Geneva Motor Show 2015: European debut for the all new Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class Coup� (C 292)

Mercedes-Benz is combining two classes of vehicle � each with its own distinct style � to make a new model, the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coup�. The sporty nature of a coup� dominates, imbued with the striking characteristics of a robust SUV. In addition to convincing on-road vehicle dynamics, the GLE Coup� looks impressive as well. With its flowing side contour, elongated and low greenhouse, striking radiator grille with central chrome louvre and rear end design, the GLE Coup� cites styling features typical of particularly sporty Mercedes-Benz models. At the premiere the GLE Coup� will be available as a diesel or petrol model with an output range of between 190 kW (258 hp) and 270 kW (367 hp). The top-of-the-range model GLE 450 AMG, the first representative of a new Mercedes-AMG product line � the AMG sports models � is particularly attractive. In addition to the generous amount of standard equipment, the DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control system, the Sports Direct-Steer system and the driver assistance systems typical of the brand, the GLE Coup� always comes with the 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive. The GLE Coup� is now available to order. Prices start at �66,699.50 (Price for Germany incl. 19% VAT).

"Our GLE Coup� combines typical coup� attributes, such as sportiness, dynamism and agility, with the confident presence, versatility and robustness of an SUV", says Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Board Member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, in characterising the latest member of the Mercedes-Benz model family. The GLE Coup� is the new addition to the successful portfolio of Mercedes-Benz coup�s. Alongside the classic, two-door C, E and S?Class models and the four-door CLS and CLA coup�s, the new coup� displays a highly individual interpretation of the physiognomy and light-footed approach typical of this family of vehicles.

"For Mercedes-Benz, the GLE Coup� is the trailblazer for a versatile vehicle class. It will enable us to win new customers for our brand", says Ola K�llenius, Member of the Divisional Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for Marketing & Sales, commenting on the new model joining the product portfolio.

DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control system: highly variable � from racy and sporty to poised and comfortable

The GLE Coup� feels like a true sports coup� right from the word go. Despite the similarity to an SUV with its raised seating position and an all-round view that is expansive for a coup�, the occupants are led to believe that they are in sports rather than off-road mode. The sound is reminiscent of powerful sports cars and, combined with the spontaneous and direct response to all commands, is guaranteed to get your pulse racing. On the other hand, it can also create a superior feeling of calm, coupled with unshakeably serene driving dynamics. These two different worlds can normally only be experienced in two separate vehicles � an agile, thoroughbred sports coup� and an easy-going, comfortable SUV. But the new GLE Coup� is different: DYNAMIC SELECT enables a wide spread in the driving dynamics and combines these diametrical worlds of experience in a single vehicle � an automobile premiere.

GLE 450 AMG � the first AMG sports model

The balancing act between extremely sporty yet still comfortable has been mastered especially well in the GLE 450 AMG. As the first AMG sports model, the V6 top-of-the-range GLE Coup� enables an attractive entry to the world of the sports car and performance brand.

"The GLE 450 AMG Coup� is our first sports model, and further highly emotional and performance-oriented models will follow in the near future. The new product line from Mercedes-AMG has allowed us to make true sports car technology and the fascination of motorsports more accessible", says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. "Every vehicle from Affalterbach honours the brand promise of Driving Performance."

The new AMG sports models display impressive product substance and honour the promise of sports performance with a higher output class, standard all-wheel drive and also sophisticated chassis solutions. The DYNAMIC SELECT variable dynamic control system assigns fundamentally different characteristics to the five transmission modes of INDIVIDUAL, COMFORT, SLIPPERY, SPORT and SPORT+, which the driver is able to select using a rotary control on the centre console. The system networks all the control systems, generating different driving experience parameters. The names speak for themselves: SPORT and SPORT+ turn the GLE 450 AMG into a sporty, dynamic vehicle with pronounced longitudinal and lateral dynamics. COMFORT is the opposite end of the spectrum. Here the emphasis is on the feel-good parameters so typical of classic Mercedes-Benz saloon cars, for relaxed, effortless cruising with the greatest possible energy efficiency. SLIPPERY optimises the handling on surfaces with low friction coefficients such as snow or ice. In addition, INDIVIDUAL mode enables the driver to programme and store personal preferences in the individual control strategies, regardless of the engine variant.

In the GLE 450 AMG, DYNAMIC SELECT not only modulates the "hard skills" such as the chassis and suspension, steering or powertrain. It is also possible to experience the selected mode more intensively on an emotional level because various "soft skills" such as the engine sound, instruments or dynamic control of the driving lights also vary. To this end, the nature of the various displays on the COMAND screen and in the cockpit changes according to the selected transmission mode. At the same time, the active light function of the all-LED headlamps responds more spontaneously and the engine produces the whole range of sounds from sporty and dominant to poised and reticent:

- If the driver selects COMFORT mode, the displays take on lesser importance and, like the engine, the dial instruments such as the rev counter show a relaxed response to the driver's commands. In combination with the comfort-oriented control of the powertrain and suspension, the result is a feel-good ambience at the level of a saloon. The engine sound is reduced to a pleasant timbre, and the feedback from the road surface and surroundings is considerably quieter in the interior.

- Things are very different when SPORT+ mode is selected. The character changes immediately, the gear changes performed by the 9G-TRONIC are acoustically accentuated, especially when downshifting with the double-declutch function, and the cockpit instruments respond faster and more �sharply". The large central display visualises the longitudinal and lateral acceleration plus the steering angle with a photo-realistic motorsports graphic. The engine sound is powerful and acoustically underscores the sports mode. This setting removes any doubt: the GLE Coup� is a lively sports model of the highest order, and treats its occupants to a compelling world of experience.

A perfect combination: 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive and 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission

In the new GLE Coup�, the developers were able to show the possibilities of the new 9G-TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission in an all-wheel drive coup� with a longitudinal drive configuration. Depending on the mode selected for the DYNAMIC SELECT variable dynamic handling control system, the 9G-TRONIC impresses with great agility and responsiveness or poised serenity. The potential of the new transmission is exploited to the full. It offers an impressively high shift speed and perfect transitions for energetic sprinting as well as with gentle, barely perceptible gear changes for enjoyable cruising.

4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive always goes hand in hand with safe, harmonious and sporty handling. The GLE 350 d and GLE 400 models feature even torque distribution of 50:50 between the front and rear axles. In the particularly sporty GLE 450 AMG Coup�, this configuration is modified in preference of even greater agility and more pronounced dynamics around the car�s vertical axis, increasing the thirst for cornering. The drive is split in a ratio of 40:60 here. The DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes SPORT and SPORT+ deliver superior longitudinal agility and lateral dynamics � specifically as a result of the perfect interplay between the modified driving dynamics control systems ASR, ESP� with Curve Dynamic Assist, the electronic traction system 4ETS and the brake control system ADAPTIVE BRAKE.

Stability pact: AIRMATIC with ADS Plus, Sports Direct-Steer and ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM

In addition to the ground-breaking powertrain configuration, the newly designed AIRMATIC air suspension � available for the first time with the continuously variable damping system ADS Plus � guarantees extremely stable driving. The damping system changes its area of emphasis depending on the preselected DYNAMIC SELECT mode. SPORT+ focuses on the greatest possible lateral dynamics with the best possible ride comfort. Conversely, COMFORT mode enables maximum ride comfort with the best possible dynamics.

The current operating conditions are detected via a steering angle sensor, four turning angle sensors and the driving speed from the ESP� signal and the brake pedal switch. The control unit uses these signals for infinitely variable adjustment of the current damping force required for each individual wheel.

The ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM with active roll stabilisation is also part of the special sports systems that are activated when the driver selects SPORT or SPORT+. At the same time, the active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles raise the comfort to saloon level and compensate for even heavy, one-sided excitation � for example when driving over potholes. In combination with the newly configured, degressive Sports Direct-Steer system, whose steering ratio is very direct at 17.4:1, and the compact sports steering wheel, the handling is outstanding in all operating conditions � whether manoeuvring in the city, at high speeds on the motorway, or with a swift style of driving on winding mountain passes.

The GLE 350 d 4MATIC and GLE 400 4MATIC models offer the AGILITY CONTROL steel suspension as standard with a amplitude-selective damping system. AIRMATIC air suspension is also optionally available with ADS Plus here.

Wide range of output from 190 kW (258 hp) to 270 kW (367 hp)

Alongside the appealing design, the exceptional suspension and drive technology, and also the assistance systems familiar from the C, E and S-Class, the GLE Coup� is also equipped with numerous standard or optional equipment details and packages that further enrich the GLE Coup� experience.

An overview of the model range:

The GLE 350 d 4MATIC diesel model develops 190 kW (258 hp) and offers maximum torque of 620 Nm from 1600 rpm. The GLE 400 4MATIC petrol model is fitted with the new direct-injection V6 biturbo engine rated at 245 kW (333 hp) and 480 Nm from 1400 rpm. The impressive presence of both models is underlined by 50.8 cm (20-inch) 10-spoke light-alloy wheels with 275/50 R 20 tyres. For those in search of something more sporty, 53.3 cm (21-inch) or 55.9 cm (22-inch) light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres can be ordered, although the latter are only available in conjunction with the AIRMATIC ADS Plus air suspension. The chrome-effect shoulderline trim strips and the simulated underguards at the front and rear lend the coup� additional exclusiveness alongside the twin-pipe exhaust system with chrome-plated tailpipe trim. Green-tinted, heat-insulating glass reduces the glare of the sun in the summer, and LED technology features in the headlamps, daytime driving lights, rear lights and third brake light.
The DYNAMIC SELECT dynamic handling control system, the EASY-PACK tailgate with power opening and closing, and the reversing camera with dynamic guide lines in the display are standard features. Additional active handling safety is provided by ESP� Curve Dynamic Assist and Crosswind Assist, as well as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS. The GLE Coup� is also equipped as standard with the brake system BAS Plus, optionally available with Cross-Traffic Assist.

The GLE 450 AMG is a particularly sporty choice. The V6 biturbo engine with an output of 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Nm from 1400 rpm delivers performance akin to a sports car. The DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode Sport+ is always available in the top-of-the-range model.

The standard equipment here is upgraded with features such as special AMG bodystyling, which includes a specific front and rear apron, a rear spoiler lip painted in the vehicle colour and 53.3 cm (21-inch) AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels with tyres of size 275/45 R 21 (front) and 315/40 R 21 (rear). Optionally available here are 55.9 cm (22-inch) AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels � also with mixed-size tyres. Excellent traction levels are guaranteed by the impressive tyres of size 285/40 R 22 (front) and 325/35 R 22 (rear). The standard scope of equipment here includes the AIRMATIC package including air suspension and infinitely variable adaptive damping system (ADS Plus) with level control and automatic lowering function at higher speeds, which is optionally available for all models.

Successful design synthesis of Coup� and SUV elements

Sensuality and clarity are the two poles that have determined the design idiom of the Mercedes-Benz brand for almost 130 years and have their origin in the nature of the two inventors of the automobile, Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler: Benz was more rationally oriented in his behaviour, whereas Daimler was driven more by his passion. The new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coup� demonstrates almost ideally how this bridge between intelligence and emotion, between tradition and modernity, blends into an attractive symbiosis.

The GLE Coup� not only skilfully embodies the firmly embedded principles of Mercedes-Benz design, but also focuses on the essential features of two entirely different automobile genres. On the one hand, the youngest member of the GLE family bears the decisive, essential stylistic feature of all modern Mercedes-Benz coup�s: it combines sheer sportiness with a high-level aesthetic and sensual demand for modern luxury. At the same time, however, elements of the classic SUV are recognisable. With muscular wings, large wheel arches, tyres of up to 55.9 cm (22 inches) and also the high belt line and the generous ground clearance, this model takes the perception of a large, four-door coup� to the next level.

The extreme proportions with superior aesthetics of the new GLE Coup� have emerged from this stylistic gene pool. This is particularly due to the extremely exciting relationship between the low greenhouse and striking body; the silhouette signals dynamism and agility. The upright sports grille with single louvre, framed by three-dimensionally designed all-LED headlamps, is the major feature of the front end with its short, stylish overhang. The forward-sloping bonnet with its typical Mercedes power domes underscores the membership of the GLE Coup� in the line-up of particularly sporty Mercedes-Benz models. A discreet reference to the SUV genes of the vehicle is provided by the harmoniously integrated, illuminated running boards, a typical feature of classic SUVs or off-roaders and available as an option.

The coup�-like nature is also emphasised by the design of the rear end with its obvious elements of the design line first presented with the S-Class Coup�. The styling characteristics of this include the slim band of rear lights with their three-dimensional look, the wide chrome insert fitted above and the registration plate now incorporated into the rear bumper. Another feature that has for generations distinguished the large coup� models from Mercedes-Benz is the typical shape of the rear window which is rounded off at the top. A discreet SUV reference is made by the chrome-plated underride guard in the front and rear, here with the integrated twin tailpipe trim elements of the exhaust system.

The attractive sports seats and the compact sports steering wheel, as well as the infotainment elements familiar from the C, E and S-Class initially catch your eye in the interior. The information display, which is not entirely free-standing but partially integrated into the instrument panel, attracts attention and is fitted in an optimum ergonomic position. The centre air vents, with a high-grade silver shadow frame similar to the outer vents, are positioned next to the display. The head unit has the same appearance to underline the homogeneity of the interior. The centre console houses the COMAND Controller with the touchpad fitted above in an optimum ergonomic position. The equipment and appointments in ARTICO man-made leather and the trim elements in light longitudinal-grain aluminium are also impressive. Good infotainment is guaranteed by the Audio 20 CD system with eight loudspeakers and the Remote Online communication module for the use of the Mercedes connect me services in Europe (may vary from country to country).

The interior of the GLE 450 AMG is an impressive sight with AMG sports seats and the black nappa leather AMG sports steering wheel in 3-spoke design as well as the trim elements in light longitudinal-grain aluminium and the sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs. AMG carbon-fibre trim and piano lacquer enhance the appearance of the interior as an additional option.

Attractive equipment packages and individual options

Popular equipment details are also combined in attractive packages for the GLE Coup�. The Driving Assistance package Plus includes DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, PRE-SAFE� Brake with pedestrian detection, BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist and PRE-SAFE� PLUS. The Parking package with 360� camera and Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC guarantees an excellent overview and problem-free manoeuvring into and out of parking spaces. Night-time vision is improved by the LED Intelligent Light System which is a standard feature on all models; adverse weather conditions with impaired view are defused by MAGIC VISION CONTROL � the heated, adaptive windscreen wiper system.

The extremely large interior for a coup� provides space for up to five people. The rear seat bench in the GLE Coup� is even the widest in its class. Drivers who order the optional large panoramic glass roof are rewarded with an even greater feeling of spaciousness for all the passengers. With a maximum of 1650 litres, the coup� also offers the largest luggage compartment in its class and just happens to hold the world record for luggage compartments in coup�s.

For the first time in this segment, Mercedes-Benz is offering a fully electric extendable and retractable trailer coupling, which also includes ESP� trailer stabilisation. The towing capacity of the GLE Coup� is up to 3500 kg (braked).

As an option, the latest generation of COMAND Online offers perfect infotainment with a 20.3 cm (8-inch) TFT display and intuitive touchpad. The system also includes a DVD player and Traffic Sign Assist with traffic sign recognition including wrong-way warning function. If required, the customer can equip COMAND Online with the 6-disc DVD changer, Rear Seat Entertainment System with remote control, TV receiver or Bang & Olufsen Sound AMG sound system.

Well worth a look: colour and material combinations for the GLE Coup�

There are almost limitless possibilities when it comes to customisation of the GLE Coup� � and the equipment packages again play an important role. For instance, customers can give their GLE Coup� an especially sporty look with the AMG Line Exterior, including the AMG front and rear apron and the 53.3 cm (21-inch) AMG light-alloy wheels. Those who like things even more exclusive can combine this feature with the Night package, in which the louvre in the radiator grille and the exterior mirror housings are in high-gloss black, for example. At the same time, the wide selection of solid and metallic paints and the almost limitless possibilities for interior design increase the potential for individual customisation. A total of 11 paint finishes are available, of which seven are metallic colours and two are special paint finishes with special-effect pigments in designo diamond white or designo hyacinth red metallic.

The interior radiates modern luxury and can be given a design ranging from ambitious and sporty to classic and elegant, depending on personal taste. The scope here ranges from single-tone black interior appointments to various combinations in which black is used with ginger beige, crystal grey, saddle brown or porcelain. The interior of the GLE Coup� is particularly impressive in two-tone designo exclusive nappa leather in porcelain/black. The AMG Line Interior transfers the sporty look to the interior with features such as AMG sports seats, AMG sports steering wheel, nappa leather appointments and aluminium sports pedals. The designo Exclusive package is packed full of luxury: heated comfort seats with diamond-pattern stitching, instrument panel and door panelling in designo leather and the black DINAMICA roof liner provide for even more exclusive travel.

Depending on personal preference, the trim elements shine in light longitudinal-grain aluminium, brown open-pore ash wood, brown eucalyptus wood, dark-graphite poplar wood or black AMG carbon fibre/piano lacquer.

World premiere and market launch

The new GLE Coup� celebrated its world premiere in January 2015 at the North American International Auto Show; the market launch starts in July. Prices for Germany (incl. 19% VAT):

- GLE 350 d 4MATIC: 66,699.50 Euro
- GLE 400 4MATIC: 67,235.00 Euro
- GLE 450 AMG 4MATIC: 75,803.00 Euro
- Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 4MATIC: 115,251.50 Euro
- Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S 4MATIC: 125,485.50 Euro

Credits: Daimler AG

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

Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025: World premiere of the spectacular study of tomorrow's trucks

Mercedes-Benz is the ultimate pioneer in vehicle engineering. The German constructor has foreseen the potential of autonomous driving cars since the 1990s through the various concepts it regularly introduced at motor shows. In 2013, the outstanding S-Class INTELLIGENT DRIVE managed to do world's first fully autonomous journey in real traffic, between the cities of Mannheim and Pforzheim in Germany, covering more than 100 kilometers. Now, Mercedes-Benz is once ushering into a new territory that is set to become a daily reality in 10 years. The Future Truck 2025 is the latest concept truck from the brand with the Three-Pointed Star and it basically is world's first self-driving truck. The prototype, which celebrates its world premiere at the IAA Hannover Show, is equipped with the Highway Pilot, the most complex autonomous assistant designed to drive the truck of the future in complete safety and predictability onto the ever-more crowded highways.

You can read more interesting technical details about the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 in the official press release from Daimler AG posted below. Enjoy reading!

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025: Autonomous driving into an exciting future

From a vision to reality � the spectacular Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 study will be providing a visually exciting and technically feasible take on the long-distance truck of tomorrow at the 2014 International Commercial Vehicle show (IAA). In ten years' time, trucks could be driving autonomously on motorways. Transport efficiency will increase, traffic will be safer for all road users, and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions will be further reduced. To do this Mercedes-Benz connects existing assistance systems with enhanced sensors to the "Highway Pilot" system. Autonomous driving is already possible at realistic speeds and in realistic motorway traffic situations. The Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 provides a glimpse of the future shape of trucks.

Revolution on the motorways: goods transport to become more efficient, safer and more connected in the future

The technology of tomorrow is already reality at Daimler Trucks. The Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 constitutes a revolution in efficiency, safety and networking, a revolution for road traffic and its infrastructure, for professional driving and for the road transport sector. This is not a new truck, but rather the key element in the interconnected transport system of the future. It is being developed as part of the "Shaping Future Transportation" initiative by Daimler Trucks to conserve resources and reduce emissions of all kinds. Other aims are to ensure the highest possible level of traffic safety and to boost networking with intelligent data management considerably for tailor-made vehicle and service solutions.

The prototype demonstrated the exciting capabilities of the Future Truck 2025 back in the summer at speeds of up to 80 km/h in realistic traffic situations on a section of the A14 motorway in Magdeburg, Germany. Now the thrilling exterior and interior of that same vehicle are being revealed. The tractor unit combined with an aerodynamically optimised trailer celebrates its world premiere as a study at the International Commercial Vehicles show (IAA).

Exterior: flowing forms with a light show

In terms of design, the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 study combines function, efficiency and emotion in a fascinating way. It adheres to the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of "Sensual Purity". Soft, slightly curved surfaces that are near-natural represent both efficiency and emotion. Inside and outside, the exceptional visual appearance symbolises the great leap from classic truck to autonomous transport vehicle of the future. Innovative forms and the lighting engineering of tomorrow send the conventional truck cab into the future.

The designers have leveraged the opportunity presented by future length specifications: extending the front section allows soft, aerodynamically flowing forms to be created. Visual effects from the paintwork in light silver emphasise the enticingly smooth contours. Compact cameras replace conventional exterior mirrors. Its windscreen resembles a visor. The study's integral sun screen and aero roof have a distinctive form.

Featuring signature Mercedes-Benz style, the design is composed around the star as the central element. Looking practically seamless and as if made of one piece, the cab exudes maximum calm. Its plain yet powerful appearance lends it an imposing monolithic air.

While at a standstill with the engine switched off the front mask is closed. Classic elements such as the headlamps seem to be missing at first glance. The Future Truck 2025 comes to life when the engine starts. LEDs illuminate the surfaces and light up the paintwork. The front mask gleams and LED bulbs shine instead of conventional headlamps to the left and right in the bumper. Orange flashing lights indicate when the truck is changing direction.

When the fully drivable study is being controlled manually and on the move, the lights are white. When the truck is driving autonomously, the colour of the lights changes from white to blue. They then pulsate strongly, thus symbolising the truck's powerful heartbeat and clearly indicating the vehicle's current operating mode to other road users.

Interior: calming design for a new way of working

The sensual purity of the Future Truck 2025's calming design is also reflected by the interior. Flowing lines from the exterior are taken up again inside the cab.

Mercedes-Benz already creates a visual separation between the areas for driving and living in the cabs of long-distance transport. In the future the cab will also include a more comfortable and functional working area for autonomous driving phases.

The interior of the Future Truck 2025 is compelling as the focus is on essential functions and the design is almost puristic. The workplace for driving is calm and uncluttered like a modern, paperless office. Utilitarian engineering is excitingly juxtaposed with natural materials and a feeling of cosiness and warmth.

Wood flows from the floor to the instrument panel with generous use of the material underlying the inviting atmosphere and sense of well-being on board. The dark finish is strongly grained, open-pore and has a naturally aged effect � a welcome contrast to the high functionality of the working area.

The instrument panel is calm and uncluttered, with displays separating instruments and the exterior mirrors. They float like islands over the piano lacquer finish in the cockpit. Instead of conspicuous air outlets there is indirect climate control with a touchpad replacing conventional switch strips. The support for the instrument panel is clad in leather. Perfect craftsmanship and build quality sit side by side with the functional character of the truck's technical features.

Exciting lighting effects inside the cab also underline the distinctive character of the Future Truck 2025.

When the truck is travelling autonomously, the driver may recline their seat and also turn it by 45 degrees into the space, allowing them to consciously adopt a relaxed, comfortable working position. At the same time, indirect lighting illuminates the interior without glare.

To communicate from the future workplace the driver uses a tablet computer. This is accommodated in the newly designed centre console but is removable. Here the driver can process documents, schedule more destinations, accept further orders and arrange the next break. The computer screen can be configured to suit individual requirements, also enabling the driver to call up all key trip data.

On long routes driven autonomously, the tablet computer becomes as crucial as the steering wheel and pedals are otherwise. The Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 ushers in a new way of working in the cab of a long-distance truck.

As an overall concept it combines the high-tech driver's area of the future with a state-of-the-art, paperless office and a living room. The driver in the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 feels at home even when on the move thanks to the digital picture frame on the cab's rear panel: here personal photographs of family or a past holiday scroll through on the screen. Despite all its functionality and efficiency, this high-tech truck also shows emotion.

Radar sensors and a camera scan the surroundings

The technology behind this exciting fa�ade is no less impressive. The Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 is not, for instance, part of a platoon. It does not need to be daisy-chained to other vehicles either. Radar sensors and camera technology enable the Future Truck to drive autonomously, independently of other vehicles or central control stations. Its technical features are thus crucial in giving the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 its outstanding capabilities as an autonomous vehicle. For Mercedes-Benz the culmination of this is the highly intelligent "Highway Pilot" system, which resembles the autopilot on an aircraft. Networking with other trucks or passenger cars extends its abilities further, but is not necessary for autonomous driving.

A radar sensor in the lower area of the front end scans the road ahead at long and short range. The front radar sensor has a range of 250 m and scans an 18-degree segment. The short-range sensor has a range of 70 m and scans a 130-degree segment. The radar sensor is the basis for the proximity control and emergency braking safety systems already available today.

A stereo camera installed above the instrument support behind the windscreen keeps the area ahead of the vehicle in view. This is currently the location of a mono-camera if optional Lane Keeping Assist is ordered. The range of the stereo camera is 100 m, and it scans an area of 45 degrees horizontally and 27 degrees vertically.

The stereo camera of the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 identifies single- or two-lane roads, pedestrians, moving and stationary objects, all objects within the monitored area and also the road surface. The camera recognises everything that contrasts with the background, and is therefore also able to measure clearances precisely. The front stereo camera also registers the information on traffic signs.

In addition to object and distance recognition, the stereo camera recognises lane markings as a major function for autonomous lane guidance.

The road surface to the left and right of the truck is monitored by radar sensors installed in the sides. They are located on the left and right, ahead of the tractor unit's rear axle. The sensors have a range of 60 m and cover an angle of 170 degrees in the longitudinal direction.

Blind Spot Assist: more safety when turning and changing lane

These sensors form the heart of the new Blind Spot Assist system from Mercedes-Benz. The radar sensor modules are arranged in such a way that they cover the area parallel to the truck over the entire length of a tractor/trailer combination or drawbar combination. In addition this strip is extended forwards to two metres in front of the truck.

Blind Spot Assist warns the truck driver about other road users not only when turning; it also warns about imminent collisions with stationary obstacles � for example signs or lamps � and serves as an assistance system when changing lane.

For Mercedes-Benz, the planned introduction of Blind Spot Assist over the next few years is a major step paving the way for the Future Truck 2025 and underlines Mercedes-Benz's role in pioneering maximum road safety.

The transport system of tomorrow will be networked and autonomous

All sensors on board the Future Truck 2025 are networked (multi-sensor fusion), and provide a complete image of the surroundings. All moving and stationary objects in the truck's vicinity are registered.

Fusion of the data by a high-performance multi-core processor in the central computer links the data from all sensors in the whole area in front of and beside the truck.

The sensor and camera technology is active from standstill to the legally permitted maximum speed for trucks. By intervening in the steering, it automatically keeps the truck safely in the centre of its lane. The system also includes a three-dimensional digital map, which is already used for the assistance system Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC). This means that the truck is always fully aware of the road's course and topography.

V2V and V2I � communication between vehicles and the outside world

The "Highway Pilot" is ideally partnered with V2V and V2I networking. Every vehicle equipped with this in the near future will transmit continuous information to its surroundings. This includes vehicle position and model, dimensions, direction of travel and speed, any acceleration and braking manoeuvres and the bend radii negotiated.

The frequency of information transfer depends on the vehicle speed and the intensity of any changes in its movement. It varies between one message per second when cruising to ten times this interval when changes are significant.

Transmission is via WLAN technology, using the standard Europe-wide G5 frequency of 5.9 gigahertz. The basis is the ITS Vehicle Station (Intelligent Transport Systems and Services) on board the vehicle.

Communication between vehicles is also standardised. The range of these continuous sent messages is a radius of around 500 m. The vehicles inform each other about their movements, so that they can respond to them immediately in anticipatory mode. This includes reacting to vehicles joining a motorway, or when approaching the end of a traffic tailback, for example. The more vehicles are communicating with each other on these routes, the more dynamically and flexibly they are able to respond to one another and together.

In an ideal scenario, an uninterrupted chain of communication forms along a route that rigorously informs the driver and vehicle about road and traffic conditions a long way ahead on their journey.

V2I means that all these messages and signals are also sent to external recipients such as traffic control centres. These are then able to respond flexibly, for example by changing the speed limit or opening up additional lanes. Messages can also be sent to vehicles, for example about temporary roadworks.

All these data inform the driver and the onboard computer about events happening outside the range of vision in good time. The driver and vehicle are therefore aware of obstacles in advance, before they can become a hazard.

Anti-tailback measures: road traffic as a self-learning system

The Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 is therefore not on the road in isolation, but constantly communicates with its environment, unnoticed by the driver.

Traffic information are passed on in this way and the data become available to all road users. Because networked vehicles respond automatically to these data, homogeneous traffic flow is ensured along with exceptional utilisation of limited road infrastructure. In combination with autonomous driving, road traffic will develop into a self-learning system.

The average speed is thus improved by better traffic flow alone and without raising the maximum speed. At the same time, homogeneous traffic saves on fuel.

Future becomes reality: autonomous driving in practice, including independently of other road users

After joining the motorway, the driver of the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 merges with the traffic flow in the appropriate lane. The system then prompts the driver to activate the "Highway Pilot". The driver activates it, and the vehicle switches to autonomous mode.

According to the given traffic situation, the Future Truck 2025 is on the road independently, as no vehicle in front is needed as a reference to guide it through the traffic. It acts autonomously in its lane. If there is another vehicle travelling ahead, the truck can adapt to its speed within the permitted limit and maintains a set safety distance. It is therefore always possible for other vehicles to join the lane safely. The safety distance is also always maintained � the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 adapts perfectly to its environment. The Future Truck 2025 operates independently of other road users thanks to networking. However, to fully benefit in terms of logistical efficiency and making optimum use of infrastructure, comprehensive networking is desirable. This development is certain to occur in a gradual manner. Open standards and protocols are important to this end.

From driver to transport manager in the cockpit of the future

In many situations autonomous driving relieves the driver of "having to" drive, especially on tiring and often monotonous long-distance routes. As the truck regulates its own speed and automatically finds the best route using a navigation app, and because the transport company, dispatcher and goods recipient are constantly informed about the location, route and expected time of arrival in real time, the driver is relieved of time pressure. Today this is a major stress factor for drivers.

The driver gains time for other activities and is able to communicate with his surroundings. It is conceivable that the driver will be able to take on tasks previously performed by the scheduling team or which provide social contact. Owner-driver businesses in particular will be able to perform office tasks conveniently on the move if required.

Carrying out further activities will significantly change the professional profile of the truck driver. This will in turn give rise to opportunities for advancement from the purely driving role to transport manager. The profession of truck driver will become more attractive � autonomous driving is therefore also a compelling answer to the shortage of drivers. With autonomous driving, the truck and its driver become a team more than ever before, an intelligent, highly capable and cost-effective combination of man and machine.

Consumption and emissions down � efficiency and safety up

At the same time fuel consumption and emissions are significantly reduced during autonomous driving, thanks to the more homogeneous traffic flow. Transport times will become more predictable. The new activities carried out by the driver or transport manager during journeys will revolutionise the freight forwarding sector, making it a dynamic and self-learning system.

Traffic flows on long-distance routes that are predictable for all road users mean more safety for all those involved. Already, assistance systems regulate vehicle speeds and are able to automatically initiate emergency braking to prevent accidents. Both have proved their worth for a number of years. Autonomous driving stands for perfection by fusion of the assistance systems.

In the future, accidents caused by human error will therefore be largely a thing of the past. Safety regulations such as speed limits or safety gaps between vehicles will always be strictly adhered to. Anticipatory driving, a recurring theme in driver training courses, means programmed safety and cost-effectiveness for the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025.

Autonomous driving: set to become reality in the short term

One of the most interesting questions on the subject of autonomous driving is the time horizon envisaged for its realisation. In purely technical terms, turning it into reality on the roads is already feasible within around five years. In terms of passenger car development cycles, a possible start is envisaged in 2020. Owing to the more complex factors for heavy commercial vehicles, the time horizon for such vehicles will, however, be rather longer � realistically implementation is possible within ten years, also in view of the legal considerations that still remain to be clarified.

The introduction of autonomous driving will not happen digitally from one day to the next, as development is progressing in a gradual manner: evolutionary stages are necessary to revolutionise goods haulage on the roads. In the coming years, new and improved assistance systems will continue to pave the clearly set-out way to autonomous driving.

Conditions necessary for autonomous driving

The technical preconditions are now being demonstrated for the first time with the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025; however legislation also needs to be adapted to this new dimension in driving. A further development of the "1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic", which almost all European countries have signed and implemented, is already under way. The Convention is intended to make road traffic safer by standardising regulations, and one of its core principles is that the driver must have control of the vehicle at all times and in all circumstances.

On the basis of the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, UN/ECE Regulation R 79 does permit corrective steering intervention for steering systems, but not automatic steering over 10 km/h. This allowance is a precondition for Parking Assist and Stop-and-Go Assist.

The Vienna Convention came about at a time when autonomous driving was still in the realms of science fiction. A committee of United Nations experts has recently supplemented the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, providing the basis for legalisation on autonomous driving. Corresponding systems will be permitted in the future, as long as they can be deactivated or overruled by the driver at any time. This is standard for the "Highway Pilot" in the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025.

Data security must also be ensured in technical and legal terms. This concerns external access to the individual vehicle, and also the transfer of data for V2V and V2I or internet communication.

In addition to operating permission it will be necessary to clarify other legal aspects such as liability for traffic infringements and accidents, which can never be completely ruled out. The same applies to insurance and product liability aspects. How new working models and professional profiles are to be reconciled with the current regulations on driving and resting times also remains to be defined.

The answer: Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025

Where the associated legal steps are taken, the Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 with the "Highway Pilot" system is the answer to the challenges of the future. The answer to increasing traffic, inadequate infrastructures, increasing cost pressure and a shortage of drivers. Against the background of numerous new and enhanced assistance and telematics systems and V2V/V2I communication, a new era in road goods transport and communication is being ushered in. In the future traffic will flow more smoothly, predictably and safely. Traffic systems will become more flexible, with better use of the infrastructure. Avoidance of human error at the wheel will reduce hazards and accidents. Transport operators will operate more cost-effectively and flexibly. Truck drivers will be able to assume different tasks as transport managers. This answer to the many challenges is not just a vision, it is already reality.

Credits: Daimler AG

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