Up to 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of Power, 1,320 Nm (973 lb-ft) of Torque and a Top Speed of 350 km/h (219 mph): The Exclusive BRABUS Sport Program for the New SL-Class

Rejuvenated by a substantial model update the fifth generation of the Mercedes SL now starts yet another chapter in the unparalleled success story of the popular Mercedes roadster. The corresponding exclusive sport program comes from BRABUS (Brabus-Allee, D-46240 Bottrop, phone + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777-0, fax + 49 / (0) 2041 / 777 111, Internet www.brabus.com). Powerful increased-displacement engines with up to 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power, a striking designer suit, high-quality light-alloy wheels with diameters of up to 20 inches, professional suspension tuning and custom interior design: The BRABUS program leaves nothing to be desired.

The top-of-the-heap BRABUS power source for the SL 600 is the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine, developed originally for the BRABUS ROCKET, the world’s fastest sedan. 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW of power and a whopping peak torque of 1,320 Nm (973 lb-ft), electronically limited in the car to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft), are the result of numerous modifications. During the displacement increase from 5.5 to 6.3 liters the engine’s interior is completely reworked. In addition the engine is fitted with a more efficient turbocharging system and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts. Power is transferred via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a special BRABUS limited-slip differential that is available for all SL models.

A sprint time of 4.0 seconds from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph), 10.5 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) and – depending on final drive ratio and tire speed rating – an electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (219 mph) make the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo roadster one of the world’s fastest sports cars.

BRABUS tuning is also available for the SL 65: The BRABUS T 12 S performance kit increases power output by 40 hp (DIN and SAE net) / 29.4 kW. The BRABUS T 65 S power kit bumps power output to 715 hp (705 hp SAE net) / 526 kW and peak torque to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The SL 63 AMG also receives some added power with BRABUS B63 S tuning. Sport air filter, high-performance metal catalysts and newly programmed engine electronics add 40 hp (DIN and SAE net) 29.5 kW to the power output of the fast-revving V8 engine, and increase top speed to 320 km/h (200 mph).
The four-valve-V8 engine of the SL 500 (US: SL550) with BRABUS 6.1 S displacement increase produces 462 hp (456 hp SAE net) / 340 kW of power at 6,200 rpm and a peak torque of 615 Nm (453 lb-ft) at 3,100 rpm. The BRABUS 4.0 displacement engine with 332 hp (327 hp SAE net) / 244 kW of power and 420 Nm (310 lb-ft) of torque is available for the V6 four-valve engines of the SL 280 and SL 350.

The stainless-steel BRABUS sport exhaust system with four chrome-plated tailpipes is a must for all BRABUS high-performance engines. But it is also the answer for all SL owners wishing for a sportier exhaust note and for a more striking rear appearance of their two-seater.

To add sporty emphasis to the elegant lines of the new Mercedes SL series, the BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a strikingly styled aerodynamic-enhancement kit.

The front of the SL receives some added pizzazz with the BRABUS front apron that replaces the production bumper. It features LED daytime running lights as well as auxiliary high beams and fog lamps, and reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds.

The elegantly shaped BRABUS rocker panels each have three entrance lights integrated into their underside. The lights are activated with the keyless fob or by pulling on an inside door handle. The LED lights illuminate the ground on either side of the vehicle and help avoid unfortunate missteps into puddles or holes in the dark.

The BRABUS design package for the latest SL-class is rounded out by a rear component that integrates environmental lighting, a centrally mounted rear reflector and two cutouts for the sport exhaust system.

Just as important for a customized look are one-piece and multi-piece BRABUS Monoblock light-alloy wheels, which can be mounted on the new roadster in four different designs and with diameters of 17, 18, 19 and 20 inches. The largest possible tire/wheel combination on the new SL features BRABUS Monoblock VI, E or S wheels in size 9Jx20 in front with size 255/30 ZR 20 tires. The rear axle rolls on size 10.5Jx20 wheels with size 305/25 ZR 20 tires. BRABUS recommends high-performance tires from Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

To further improve the already potent handling capabilities of the new Mercedes SL, BRABUS has developed special suspension solutions. For the SL 280 and 350 models with conventional suspension BRABUS offers its sport springs. For all SL models with ABC active suspension BRABUS has developed an electronic module that lowers the ride height by some 25 millimeters. Sport sway bars reduce body roll.

BRABUS high-performance brake systems for the SL-Class are available in four different versions. The largest one features vented and cross-drilled front discs measuring 375 x 36 mm (14.8 x 1.4 inches), and 12-piston fixed calipers. The rear discs measure 355 x 28 mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) and come with six-piston fixed calipers.

BRABUS also customizes the interior of the two-seater by upping the level of luxury. The list of products includes scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS-logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel with shift paddles, and an exclusive BRABUS custom interior crafted from an exquisite combination of especially soft yet durable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara.

The new C 63 AMG will be at the start as the official Safety Car for the second DTM race of the season in Oschersleben (April 19/20, 2008). The top-of-the-range C-Class model with its 336 kW/ 457 hp AMG 6.3-litre V8-engine and modifications to the brakes, suspension, cooling and exhaust system is in perfect shape for its demanding task. The development and production of the C 63 AMG Safety Car was in the hands of specialists from the AMG development team and the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO.

The Safety Car operates under the aegis of the Deutscher Motor Sport Bund (DMSB - German Motor Sports Association), which has the overall responsibility for compliance with safety requirements under the rules of the DTM. The task of the C 63 AMG Safety Car is to ensure maximum safety both on and adjacent to the track in the event of an extreme situation occurring. On the instructions of the race organisers, Safety Car driver Peter Lux must place his car at the head of the DTM field and safely lead the cars around the circuit so that hazardous situations are kept under control.

This fast AMG V8 saloon is outstandingly equipped for its task: the AMG-developed, naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine develops 336 kW/457 hp at 6800 rpm from a displacement of 6.3 litres, which means that it almost matches the performance level of the C-Class DTM cars. The maximum torque of 600 newton metres is generated at 5000 rpm. Power is transferred by the AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which has steering wheel shift paddles and automatic double-declutching during downshifts. For use in the DTM series, the C 63 AMG is equipped with a newly developed AMG sports exhaust system with a special sound design, providing a further acoustic treat for the fans at the trackside and following the race on TV.

High-tech cooling, suspension and braking from the world of motor sports

Reliable and sustained racetrack performance at the highest level is ensured by high-tech features derived from motor sports. In the C 63 AMG Safety Car these include a high-performance radiator, two engine oil coolers located on either side of the front apron and an additional, larger transmission oil cooler. The rear axle differential features cooling fins and a separate oil cooler. The best possible handling dynamics are provided by the C 63 AMG-specific three-link front suspension with a wider track, the AMG sports parameter steering, the AMG Performance suspension with a stiffer set-up and 3-stage ESP® with the sports function.

19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a multi-spoke design with wide-base tyres in size 245/35 (front) and 265/30 (rear) ensure outstanding contact with the track surface. Excellent, fade-free deceleration is guaranteed by the high-performance AMG braking system. The front brakes have 380-millimetre composite brake discs with six-piston callipers, while 330-millimetre steel brake discs and four-piston callipers are fitted at the rear; all the brake discs are internally ventilated and perforated. A mechanical, asymmetrical multi-disc locking differential ensures outstanding, slip-free traction.

Sophisticated warning and communication system on board

Apart from the DTM logos and the wider tyres, the array of lights on the roof of the DTM Safety Car is the major distinguishing feature versus the standard C 63 AMG. The white, strobe-like flashing LED lights in the headlamps and tail lights have a neutral signalling function, and are permanently switched on while the car is on race duty. For communication with the race organisers the Safety Car is equipped with a sophisticated two-way radio system and TV monitor. The cockpit for Peter Lux and his co-driver is fitted with two bucket seats with 4-point seat belts, an especially grippy AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/Alcantara and high-quality AMG carbon-fibre trim.

DTM Safety Car provided by Mercedes-AMG since 2000

Mercedes-AMG has provided the DTM Safety Car on a continuous basis since 2000, and takes turns with Audi from race to race. In Formula-1 racing an SL 63 AMG is in operation as the Official F1™ Safety Car, while a C 63 AMG Estate is used as the Official F1™ Medical Car.

Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz

The invention in the 1880s of the high-speed engine and the automobile enabled Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz – independently of one another – to lay the foundations for the motorization of road transport. With the help of financial backers and partners, they both invested their private developments in their own enterprises – in Mannheim, Benz founded the firm Benz & Cie. in October 1883, and Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG) was formed in November 1890.

In order to gain publicity and a certain distinction for their products, both companies sought a suitable trademark. To begin with, the inventors used their own names – “Benz” and “Daimler” – which vouched for the origin and quality of the engines and vehicles. The trademark of the Mannheim-based company Benz & Cie. remained unchanged, except that in 1909, the cog wheel symbol which had been used since 1903 was replaced with a laurel wreath surrounding the name Benz. But the turn of the century brought a completely new brand name for products from Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG) in Cannstatt: “Mercedes”. So what is the origin of this name?

Emil Jellinek becomes involved

Mercédès – a Spanish girl’s name meaning ‘grace’ – was the name of the daughter born in 1889 to the Austrian businessman, Emil Jellinek, who had homes in Baden near Vienna and Nice.

A progressive thinker with an interest in sport, Jellinek turned his enthusiasm to the dawning age of the automobile, an invention he knew would be of key importance for the future. As early as 1897, he made the journey to Cannstatt to visit the Daimler factory and ordered his first Daimler car – a belt-driven vehicle with a six-hp two-cylinder engine.

But the car, delivered in October 1897 and with a top speed of 24 km/h, was soon too slow for Jellinek. He demanded 40 km/h and ordered two more vehicles. Supplied in September 1898, the two Daimler Phoenix cars with their front–mounted eight-hp engines were the world’s first road vehicles with four-cylinder engines.
Emil Jellinek had good contacts with the worlds of international finance and the aristocracy and became increasingly active as a businessman. In 1898, he began to promote and sell Daimler automobiles, in particular, within the higher echelons of society. In 1899, DMG supplied Jellinek with ten vehicles; in 1900, he received as many as 29.

Jellinek demanded ever faster and more powerful vehicles from DMG. From 1899, he entered these in race meetings – first and foremost of which was the Nice Week – where he would race under his pseudonym Mercédès - the name of his daughter, ten years old at the time, and a name that was well known in motoring circles. In the early days, the name referred to the team and driver – not to an automotive brand.
At the beginning of April 1900, Jellinek made an agreement with DMG concerning sales of cars and engines and the decision was taken to use the Jellinek’s pseudonym as a product name. In addition, it was agreed that a new engine “bearing the name Daimler-Mercedes” was to be developed. Two weeks later, Jellinek ordered 36 of the vehicles at a total price of 550,000 marks – a sizeable order even by today’s standards: in 2005, this total would have been equivalent to 2.3 million euros. Just a few weeks later, he placed a new order for another 36 vehicles, all with eight-hp engines.

The first Mercedes and the new trade name

The first vehicle to be fitted with the new engine, a 35-hp racing car, was delivered to Jellinek by DMG on December 22, 1900. This first ‘Mercedes’, developed by Wilhelm Maybach, the chief engineer at DMG, caused quite a stir at the beginning of the new century. With its low center of gravity, pressed-steel frame, lightweight high-performance engine and honeycomb radiator, it featured numerous innovations and is regarded today as the first modern automobile.

The Nice Week in March 1901, during which the Mercedes vehicles were found to be unbeatable in virtually every discipline, attracted enormous publicity for Jellinek and the Mercedes. In March and August 1901, the 12/16-hp and 8/11-hp sister models appeared. Jellinek’s orders soon stretched the Daimler plant in Cannstatt to full production capacity.

On June 23, 1902, ‘Mercédès’ was lodged as the trade name and this was legally registered on September 26. From June 1903, Emil Jellinek obtained permission to call himself Jellinek-Mercedes, commenting that “this is probably the first time a father has taken his daughter’s name.”

The origin of the star

DMG now had a successful brand name, but still lacked a characteristic trademark. Then Paul and Adolf Daimler – the company founder’s two sons, and now senior executives at DMG – remembered that their father, who had died in March 1900 shortly before his 66th birthday, had once used a star as a symbol.
Gottlieb Daimler had been technical director of the Deutz gas engine factory from 1872 until 1881. At the beginning of his employment there, he had marked a star above his own house on a picture postcard of Cologne and Deutz, and had written to his wife that this star would one day shine over his own factory to symbolize prosperity.

The DMG board immediately accepted the proposal and in June 1909, both a three-pointed and a four-pointed star were registered as trademarks. Although both designs were legally protected, only the three-pointed star was used. From 1910 onward, a three-dimensional star adorned the radiator at the front of the car.
The three-pointed star was supposed to symbolize Daimler’s ambition of universal motorization – “on land, on water and in the air”. Over the years, various small additions were made. In 1916, the tips were surrounded by a circle, in which four small stars and the word Mercedes were integrated, or alternatively the names of the DMG plants at Untertürkheim or Berlin-Marienfelde.

In November 1921, DMG applied for legal protection of utility patents for new variations on their trademark and lodged with the patent office a three-dimensional three-pointed star enclosed in a circle – which included the design intended for use on the radiator grille. It became a registered trademark in August 1923.
A star guiding motorists everywhere

The period of inflation after the First World War meant a difficult time for sales – especially of luxury goods such as passenger cars – and had serious repercussions on the automotive industry. Only financially strong companies with well-established brands were able to survive – although even these were frequently forced into mergers and cooperative ventures. It was in this way that the former rivals, DMG and Benz & Cie., formed a syndicate in 1924 in order to standardize design and production, as well as purchasing, sales and advertising, and thereby remain competitive.

During this period, the two companies generally marketed their products jointly, although still under separate trademarks. Two years later, in June 1926, the two oldest motor manufacturers merged to form Daimler-Benz AG.

At this point a new trademark was designed, which brought together the main characteristics of both the existing emblems – the world-renowned three-pointed star belonging to Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft was surrounded with its trade name ‘Mercedes’ as well as that of the equally famous name ‘Benz’, whose laurel wreath entwined the two names together.

This trademark, which has changed little over the decades, still adorns Mercedes-Benz vehicles and has come to represent quality and safety on roads everywhere. And throughout the world the name ‘Mercedes-Benz’ is synonymous with tradition, innovation and the future of the automobile.

The highly regarded “Motor Presse Club” has awarded the author prize 2008 to the book “sideways. a smart art project” which was recently presented. The distinguished jury of the “MPC car book prize” awards this special prize every year for outstanding literary achievement in the field of car books.

For the award-winning book, smart and the publishing house “Gestalten Verlag Berlin” asked artists to submit contributions on the subject of the environment and smart. More than 100 creative professionals from around the world from the fields of photography, graphic design, painting, architecture and fashion styling present their artistic works on 248 pages. They tackle the question of ecology and mobility and provide fresh and thought-provoking ideas. smart has been concerned with the question of how urban mobility can be made environmentally compatible since the birth of the brand. This book from smart - for years the car make with the production vehicle boasting the lowest CO2 emissions worldwide - shows that environmental considerations can be approached hand in hand with good aesthetic design.

The Motor Presse Club e.V. (MPC) is an association of journalists, publicists and industry employees. The association has close contacts with press, radio and television which enables it to support non-profit-making objectives concerning all aspects of cars, technology and traffic. The organisation awards the “MPC car book prize” every year in five categories and also the highly coveted author prize - which the makers of the new smart book were able to take home this year. This year the jury included well-known personalities such as Chris Bangle (head designer at BMW), Prof. Dr. Florian Hufnagel (Director Pinakothek der Moderne, Design), Holger Jung (advertising agency Jung von Matt), Wolfgang Peters (FAZ) and Michael Ramstetter (editor-in chief ADAC Motorwelt).

“sideways” was officially presented within the framework of the US market launch in New York in March 2008 and it is available from the publisher dgv and in book stores at a price of € 29.90.

The new-generation A-Class will be stepping into the limelight at the “Auto Mobil International” (AMI) motor show in Leipzig from 5th - 13th April, 2008. Following an extensive facelift, the successful compact car is younger, more attractive and more environmentally friendly than ever before. The convenient ECO start/stop function is available for the first time for the high-volume A 150 and A 170 models, which reduces fuel consumption of these BlueEFFICIENCY vehicles by up to nine percent when driving in city traffic. Mercedes-Benz has developed an additional BlueEFFICIENCY package for the three-door A 160 CDI, reducing the Coupé’s fuel consumption to just 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres. Independent experts have confirmed these major environmental advances by awarding the A‑Class an internationally valid Environmental Certificate - the world’s first compact car to receive such an accolade. The new-generation B-Class will also be celebrating its world premiere at the AMI. The sports tourer is now available with a petrol/natural-gas drive system for the very first time.

Since its world premiere in 1997, the A-Class has made a name for itself in the compact-car class as a trendsetter and groundbreaking innovator. Outstanding safety, everyday versatility and hallmark Mercedes reliability have always been the strengths of the A-Class, whose distinctive yet equally versatile concept has won over more than two million drivers since its launch.

The new-generation A-Class builds on these virtues: Mercedes-Benz is presenting a range of five-door saloon and three-door coupé versions in spring 2008, each sporting an all-round upgrade. The front end of the compact Mercedes-Benz is younger, yet at the same time more poised and assured than before. The sweeping lines of the new-look headlamps flow seamlessly along the front and into the flanks, which literally appear to have been moulded from a single piece.

The equally redesigned bumper reinforces this impression; its air intake at the bottom is noticeably larger, emphasising the width of the body. The radiator grille has also been redesigned to reinforce the progressive character of the A‑Class.

Design elements at the front help differentiate the A-Class lines even more clearly than before. For instance, the AVANTGARDE line features a specially designed bumper that further emphasises the arrow shape of the front and symbolises even more agility. Individual wheel designs help differentiate the side view of the A-Class lines. While the entry-level model comes with 15‑inch wheels with 7-spoke trim, the ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE lines sport individually styled 16-inch light-alloy wheels. The new, larger exterior mirror housings and the door handles are now painted in the vehicle colour on all model variants.
The rear of the A-Class is dominated by a modified bumper and new-look tail lights that extend well into the flanks. Both features ensure that the body looks wider and even more powerful.

Interior: larger stowage compartments and new fabrics further upgrade the interior

The Mercedes designers also paid particular attention to increasing perceived value when it came to revamping the interior, selecting a range of new high-grade upholstery fabrics and door trim. In addition, new trim elements made out of smoke grey, diagonally brushed aluminium add an upscale feel to the interior of the AVANTGARDE line, while the distinguished ambience of the ELEGANCE model is reinforced through wood trim elements. All variants of the A-Class come with a larger stowage compartment in the centre console and a new-look cup holder between the front seats.

Economy: the A 160 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY consumes just 4.5 litres

The new-generation A-Class emphasises its economy with fuel consumption of between 4.9 and 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres. Thanks to further detailed enhancements, fuel consumption of the sophisticated direct-injection diesel engines has been reduced by over 8 percent or 0.5 litres per 100 kilometres compared with the outgoing models. From autumn 2008, Mercedes-Benz will supply a standard-fit BlueEFFICIENCY package for the three-door A 160 CDIwith manual transmission, which further improves engine efficiency, aerodynamics, rolling resistance, energy management and weight. Taken together, these measures add up to a fuel saving of 0.4 litres so that the A 160 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY consumes just 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres on the NEDC cycle. CO2 emissions of the 60 kW/82 hp coupé are 119 grams per kilometre.

The BlueEFFICIENCY package includes an aerodynamically optimised radiator grille, the rear side of which is sealed off, thus reducing the volume of air flowing into the engine compartment; despite this, sufficient cooling for the CDI engine is ensured at all times. The bodywork has also been lowered by 10 millimetres to further reduce wind drag. The Mercedes engineers have leveraged further potential to save fuel by dynamically controlling the power supply on board the A 160 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY to save energy. The generator management system consistently converts the power generated when the engine decelerates (i.e. on the overrun) into electrical energy, which is then used to recharge the battery in an optimum, energy-efficient manner.

Start/stop function: the engine automatically switches off when idling

The Mercedes engineers have achieved fuel savings for the petrol-engined models of up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the NEDC cycle thanks to the newly developed ECO start/stop function. This system will be available for the high-volume A 150 BlueEFFICIENCY and A 170 BlueEFFICIENCY models from autumn 2008. It automatically switches the engine off when the driver shifts to neutral at low speed whilst depressing the brake pedal. A special display in the instrument cluster informs the driver if the conditions for switching off the engine are met.

The moment the clutch is pressed or the brake pedal released, the engine springs back to life almost noiselessly and in a fraction of a second. This ability to restart the engine swiftly yet smoothly gives the Mercedes technology a key edge over other systems of this type.

The ECOstart/stop function further reduces fuel consumption by around 6.5 percent on the NEDC cycle. The A 150 BlueEFFICIENCY (70 kW/95 hp) completes the cycle with fuel consumption figures of 5.8 litres per 100 kilometres , the equivalent of 139 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre.

Even greater savings can be made in urban traffic, as the results of extensive field testing show: Mercedes employees have tested the system in 175 test vehicles, notching up some 1.2 million kilometres in the process. Around half of this marathon testing schedule involved driving on urban roads where the new ECOstart/stop function produced fuel savings of up to nine percent.

Environment: the A-Class is the first compact-class car with an Environmental Certificate

These kinds of practical results are all-important to Mercedes-Benz when it comes to assessing new technologies. The Stuttgart-based brand assesses the environmental compatibility of vehicles not just on the basis of the results of standardised exhaust emissions and fuel consumption measurements but also looks at the entire lifecycle - from manufacture through use over many years to end-of-life disposal. The analysis of more than 40,000 individual processes provides a complete picture that helps the engineers objectively assess development work.

This lifecycle assessment forms the basis for the Environmental Certificate based on the stringent international ISO standard 14062 “Design For Environment” which the A-Class is the world’s first compact car to receive.

Safety: flashing brake lights warn drivers behind

Mercedes-Benz has also enhanced safety and comfort in the A-Class. Technology from the luxury-class segment has found its way into the compact car with the adaptive brake lights, which add another accident prevention system to the standard specification. During emergency braking when travelling at more than 50 km/h, the brake lights flash at high frequency to warn drivers behind who can consequently react faster and are in a better position to prevent an accident.

The A-Class also sets new standards in this market segment in the area of occupant protection with two-stage front airbags, belt tensioners for the front and outer rear seats, belt force limiters, active front head restraints and head/thorax sidebags. Mercedes-Benz is now complementing this extensive safety technology with crash-responsive emergency lighting in the interior, which comes on automatically after an accident of a defined severity to provide occupants with better orientation and make the task of the emergency services easier.

Parking assist: ultrasound and electric steering make parking easier

In future, A-Class owners will have assistance looking for a parking space and when reverse parking, courtesy of active parking assist, which is optionally available for all model variants. Using newly developed ultrasonic sensors on the sides the system looks for an appropriate spot on either side of the road as the A-Class drives by and informs the driver via a display in the instrument cluster. Once a suitable spot has been found, an arrow also appears in the display, informing the driver on which side of the road the parking spot is located. If the driver selects reverse, accepts the suggested space and depresses the accelerator, active parking assist takes over and manoeuvres the A-Class automatically into the space. The driver simply needs to press the accelerator pedal and use the brake; the ultrasonic sensors associated with PARKTRONIC provide assistance and information on the distance to the vehicle in front of and behind the A-Class.

To be able to use the automatic parking feature, the parking spot only has to be 1.30 metres longer than the A-Class - an indication of the technology’s tremendous precision. Thanks to the very compact dimensions of the A-Class, a parking space of just around 5.19 metres long is sufficient to park; no other car can automatically park in such a small space.

The Mercedes engineers have added a new function to the tried-and-trusted assistance system on the A-Class: the Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) on the A-Class now comes with automatic hill-start assist, which prevents the compact car from rolling backwards if the driver moves his or her foot from the brake to the accelerator pedal when moving off on an uphill slope.

Audio: new units offer Bluetooth, colour display and Europe-wide navigation

Just like all the other new Mercedes models in 2008, the A-Class also comes with enhanced units that provide information, communication, navigation and entertainment. The new Audio 50 APS is fitted with a colour display, Europe-wide DVD navigation system and DVD drive, while the top-of-the-range COMAND APS includes hard-disc navigation, Music Register, a slot for SD memory cards and a voice-operated control system. The newly developed, interactive media interface provides even more options for in-car listening pleasure by allowing an optional MP3 player, USBstick or another external audio device to be connected to the A-Class infotainment system.

B-Class: sports tourer with petrol/natural-gas drive system for the first time

Mercedes-Benz has also revamped the design and technology of the B-Class, the success story launched three years ago. Thanks to a series of detailed improvements, the four-cylinder engines now burn up to seven percent less fuel than previously, and distinguish themselves with remarkably low exhaust emissions that undercut the current EU limits by as much as 90 percent. As with the A-Class, the new ECO start/stop function is also available for the high-volume B 150 and B 170 models. Another new development for the B-Class comes in the shape of the bivalent petrol/natural-gas drive system in the B 170 NGT BlueEFFICIENCY, which consumes just 4.9 kilograms of natural gas per 100 kilometres. Converted into the equivalent quantity of petrol energy, the fuel cost per kilometre is around 50 percent less than when running on petrol.

Mercedes-Benz at the New York International Auto Show: Five new models take to the stage

Mercedes-Benz has developed, upgraded and improved the SL-Class Roaster down to the smallest detail - far beyond any normal facelift. The cult roadster looks sporty, poised and assured, is even more dynamic thanks to a new direct-steer system yet offers more safety and comfort. Two new six-cylinder engines round off the SL line-up: the SL 280 develops 170 kW/ 231 hp and offers a compelling entry-level route into the world of SL sports cars. Meanwhile, a newly developed, particularly free-revving sports engine powers the SL 350.

Mercedes-Benz is continuing its diesel passenger car initiative in the USA with three new SUVs equipped with the world’s latest and cleanest diesel engine. The new models R 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC and GL 320 BlueTEC will initially be available exclusively in America. They are powered by a cutting-edge V6 engine featuring the environmentally friendly BlueTEC technology developed by Mercedes-Benz, with whose help the diesel models produced by the Stuttgart manufacturer already count as the world’s cleanest. The new SUVs are equipped with AdBlue injection, which has already been demonstrating its exemplary effectiveness and economy in Mercedes-Benz trucks and buses for a number of years. As a result the three new models achieve even lower emissions, are able to undercut the stringent Bin 5 limits applicable in the USA thanks to their highly efficient AdBlue exhaust aftertreatment system, and also have the potential to meet the coming EU6 standards. In addition, all three of these new SUVs have also been significantly upgraded with much more extensive standard equipment, and now offer even more comfort together with unique safety features. Accordingly, first-class environmental credentials and outstanding comfort are paired with the already legendary power, economy and operating range of Mercedes-Benz diesel vehicles. With this pioneering achievement, Mercedes-Benz is once again underlining its status as a technological leader. The new diesel cars with BlueTEC technology and AdBlue injection will be available in the USA from autumn 2008.

M-Class - more dynamic, more powerful and with even more style

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the trendsetter among today’s SUVs. Its exceptional status is down to its characteristic dynamic, stylish design, a combination of compelling performance both on and off-road, the ride comfort and ease of operation of a saloon, along with a high perceived value. The M-Class also comes with a range of safety features that are unsurpassed in the SUV segment. Buyers have also come to appreciate these outstanding qualities. Since the second-generation M-Class was launched in April 2005, some 300,000 units have been delivered to customers around the world. As such, the state-of-the-art off‑roader remains one of the most successful vehicles in this rapidly growing market segment.

Mercedes-Benz has now substantially upgraded the new-generation M-Class with fresh styling touches, even higher quality and extensively enhanced equipment and appointments. The premium SUV now looks even more powerful and sportier, making a bolder statement in terms of character and presence.

The front end is dominated by a new-look, robust bumper as well as headlamps with a pronounced step in the lower edge. Three wide, black louvres with large, rectangular air apertures and a gleaming chrome edge give structure to the radiator, making the new-generation M-Class appear even more dominant.

The rear bumper with integrated reflectors has also been restyled, making the M‑Class appear even more poised. The reversing lights also feature darkened indicator repeater lenses in a smoked-glass look. Roof rails are now also included as part of the standard equipment in the M-Class.

Interior with high-grade appointments

The interior of the new-generation, state-of-the-art off-roader has been stylishly upgraded with high-quality materials. In the new interior the eye is drawn to the four-spoke leather multifunction steering wheel with its chrome trim, improved ease of operation.

The new-generation M-Class features a brand new telematics generation developed by Mercedes-Benz, offering a new dimension in user-friendliness and high performance.The occupants are also able to enjoy a surround-sound experience of concert hall quality with the latest generation of the optional Harman Kardon® Logic7® sound system.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class has always set the benchmark in terms of safety in the SUV segment. In future it will also come as standard with the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints.

Fuel consumption reduced by up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres

The M-Class features powerful yet economical V6 and V8 petrol or diesel engines, which are now even more fuel-efficient. The 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive offers outstanding performance both on and off-road.
Five units are available in the new-generation M-Class ranging from 140 to 285 kW (190 to 388 hp). The engineers’ meticulous attention to detail has reduced fuel consumption by up 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres compared with the outgoing models. Moreover, the most powerful engine developing 375 kW/510 hp is available in the guise of the ML 63 AMG 4MATIC.

Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG

The Mercedes-Benz ML 63 AMG, the dynamic top-of-the-line M-Class, is also set to become more distinctive and striking: a chromed underguard now adorns the new front and rear aprons; the AMG radiator grille in high-gloss black with chrome highlights appears much larger than before. A new AMG ergonomic sports steering wheel, new 20-inch AMG light-alloy wheels as well as 21-inch AMG light-alloy wheels available as an option for the first time supplement the facelift features on the ML 63 AMG.

The new-generation SL-Class: sportier than ever before

The SL-Class takes its place alongside the very best Mercedes dream cars. Mercedes-Benz has developed, upgraded and improved the roaster down to the smallest detail — far beyond any normal facelift. The result is a car that offers an incomparable synthesis of sportiness, safety and comfort in this vehicle class: Mercedes refinement on a sportylevel.

The new decidedly sporty, effortlessly assured appearance is in tune with the handling qualities of the Mercedes Roadster, which is even more dynamic thanks to a new direct-steer system yet offers more safety and comfort. Two new six-cylinder engines will supplement the SL line-up from spring 2008: the SL 280 develops 170 kW/231 hp and offers a compelling entry-level route into the world of SL sports cars. The SL 350 is powered by a newly developed, extremely free-revving sports engine. Compared to the previous 3.5-litre engine, the output has been boosted by 16 percent to 232 kW/316 hp, while the peak torque has been increased by 10 newton metres and now stands at 360 newton metres. This powerplant accelerates the new SL 350 from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 6.2 seconds, making it 0.4 seconds faster than the outgoing SL 350. With this sports car, however, the extra power does not come at the expense of fuel economy: at 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the SL 350 is 0.4 litres more economical than the preceding 200 kW/272 hp model on the NEDC driving cycle.

The top-of-the-line models in the SL-Class line-up include the SL 500 with a V8 engine and the twelve-cylinder SL 600. Their engines consume up to 0.4 litres less fuel per 100 kilometres than before.

Group Senior Vice President and Head of Global External Affairs and Public Policy to leave end of the first quarter 2008

Stuttgart/Washington - Daimler AG today announced the retirement of Robert G. Liberatore, Group Senior Vice President and Head of Global External Affairs and Public Policy. He (59) will retire from the company at the end of the first quarter. Liberatore is responsible for relations with governments and societies around the world and reports to the Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche. He will join the German Marshall Fund as a Senior Transatlantic Fellow.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “I thank Rob Liberatore for his professional and loyal support over the years. He will be difficult to replace. Rob Liberatore combines an understanding of the priorities of government officials with a sophisticated knowledge of our business. He represented our company with integrity, and led our involvement in a broad array of socially responsible activities. Rob is a trusted adviser, and friend, and I wish him continued success in the next chapter of his career”.

Liberatore said: “After 23 years in the auto industry, ten of which were spent working for this great company, it is time to explore other challenges, especially in the not-for-profit sector. I have spent much of the last ten years focused on the transatlantic relationship which will remain a keen interest. I have had the most interesting job possible working at the global intersection of business and government at Chrysler, DaimlerChrysler and Daimler AG. And I thank Dieter Zetsche for his great support”, Liberatore said.
Liberatore started his career with Chase Manhattan Bank, worked in the United States Senate for ten years including serving as Staff Director for then Minority Leader Robert C. Byrd, and began work with Chrysler Corporation in 1985.

His successor will be announced at a later date. Dieter Spoeri, Corporate Representative in the Berlin Office of Daimler and a former member of the German Parliament, the Bundestag, and a former Baden-Wuerttemberg Economic Minister, will lead the External Affairs and Public Policy Department until a successor to Mr. Liberatore is in place.

About Daimler

Daimler AG, Stuttgart, with its businesses Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Trucks, Daimler Financial Services, Mercedes-Benz Vans and Daimler Buses, is a globally leading producer of premium passenger cars and the largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles in the world. The Daimler Financial Services division has a broad offering of financial services, including vehicle financing, leasing, insurance and fleet management. Daimler sells its products in nearly all the countries of the world and has production facilities on five continents. The company’s founders, Gottlieb Daimler and Carl Benz, continued to make automotive history following their invention of the automobile in 1886. As an automotive pioneer, Daimler and its employees willingly accept an obligation to act responsibly towards society and the environment and to shape the future of safe and sustainable mobility with groundbreaking technologies and high-quality products. The current brand portfolio includes the world’s most valuable automobile brand, Mercedes-Benz, as well as smart, AMG, Maybach, Freightliner, Sterling, Western Star, Mitsubishi Fuso, Setra, Orion and Thomas Built Buses. The company is listed on the stock exchanges in Frankfurt, New Yorkand Stuttgart(stock exchange abbreviation DAI). In 2007, the Group sold 2.1 million vehicles and employed a workforce of over 270,000 people; revenue totaled €99.4 billion and EBIT amounted to €8.7 billion. Daimler is an automotive Group with a commitment to excellence, and aims to achieve sustainable growth and industry-leading profitability.

Mercedes-Benz is continuing to build on its world-leading position in the field of clean diesel technology. The Stuttgart-based manufacturer has become the world’s first car producer to receive a certificate for licensing BlueTEC SUVs in all 50 US states.

Mercedes-Benz will shortly be launching three BlueTEC SUVs – the ML 320 BlueTEC, the R 320 BlueTEC and the GL 320 BlueTEC – featuring the technology for the world’s cleanest diesels. The vehicles, which will first be available in the US, comply with the extremely strict requirements of the American Bin 5 and ULEV emission standards, making Mercedes-Benz the first manufacturer to be able to license diesel SUVs in all 50 US states. Following the successful market launch of the “clean diesel pioneer” – E 320 BlueTEC – in October 2006, this new step – which coincides with the 150th anniversary of Rudolf Diesel’s birth – is another extremely important milestone in the diesel initiative launched by Mercedes-Benz.

As a modular concept for reducing emissions from diesel vehicles in an efficient manner, the Mercedes-Benz-developed BlueTEC technology incorporates a raft of harmonised technical measures for the effective aftertreatment of exhaust gases. Components used in this process include an oxidising catalytic converter and a particulate filter. The primary objective, however, is to reduce nitrogen-oxide emissions drastically, since these are now the only exhaust-gas constituents that are more prevalent in diesel engines than they are in their petrol counterparts.

Mercedes-Benz has developed two versions for this. Both the E 320 BlueTEC Saloon available in the US and the E 300 BlueTEC variant for the European market are equipped with a combination of oxidising catalytic converter and particulate filter with an extremely long-lasting NOx storage catalytic converter and an additional SCR catalytic converter (SCR= Selective Catalytic Reduction). The second BlueTEC version is being used for the new GL 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC and R 320 BlueTEC models, in which AdBlue, a harmless aqueous urea solution, is injected into the exhaust-gas stream. This process releases ammonia, which converts up to 80 percent of the nitrogen oxides into harmless nitrogen and water by a process of reduction in the downstream SCR catalytic converter.

Stuttgart - The most desirable of all Mercedes-Benz models appear like jewels before a spectacular mountain landscape: the new generations of the SL, SLK, and CLS. Mercedes-Benz is presenting three dream cars together for the first time, in a brand campaign conceived to make the premium automotive brand even more desirable than ever before.

“With this campaign we are for the first time displaying our new strategic approach, which we sum up with the motto ‘The Culture of Driving’. The aim is to further sharpen the profile of the Mercedes-Benz brand,” says Dr. Olaf Göttgens, Vice President Brand Communications Mercedes-Benz Cars. This is why the campaign’s focus is not on a single vehicle type, but on the brand itself. “Presenting the three dream cars together conveys the fascination of the Mercedes-Benz brand, so it should also generate spillover effects for all of our models,” adds Göttgens.

The campaign will commence in mid-March 2008 and employ all channels of communication - from print advertisements to mobile marketing and online communication to CRM, dealer marketing, and events. The integrated campaign gives center stage to the latest “heir” of the SL legend, which is being brought vividly to life in a television commercial. Titled “Sternschnuppe” (shooting star), the TV ad tells a story of a couple on a romantic trip through the mountains in the roadster. The man in the spot - unlike his feminine “better half” - can think only of his vehicle and the prospects of driving on stretches of road featuring even more exciting curves.

The fascination campaign will kick off a whole series of new brand campaigns slated for this year, and each will communicate a specific aspect of the Mercedes-Benz brand’s ‘Culture of Driving’.