safety features, successful crash tests
In contrast to other electric vehicles, the Vito E-CELL is equipped with fully fledged safety features, including ESP. Additionally, the batteries themselves are protected by a crash element. If the airbag is triggered, the high-voltage technology is disabled automatically. The Vito E-CELL has impressively demonstrated its high safety standards in crash tests.

Numerous awards for the Vito E-CELL
The Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL has been awarded numerous distinctions by many independent panels, including the “Postal Technology International Award 2010” and “Green Commercial Vehicle of the Year” award. In 2011, the Vito E-CELL was awarded the “Alternative Drive Systems” innovation prize in the “KEP Van of the Year” event, the “Baden-Württemberg Environmental Technology Prize” and the Design Award at the Michelin “Challenge Bibendum”, one of the world’s largest forums for sustainable mobility.

400 Vito E-CELL vans in 2011, further model variants
The greatest distinction achieved by the Mercedes-Benz Vito E-CELL is the demand for the vehicle among customers. In 2011, Mercedes-Benz manufactured some 400 Vito E-CELL vans in its Vitoria plant in the Basque region in Spain. There, the Vito E-CELL is manufactured on the same assembly lines as all other Vito vans. This professional standard of manufacturing is a crucial factor for acceptance among commercial customers.

Mercedes-Benz Vans has produced a series of 2000 E-CELL vehicles since 2011. The popularity of the electrically driven van is set to receive a further boost with additional model variants for even greater practice- and customer-oriented purposes. Since the Vito E-CELL has an EU type approval, no monitoring organisation assessment is required for licensing within the EU, and special directives for high-voltage technology are also not applicable.

Meanwhile, field testing continues in Berlin and Stuttgart. The vehicles are designed for four years of use, with a distance of up to 80,000 km per vehicle. Owing to the high levels of demand and acceptance experienced, it proved possible as early as the testing phase to deploy additional vehicles in other model regions of Germany. A total of 230 Vito E-CELL vans have taken to the road as part of the promotional initiatives, with a distance of approximately 650,000 km covered to date. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz is preparing to deploy the Vito in other regions of Germany, and in most western European countries as well.

Source: Daimler AG

The first of HEICO Motorsport’s Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3’s came home second, two laps down. Driving duties in the car with starting number 6 were shared by Maximilian Buhk (GER), Christiaan Frankenhout (NED), Max Nilsson (SWE), Andreas Zuber (AUT) and Bernd Schneider (GER). Schneider, the five times’ DTM champion and AMG brand ambassador, drove in both of HEICO Motorsport’s cars as a part of AMG’s Customer Sports driver support programme. In the team’s sister car with starting number 16, he had been entered to partner Kenneth Heyer (GER), Andreas Simonsen (SWE) and Rodolfo Gonzalez (VEN). In a dramatic finish, final driver Simonsen managed to bring a small margin home to round out the clean sweep of the podium by finishing third.

The fourth of the four SLS AMG GT3s that were entered for the race also finished among the front-runners. The Gravity Charouz Racing team with Vincent Radermecker (BEL), Loris de Sordi (BEL), Eric Lux (LUX), Gerard Lopez (ESP) and Tomas Enge (CZE) was classified seventh to complete the good overall performance for the Gullwing cars.

All four Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3s put their mark on the Dubai 24-hour race by showing a commanding performance from the very beginning. In the field of the 72 cars, the Gullwings were among the fastest entries right away. Having started from 15th place on the grid, the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon SLS AMG GT3 moved up into the lead for the first time after two hours. Consistently fast lap times also allowed the other Gullwings to move up quickly into the ranks of the front-runners as well.

During the night, the teams from the AMG Customer Sports programme continued their largely trouble-free run on the 5.39 km long Grand Prix circuit, maintaining their fast lap times and partly alternating in the lead. After one third of the race, the Gullwing with starting number 3 finally took over the lead and held on to it until it crossed the finish line.

Thomas Jäger: “This is an optimal result for the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team. It shows in an impressive way how performant and reliable the SLS AMG GT3 is. The driver changes went perfectly and, admittedly, we also had the necessary bit of luck: we didn’t get involved in any collisions, which isn’t self-evident with so many cars on such a short track. I want to thank the entire team for a great performance.”

Marc Schramm, managing director Black Falcon: “We came to Dubai to win. That is what we have said prior to the race and we lived up to it thanks to a strong team performance. As usual, the focus of our strategy was on consistency and that worked out in a fantastic way. Of course, I am also happy with having covered a new record distance of 628 laps. Thanks to the entire team and, of course, also to Mercedes-AMG and HWA for the support.”

Bernd Schneider: “During the night, we had a minor problem, that’s why we stood in the pits for a couple of minutes. Had it not been for that, it could even have been slightly better. To be honest, I now feel a little bit knocked out after having raced with both cars, but the success more than makes up for this. After all, finishing second and third at the same time doesn’t happen every day. Congratulations also to the Abu Dhabi Black Falcon team for this well-deserved race win.”

Ola Källenius, chairman of the board, Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “This is a great success! Especially considering that the participation in Dubai was only the fifth 24-hour race for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3. Today’s clean sweep of the top three is a great reward for our efforts. I sincerely want to thank our customer teams, drivers and everyone involved. I am looking for a great 2012 motor racing season!”

Source: Mercedes-AMG

Powered by Hughes Telematics, Inc., mbrace2 was developed to work seamlessly inside and outside the vehicle, and offers a revamped control module with two all-new categories of services: Internet and remote access capabilities. It also includes a solution to remotely update all software modules via cloud networks so mbrace2 users always have the latest technology in their vehicles and at their fingertips. With mbrace2, new services are added to the mbrace Mobile Application, which is compatible with both iPhone and Android smartphones. It launches in 2012 with the MY13 SL-Class in the spring and will be standard in most MY13 passenger vehicles.

“The connected services included in mbrace2 will enhance both the driving experience and the ownership experience for Mercedes-Benz customers” said Steve Cannon, president and CEO, MBUSA. “Traditionally, in-vehicle technology is finalized more than a year before a vehicle comes to market and is difficult to upgrade. The mbrace2 system solves the vehicle electronics lifecycle conundrum in a unique way, creating a truly networked vehicle that is always online, always upgradeable.”

Specifically, mbrace2 features 3G network connectivity and enhanced integration with other vehicle networks. The new Internet-based service called “Mercedes-Benz Apps” includes features such as Facebook, Google, open browsing, stocks, Yelp! and news headlines. New remote access capabilities include Travel Zones/geo-fences, remote vehicle health diagnostics, Curfew Minder, Driving Journal, Speed Alerts, Valet Protect, and Remote Horns & Lights. As aforementioned, all software can be remotely updated “over the air” for a continual stream of in-vehicle innovation throughout the life of a vehicle’s ownership.

“Our holistic approach builds on the pioneering work we’ve done over the past 12 years” added Cannon. “We were the first to bring the mobile app for the car to market and now we’re going to lead the way in liberating the vehicle from traditional constraints by bringing the most comprehensive connected services platform into the automobile.”

mbrace2 builds upon the current generation’s reputation as the “gold standard” for safety and concierge services, offering more than 60 features aggregated in the categories of safety & security, navigation & destination planning and convenience. The services can be accessed quickly and easily from within the vehicle, smartphone (iPhone or Android) or from any computer through a personalized web portal.

“Hughes Telematics is excited to be working with Mercedes-Benz as we introduce mbrace2 – setting a new high-bar for the custom integration of Internet and remote access features,” said Erik Goldman, president, Hughes Telematics. “Mercedes-Benz drivers can now experience a digital lifestyle in and out of their vehicles, with the most comprehensive capabilities available in the market today.”

Source: MBUSA

Dutch supermodel, Lara Stone plays the update on the Hitchcock blonde, a strong protagonist who overcomes loneliness and fear. This inner strength is underscored by a timeless and elegant dress worn by Lara Stone and designed by Calvin Klein Collection’s Women’s Creative Director, Francisco Costa.

The SL Roadster featured in the latest Mercedes-Benz Icon of Style campaign, combines technical innovation with sleek sportiness and classic luxury and reinterprets the legendary Mercedes-Benz classic of the 1950s for today.

Lara Stone commented, “It’s an honor to work with Mercedes-Benz on a project like this. Both Mercedes-Benz and Calvin Klein Collection brands represent great luxury and timeless elegance and it was a really unique experience.”

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The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Collaboration, Icons of Style, is making its US debut at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Fall 2012 from February 9-15, 2012.

The 2012 Icons of Style key visual is the latest in a stunning series of outstanding visuals celebrating the unique combination of design and style that is Mercedes-Benz. Nick Knight has posed Julia Stegner in Gareth Pugh with the SLS AMG; Miles Aldridge photographed Milla Jovovich wearing a spectacular hat from Philip Treacy next to the Mercedes E-Class Convertible; Craig McDean and David James staged Karolina Kurkova next to the new CLS and last season, Terry Richardson captured Jessica Stam on the roof of the A-Class concept car.

The protagonists:
Mercedes-Benz SL Roadster
The designers have presented the most recent generation of SL icons in an unmistakeable way, by combining a deep sense tradition with new perspectives and visions. The result is a stylish, sporty and elegant luxury sport’s car with the classic, SL-typical well-balanced proportions: the long bonnet is followed by a compact passenger compartment and the wide, sleek rear perfects the look. Understated, artistically designed lines define the powerfully modelled yet smooth surfaces ofits silhouette. Finely engineered details from the dynamic, traditional form repertoire of Mercedes-Benz visually underline the legend of the SL. From a technological perspective, the SL presents itself as a spectacular trendsetter. Manufactured almost completely from aluminium, it weighs a lot less than its predecessor. Innovations like the unique FrontBass system, which turns the SL into a concert hall, whether open or closed, or the adaptive MAGIC VISION CONTROL System are all pioneering developments with an eye to the future.

Alex Prager
Self-taught Alex Prager from Los Angeles is a rising star in the photographer sky. On a visit to a William Egglestone exhibition, Alex Prager made the decision to start taking photos herself. Since then, the 32-year-old photographic artist and filmmaker has impressed with her unconventional photography at several solo and group exhibitions. Her productions are inspired by the style of the sixties, as well as by the films by great directors like Alfred Hitchcock, David Lynch and Frederico Fellini. Alex Prager describes her photography as a documentation of a world that at the same time exists and yet does not exist. In addition to her well-received trilogy with the series “Polyester”, “The Big Valley” and “Week-end”, Alex Prager has also made a name for herself as a fashion photographer. Her “Lofty Ambitions” editorial featured in the September issue of US Vogue and she also shot the spring/summer 2011 campaign by Bottega Veneta with Karolina Kurkova.

Lara Stone
The native Dutch model is currently top of the worldwide rankings on Models.com. Since her breakthrough in 2006 she has been the campaign face for top labels like Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Max Mara and Versace, has worked with star photographers including Mario Testino, Steven Meisel, Craig McDean, Mario Sorrenti and Terry Richardson and has modelled on the catwalk for all major, international fashion houses. The gap between her two front teeth has become one of her trademark features.

She is currently the face of Calvin Klein and has been linked to the brand for quite some time. French Vogue dedicated a whole issue to Lara Stone in February 2009, and fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld shot a short film with her.

Calvin Klein Collection’s Francisco Costa
Francisco Costa is the critically acclaimed Women’s Creative Director of Calvin Klein Collection. Mr. Costa assumed this role in 2003 after working directly with Calvin Klein and other top design houses of Gucci, Balmain Couture, and Oscar de la Renta. Mr. Costa’s first collection for Calvin Klein Collection debuted for Spring 2004. Known for his timeless, elegant designs, Mr. Costa has received numerous awards for his work, including being twice named the Womenswear Designer of the Year by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), and is a recipient of the Cooper-Hewitt National Fashion Design Award. A graduate of F.I.T., Mr. Costa was born into a family with deep roots in fashion, and grew up in the small Brazilian town of Guarani near Rio de Janiero, where his mother and father owned a successful apparel business.

Source: MBUSA

The additional workers will increase personnel at the largest Freightliner manufacturing plant in the United States by more than 70 percent, from approx. 1,600 to over 2,700. The Cleveland facility produces Class 8 heavy-duty truck models, including the Freightliner Cascadia, Columbia, and Argosy product lines.

DTNA is ramping up production in response to the positive market development in the NAFTA region. Freight volume is back up to pre-crisis levels, and vehicle fleets are now being gradually replaced after not having been modernized for several years. The demand growth particularly benefits heavy-duty long-haulage trucks, creating backorders as long as six months for the Freightliner Cascadia model.

In 2011 in the United States and Canada alone, Daimler’s North American commercial vehicle subsidiary substantially boosted truck sales, posting an above-average gain from the strong market rebound. With 94,155 vehicles through November 2011, sales were almost 55 percent higher than in the same period of 2010. DTNA is the most successful manufacturer of Class 6 – 8 trucks in the United States and Canada, with a market share of 32.7 percent (as of October 2011).

In response to the increased customer demand for Freightliner and Western Star brand trucks, DTNA had already increased its workforce by around 3,000 employees at various truck manufacturing facilities in the U.S. and Mexico last year.

“The growing demand for our products shows that we are on the right track and is testimony to our brands’ focus on providing efficient business solutions for our customers’ transportation needs,” said Martin Daum, President and CEO of Daimler Trucks North America, at the announcement of the production ramp-up. “We’re delivering trucks with industry-leading fuel-efficiency technology and the lowest total cost of ownership, thanks to our access to Daimler resources and technologies.”

Hiring of new employees will begin in early February, and the new production shift is slated to be at full capacity by September 2012.

Freightliner trucks are also sold internationally, and 20 percent of the trucks built at the Cleveland plant are sold through Daimler subsidiaries in the export markets of Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Source: Daimler AG

These applications significantly accelerate time-to-market in Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. The existing services, which include the Google Maps and Places APIs, will create an enhanced motoring experience for Mercedes-Benz drivers across the world.

The collaboration will enable Daimler to use Google Maps for their in-car map displays, and significantly improve their ability to quickly and seamlessly integrate useful Google services into Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles. By making innovative Google products available directly within its cars, Mercedes-Benz is able to accelerate the adoption of cutting edge technologies.

Daimler has a strong history of bringing innovative solutions to market. After demonstrating their technological leadership with AMG Performance Media, an in-car telemetry system powered by AndroidTM in autumn 2011 at the launch of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster, Daimler was named “International CES Innovations 2012 Design and Engineering Awards Honoree”.

Ongoing successful long-term cooperation
Google and Daimler have been working in close partnership for many years. In 2007 Daimler was the first automotive manufacturer in the United States to launch the Google “Send-to-Car” functionality in a vehicle. This gave Mercedes-Benz customers the opportunity to easily send destinations from Google Maps to their in-vehicle navigation systems. As of 2011, Mercedes-Benz offers COMAND Online, a telematics system with cloud-based Mercedes-Benz apps that brings Google Street View, Panoramio and local search technologies to most Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. Mercedes-Benz customers also have the opportunity to send individualized routes from Google Maps to their vehicles, as Daimler is first-to-market with the implementation of this Google service. In the second quarter of 2012 all these services will also be available with mbrace2 to Mercedes-Benz customers in the USA.

Source: Daimler AG

And so consumer electronics and the automobile have become more and more tightly interlinked in recent years, because the objective of the two respective industries was and is the same: independence for the customer. Mercedes-Benz realizes this independence not only through the automobile itself. Rather, innovative telematics and infotainment systems in the vehicle and new mobility concepts afford still greater flexibility and freedom. Mercedes-Benz provides a visionary perspective with the “DICE” (Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience) sculpture.

“Here at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas there are some people who view the automobile as an accessory to consumer electronics. Conversely, at the auto show in Detroit there are many people who view consumer electronics as mere trimmings for the car. Both points of view miss the point: as much as a smartphone can be far more than just a tool for communication, a smart car can be more than just a means of transportation. Precisely at the interfaces between communication and mobility, vast potential for innovation lies dormant, and we intend to tap it,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Mercedes-Benz satisfies the growing customer need for independence with its telematics strategy @yourCOMAND: the car becomes a mobile communications center that enables driver and passengers to access all modern media and services at any time. Uncoupling from the conventional vehicle development cycles is achieved on the one hand through secure and comfortable integration of the smartphone in the vehicle, and on the other hand through the use of a consistently Cloud-based solution. This ensures that one is always in close touch with the rapid developments in the smartphone and computer world. Mercedes-Benz customers consequently always have access to the latest applications for comprehensive connectivity in their automobiles.

@yourCOMAND builds on four strategic pillars:
- holistic experience,
- natural interaction,
- sensory perfection and
- convenient remote control.

Digital Premium through Augmented Reality
With the DICE (Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience) sculpture, at the CES Mercedes-Benz provides a vision of the interactive, intuitive and simultaneously safe operating experience in premium automobiles of the future. DICE impressively demonstrates how the vehicle becomes an intelligent mobility partner through bidirectional interaction.

“The intelligent car communicates not only with the driver, but also with other transportation modes and its entire environment in order to be able to assess all relevant information for a trip and make practical use of it immediately,” says Zetsche.

The complete windshield becomes a brilliant head-up display; the dashboard, a display band. Digital information about the actual vehicle surroundings, points of interest, friends, pedestrians and other vehicles is presented there and a natural interaction by means of gestures is made possible. For this Mercedes-Benz uses a combination of Augmented Reality and natural gesture control to realize a completely new, exciting form of communication between people and their environment.

The interactive logic of the novel control concept is very imitative of intuitive human behavior. Along with functional aspects it now also involves emotional and social aspects and so creates a unique operating and driving experience. For example, when one drives past a club, by a simple movement of the hand one can transmit the music playing there by live stream into one’s car. In the same way, local news from social networks, about points of interest, buildings or localities can be retrieved, or news can be left for others.
Vehicles approaching intersections will be virtually superimposed on the windshield to help avoid possibly hazardous situations. To simplify the search for a parking space, mobility concepts like car2go or network information, can be used to proactively identify spaces which will become vacant soon. These are virtually displayed on the windshield, showing the actual environment.

A world first is the context-dependent, place-related presentation of the menu contents “Media”, “Social” and “Places” of the infotainment system as information swarm. Under “Social”, for example, friends from one’s social networks are shown in the 3-D city arranged underneath. The same goes for “Places”, where the personal points of interest like restaurants or movie theaters can be stored. 3-D gestures and the swarm permit dynamic and intuitive control.

“Always on” with COMAND Online
Secure and comfortable internet access in the car already is offered by Mercedes-Benz today in numerous models: the multimedia system COMAND Online was introduced last year in Europe. It offers new functions like the innovative Mercedes-Benz Apps, for example Google Local Search including Google Street View and Panoramio, or Facebook. With mbrace2 in future they are available in the USA as well.

And for a sound experience on the highest level, Mercedes-Benz has introduced the new FrontBass system. The automaker thus revolutionizes the reproduction of bass sounds in the automobile – specifically in open roadsters. The unique FrontBass system which is premiering in the new SL and is being presented at the CES uses cavities in the aluminum bodyshell structures in front of the footwell as resonance volume for the bass loudspeakers. The result: crisp basses make a concert hall atmosphere possible even in an open-top car.

Independent, flexible and spontaneous with car2go
Tremendous technological advances and the stronger interlinkage of consumer electronics and the automobile have also made new mobility concepts possible. In particular, the introduction of mobile internet access exploits independence in the area of mobile services for new mobility concepts like car2go, which meet with correspondingly high demand and extend the urban transportation spectrum.

Thanks to the smartphone, not only is constant access to information of all kinds a reality, but also the possibility of communicating at any time, be it through speech input, email or in social networks. Accordingly, car2go allows customers to get hold of a vehicle at any time, whenever they need it.

The vehicles can be located through the internet, can be rented on the spur of the moment, used as long as one likes, and afterwards simply parked again in any public parking space within the city limits. Urban mobility couldn’t be more spontaneous and flexible today.

car2go already is operating in seven cities worldwide and is scheduled to start in further cities. In North America car2go has taken up service in Austin, the capital of the State of Texas, in Vancouver, Canada, and in San Diego, California – in San Diego with a pure electric fleet consisting of 300 smart fortwo electric drive, making this America’s first and biggest purely electrically operated car sharing fleet.

Always up to date
To make optimum use of consumer electronics’ innovative power and fast time to market for the automobile industry, the company has been cooperating closely with this innovative sector for many years. This is because the market for infotainment and telematics systems is decisively influenced by developments in consumer electronics and the mobile telephony market. In 1995 Mercedes-Benz was thus the first carmaker to set up a research and development facility of its own in Palo Alto, California, and since then has a presence in Silicon Valley in the immediate vicinity of Apple, Google, Facebook, Twitter, Pandora, Yelp, Wikipedia and other important players. The collaboration with these companies is based on short communication channels and distinguished by close cooperation and joint product innovations with big customer benefits. The result, achieved in close cooperation with the Development units in Germany, is custom-tailored infotainment and telematics solutions which are optimally integrated into the overall vehicle design and enable customers to continue their digital lifestyle in the vehicle without interruption.

Source: Daimler AG

The original SL was presented to the stunned press on 12 March 1952 on the motorway between Stuttgart and Heilbronn – a surprise coup absolutely in line with the later great sports successes of the W 194.Because the 1952 racing season was exceptionally successful for Mercedes-Benz. These were the results reaped by the 300 SL that year: second and fourth places at the Mille Miglia, a triple victory at the Bern Sports Car Grand Prix, a double win at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, a fourfold triumph at the Great Jubilee Prize at Nürburgring and a double victory in the 3rd Carrera Panamericana in Mexico. The brand returned to motor sports – and through the publicity effect, to the international markets – with a great fanfare.

In the Second World War post-era at the beginning of the 1950s, characterised by the reconstruction in Germany, this was a decisively important signal, for great parts of the country still lay in ruins. The production plants and office buildings of the then Daimler-Benz AG were not all fully rebuilt yet, either. However, the incipient “economic miracle”, as the economic revival was to be called, could already be felt. And the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL fitted in perfectly: rising, one could say, like a phoenix from its ashes, it led the way for the brand to return to its erstwhile splendour.

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The very looks of the vehicle helped here, for with its slender, elegant matt silver-coloured bodywork and its large Mercedes star in the radiator grille, it embodied high speed even while standing perfectly still. And then there were its gullwing doors, in the case of the very first W 194 series, very short indeed, resembling entry hatches more than actual doors: they lent the racing car a very characteristic aspect – and were instrumental in creating the SL myth. The vehicle with chassis number 2 had these short gullwing doors, making it the oldest SL, and at the same time the only one in existence anywhere in the world today with this particular feature.

Restoration of the 300 SL with chassis number 2
The first 300 SL, the premiere vehicle from 1952, no longer exists; it was property of the factory and was eventually scrapped. However, the second car built, with chassis number 194 010 00002/52 still exists and has remained in the property of the firm ever since it was built in 1951/52. The “/2” embossed on diverse parts bears witness to their genuine nature. This oldest SL in existence was painstakingly restored for the “60 years of the SL” anniversary to be celebrated in 2012. To do this, the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center in Fellbach examined every single part of the entirely disassembled vehicle and wherever necessary reconditioned the component in line with the highest standards of authenticity and quality. The work was based on one clear principle: to preserve substance and patina in every way; at the same time, as far as possible the vehicle was to look as it did in 1952: thus, the second 300 SL (W 194) ever built shines again in new splendour – while displaying the traces of a long and exciting vehicle life with pride.

In the course of the restoration work, first of all, the space frame, the actual backbone of the vehicle, was measured using the most advanced methods. The result: the dimensional deviations were well within the acceptable tolerance range, even after 60 years. This is where the advantages of Number 2’s individual history become evident. Because although the vehicle was used in racing events in 1952, it was never used as a racing car, only as a training and replacement vehicle, for instance in the Bern Sports Car Grand Prix. And this SL was never involved in an accident, either, which also contributed to its overall very good condition today.

A vehicle with character
The W 194 with chassis number “2” is one of two vehicles built that share a special history: number 1 and number 2 were built by hand in Rudolf Uhlenhaut’s Stuttgart-Untertürkheim racing workshop. The following eight vehicles, which were used mainly in the racing events of the year 1952, were manufactured more rationally in the Sindelfingen factory, for instance using pressed parts for the chassis – without using large-series production methods, though.

In those days it was usual to build racing cars more or less as individual items, because each one was designed directly with its specific task in mind. And during the car’s assembly, too, the basic design was modified again and again in order to seek the very best results. This made a unique specimen of each W 194 in a sense – the first two having a much stronger aura of handcrafted one-of-a-kind specimens.
This special character of Number 2 is visible in many of its components: for instance the welding seams show clearly that they were made by hand. Or for example the exhaust system, the fuel tank, the windscreen washer fluid reservoir and the seat frames are all recognisably individually crafted.

Its lightweight design was a great asset for the W 194. This can be seen in its aluminium-magnesium-sheet metal body, which in this vehicle is very thin. It is also evident in the diverse components that are made lighter by means of perforations, for example the front axle, even the handbrake lever. Every gram is skimped on –and that’s why the expensive material magnesium is used, for instance, on the transmission bell, and the rear axle- and steering gear housings. Other components are consistently made from aluminium, for example the fuel tank, the washer fluid reservoir and the main brake cylinder. And the effort is worthwhile: the ready-to-drive W 194 had an unladen weight of just 1060 kilograms.

The sum total of the effort and sums invested show the W 194 to have been a costly project, i.e. a project with prestige character indeed: the company was prepared to invest at that time in order to regain prestige on the international level through the positive publicity effect of the racing successes. And the plan bears fruit, exactly as expected.

Restoring the bodywork
The restoration of the original bodywork was particularly complex and demanding. It was made from very thin aluminium-magnesium sheet metal and was thus by its very nature delicate. In addition, time has left its marks on it in many places, including the marks of earlier partial restoration efforts. In some places the bodywork was very deformed. The experts now went to work with the objective of returning the vehicle to its original aspect of being all “of one piece”. The experts’ work towards the original restored bodywork took around five months, from May to September 2011. The overall character was preserved. Irregularities on the body surface as well as a left-hand-right-hand asymmetry were retained – the original bodywork was hand-made: this is a part of the vehicle history and this is how it is shown again now.

The engine
The W 194’s engine was derived from the power plant of the Mercedes-Benz 300 (W 186) luxury Saloon. For this reason, the engine block of this SL has the number “186” embossed on it, while the modified cylinder head, on the other hand, bears the number “194”: for its use as a racing car, the engineers boosted the engine’s output to around 170 bhp (125 kW), employing among other things three Solex sports carburettors and a sports camshaft. The sports engine was equipped with dry-sump lubrication and installed in a position canted 50 degrees towards the left so as to be able to fit under the very flat bonnet.

Within the framework of the restoration work, the original engine was completely overhauled. On a modern-day test rig it demonstrated its endurance – it ran for around 10 hours, confirming as it did, the original output specifications. The reconditioning of the two electric fuel pumps, for which today no replacement parts exist, was complex. However, the specialists from Mercedes-Benz Classic were also able to recreate these true to the originals.

The engine also shows the character of Number 2: for example the air filter housing is visibly made-to-measure by hand – and between the housing and the closed bonnet there is not even enough space for a person’s hand.

The assembly
The chassis of the W 194 was completed in the course of several months at the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center. Every single component was painstakingly cleaned and examined and, if necessary, reconditioned. The mechanics thus often advanced two steps, only to have to go back one – at times an arduous business. But one that in the end was successful, so that the 1952 racing car was recreated piece by piece anew.
One exceedingly fortunate circumstance was that the vehicle was virtually complete. The large Mercedes star on the radiator, for instance, can be seen to be handmade, as evidenced by the small irregularities it displays. It was polished and reattached, as was the original “300 SL” lettering. The original rear licence plate “W59-4029” still exists, too, while the front number plate was faithfully reproduced. The wooden steering wheel, the gearshift knob, the instruments, the switches: all present and correct. The front axle was reconditioned. It was entirely nickel-plated – a method in use in those days to enable potentially safety-relevant hairline cracks to be easily detected on the racetrack. The rear axle showed, in particular through the state of its mechanical components, that Number 2 had not been subjected to excessive strain, since all the gear wheels were in virtually new condition. The original Alfin brake drums were tested, trimmed and reinstalled; the original riveted wheel rims were clad in Dunlop D8 tyres.

The interior of the W 194 breathes the air of those days. The seat covers, made from the characteristic blue tartan pattern, are new, while the roof lining and the rest of the cover fabric had been preserved in their entirety; they were cleaned and replaced, now gracing the vehicle again. And the aluminium seats under the fabric were also able to be used without excessive work having to be carried out on them. This way the entire interior was recreated – and yet shows the venerable traces of time.

A very special bravura piece was re-creating the body paintwork. The original nitro-lacquer was called “silver bronze”. Today it is no longer available and due to the environmental regulations in force, may no longer be used. Thus, the paint supplier of 1952 now undertook exhaustive research based on contemporary photographic and film material in order to recreate a paint colour as close as possible to the original, producing a precise formula for a water-based paint. With this matt silver paint the W 194 now shines once again as it once did many years ago.

Number 2 was given new window panes. A plexiglas pane is used for the windscreen. The side windows with their air flaps and the rear window are also made from Plexiglas and were provided by the same supplier who made the plastic glazing for this 300 SL in 1952.

Restoration work on the oldest SL in existence took a total of around nine months. But the effort was worth the while: the car is now radiant in all its erstwhile beauty. When the engine of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL with its original licence plate “W59-4029” is started and the vehicle gets swiftly under way, one can well believe that it is able to reach a top speed of 230 km/h – and take its place among the most successful racing cars of the 1950s.

Mercedes-Benz 300 SL (W 194 series)
Year built: 1952
Number of units: 10
Engine: six-cylinder in-line engine, overhead camshaft, three Solex double carburettors, dry-sump lubrication
Displacement: 2.995 cc
Output: 170 bhp (125 kW) at 5200 rpm
Kerb weight: approx. 1060 kg
Top speed: 230 km/h

Source: Daimler AG

For the first time, the all-new SL Roadster is made almost entirely from aluminium and weighs up to 140 kg less than its predecessor thanks to intelligent lightweight design. The result is more agility and dynamic character combined with improved comfort and increased crash safety. The new BlueDIRECT engines are more powerful, yet up to 29 percent more fuel efficient than the engines in the outgoing model. More driving fun with even lower fuel consumption is also on offer from the two new E-Class hybrid models – the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the world’s most fuel-efficient full-size car, consuming just 4.2 litres of diesel per 100 km (109 g CO2/km). The gasoline-powered E 400 HYBRID, which will be launched first in the USA, delivers fuel economy of 27 mpg (combined).

“In 2011 we sold more than 1.36 million cars worldwide – more than ever before. 2012 will see us push forward with our product offensive and repeat two things that worked extremely well last year – we will launch another six new models and we will set the bar even higher by making green cars cooler and cool cars greener,” said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, at the NAIAS press conference. To back this up, Mercedes-Benz presented the sixth generation SL. Compared with its highly successful predecessor, the new model offers a considerable boost in sporting character and comfort and sets new benchmarks in the luxury roadster class. Plus, it comes with a full serving of everyday usability.

Classic proportions and outstanding aerodynamics
The stylish luxury sports car has classic proportions with a long hood and a compact cockpit set well back. Finely honed details and air vents with chromed fins from the dynamic tradition of Mercedes-Benz Design add visual emphasis to the SL legend.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche: “There are around 900 million cars on this earth and thousands of models. But there is but a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them – it has class, it has style, it is the embodiment of comfort and luxury. But it combines all of that with an unbelievably sporty and dynamic character.”
Moreover, the new SL boasts outstanding aerodynamics. Alongside the lowest drag coefficient (cd = 0.27 in the SL 350), it also offers the lowest level of wind noise – almost on par with a closed saloon – as well as the very best airflow and noise characteristics with the top down.

“The new SL offers everything that defines an absolutely top-class premium roadster,” said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing. “It is two things rolled into one – a dynamic sports roadster and a luxurious coupé. Or, as we say, it is both athlete and connoisseur.”

Mercedes-Benz hybrid offensive with the E-Class
With its two new E-Class hybrid models, Mercedes-Benz is turning a new chapter in the brand’s core segment and thereby setting new benchmarks for full-size business saloons. The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which is available as both a saloon and estate, sets new records with its efficiency. The world’s most fuel-efficient full-size model boasts exceptional fuel consumption figures (4.2 l/100 km) and outstanding performance. The four-cylinder diesel in the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID delivers 150 kW (204 hp) and generates 500 Nm of torque. The electric motor develops 20 kW and 250 Nm.

The V6 spark-ignition engine in the E 400 HYBRID delivers 225 kW (306 hp) and generates 370 Nm of torque, plus a further 20 kW and 250 Nm from the electric motor. The fuel economy in accordance with American CAFE standards stands at 24 mpg city, 31 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined.

“This modular hybrid technology opens the way for us to add hybrid models to other model ranges in the near future,” said Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.“With a clear focus on the varying needs of the global markets, we can offer precisely those models that our customers are demanding. Alongside a considerable reduction in fuel consumption, the E‑Class hybrids are very impressive to drive – this is hybrid driving on a premium level.”

The E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is initially planned for the European market, while the E 400 HYBRID will be launched first on the American market and later offered in further countries such as Japan and China.

Source: Daimler AG

Daimler CEO Dr. Dieter Zetsche presents the 6th Generation of luxury convertible at a Media-Preview in the “The Westin Book Cadillac” Hotel in Detroit.

Pictures: Daimler AG

Daimler and Nissan will produce Mercedes-Benz 4-cylinder gasoline engines together at Nissan’s powertrain assembly plant in Decherd, Tenn. Production will begin in 2014, with installed capacity of 250,000 units per year once full ramp–up is achieved. The Decherd facility will produce engines for Mercedes-Benz and Infiniti models.

“This is the newest milestone in our pragmatic collaboration and our most significant project outside of Europe so far,” said Renault-Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn. “Localized capacity reduces exposure to foreign exchange rates while rapidly enabling a good business development in North America – a win-win for the Alliance and Daimler.”

The collaboration marks the first production of Mercedes-Benz engines in the North America Free Trade region. The Tennessee plant’s strategic location and logistics links ensure a direct supply of engines starting in 2014 for the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, built at Daimler’s vehicle plant in Tuscaloosa, Ala.

“In the context of our Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy, we have decided that we will expand the production capacities required for this close to the customers. Through the strategic extension of our cooperation with Renault-Nissan we can realize near-market engine production in the NAFTA region on attractive economic terms and make optimum use of synergies arising from the cooperation.” Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Daimler Board of Management and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, said. “Thus we are systematically broadening our manufacturing footprint in this important growth market.”

Nissan began powertrain assembly in Decherd in 1997. Today it manufactures 4-, 6- and 8-cylinder engines for the complete lineup of U.S.-produced Nissan and Infiniti vehicles. The plant also houses crankshaft forging and cylinder block casting operations. In 2011, Decherd produced more than 580,000 engines on a covered area of more than 1.2 million square feet (111,000 square meters).

Project portfolio expands
Daimler and the Renault-Nissan Alliance launched their strategic collaboration in April 2010, including an equity exchange that gives the Renault-Nissan Alliance a 3.1 percent stake in Daimler and Daimler a combined 3.1 percent interest in Renault and Nissan.

The collaboration began with three project pillars:

- Joint smart/Twingo architecture: The project is on track for launch in the early first quarter of 2014. Two-seater smart vehicles will be produced at Daimler’s plant in Hambach, France, and four-seater smart and Renault production are slated for Renault’s plant in Novo Mesto, Slovenia.

- All-new entry-level city van project for Mercedes-Benz: The project is on schedule with expected launch in late 2012.

- Powertrain cross-supply: The Alliance is supplying Daimler with compact three-cylinder gasoline engines to be used in smart and Twingo vehicles and four-cylinder diesel engines to be used in the jointly developed light commercial vehicle and in Mercedes-Benz’s next generation of premium compact cars. Daimler will supply Nissan and Infiniti with four- and six-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines from the current and future engine portfolio as well as with automatic transmissions.

Since its founding in April 2010, the collaboration has been gradually expanded. In addition to the announcement this week about North American engine production, the companies had decided earlier to partner on:

- Platform sharing: Infiniti plans to base a premium compact vehicle on the Mercedes compact-car architecture, starting in 2014.

- Zero-emission vehicles: Daimler will provide batteries from its production facility in Kamenz, Germany, and Renault-Nissan will provide electric motors for the use in electric vehicles (smart and Twingo ZE). First releases will occur in 2014.

Source: Daimler AG

SL – only very few abbreviations have the power to call forth such passion in automotive enthusiasts as the SL model series from Mercedes-Benz. SL stands for six decades of sportiness and aesthetic appeal. What began in 1952 with the 300 SL racing car (W 194 series) and grew into a legend in the years that followed, is to be continued into the future with the market introduction of the new SL (R 231) in the spring of 2012. It sets a further highlight in the fascinating history of all the SLs.

The special exhibition “Timeless — 60 years of the Mercedes-Benz SL” gives this special Mercedes-Benz model series an adequate stage in its anniversary year: in Room Collection 5 visitors will be able to see interesting items, information and anecdotes – apart from the vehicles on show. From the 300 SL (W 194), legendary winner of the 1952 Carrera Panamericana, to US astronaut David R. Scott’s 1959 190 SL (W 121), and the 2001 Formula 1 safety car, the SL 55 AMG (R 230): visitors can look forward to a seamless presentation of the entire SL family. An extensive accompanying programme with special guided tours and event is also being prepared.

The Mercedes-Benz Museum is open every day from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Registration, reservations and current information: Monday to Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m by phone: 0711/17 30 000, e-mail classic@daimler.com or online www.mercedes-benz-classic.com/museum

Source: Mercedes-Benz Museum