Geneva Motor Show 2015: Mercedes-Benz Concept V-ision e

The Concept V?ision e from Mercedes-Benz presents a preview of the great variety of development potential offered by the V-Class. The concept vehicle combines environmentally friendly performance with the lightness of modern luxury. The most advanced PLUG-IN HYBRID technology available ensures extremely powerful propulsion in the model, as the highly efficient drive-system duo consisting of a gasoline engine and an electric motor delivers total system output of 245 kW (333 hp) and system torque of up to 600 Nm. This guarantees sporty driving performance, even as rated fuel consumption amounts to less than 3.0 liters per 100 km. The vehicle can travel up to 50 km in the all-electric mode, making short daily trips a locally emission-free delight. The interior of the Concept V?ision e offers a unique feeling of comfort in a modern loft-like atmosphere. The biggest panoramic sliding roof in the mid-size-van segment floods the spacious interior with light. In combination with bright white appointments and a brown real-wood floor, this creates a previously unattained feeling of expansiveness, freedom, and lightness. Additional possibilities for personalizing the V?Class are offered by numerous new comfort features, such as rear executive seats with calf support, a massage function, and footrests, as well as a large center console with thermal cup holders and a five-liter cooler.

�The Concept V?ision e demonstrates the potential the Mercedes among MPVs will offer in the future when it comes to accommodating our customers� wishes - and market demand - by offering greater exclusivity and more personalization options,� says Volker Mornhinweg, Head of Mercedes-Benz Vans. �Our pioneering Mercedes?Benz PLUG-IN HYBRID technology has enabled us to increase the output of the most powerful V?Class at the moment by 105 kW, even as we�ve lowered fuel consumption to the level of a compact. That�s what I call forward-looking performance enhancement.�

PLUG-IN HYBRID: Sporty performance at the highest level of efficiency

The Concept V?ision e utilizes the same advanced drive system that ensures the extraordinary dynamic handling and efficiency in the new Mercedes-Benz C 350 e. Its four-cylinder gasoline engine has an output of 155 kW (210 hp) and develops a maximum torque of 350 Nm, while the electric motor delivers 90 kW and 340 Nm of torque. This results in a system output of 245 kW (333 hp) and a system torque of up to 600 Nm. The Concept V?ision e sprints from 0�100 km/h in 6.1 seconds, which makes this hybrid even faster out of the box than the current V 250 BlueTEC top engine variant - and more than well equipped to overtake other vehicles quickly. The model�s top speed is 206 km/h. Its NEDC fuel consumption of 3.0 liters per 100 km corresponds to CO2 emissions of 71 g per km. The MPV concept can travel up to 50 km in the all-electric mode if driven at a maximum speed of 80 km/h. This means that short daily trips to work, for example, can be driven completely emission free, which offers a major environmental benefit in cities especially.

Energy for the electric motor is stored in a high-voltage lithium-ion battery with a total capacity of 13.5 kWh. The battery is installed in a paneled sheet steel housing in the trunk. Because of the spaciousness of the V?Class, the battery has only a minor effect on the vehicle�s cargo volume and the versatility of the interior. The high-voltage battery can be recharged using an external power source and thus makes a very effective contribution to the model�s low fuel consumption and emissions. An intelligent onboard charging system enables the battery to be recharged in less than two hours using a wallbox or a public charging station (400 V, 7.2 kW, single-phase). The battery can also be recharged via any normal household outlet. The charging time here amounts to approximately five hours, depending on the type of connection used (230 V, 13 A, 3.0 kW, single-phase).

The vehicle�s intelligent drive-system management program automatically selects the ideal combination of combustion engine and electric motor. The range of options here includes a nearly silent electrical start (silent start), use of the electric motor to support the gasoline engine during acceleration, for example (boost), and energy recovery (recuperation) during braking and when the vehicle is coasting. All recovered energy is stored in the battery and can later be used for electric driving or for the boost function. Drivers can also manage hybrid interaction manually, in which case they can choose from four different modes that can be selected using a switch. The modes are: Hybrid (all hybrid functions are available), E-Mode (all-electric driving), E-Save (the battery�s charge level is maintained), and Charge (the battery is charged while driving). A display in the center of the instrument cluster shows the current mode.

The hybrid vehicle is also equipped with an electrically operated air conditioning compressor and electrical heating components that ensure a pleasantly cool interior in the summer and comfortable heat in the winter. The desired interior climate can be preprogrammed along with a departure time using buttons on the steering wheel or a menu in the instrument cluster. As is the case with the C 350 e, it will be possible in the future to use the website at http://connect.mercedes.me to enter climate settings and battery recharging parameters in advance and also remotely call up data on the battery-charge state and the current all-electric range of the vehicle.

Dynamic exterior with sporty styling

The extraordinary handling and efficiency of the high-tech hybrid drive system is underscored by the exterior design of the Concept V?ision e, which features impressive paintwork and sporty-aerodynamic styling. The concept vehicle has a designo titanium alubeam paint, which on the one hand lends the exterior a cool and technical look. At the same time, however, special high-quality pigments create fascinating color-tone nuances and shadow effects, depending on the incidence of light outside.

The model�s dynamic styling also creates a lasting impression with sporty side skirts and bumpers, a rear spoiler, and multi-spoke 20-inch wheels with a high-sheen polish, all of which give the V?Class a distinctly athletic and agile look.

Loft-like interior: The lightness of modern luxury

The interior of the Concept V?ision e brings to mind the atmosphere of a modern loft - sun-drenched luxurious spaciousness. Virtually the entire roof of the vehicle is made of glass. The 2.14 m� panoramic sliding sunroof is the biggest in the mid-size van segment and lets an extraordinary amount of light into the interior. In combination with bright white appointments that seem to float above the contrasting dark floor made of English walnut, the roof creates an incomparable feeling of expansiveness, freedom, and lightness.

The Concept V?ision e interior shines in white nappa leather and white DINAMICA microfiber material that extend from the seats to the doors, side paneling, instrument cluster, and roof liner. A fresh impression is made by colored piping, seams, and fabric trimmings made of ultra-modern micro-fiber fabrics, as well as a large brushed aluminum trim element on the instrument cluster. This modern and elegant design style is rounded out by discreet ambient lighting on the side interior walls. The lighting system has five dimmer settings, and its three color tones of neutral (white), solar (amber), and polar (ice-blue) allow for a personalized lighting mood. The vehicle�s color and material concept, and its ambient lighting, create a sense of exceptionally high value and quality, which in combination with the V?Class� progressive design idiom brings modern luxury in all of its lightness to life.

Panoramic sliding sunroof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature

The 1.92 x 1.12-m panoramic sliding sunroof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL is divided into two sections: an electrically operated sliding glass roof in the front and a stationary glass roof in the rear. The MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature makes it possible to switch the entire glass surface to clear or dark with just the push of a button. When clear, the roof is almost completely transparent and lets in light unobstructed to create a feeling of unlimited expansiveness. When the roof is darkened, the amount of light it lets in falls to less than one percent. This can be very beneficial on hot sunny days, since it reduces the heat that accumulates in the interior by as much as 10 degrees Celsius. The panoramic sunroof is also equipped with a two-piece electric roller sunblind that can be used to completely darken the interior. This not only keeps the interior from getting too hot; it also allows the passengers to work comfortably or relax in the back of the vehicle on hot sunny days.

If the roof is open and it starts to rain, a rain sensor causes the panoramic sunroof to move into the tilt position, thereby preventing water from getting into the interior. The roof also automatically closes when the vehicle enters a tunnel in order to ensure pollutant emissions and tunnel odors are kept out of the passenger compartment. The panoramic sunroof and the roller sunblind can be operated with a switch on the roof control panel, as well as via a central switch on the ceiling in the rear.

Executive seats, comfortable tables, and an iPad holder: a comfortable office or a quiet place to relax

Along with the panoramic sliding sunroof, the Concept V?ision e also includes other new equipment features that make for even greater comfort and more varied personalization options for the V?Class as a private or business vehicle - and for even more exclusive tastes as well.

The executive seats in the rear offer outstanding additional comfort, especially on longer journeys. As is the case in the S?Class, these seats are ideal for either concentrated work or relaxation. The push of a button is all it takes to recline the seats into a lying position with an inclination of up to 49 degrees. With their integrated calf supports, separate footrests, and additional pillows, the seats offer the highest degree of sleeping comfort or relaxation when fully reclined. The footrests are located on the seat rails behind the driver and front passenger seats and can be moved back and forth. These footrests also offer comfort to rear passengers when their seats are in the upright position. The steepest backrest angle is 21 degrees. The seats, calf supports, and footrests are all upholstered with white nappa leather. The executive seats are also equipped with a three-stage heating and ventilation system and a relaxing massage feature. All features are controlled via switches on the inside of the armrests. Because the V?Class interior is so spacious, the executive seats can be combined with standard individual seats or optional seat benches as well. They thus expand the wide variety of seating configuration options in the Mercedes-Benz MPV in a most exclusive way.

The Concept V?ision e provides a comfortable working environment with two convenient tables integrated into the driver and front-passenger seat backrests that can be easily folded out in the rear. Each of the tables is 35 x 35 cm, which offers sufficient space for documents. The table surfaces are covered in white nappa leather. The front-seat backrests also include a convenient iPad holder and docking station with an integrated charging interface and two USB charging ports. The docking station can be tilted and rotated 90 degrees. All outlets - for example, for headphones - always remain freely accessible, regardless of the docking station�s position.

Convenient operation of roof and seat functions with an iPad app

First-class comfort is also ensured in the Concept V?ision e when it comes to operating the various features of the panoramic sunroof and the executive seats. Besides the switches inside the vehicle, an iPad app can be used to open and close the sliding sunroof via the MAGIC SKY CONTROL system, as well as to operate the sunblind, adjust seating or reclining positions, and activate the massage, seat heating, and seat ventilation features. The app offers a preview of future possibilities for increasing operating comfort in the rear of the V?Class MPV.

Large center console with thermal cup holders, a cooler, and power outlets

Another new feature that benefits both the rear passengers and the driver and front passenger is the large center console. The front of this unit has an upholstered armrest, two cup holders, and a compartment for storing cell phones. Underneath the armrest is a multimedia unit with two USB ports and an SD card slot, as well as a large stowage compartment and a five-liter cooler that can be turned on and off with the push of a button. The cooler offers enough space for two half-liter bottles. The back of the center console has two thermal cup holders for the rear passengers, as well as a 220-V and a 12-V socket, and a stowage area with ambient lighting in three colors.

Concept V?ision e: The V?Class is becoming even more personalized

From its sporty exterior design to its exclusive comfort features and environmentally friendly PLUG-IN HYBRID drive system - the Concept V?ision e makes it clear that the Mercedes among MPVs offers enormous potential in terms of the versatility required to meet varied customer requirements and wishes. Regardless of whether it�s used as a private vehicle by families and people who participate in a lot of leisure activities, or as a luxury business sedan, the V?Class will offer even more personalization options in the future. The Concept V?ision e thus underscores the V?Class claim of being the ideal vehicle for anyone interested in a spacious model with its very own style - and one that offers the highest degree of comfort and an ultra-modern drive system to power it.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright � 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Geneva Motor Show 2015: Near-series show car Mercedes-Benz G 500 4x4�

Only a G-Class can be better than a G-Class. This is the credo followed by the developers with the Mercedes-Benz G 63 AMG 6x6, and they are now stepping up a gear with the G 500 4x4�. The basic recipe for this overcomer of everything is simple: take the superior all-wheel-drive powertrain including portal axles from the 6x6 � take away one axle - and blend it all with a newly-developed variable chassis and the series-production G-Class body. A large pinch of V8 power with 310 kW (422 hp), a set of 22-inch 325/55 R 22-sized wheels, carbon-fibre detachable body parts and then just gourmet ingredients from the seductive designo Exclusive range for the interior � and the 5-star menu for all off-road enthusiasts is ready.

A new addition to the extreme G-Class model family: the G 63 AMG 6x6 has a model brother in the form of the G 500 4x4�. The near-series show car is a new highlight in the superlative-rich history of the G-Class and blends all the advantages of the model series. The series-production models of the G-Class supply the unshakeable foundations in the form of the body and ladder-type frame, which compensate for the considerably increased performance of the G 500 4x4� without any problem and also without any type of reinforcements. The G 63 AMG 6x6 donates an amended version of the ruggedly determined permanent all-wheel-drive powertrain with portal axles. The engine compartment houses a completely new V8 engine with a displacement of four litres, direct injection and biturbocharging. Also new is the chassis with dual spring/damper struts and adjustable damping. Finally, in the interior, the G 500 4x4� occupants enjoy comfort and an ambience on a par with a luxury saloon.

New engine offers V8 biturbo power

The 4.0 litre V8 biturbo engine in the G 500 4x4� stands out for its sublime power delivery, the targeted lightweight construction, as well as its high efficiency. The newly developed eight-cylinder features twin turbochargers which are not mounted on the outside of the cylinder banks but rather inside the V configuration � what is known as the 'hot inside V'. The advantages lie in the compact engine design, the optimum response and the low exhaust gas emissions. The piezo direct petrol injection used exclusively at Mercedes-Benz is responsible for the mixture formation. The spray-guided combustion process has been enhanced in the third generation to meet all future statutory requirements. In series production, the highly efficient and economical 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine would meet the Euro 6 emission standard, including the maximum particulate emissions level that will not take effect until 2016.

The V8 crankcase consists of an aluminium alloy and ensures maximum strength with the lowest possible weight. The cylinder walls in NANOSLIDE� technology are twice as hard as conventional cast-iron cylinder liners, minimise the inner friction and thus the fuel required and facilitate maximum mileages. NANOSLIDE� was developed by Daimler starting in the year 2000 and has so far been used successfully and reliably in over 200,000 engines since 2006.

Twin sidepipes on both sides in front of the rear wheels modulate the G-typical sound of the G 500 4x4� and master the entire repertoire of potent sports cars � from soft mumbling in neutral through sonorous humming in the partial-load range to emphatic booming when accelerating under full load. A welcome side effect of the sidepipes: there is improved off-road capability, because in the rear area there are none of the usual rear silencers, which could otherwise restrict the angle of departure.

Things are really looking up both on and off-road

In view of the key data for the chassis and powertrain it seems more than logical that the off-road world starts for the G 500 4x4� where other vehicles capitulate. But it is surprising that the new "G" puts in an absolutely convincing performance on the asphalt. Due to the considerably wider track of the portal axles compared with the series-production car (+299 mm), the large 22-inch 325/55 R 22-sized wheels and the adjustable damping with its Sport mode, the enhanced G-Class drives through bends so dynamically that the occupants feel as though they are in a sports car rather than a cross-country vehicle. This also applies to tours on unsurfaced slopes or snow-bound roads, in which case the performance of a high-powered rally car kicks in.

For anyone preferring to use the G 500 4x4� off the beaten track, the optional off-road size 37 x 12.5 x 18-inch MT tyres are recommended. Permanent all-wheel drive, an off-road reduction in the transfer case, portal axles and three differentials lockable whilst on the move will not be found on conventional cross-country vehicles. This results in merciless driving dynamics in all conditions. Even the highest sand dunes are stormed by the show car with ease, whilst rocky terrain is scaled like a chamois, and water is driven through without any problems.

The portal axles developed for versatile applications supplement the off-road portfolio of Mercedes-Benz and are the technical highlight of the G 500 4x4� show car. As opposed to conventional rigid axles, here the wheels are not at the height of the centre of the axle, instead they are situated much further below on the axle heads due to the portal transmission. Therefore, on the G 500 4x4� the ground clearance rises to 450 millimetres and the fording depth � or rather the diving depth � to 1000 millimetres. Here are the off-road data in comparison with the series-production Mercedes-Benz G 500:

At the highest level: the portal axles� tricks

But the portal axle design has yet more decisive advantages which render complex adjustments superfluous: through the unchanged position of the rigid axles in relation to the chassis, the anchorage points of the suspension, the steering connection and the position of the cardan shafts all remain identical. In addition, the reduction in the portal transmissions balances the huge rolling circumferences in both the off-road and the on-road tyres. The gear ratios, speedometer drive and ABS sensor system also remain unchanged. This reduction in the hub drives also has the effect that the drive torque is first set at the wheel and thus the mechanical loads in the entire powertrain, in particular for the drive shafts, are reduced.

Mobile declaration of independence � the chassis

The chassis is fundamentally based on the series-production G model and offers a perfect symbiosis of sporty dynamism and relaxed comfort, both on the road and off it. The new damper adjustment, derived from rally sport, has a decisive effect here. Two spring/damper struts running in parallel are used per wheel. One spring/damper strut works conventionally with set damper characteristics. The second spring strut has electronically controlled adjustable damping, which thus varies the entire damping behaviour depending on the current driving situation. With this set-up, considerable kingpin inclination is possible between the settings SPORT and COMFORT, which the driver can select using a button in the centre console. The switching times between the two modes are record-breakingly low, at 15 milliseconds.

During dynamic cornering the sporty setting performs sterling work, because the significantly tauter connection of the chassis allows higher cornering speeds. If the driver is more in the mood for pleasurable cruising, the COMFORT setting effortlessly dampens all the unevenness in the ground. In extreme situations such as abrupt evasive manoeuvres, the system automatically switches over to the firm setting for the sake of maximum possible handling safety. The comfortable setting also helps during off-road sessions, because the wheels retain better surface contact. Even on heavily contoured off-road terrain, every surface traction possibility can be utilised effectively.

Company with unlimited liability: beadlock wheels with MT tyres

Optimised tyres are available for the G 500 4x4�, especially for punishing off-road trips: mud/terrain tyres (M/T) in size 37 x 12.5 x 18 inches on special beadlock wheels. Normally the usual wheel/tyre combinations refuse a traction-promoting lowering of the air pressure for journeys on sand, for example, to 0.5 bar. Here 1.0 bar is the lowest limit, because beneath this low pressure the tyres can come off during steering manoeuvres or ingression of sand can infiltrate the sealing surface between the tyre and wheel rim and thus leads to a slow puncture. Not so with the G 500 4x4�. Here special two-piece 18-inch beadlock wheels are used. With this type of design, during assembly the tyre is pinched in so tightly between the two wheel halves and an inner beadlock ring that it cannot slip off the rim and no sand can enter, even in the case of total loss of air.

Should the chassis ever still come into harsh ground contact in spite of an anticipatory driving style and the excellent ground clearance, the developers have displayed far-sightedness here, too, and integrated a robust, two-piece underguard in stainless steel. These means that the most important assemblies in the front and rear area are well protected against impact and more severe shocks.

Sporty luxury squared

In visual terms the G 500 4x4� raises no doubts as to its passion. The voluminous tyres, the huge distance to the ground, the height of nearly 2.25 metres with a width of virtually 2.10 metres and the clear, straight design command respect right from the first glance. Further highlights: the trim with the integral LED light strips above the windscreen and the elaborate partially painted wheel-arch flarings - both in fine carbon fibre - plus the front bumper on the G 63 AMG and G 65 AMG models.

The interior appointments make a sportily luxurious impression. The G 500 4x4� offers an exclusive ambience with the designo Exclusive package. The seat bolsters and head restraints as well as the dashboard, centre console and armrests in the doors are styled in black designo leather with white contrasting topstitching. The seat surfaces and door panels are covered in DINAMICA and impress with their attractive diamond-design quilting. In addition to this there is DINAMICA trim for the roof liner and the body pillars.

The hub of the "G" world is in Graz

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class development department located in Graz is the centre of competence where all things "G" are concerned and is responsible for the development and series support of the legendary cross-country vehicle. Furthermore, Graz in Austria has been the production location for all civilian and commercial G-Class vehicles since 1979. Whether and when the decision on series production of the Mercedes-Benz G 500 4x4� will be made depends on the reaction which the near-series show car receives.

Credits: Daimler AG

Copyright � 2015, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

A look forward to the new SUV from Mercedes-AMG: the Concept GLA 45 AMG

At the Los Angeles International Auto Show (20 November to 1 December 2013), Mercedes-AMG will be presenting its outlook on a compact, high-performance SUV. The Concept GLA 45 AMG features an excitingly bold, distinctive design and is powered by the most muscular four-cylinder engine in series production anywhere in the world: its AMG 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with an output of 265 kW (360 hp) and maximum torque of 450 newton metres offers unrivalled performance in conjunction with low fuel consumption.

Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH: "With the Concept GLA 45 AMG, we are setting a stake firmly in the ground of the strongly growing market segment of compact SUVs. Our customers � a young target group who set great store by styling, dynamism and independence � can now start looking forward to a dynamic high-performance car. The most powerful four-cylinder engine in the world and the AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system add up to make the Concept GLA 45 AMG a unique proposition."

A seven in front of the comma in terms of fuel consumption per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and compliance with the EU 6 emissions standard go to show that superb performance at Mercedes-AMG does not come at the expense of environmental compatibility. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in under five seconds demonstrates the dynamism that is so typical of the brand. Thanks to a combination of the performance-oriented AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission, the drive configuration of the Concept GLA 45 AMG impresses with its sporty yet also efficient performance.

Powerful and muscular: breathtaking design

Stunning engineering is combined with some breathtaking styling features by Mercedes-AMG: the Concept GLA 45 AMG has a powerful and muscular presence on the road. This is due in considerable part to the AMG forged wheels in a cross-spoke design with 255/35 R 21 tyres. Painted matt black with a red rim flange, they certainly attract attention. They are complemented by the AMG wheel hub covers with centre lock-look, plus an AMG high-performance braking system with red brake callipers.

The large front splitter in high-gloss black on the AMG front apron, the black flics (air deflectors) with additional flics, together with the large cooling air intakes, serve to underline the long tradition of motorsport at Mercedes-AMG. The motor racing look is further reinforced by the start number "45" on the doors and the distinctive AMG logo at the upper edge of the windscreen. Further design elements exclusive to AMG include the "twin-blade" radiator grille in silver chrome, the side sill panels with high-gloss black inserts, the "TURBO AMG" lettering on the front wings, the high-gloss black roof rails and the large rear aerofoil.

Sporty wraps and red highlights

The sporty silver grey/red foil wrap on the bonnet, vehicle sides, C-pillar and rear end makes a memorable impression and is complemented by the red highlights on the radiator grille, exterior mirrors, diffuser insert and AMG rear aerofoil. The rear view is dominated by the diffuser insert with black trim element and by the twin-tailpipe design of the two rectangular, high-gloss black tailpipe trims of the AMG sports exhaust system with exhaust flap.

~ Official photos and details courtesy of Mercedes-AMG GmbH ~

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

Mercedes-AMG previews the Concept GLA 45 AMG

Mercedes-AMG has just released a teaser video on their official Facebook page for what looks to be, at first, quite an awkward concept car: the Concept GLA 45 AMG.

Given the fact the A 45 AMG and CLA 45 AMG were released shortly after the introduction of the standard-spec Mercedes-Benz A-Class and CLA-Class models in their series production form, one cannot help but wonder why they took the strategy of showcasing a near-series concept of the future GLA 45 AMG.

At a closer inspection, the exterior livery is identical to the livery of the CLA 45 AMG Racing Series that was premiered in September (see HERE), which means Mercedes-AMG is planning to further expand their customer motorsport activities, which successfully started with the SLS AMG GT3, with a possible, racetrack-prone GLA 45 AMG Racing Series version.

The new GLA 45 AMG should be introduced later on, in early 2014. As its two brothers, the high performance version of the compact crossover will be powered by the rocking 1,991 cc, 4-cylinder turbocharged M133 engine. The 360 hp output will reach the ground through all four wheels thanks to the newly developed Performance AMG 4MATIC sports-oriented traction system which directs the impressive torque of 450 Nm as follows: 33% towards the rear axle and the remaining 67% to the front wheels.

Look for official details and pictures of the Concept GLA 45 AMG to be released as soon as tomorrow morning! So, stay tuned to www.mercedes-benz-blog.blogspot.com for the latest news!


Video Credits: Mercedes-AMG | Facebook

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