S-Class market launch: New Mercedes-Benz S-Class is introduced in all key markets

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class is now available in all key markets. Following its launch in Europe at the end of July and in China at the end of September, it is also available at dealers in the USA since this week. This means that Mercedes-Benz has introduced its flagship model into the top three S-Class markets in less than twelve weeks, making the S-Class launch the fastest ever in the company's history.

This almost simultaneous launch in all key markets was only possible because production of the luxury saloon started up in record time at Mercedes-Benz's main plant in Sindelfingen. All S-Class vehicles for global distribution are rolling off the production line in Sindelfingen in a two-shift operation. So far, more than 30,000 customers have ordered the luxury sedan.

"Since its launch three month ago, the new S-Class has already jumped back into the lead in terms of new vehicle registrations in Germany and its neighbouring European countries, seamlessly building on the success of its predecessor," says Ola K�llenius, Member of the Divisional Board Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for Marketing & Sales. "Our customers around the world are raving about the cutting-edge design, the exemplary efficiency and the groundbreaking safety systems of the new S-Class."

For customers and automotive experts alike, the S-Class has long been the yardstick for advanced engineering and luxury driving. The innovative safety systems featured in the new S-Class include the DISTRONIC PLUS with Steer Assist and Stop & Go Pilot, which help the driver to stay in lane and even enable the car to drive itself in a traffic jam with only minimal intervention. The sensors of the MAGIC BODY CONTROL are another highlight: They make the new S-Class the first vehicle worldwide that is able to detect surface undulations in the road ahead and prime the suspension accordingly � offering an unparalleled level of driving comfort.

The new S-Class achieves fuel-consumption figures that were unimaginable in the mid-range series only a few years ago. Mercedes-Benz's new flagship model uses around 20 percent less fuel than its predecessor, making it the most economical sedan in the luxury segment.

In 2012, Mercedes-Benz delivered over 65,000 vehicles of the S-Class. After China, the USA is the second-largest market for the S-Class. Last year, more than two thirds of all luxury sedans sold worldwide went to customers in these two countries. A feature of vehicles sold there is the extended wheelbase: The vehicles of the S-Class in China and the USA are 20 centimetres longer.

In the mid-1950s, the 220 model laid the foundation for the S-Class series. Since this time, Mercedes-Benz has delivered over 3.5 million S-Class vehicles to customers all over the world. The preceding generation alone sold over half a million units.

The launch of the new S-Class extends the Mercedes-Benz model range in the luxury segment to a total of six variants: There will now be three new models in addition to the short wheelbase and extended wheelbase variants and the S-Class coup�. To achieve this, Daimler is investing heavily in the Mercedes-Benz plant in Sindelfingen. Between 2011 and 2014, around �350 million is being pumped into the S-Class bodyshell, around �130 million into the vehicle press shop and around �70 million into assembly. This year alone, investment in the Sindelfingen plant is set to total around �1 billion.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright � 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Living Electric: Daimler is the market leader in electric cars

In 2013 Daimler AG is once again asserting its market leadership in electric cars in Germany. In the first half of 2013 the electrically powered models from Mercedes-Benz and smart achieved a market share of 42 percent. The absolute leader is the electric smart, which heads the registration list for electric cars with 983 units and a market share of 40 percent. Compared to the previous year, the company has therefore increased its unit sales of electrically powered models in Germany by around 80 percent.

Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development: "For us, the future of mobility has long centred on electrification. With a total of nine locally emission-free vehicles with battery or fuel cell power, Daimler AG already has the widest range of electric vehicles on the road. We are very pleased that our German competitors are bringing even more impetus to electric mobility with their own first electric vehicles."

smart � trailblazer in electric mobility

Now an electrically powered automotive icon, the smart fortwo electric drive has been making its mark on roads around the world with its locally emission-free drive system since as far back as 2007. With a lively 35-55 kW, a top speed of 125 km/h and a range of 145 km, it is the perfect companion for practically any mobility scenario in the city. According to the recent findings of one motoring magazine, it is also the best performer among electric vehicles in terms of operating costs. Customer feedback speaks for itself: 93 percent of all E-smart drivers unreservedly recommend the vehicle. Since 2012 the electrically powered two-seater has been out and about on Germany's roads with absolutely zero emissions: coinciding with the start of series production of the third model generation, Daimler AG took a wind turbine into operation. Its nominal output of 2.3 megawatts per year is sufficient to generate sustainable electric power for all the smart fortwo electric drive cars sold in Germany.

The variant of the electric drive modified by the vehicle tuner BRABUS brings even more dynamism into the electric smart world. Thanks to a higher output of 60 kW, maximum torque of 135 Nm and a maximum speed of 130 km/h, the two-seater zips along even more enthusiastically. Acceleration from zero to 60 km/h takes just 4.4 seconds, and the speedometer shows 100 km/h after 10.2 seconds.

Electric mobility on two wheels completes the electric portfolio of the smart brand. A 250-watt hub motor by Bionx at the rear wheel assists the rider of the smart ebike up to a speed of 25 km/h. The energy for a range of up to 100 kilometres is stored by a 423 Wh lithium-ion battery. As a recipient of the coveted "Red Dot Design Award", the smart ebike is available for as little as � 2,849. While the rider of the ebike has to operate the pedals, the next two-wheeled product from smart requires no muscle power at all: the smart scooter.

Locally emission-free with the Mercedes star

This year the latest addition to the Mercedes E-model range has celebrated its world premiere in the USA. Due to be launched from 2014, the B-Class Electric Drive impresses with locally emission-free driving pleasure and no compromises, plus the usual high Mercedes standard of safety and comfort for up to five occupants. The B-Class Electric Drive generates a peak output of over 100 kW and, with acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in under ten seconds, demonstrates that electrically powered vehicles are by no means "slouches", but on the contrary capable of dynamic performance. Its top speed is 160 km/h, the operating range around 200 kilometres.

The sheer fascination of E-mobility is embodied by the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coup� Electric Drive. Presented at the 2012 Paris Motor Show as a limited series production version, the world's most powerful electric super-sports car can now be ordered by customers and continues to impress, not least with its outstanding performance figures: an output of 552 kW, maximum torque of 1,000 Nm which is available right from the start as in all electric models, and acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. It has a range of around 250 kilometres. This super sports car achieved a lap time of 7:56.234 minutes on the North Loop of the N�rburgring, setting a record in its class. The SLS AMG Coup� Electric Drive is available for � 416,500.

As a pioneer in the field of fuel cell technology, Daimler AG produced the first of around 200 examples of the B-Class F-CELL (100 kW/136 hp, range 380 kilometres, top speed 170 km/h) in Rastatt back in 2009. During the Mercedes-Benz F-CELL World Drive 2011, the technology impressively demonstrated its high level of maturity over more than 30,000 kilometres around the globe. Since the presentation of the first prototype in 1994, the company remains committed to this high-potential technology on the road to sustainable mobility. The partnership with Ford and Nissan further underscores the company's determination to bring the technology to market. From 2017 the first competitive series production models with fuel cell power are to be available on a broad basis.

Hybrid drive for the E- and S-Class

Suitably configured hybrid models round off the range of electric drive systems from Mercedes-Benz. In the case of the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, which combines a four-cylinder diesel engine (150 kW/204 hp) with an electric motor (20 kW/27 hp), fuel consumption is just 4.1 l/100 km, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 107 g/km. These figures secure a top position in this segment for the E-hybrid. Moreover, the recent findings of one motoring magazine confirm that it has the most favourable operating costs. In combination with the optional 80-litre fuel tank, and if the advantages of its hybrid drive are consistently exploited, the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID can achieve an operating range of 1,900 kilometres, so completely redefining the concept of a long-distance vehicle. In markets where the diesel engine is of lesser importance, the E-Class is available with petrol hybrid drive.

The Mercedes-Benz hybrid system is modular and scalable in design, and can be applied to numerous model series. In the coming years, in line with the timing of new model introductions, there will be numerous new hybrid models. The modular hybrid system also shows its strengths in conjunction with the different drive systems. In-line four-cylinder engines (petrol and diesel) can be hybridised just as well as e.g. a V6 petrol engine.

The new S-Class demonstrates how luxury and sustainability can be combined at a previously unprecedented level. Apart from fuel-optimised petrol and diesel models, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are available. Joining the S400 Hybrid, the S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID will be launched next year as the first car in the luxury segment to offer a fuel consumption level of under five litres per 100 kilometres. Also in the coming year, the S 500 PLUG-IN HYBRID will set new standards in the luxury class with a fuel consumption of less than four litres per 100 km. While the S 400 HYBRID meets the criteria for efficiency class A, the S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is the only luxury saloon to be classified as A+.

Electric drive also for commercial vehicles

In addition to passenger cars, Mercedes-Benz also offers a range of electrically powered commercial vehicles. Series production of the Vito E-CELL, for example, commenced as early as 2010. The electrically powered Vito is now available in 15 European countries. The van is powered by a 60 kW electric motor (maximum torque 280 Nm). The lithium-ion batteries with a capacity of 36 Kwh are located beneath the load compartment floor so that load capacity is not restricted and a maximum payload of 850 kilograms is possible. A top speed that is limited to 89 km/h allows a range of 130 kilometres. The Fuso Canter E-CELL is also part of Daimler's electric vehicle portfolio. It is powered by a 70 kW electric motor and has a range of 120 kilometres. The award-winning, emission-free Mercedes-Benz Citaro FuelCELL Hybrid city bus, which has been servicing urban public transport networks in European cities since 2011, also demonstrates that fuel cell technology is suitable for use in large vehicles. Freightliner in the USA offers the Custom Chassis MT E-CELL All Electric.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright � 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

From 20th July 2013 at dealers: The new Mercedes-Benz S-Class makes its appearance

With its three development priorities of "Intelligent Drive", "Efficient Technology" and "Essence of Luxury", the new S-Class is broadening technical horizons at many levels. As was the case with each previous generation, customers expect the new S-Class to set standards in every respect � and to earn for itself once again the accolade of "The best car in the world". From 20th July, customers will be able to experience the new S-Class 'live' at their local Mercedes-Benz dealership.

"The S-Class is the technological spearhead not only of Mercedes-Benz but of automotive development per se. And has been for decades. This is why the S-Class is also the world's best-selling luxury vehicle", emphasised Dr Joachim Schmidt, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for Sales and Marketing. "Even before the official market launch we have received 20,000 orders. With this enormous interest in the car I am certain that the success of the S-Class will continue."

The new S-Class has already been the recipient of several awards in the Automotive Brand Contest 2013: both the exterior and the interior design were given the accolade "Best of Best". The Automotive Brand Contest is organised by the well-known "Rat f�r Formgebung" (Design Council).

Perfection to the last detail: new ideas, painstakingly implemented

Perfection down to the last detail creates "The Essence of Luxury". These efforts to achieve the very best possible can be seen, for example, in the vehicle interior: Whether the seats or the air conditioning, whether operation or design, whether infotainment or rear-seat comfort and safety � new ideas, their painstaking realisation and the very highest perceived quality underline the expectations of the engineers for the Mercedes-Benz flagship model � and for themselves.

The same applies to safety: what began with PRE-SAFE� ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS is now leading to a new dimension in driving. Comfort and safety have blended into one. Mercedes-Benz calls this "Intelligent Drive". A large number of new systems make the new S-Class even more comfortable and safe.

The efficiency with which the S-Class drives sounds almost utopian: by implementing "Efficient Technology" Mercedes-Benz has for example, within the space of ten years, almost halved fuel consumption in the 150 kW output category to 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres. The drag coefficient of the S-Class improves on its predecessor once again, setting the new benchmark in its segment at Cd = 0.24. Thanks to further detailed aerodynamic improvements, the S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID will even better these figures and achieve a new best at Cd = 0.23. The new model is also the first car worldwide to dispense completely with light-bulbs, for example � it only has LEDs. This too points the way to the future.

The drive system: class-leading efficiency in every output category

In its first year the new S-Class line-up features two hybrid versions, one petrol model and a diesel variant: S 400 HYBRID, S 500, S 350 BlueTEC and S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID. All models boast class-leading efficiency and up to 20 percent lower fuel consumption than the outgoing model series. All the engines already meet the requirements of the Euro 6 emissions standard. In addition to this, the S 400 HYBRID and S 350 BlueTEC meet the strict criteria of efficiency class A, while the S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID even has an A+ rating.

"The new S-Class achieves consumption and emissions figures that only a few years ago would have seemed utopian even in the intermediate class", says Professor Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "And this is just the start of our 'Green Leadership' initiative: soon to be followed by the S 500 Plug-In HYBRID � the first S-Class with fuel consumption lower than four litres per 100 kilometres." The S-Class line-up therefore for the first time now includes the full range from petrol and diesel models to petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrids.

Model data at a glance:

The concept: the best of two worlds

For the first time in the history of the S-Class, the development focus was on the long-wheelbase saloon. In a change from the previous approach, the version with a standard wheelbase was derived from this. This strategy takes account of the fact that the S-Class's clear positioning as a prestige saloon does not only apply in the overseas markets such as the USA, China or Japan. Whereas in Europe and North America, owners of an S-Class are frequently behind the wheel themselves, in Asia the flagship in our passenger car portfolio is very clearly a chauffeur-driven car. The logical consequence of this is a whole range of new features to enhance comfort and safety in the rear of the vehicle � in the S-Class, passengers seated in the rear are very definitely sitting in the best seats just as much as those in the front.

Prices at a glance, incl. 19% VAT:

Over 3.5 million customers and numerous awards

Over 500,000 models from the last S-Class model series have been delivered to customers around the world since its launch in September 2005, meaning that this S-Class sold even better than the previous generation. Since the launch of the 220 model that laid the foundations for the S-Class model series, Mercedes-Benz has delivered more than 3.5 million of these vehicles to customers all around the world.

The most important innovations at a glance

Assistance systems

- DISTRONIC PLUS with STEER CONTROL and Stop & Go Pilot

- BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist

- Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus

- Night View Assist Plus

- Active Lane Keeping Assist

- 360� camera

- Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC

- PRE-SAFE� PLUS for protection in the event of a rear end collision

- PRE-SAFE� Brake with pedestrian detection and urban braking function
Safety

- Belt buckle extender (active belt buckle)

- Adaptive airbag configuration (Active Vent)

- Beltbag for outer rear seats

- PRE-SAFE� impulse

Sound

- Frontbass

- Burmester� High-End 3D Surround Sound system

Chassis and suspension

- Magic Body Control

- AIRMATIC with variable damper control

Drive system

- Hybrid for diesel engines

Telematics

- COMAND Online (NTG 5)

- Individual Entertainment in the rear

- Mercedes-Benz COMAND control app for the iPhone�

Boot

- HANDS-FREE ACCESS

Seating comfort

- First-Class rear suite (including thermo-cupholders)

- EASY ADJUST luxury head restraint (folding and removable on the front passenger side)

- Luxury head restraint

- Executive seat on front passenger side with leg rest

- ENERGIZING massage function

- Seat climatisation / reversible seat cooling

- Chauffeur position for front passenger seat

Climatic comfort

- Perfuming

- Ionisation

- Armrest heating (Panel Heating)

- Pre-climatisation for hybrids

Light and Sight

- First car to use only LEDs for lighting

- MAGIC VISION CONTROL

- Ambience lighting (extended choice of seven colours)

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright � 2013, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.