Paul Tan's Automotive News » Mercedes Benz

Mercedes-Benz Citan small city van to launch this year

Paul Tan — Sun, 05 Feb 2012 08:42:44 +0000

The trend now is to go for smaller vehicles with smaller more fuel efficient engines wherever possible, and a prime candidate for these downsized vehicles are the packed cities that can be found in nearly every economy. The commercial vehicle business looks to be doing the same, as these sketches preview Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles’ first small van designed for urban use.

Called the Mercedes-Benz Citan – an amalgamation of City and Titan, the new “urban delivery van” will slot in a new segment under the Vito, Sprinter and Vario models, and will be available as a standard panel van as well as a crew bus and other configurations in various lengths and weights. A Mixto passenger variant will also be on sale. Once a “niche” market in the 90s, the small delivery van segment currently accounts for 700,000 units a year in Europe alone, and Mercedes-Benz expects to claim a 4% to 5% market share with the new Citan.

Both petrol and diesel engines will be available for the Citan, and given the intended city usage, I wouldn’t be surprised if eventually you could see some kind of electric Citan in the future.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (24) Think (6) Angry (6) Happy (1) Sad (2) Meh (4)

Mercedes-Benz’s turn to do the triple play – C-Class Coupé, SLK and CLS introduced in Malaysia

Anthony Lim — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 12:25:20 +0000

Earlier this week, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduced the new CLS, SLK and C-Class Coupe in the country. The company is looking at the models to effectively widen and deepen the brand’s offerings of niche models, and complement MBM’s portfolio of CBU models already available in Malaysia.

The C-Class Coupé, which made its international market debut in June last year, is available in three petrol engine guises here, these being the 156 hp C 180 and 204 hp C 250, with the 306 hp C 350 available as special order. All three models wear a BlueEFFICIENCY tag.

The C 180 Coupé, which comes wearing an AMG Sports package, is priced at RM305,888, while the C 250 Coupé goes for RM388,888.

Meanwhile, there are three variants available for the third-generation SLK, which made its market debut last March, and these are the SLK 200, SLK 250 and SLK 350, all with a BlueEFFICIENCY suffix again.

Power outputs are 184 hp and 204 hp for the SLK 200 and SLK 250 respectively, while the 3.5 litre V6 mill in the SLK 350 offers 306 hp.

Features include the Benz Airguide draught-stop system, and the SLK 200 gets the Dynamic Handling package thrown in. In terms of pricing, only that for the SLK 200 was mentioned at the launch, and this one goes for RM460,888.

Lastly, the second-generation CLS, which arrives in its 306 hp CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY form, with the 408 hp V8-equipped CLS 500 BlueEFFICIENCY available only through special order. The CLS 350 rolls in at RM760,888.

We’ve driven the three cars – MBM hosted a media drive up to Penang this week, so stay tuned for the first drive impressions of all three models next week.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (26) Think (0) Angry (8) Happy (7) Sad (6) Meh (13)

No related posts.

Daimler-Nissan joint engine production in US begins 2014

Anthony Lim — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 05:21:40 +0000

Nissan and Daimler are to begin production of Mercedes-Benz four-cylinder petrol engines in the US from 2014, according to reports. The engines will be built at the Japanese automaker’s powertrain factory in Decherd, Tennessee.

The companies are planning for a production capacity of 250,000 engines per year at the plant, with the mills set to be used in Mercedes-Benz cars as well as in Nissan’s Infiniti vehicles.

The Renault-Nissan alliance collectively holds a 3.1% stake in Daimler, and the German luxury car maker has an equivalent stake in each of its two alliance partners. The cooperation agreement signed last year between the three companies will see the development of small vehicles and engines, which will bring about cost synergy benefits.

In September last year, Nissan and Daimler had announced that Infiniti is to start production of a new compact car based on Mercedes-Benz technology in 2014; Renault is also looking into using Mercedes-Benz modules as well as it goes along.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (6) Think (1) Angry (3) Happy (6) Sad (0) Meh (2)

Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid introduced, in both saloon and estate form – E400 Hybrid also debuts

Anthony Lim — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 04:46:44 +0000

Mercedes-Benz has announced the introduction of the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid, available in both saloon and estate form, as well as the E400 Hybrid. Both vehicles will make their official debut at the upcoming NAIAS in Detroit in January.

The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid is powered by a four-cylinder diesel offering 204 hp and 500 Nm, working in tandem with an electric motor that produces 20 kW and 250 Nm – Merc says that the vehicle is the most economical luxury-class vehicle in the world.

The company adds that there’s no compromise in space, safety and comfort brought about by utilisation of the intelligent modular hybrid concept – no changes to the body of the base vehicle were necessary.

The car is part of the intelligent downsizing strategy of Mercedes-Benz – the E300 BlueTEC Hybrid is positioned at the same level as the E300 CDI, but offers fuel savings of around 15% compared with the E250 CDI, even in actual road traffic conditions.

Meanwhile, the V6 petrol unit in the E400 Hybrid cranks out 306 hp and 370 Nm, and the mill is also supplemented by the same electric motor’s 20 kW and 250 Nm.

The E300 BlueTEC Hybrid is initially planned to be launched on the European market, while the E400 Hybrid will be made available on the American market first, followed by other countries such as Japan and China later. Right-hand drive variants are scheduled.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (22) Think (3) Angry (1) Happy (2) Sad (1) Meh (8)

All-new sixth-gen Mercedes-Benz SL officially revealed

Danny Tan — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 07:41:00 +0000

We know how it looks like already, thanks to previously leaked B&W brochure shots, but here’s the sixth-generation Mercedes-Benz SL in its full glory, from every angle. Making its world debut at NAIAS 2012, the new SL is an all-new chapter in a lineage that dates back 60 years.

“There are around 900 million cars in the world and thousands of models. But there are only a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them: it has class, it has style, it is the ultimate in comfort and luxury. But it combines all that with incredible sportiness and dynamism,” summarises Dr Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the Daimler AG Board of Management and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

“You would struggle to find a car that embodies Gottlieb Daimler’s aspiration more perfectly than our new SL: the best or nothing,” he adds. Want one already?

The new SL, which is longer (+50 mm) and wider (+57 mm), has been produced almost entirely from aluminium and weighs up to 140 kg less than its predecessor. The all aluminium body is also credited for the claimed “agile, sporty handling that has been taken to an entirely new level, coupled with exemplary roll characteristics and ride comfort”.

In addition, the steering knuckles and spring links on the front axle are also made out of aluminium to reduce unsprung mass. The same also applies to virtually all the wheel location components on the rear axle. The standard suspension is a semi-active adjustable damping system, with ABC (Active Body Control) is an option. There’s also a new electromechanical Direct-Steer system featuring speed-sensitivity and variable ratio.

The new 4,663 cc V8 in the SL500 develops 435 hp, around 12% more than its predecessor despite being 800 cc smaller. Fuel consumption has been reduced by up to 22%. At the same time, torque is up from 530 Nm to 700 Nm – a 32% gain. The SL500 does 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, eight tenths faster than the old car.

Similar improvements are seen in the “entry” SL350. The new 3,499 cc V6 makes 306 hp and 370 Nm of torque. It uses just 6.8 litres of petrol per 100 km, making it almost 30% more economical than before. This one does the century sprint in 5.9 seconds (0.3 sec faster than before), enough to see off those pesky hot hatches.

Both engine variants come with a standard-fit ECO start/stop function and Merc’s 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission. Lovely gear knob, too.

New features include the FrontBass system, which “turns the SL into a concert hall” regardless of whether the top is open or closed, and the adaptive windscreen wipe/wash system called Magic Vision Control. The latter supplies water from the wiper blade as required and depending on the direction of wipe.

Unlike its predecessor, three roof versions are available: painted, with glass roof or with the unique panoramic vario-roof with Magic Sky Control. In the latter, the transparent roof switches to “light” or “dark” at the push of a button. When “light” it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience. In “dark” the roof provides shade and prevents the cabin from heating up.

The frame is made of magnesium, making the roofs around six kg lighter than before. The operating mechanism for the roof and boot lid has been refined and it now takes less than 20 seconds to open or close.

The COMAND system now comes with web browsing along with access to a Mercedes-Benz online service, offering anything from weather reports to location search. There is also the option of sending destinations and routes via Google Maps to the SL. Merc is also offering new apps for the SL for Facebook, news, share prices and a car park finder, among other things.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (42) Think (1) Angry (5) Happy (4) Sad (4) Meh (13)

No related posts.

Next gen Mercedes-Benz SL leaked ahead of Detroit debut

Danny Tan — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 02:29:21 +0000

Mercedes-Benz will be giving its next generation SL a world debut at next year’s Detroit show, but what seems like official brochure images have already leaked out.

These black and white scans show the three pointed star’s big roadster wearing the brand’s new face, featuring the wide grille as seen on the new CLS. In fact, the front end of the new SL is very similar to that of the latest SLK, but with bigger headlamps.

The sleeker and longer body of the SL also has larger and more prominent side vents that become the main feature of the profile. Compared to today’s car, the new SL has longer wrap around rear lamps and a more sculpted rear end, but the shape remains familiar.

It has been reported that the new SL uses aluminium lightweight construction, saving 140 kg over the current steel bodied car. Engines will include a new naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 and a twin-turbo 4.6-litre V8.

The dashboard layout also mimics very closely the style set by today’s SLK. Retro look air vents flank a central screen, with the standard Mercedes stereo and A/C clusters sitting below.

The only difference I can spot is the different arrangement of the gear lever/Comand controls compared to the SLK. The SL’s plush looking chairs have Airscarf vents, too.

Do you prefer the looks of the current SL or this?

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (20) Think (3) Angry (4) Happy (1) Sad (3) Meh (11)

BYD-Daimler set to roll out electric concept at Beijing show

Danny Tan — Tue, 13 Dec 2011 06:33:17 +0000

Last year, Daimler and China’s BYD started a 50:50 research and technology joint venture called “Shenzhen BYD Daimler New Technology Co Ltd” (BDNT) that will develop an electric vehicle in and for China. BDNT is now ready with its first concept, which will be shown at next year’s Beijing show in April.

The Beijing show will see BDNT showcase its green vision, the new brand’s identity, including brand name, logo and positioning as well as the Concept Car’s exterior and interior design. The production fully electric vehicle is scheduled to be launched a year later in 2013.

In fact, work on the production model has started. The Shenzhen-based JV is said to be making good progress, and work on building the first prototypes has started with the target to have them running by spring next year. The JV will use BYD’s battery tech and e-drive systems plus Daimler’s know-how in EV architecture and safety. BDNT says that Daimler’s quality philosophy has been incorporated from a very early stage.

Production of the new generation of compact to mid-size electric vehicles will be done with Daimler’s quality management experts and will “to a large extent” follow Daimler’s standardised production system for passenger cars. Supplier sourcing for the new vehicle is nearly completed.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (9) Think (1) Angry (3) Happy (3) Sad (1) Meh (5)

Silver Arrows rebranded, now officially called ‘Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team’

Danny Tan — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:52:07 +0000

The Mercedes-Benz works F1 team has been rebranded, and will now compete under the name ‘Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team’ from the 2012 season. This is a move from the current ‘Mercedes GP Petronas’ name, introducing MB’s performance AMG division into the mix.

The Mercedes AMG brand is no stranger to motorsports. It is the most successful name in the history of DTM, winning 165 races from 342 since 1988 and securing a total of 32 driver, manufacturer and team titles. AMG has also supplied F1 with the official Safety Car and Medical Car since 1996. It’s therefore a “logical step to strengthen the links between AMG and the Formula 1 activities of Mercedes-Benz,” says the company.

The Mercedes-Benz F1 powertrain facility at Brixworth, UK has worked closely with AMG for several years. This wholly owned Daimler subsidiary will now be renamed ‘Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains’.

“The Mercedes AMG brand promises ‘Driving Performance’ – and what better embodies this philosophy than the intense competitive arena of F1? It is an historic first for the AMG name to be associated to the works Silver Arrows team, and offers fantastic opportunities: first, to further build the sporting identity of the Mercedes AMG brand through one of the world’s most-watched and most successful sports; second, to explore and deliver technology transfer between road and track,” said Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

“This is already being practised with the SLS AMG E-Cell project, whose electric powertrain will be developed as a joint venture between Mercedes AMG and our F1 engine specialists in Brixworth,” he added.

The Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team will compete the 2012 season with the F1 W03 machine, which is currently under development at the team’s Brackley HQ. The car will make its official track debut at the second winter test of 2012, in February at Barcelona.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (37) Think (4) Angry (0) Happy (4) Sad (2) Meh (19)

Nico Rosberg extends contract with Mercedes GP Petronas

Danny Tan — Thu, 10 Nov 2011 18:53:04 +0000

Nico Rosberg has extended his contract with the Mercedes GP Petronas Formula 1 team. This new deal will “include the 2013 season and beyond”, which means the German will be with the Silver Arrows till at least 2013. Next season, he will once again line up alongside seven-time world champ and compatriot Michael Schumacher.

“I am very excited to have extended my contract with the Mercedes GP Petronas team. To win in a Silver Arrow will be one of the highlights of my life so far, and I greatly enjoy helping to lead our team in our quest to become the best in F1. I have every confidence that the team will provide me with a winning car, and that we will be able to contribute to the fantastic racing heritage of the Silver Arrows. I look forward to great times in the years ahead with the Mercedes-Benz family,” Rosberg said.

The son of 1982 champ Keke also said that Mercedes GP’s latest appointments such as technical director Bob Bell and technology director Geoff Willis, plus the impending arrival of Ferrari’s Aldo Costa as engineering director, were major influences in his decision to stay. “It was, definitely. I saw this summer that this team means business and is doing what it takes to become the best. I know I’ve got to be patient, but great times lie ahead, I’m sure.”

“We are delighted to have extended our contract with Nico as we know that he is a driver who can win races and championships. Nico has performed exceptionally well for us over the past two seasons, achieving results at the very limit of the technical capabilities of our current car.

“He has an excellent work ethic and, together with Michael, this gives us a driver pairing who consistently push the team to improve and progress. As we continue to strengthen our team for the future, we look forward to providing Nico with a car which will enable him to compete right at the front of the field and achieve his deserved first win in F1,” said team principal Ross Brawn.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (6) Think (2) Angry (2) Happy (2) Sad (1) Meh (10)

No related posts.

Schumi on Singapore crash: It was a misunderstanding

Danny Tan — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 15:14:35 +0000

Yesterday’s Singapore GP wasn’t the most exciting race we’ve had this season, and I was nodding off in my Esplanade Waterfront seat. As an event, Singapore is unbeatable – the sights, organisation and buzz are all amazing, it’s almost like a big party that happens to have an F1 race running around it – but track action could do with more spice.

There were some “oooh aaah” moments though, and Michael Schumacher going airborne was one. The seven-time champ tried to pass Sauber’s Sergio Perez on lap 28, but clipped the Mexican’s rear tyre and flew straight into the barriers. He was out, but Perez continued racing and picked up points for his efforts. Schumi is shrugging the incident off as a misunderstanding.

“It was a very unfortunate ending to my race in Singapore tonight and obviously I am a bit disappointed. What happened was what I would call a misunderstanding between Sergio Perez and myself,” the Mercedes GP Petronas driver said.

“He was about to go inside and lifted, and I was not expecting him to do that so early, and therefore hit him. It’s probably one of those race incidents which look more impressive from outside than from inside, as I am totally OK and my impact in the end was not too heavy. It was a pity because my car and the tyres worked well, and therefore the pace was very good. I will look ahead to the next races and hope to have better endings there,” he added.

Like he said, pace was good. Perhaps we’ll get to see more of the rejuvenated Schumi in Japan!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (7) Think (2) Angry (4) Happy (1) Sad (8) Meh (7)

Petronas Syntium Team’s Merc SLS tops MMER qualifying

Danny Tan — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:24:14 +0000

Happy Malaysia Day, everyone! Even as this year’s national Merdeka day celebrations was combined with Malaysia Day celebrations this morning, the 2011 edition of the Malaysia Merdeka Endurance Race (MMER, formerly known as Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race), normally held in end August, started today.

And with the end of qualifying, Petronas Syntium Team’s Mercedes SLS driven by Fariqe Hairuman, Tatsuya Kataoka and Bernd Scheider ended up at the top of the charts. Lining up alongside it tomorrow is the sister Gullwing driven by Nobuteru Taniguchi, Masataka Yanagida and Dominic Ang. The latter replaces Imran Zaharias from last year. This is the first time Petronas Syntium Team is fielding the SLS, after previously competing in BMW Z4M Coupes.

“Oh no, no rain! I hope it doesn’t rain tomorrow (today). We have prepared our strategy for tomorrow (today). If it rains tomorrow, we just have to think about a new strategy for our tyres and set-up. Hopefully this time we will go a step further and win the MMER as a present for our beloved country this Malaysia Day,” said Hairuman.

Hot at the tail of the two Gullwings is the Le Mans champ trio of Marcel Fassler, Frank Biela and Marco Werner in the Audi R8 LMS. Belgian Fassler is the current Le Mans champion with Audi and Biela was last year’s MMER runner up with Audi Race Experience Team Joest.

“The race starts at lunch time and it’s unbelievably hot. For this reason, we have fitted in air conditioners. No matter what, it’s still hot with the temperatures around 35-40 degrees Celsius,” said Biela, referring to tomorrow noon start time. The 12-hour race ends at midnight. Here are the top ten qualifiers:

1. Tatsuya Kataoka / Fariqe Hairuman / Bernd Schneider (Mercedes SLS) 6:16.346s
2. Nobuteru Taniguchi / Masataka Yanagida / Dominic Ang (Mercedes SLS) 6:17.231s
3. Frank Biela / Marcel Fassler / Marco Werner (Audi R8) 6:18.421s
4. Mok Weng Sun / Gianmaria Bruni / Matthew Griffin (Ferrari F458) 6:18.829s
5. Siu Yuk Lung / Keita Sawa / Dominik Schwager (Lamborghini LP560) 6:19.413
6. Darryl O’Young / Seiji Ara / Alex Yoong (Audi R8) 6:19.753s
7. Frank Yu / Alain Jacques Gilbert Li / Stefan Johansson (Ford GT3) 6:22.946s
8. Jeffrey Lee / Alexandre Imperatori / Aaron Lim (Audi R8) 6:24.476s
9. Billy Fung / Christian Jones / Akihiro Asai (Lamboghini LP560) 6:24.662
10. Franz Engstler / Dominik Kraihamer / Andrei Romanov (BMW Z4) 6:31.997s

No need to pay for tickets – the MMER is free for the public, so head down to Sepang for a different kind of weekend activity!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (12) Think (0) Angry (7) Happy (6) Sad (2) Meh (9)

Frankfurt: Mercedes-Benz F 125! fuel-cell plug-in hybrid

Anthony Lim — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:47:34 +0000

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its F 125! research vehicle, which the company says is a concept showcasing what a large, luxurious automobile will look like in 2025.

The F-CELL plug-in hybrid has a range of 1,000 km, and features, among other things, the use of a revolutionary hydrogen storage technology, a lithium-sulphur high-voltage, high-energy battery as well as e4MATIC-all-wheel drive with four wheel electric motors and individual torque control at each wheel. The car also pioneers battery charging by induction.

The four-seater concept has a bodyshell of innovative, lightweight hybrid construction with a high proportion of fibre-reinforced plastics and a mix of carbon-fibre, aluminium and high-strength steels. A high-strength construction with crash-responsive protective systems within the doors allows the omission of B-pillars, and the car utilises wide gull-wing doors to offer easy access to the four seats.

The F 125!’s hydrogen tank is integrated into the floor assembly, and has a capacity of around 7.5 kg of hydrogen. Compared to the high-pressure tanks in use today, the tank here requires less installation space as opposed to current tanks, which need to be cylindrical in shape.

Meanwhile, the advanced lithium-sulphur battery envisaged for the F 125! has a storage capacity of 10 kWh and is installed behind the rear seats. Combining the fuel cell drive system with the innovative lithium-sulphur battery offers up to 1,000 km of travel, of which up to 50 km can be under battery-electric power alone. The battery can be inductively charged at “intelligent” charging stations, and the convenient charging process can be monitored by smartphone.

The fuel cell stack in the car provides the power for four powerful electric motors installed near the wheels – the modular e4MATIC system, which also uses improved drive components from the SLS AMG E-CELL, generates a continuous output of 231 hp and a peak output of 313 hp. It’s all good enough to propel the F 125! to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 220 km/h.

The interior features a control and display concept based on touch, speech and hand-gestures, making for a car which the driver is able to interact with – the gull-wing doors can also be opened and closed by hand-gestures.

Elsewhere, attractive displays using 3D and projector-beam technology are to be found, as are next-generation, substantially networked telematics that allow internet-based voice control, integration into social media and extensive remote control of vehicle settings and entertainment functions. Occupants will always be online and connected through an @yourCOMAND cloud-based infotainment system.

The car also features innovative assistance systems such as Advanced Driving Assist, which allows lane-changes on multi-lane, one-way roads, and in a further development stage will even offer automatic overtaking manoeuvres.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (11) Think (0) Angry (2) Happy (2) Sad (1) Meh (7)

All-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class officially revealed!

Danny Tan — Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:52:20 +0000

After a leak earlier in the week, which we carried here, Mercedes-Benz has decided to reveal everything about their all new B-Class ahead of its world debut at Frankfurt next month. To sum it up, Stuttgart says that their new ‘Compact Sports Tourer’ is ‘substantially more agile and efficient, but as comfortable and spacious as ever’.

As expected, the new B-Class has a substantially bigger footprint that the car it replaces. At 4,359 mm long and 1,786 mm wide, it’s 89 mm longer and 9 mm wider, although the new car sits 46 mm lower than before. Accordingly, the seat height in relation to the road has also been reduced by 86 mm, for easier vehicle entry, says Merc. They add that in response to customer requests, the sitting position is now more upright.

For those at the back, which is important for this model, a lowering of the vehicle’s floor at the rear produces segment-leading rear legroom (976 mm) that even surpasses that of the E and S-Class! And despite the lower roofline, headroom has been further improved over the old car.

Additionally, there’s an Easy-Vario-Plus system that includes fore/aft adjustment of the rear seats by up to 140 mm (increasing boot volume from 488 to 666 litres) and a front passenger seat which backrest can be folded forward onto the seat cushion.

Now, the B’s new looks might not be agreeable to all, it’s hard to argue with its slippery drag coefficient of 0.26. This is helped by areas such as air flow around the front wheels, underbody design and the cooling air flow. Patents are pending for details such as the serrated wheel arch spoiler. An upcoming optional Eco Technology package will bring the Cd figure down to 0.24, which is on par with the E-Class Coupé and impressive for a hatchback shape.

The new M270 engines feature Merc’s third-generation direct injection system that first surfaced in last year’s BlueDirect V6 and V8 engines. Both are 1.6-litre turbocharged units with max torque available from 1,250 rpm. The one in the B 180 is rated at 122 hp and 200 Nm, while the B 200 has 156 hp and 250 Nm.

The diesels are based on the OM651 family used from the C to the S-Class, but with displacement scaled down to 1.8 litres and mounted transversely for the first time. The B 180 CDI generates 109 hp and 250 Nm from 1,400 rpm, while the B 200 CDI packs in 136 hp and 300 Nm from 1,600 rpm. All engines can be paired to a new 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission or a new six-speed manual, which Merc says is closely related to the DCT.

Mercedes promises improved agility, thanks to the new B’s lowered centre of gravity, a new four-link rear axle and the upgraded ESP. A sports suspension is optionally available. This one further lowers the ride height by 20 mm and features sports dampers with amplitude-selective damping and Direct-Steer (faster, sharper response) for the electromechanical steering.

The new B is build with a modular ‘Energy Space’ concept that’s designed to accommodate versions with an alternative drive. There are interfaces in the body shell that enables the floor panel to be easily modified, plus an underfloor compartment covering part of the area under the rear bench seat for ‘alternative energy accumulators’. So it looks like we can expect some sort of hybrid B-Class in the future, too.

Full gallery after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (34) Think (8) Angry (7) Happy (4) Sad (4) Meh (3)

No related posts.

Mercedes B-Class image leaked ahead of Frankfurt debut

Danny Tan — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 23:43:19 +0000

This is the first official image of the all new Mercedes-Benz B-Class, leaked ahead of its world debut at the Frankfurt show. Aspects that have been improved over the current “Compact Sports Tourer”, which was launched back in 2005, include space, refinement, economy and safety.

Autocar UK reports that at launch, the B-Class will be powered by all-new 1.6-litre turbocharged units, transversely mounted, one with 121 bhp and 200 Nm, and another packing 154 bhp and 250 Nm, with max torque in both available from just 1,250 rpm. There will be two 1.8 diesels as well – 107 bhp/256 Nm and 134 bhp/300 Nm.

In an earlier exclusive, the mag revealed that Mercedes has dropped the expensive sandwich construction of the current A and B-Class. So the B sits on a new FWD platform that will be shared with the next A-Class and the F800 compact saloon. The suspension consists of front McPherson struts and a four-link item for the rear.

Hybrid versions are planned.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (43) Think (5) Angry (17) Happy (7) Sad (31) Meh (0)

LEGO TECHNIC Unimog U400 – playfully plastic, this one

Anthony Lim — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 05:07:29 +0000

Yes, it’s a Mercedes-Benz Universal Motor Gerät (better known as the Unimog) multi-purpose 4WD medium truck you see in the photos, going for cheap, but you can’t drive – or for that matter, get into – it, though you can assemble the vehicle.

It’s the biggest TECHNIC model that LEGO has come up with – created with M-B, it’s a 2,048 piece, 1:12-scale Unimog. A functioning one at that. The LEGO Unimog U400 includes a pneumatically operated crane, with working gripper arm, as well as a front winch, optional snowplough.

Other features include full suspension, differentials, a four-wheel drive chassis, a gear block for extreme ground clearance, and a detailed reproduction of the engine, accurate right down to the moving pistons.

The LEGO TECHNIC Unimog, when built, measures an impressive 38.6 cm from bumper to bumper and is finished in bright orange with blue bucket seats. In the UK, it retails for £155 (RM760). I know what I want for Christmas this year!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (99) Think (16) Angry (9) Happy (21) Sad (14) Meh (0)

No related posts.

Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI – diesel for the first time

Anthony Lim — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 04:46:30 +0000

Not as exciting as the recently revealed AMG version, but potent enough for most, and frugal at that. Diesel has finally found its way on to the Mercedes-Benz SLK, and the first oil burner form of the roadster is the SLK 250 CDI.

The two-seater is equipped with a 2,143 cc four-cylinder turbo mill, offering 204 hp and 500 Nm. Performance specs include a 0-100 kph sprint time of 6.7 seconds and a 241 kph top speed. The lump is partnered with a 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission as standard, with a six-speed manual transmission to come about in the second quarter of next year.

Like all SLK models, the SLK 250 CDI features a start/stop system as standard. Externally, the diesel is no different in appearance from the petrol models, retaining even the twin exhaust system.

The car is available with a choice of three versions of the famous vario-roof, one of them the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. There are also three suspension versions available: a conventional steel suspension, a sports suspension with a stiffer spring and damper setup or a suspension with an electronically controlled, fully automatic damping system.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (30) Think (6) Angry (7) Happy (5) Sad (16) Meh (0)

Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG revealed – NA V8 with 415 hp

Danny Tan — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 03:23:19 +0000

UPDATE: Hi res gallery of beauty and actions shots added

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its most powerful SLK to date, the latest SLK55 AMG, ahead of its Frankfurt world debut. As the range topping performance flagship of the third-generation SLK that was launched in June, the SLK55 AMG gets a new AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with 415 hp and 540 Nm of torque, good for a 0-100 km/h dash in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is, as usual, restricted to 250 km/h.

No downsized twin-turbo V6 here, the SLK55 gets a naturally aspirated V8 with a “typical exhaust growl which only a large-displacement eight-cylinder engine can produce,” says Merc. This new M152 unit is based on the AMG M157 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine that debut last year, and seeing service in the AMG versions of the E, CLS, S and CL.

Identical design features include the displacement, bore/stroke, distance between cylinders, ECO stop/start system and direct injection technology. Things unique to the M152 are the new intake air ducting, new cylinder heads, the modified valve drive, an adapted oil supply system and an optimised crankcase.

AMG boasts that no other petrol engine features direct injection at 2,900 psi pressure, spray-guided combustion and piezo injectors, all in conjunction with map-controlled cylinder shut-off, an all-aluminum crankcase with “spectacle” honing, four-valve technology with continuous camshaft adjustment, a high compression ratio of 12.6:1, stop/start and generator management – while revving to a maximum speed of over 7,000 rpm.

Did you notice ‘cylinder shut off’ from the list? That’s a new feature developed completely by Mercedes-AMG where cylinders two, three, five and eight are cut off under partial load, which lowers fuel consumption considerably.

Available over a wide range from 800 to 3,600 rpm if the driver has selected transmission mode C (for Controlled Efficiency), there’s still 230 Nm available in four-pot mode (enough for regular driving), and the reactivation process at 3,600 rpm takes no more than 30 milliseconds. By the way, this tech is also used in the 750 hp V8 engines in Formula 1.

Another new tech is the AMG sports exhaust system featuring a flap on each side. This resolves the trade off between an emotional exhaust note during spirited driving and a more discreet engine sound in the partial load range.

At engine speeds below 2,000 rpm the flaps remain closed. When the driver accelerates, the flaps open at an angle of 15, then 30 and up to 50 degrees. Under full load, the flaps are fully opened so one can hear the full AMG rumble.

Power is transferred to the rear wheels by the AMG Speedshift Plus 7G-Tronic auto ‘box with three transmission modes: Controlled Efficiency (C), Sport (S) and Manual (M). The automatic rev-matching function when downshifting shortens shift times, while a double turbine torsional damper with centrifugal pendulum adapts to engine speed and helps minimise vibrations in four-cylinder mode.

To improve handling, the SLK55 comes with AMG sports suspension with Torque Vectoring Brakes and AMG Direct-Steer system, the latter with a parameter function adapted to match the suspension.

There’s also an AMG-exclusive 3-stage ESP that gives individual control choices at the touch of a button: “ESP ON”, “SPORT Handling Mode” and “ESP OFF” for the very brave or very good.

After all the meat, here’s the garnish. The SLK55 is set apart by AMG light-alloy wheels, exclusive AMG body styling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear.

Inside, the highlights are the AMG-specific analog clock featuring an IWC design, the AMG Performance steering wheel, with its flattened top and bottom sections (also has aluminum shift paddles), and the AMG instrument cluster plus main menu.

A hi res gallery of beauty and action shots is after the jump. Good wallpaper material!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (10) Think (2) Angry (2) Happy (0) Sad (1) Meh (0)

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Dashboard Teaser Pix

Paul Tan — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 07:15:18 +0000

Mercedes-Benz has teased the next generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class interior, shown here with covered with the optional stitched ARTICO man-made leather.

There’s a TFT LCD screen to display the COMAND interface, but the technology is complemented by retro styled components such as the circular air conditioning vents that pay homage to the Mercedes-Benz cars of the yesteryears.

What do you think? I think it’s definitely a class above the model it replaces, but professional studio photography can be deceiving so we reserve our comments until we get to see a real car.

The new B-Class will make its public debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid September 2011. Look after the jump for the rest of the teaser pix.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (1) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

No related posts.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 facelift arrives in Malaysia – C200 CGI and C250 CGI BlueEfficiency driven

Anthony Lim — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:10:14 +0000

How time does fly. It has been four years since the third-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class was introduced, and the compact executive car has certainly done very well for itself, with more than a million units sold worldwide. The announcement of the mid-life facelift came in December last year, a little more than halfway through the typical seven-year life cycle for a model like it.

In Malaysia, since arriving in the second half of 2007, more than 6,000 examples have found owners, not a staggering figure, but impressive nonetheless. The C200 K and C230 that paved the way were replaced by the C200 CGI and C250 CGI, with the primary changes being in terms of powertrain.

Seven months on after the facelift’s announcement, the car has arrived on these shores. For its introduction here, the lineup retains the similar feel to the outgoing pre-facelift version in terms of model variants – the locally-assembled C200 CGI and C250 CGI BlueEfficiency roll in, at RM258,888 and RM290,888 respectively, looking to continue the successful run their predecessors had. There’s quite a fair bit of new in the car, even if it isn’t noticeable at first glance.

Full story after the jump.

The W204 was a dramatic step up in styling and design compared to the W203, almost a blitz in how it changed perception of the car. If the latter was a bit boring and dowdy, the W204 was most certainly not. For the facelift, Merc has seen fit not to alter the exterior too much, even if it has made no less than 2,000 component changes to the car, thereby retaining the shape’s poise and character.

The front is where it’s most noticeable. For starters, there’s a redesigned bumper, which has a more expressive and dynamic contour, the front section being brought closer to the brand’s new design idiom. As a central element at the front, the shape of the radiator grille is more prominently supported by the bumper, and the central air intake opens out upwards in a V-shape, forming a visual base unit for the radiator grille.

Meanwhile, pronounced side sections on the bumper extend from the sporty V-shape at the centre; these sections – beneath the headlamps – blend into the feature lines along the vehicle flanks, creating a better link with the sides. Lastly, the side air inlets in the bumper are positioned low down, to give the car a more road-hugging appearance.

There’s also a new aluminium bonnet, chosen for its lightweight properties and contoured around the headlamps and radiator grille in such a manner that it emphasises the V-shape of the front section more prominently than before. Aluminium as material also features on the front wings and the door modules.

Elsewhere, the headlamps have also been redesigned, and the new shape creates a more dynamic and resolute impression, so Merc says, aiding the rest of the front’s new cast to get the V-shape going further. The bi-xenons – which now feature the Intelligent Light System (ILS) as standard – has some rather subtle design cues, including a position light with a distinctive C-shape.

As is now the standard, LEDs feature prominently – the lower section of the headlamp is formed by a horizontal broadband LED indicator unit, and on the bumper sits LED daytime running lamps.

Not much change in the rear, with just the tail lamps and rear bumper being reworked. For the latter, the light-catching contours and dividing lines have been modified to emphasise the width of the car even more. As for the tail lights, a continuous covering lens helps neaten their integration into the tail end, and the use of LEDs again feature prominently, offering a high recognition factor in the dark.

As before, the radiator grille helps differentiate the models, the C250 wearing one with a sizeable tristar slapped on it, while the C200 makes do with a more civil looking one, its Merc logo sitting on top of the bonnet.

Wheels also help signify the difference – both wear 17-inchers, the C250 being a 5-twinspoke design (with staggered 225/45 front and 245/40 rear rubbers) while the C200′s is a 7-twinspoke pattern, wrapped in 225/45 series tyres.

Still, the exterior work doesn’t change things much from an overall perspective, at least not to those who don’t know what they’re looking at. Aside from the front, the side profile and rear view offer very little to the uninitiated that this is the facelift. During the media drive up to Ipoh last week, hardly anyone took notice of the car, though on the return trip, I did catch one person checking the car out whilst on the move, and it happened to be a pre-facelift owner, chugging along in his W204 C200 CGI.

Inside though, there’s no mistaking what exactly this one is. It’s where everything’s happening, so much so, what’s been slapped on makes the pre-facelift model’s interior look a bit shabby when you explore it now. The new dashboard leads the way, and its more angular lines that offers a more focused presentation. Styling-wise, the fascia follows on that found on the W212 E-Class.

Gone is the central pop-up lid in the pre-facelift model, which hid the COMAND LCD screen – I always thought it was a bit gimmicky and plasticky, and the open configuration sitting underneath the stepped extension to the instrument cluster now offers a far more pleasant view, and not just from a legibility point of view.

The trim and choice of material have also been significantly improved. If there was one major thing to pick about the old car’s interior, aside from the aspects of design and layout, it would be that things felt a bit cheap (not tacky), and not truly befitting of the car.

Now, texture to both sight and touch have taken a big jump – the surfaces of the control elements are more finely detailed and galvanised, the upper dashboard section wears a new surface grain, and there’s more decorative trim to be found on the dash (specifically, into the passenger side area), among other things.

Some of the changes are imperceptible, especially if you’re not familiar with that on the old – the rotary volume control knob’s weighing as you turn the dial is now heavier and offers a better tactile feel, for one. Others are easier to spot – there’s a new instrument cluster, with its three tube-style surrounds dressed in a galvanised surface, featuring an integral colour display in conjunction with a completely redesigned multi-function 12-button steering wheel.

Speaking of the steering wheel, the C200 CGI gets a four-spoke one, replete with a chromed trim panels for the controls, while the C250 CGI has a new generation three-spoke steering wheel, first seen in the new CLS. The three-spoker is a delight to the eye and hand, offering good ergonomics and fit at its 3-9 contact point area.

The updated C-Class continues with two lines. Going the Elegance route with the C200 bags you dark brown burr walnut wood trim as well as an instrument cluster with a cream backplate, and there seems to be a choice of interior colour combinations to be had – the two C200 examples I hopped into had different ones, one in black and the other, cream. The seam outlines are also in a contrasting light grey, less noticeable on the cream-based interior. Meanwhile, the darkened interior of the C250 gets brushed aluminium trim, a silver backplate for the cluster and horizontally stitching for its seat rests and backs.

With the different routes also comes different outputs. While both variants wear the M271 DEH four-cylinder 1.8 litre, direct injection, turbocharged engine, the state of output tunes naturally differ. For the C200, this is 184 hp at 5,250 rpm and 270 Nm at 1,800-2,500 rpm, while the C250 has 204 hp at 5,500 rpm and 310 Nm at 2,000-4,300 rpm.

Performance specs include a 0-100 kph time of 7.8 seconds and a 235 kph top speed for the C200, while the C250 is a shade quicker at 7.2 seconds and 240 kph. In essence, the engines remain unchanged for the makeover.

New though is the inclusion of a 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed auto transmission to replace the five-speed in the pre-facelift, and both versions get it (the C230, incidentally, featured a seven-speeder). With wider gear ratios, an improved Sport/Eco shift programme and greater mechanical damper insulation, the improved NAG II FE+ box – with an overall ratio optimised for fuel economy – promises improved drive feel. In terms of fuel economy, MB says that the facelifted C-Class variants offer a 13% improvement over their pre-facelift siblings.

Other items on the equipment list include new driving assistance systems from Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Attention Assist to Parking Guidance for the Parktronic system, as well as a new telematics generation offering new features such as phone book transfer, display of SMS messages, wireless music reproduction via Bluetooth and a USB interface that is now accommodated in the centre armrest.

Besides a Dynamic Handling Package, the C250 also comes with built-in navigation and a COMAND Online multimedia system; as its name suggests, internet access – via your mobile phone connection – is provided in the C-Class for the first time, though surfing is limited to only when the car is stationary.

All that out of the way, it’s time to find out how it all fared in use, even if a short media drive isn’t going to be all too all-encompassing. Having jumped into the drive directly off a long-haul flight in the same morning, there was little to suggest that anything had radically changed performance-wise upon first measure – the outward bound journey was made in a C250, and it felt very much like the pre-facelift in its dynamic qualities and character behaviour.

The car felt brisk enough on the highway, pretty much what I remembered the previous CGI version to be in terms of zip, a bit on the raw side when pushed, but efficient nonetheless. The steering remains lightweight in feel and feedback – it’s fast enough (a bit skittish at speed, even), but there’s none of the directness and information coming off it you’d find on a Munich equivalent, and we’re not talking merely about weight here.

Now, one can argue that for most C-Class drivers, this is hardly going to be anything they’d fuss about. I do think the new three-spoke steering wheel is the bee’s knees though; sure, the grip isn’t as meaty as a Veedub’s, but it’s an absolute gem to hold.

Switching on the Sport mode out on the open road proved to be a quick affair, in that switching it back off came very quickly after – going in a straight line is hardly the terrain to try out firming up the suspension. We’ll get to that when the car comes in for a more complete test session.

In the end, there was only one corner that offered the chance to push, a hairpin that the car aced comfortably (pardon the term) with Sport mode on. Still, you always get the feeling that prodding the C into corners isn’t exactly what it’s all about and why you’d buy one in the first place.

The return journey the next day, in the C200, proved how much of a cruiser this one is – I drove back alone, my driving partner having hightailed out earlier in another car. With the effects of jet lag still plenty in evidence, the drive home – at mixed speeds – turned out to be effortless, and that I came out of it no more worse for wear than I already was at that stage is testament to the car’s ability to soak it all up. Of note is the seat comfort levels, which are high. Granted, Ipoh isn’t exactly Mars, but a couple of hundred clicks when you’re tired feels a bit like it.

If there’s an area where performance has improved, then it has to be with the seven-speeder, which smoothens things out considerably and adds further to the C’s refinement levels. In terms of response, it’s far more rapid than the old five-speed box, for sure.

Having spent a fair amount of time in it, the new interior is, simply put, fetching. The switchgear feels good to the touch, and the new instrument cluster and LCD screen is well easy on the eye. In all, the entire bag of tricks really does make the reworked C a far plusher offering than before.

In 2007, when the C-Class first arrived here, I decided to pit it against the BMW E90 3 Series in a two-way comparo for the publication I worked for then (to kick-start shootouts there; it had never been done in the newspaper, and it’s not something that will be done now), and with three different drivers providing their opinions, the C200 K ended up ahead of the 320i as the preferred choice for all three reviewers, which was a revelation to us.

Yes, the 3er ran rings around the C in drive dynamics and left it trailing doing all the ham-fisted stuff – feedback to input, progression, steering, traction, linearity, the BMW simply ticked off all the boxes ahead of the Merc. But it was also less forgiving in its character, less compliant on the whole and certainly less comfortable in an urban environment on a day-to-day basis.

As much as the E90 had eminent drivability (if lacking in power) and appealed to the driver in me, the balanced – and arguably, better – temperament of the W204 was hard to ignore. Certainly, given that most owners don’t drive their cars like they stole it, you can see where we all ended up, the cruiser winning the vote over the bruiser.

Nearly four years on, I’d like to believe that things haven’t really changed all that much. Undoubtedly, the arrival of the F30 will bring about another change in the landscape and perspective, but for now, the status quo remains. One where the choice is made with the heart, and one made with the head, as before. And you can call me soft, but if done once more, I’d know which one I would pick. Again.

C200 CGI

C250 CGI

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (15) Think (4) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Rosberg to drive Fangio’s 1954 Mercedes at Nurburgring

Danny Tan — Tue, 19 Jul 2011 15:04:10 +0000

Fangio en route to victory at the Argentinean GP in January 1955. Click to enlarge

Mercedes GP Petronas driver Nico Rosberg will have the honour of driving Juan Manuel Fangio’s 1954 Mercedes on the Nurburging’s old Nordschleife layout this weekend at the German GP.

It will be a great moment for the crowd and the young driver. 57 years ago, Fangio won the German GP at the wheel of his Mercedes W196 race car, the second of his four triumphs that year for Mercedes, en route to the title.

Back in 1954, the Argentinean won the race in a time of just over 3 hours 45 minutes around the famous 22.8 km track. Throughout his racing career, Fangio won five F1 world titles in cars from four different manufacturers, and is one of the sport’s greats. He passed away in 1995, and would have turned 100 this year.

“Coming to the Nurburgring for the German Grand Prix always feels very special to me. There is so much history around this amazing track, especially for Mercedes-Benz with great drivers from the past having had such successful times on the Nurburgring and the legendary Nordschleife,” Rosberg said.

Will stepping into the legend’s car around the legendary track give Nico a boost in the race? The magic worked at the previous race for Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso, who got to sample the 375 F1 which Jose Froilan Gonzalez drove to the Scuderia’s first championship victory in the 1951 British GP. He then went on to win at Silverstone. Rosberg’s best showing so far at his home race was a fourth place for Williams in 2009.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Daimler and Bosch form JV to manufacture electric motors

Danny Tan — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 09:09:37 +0000

Daimler AG and Robert Bosch GmbH have agreed to join forces to develop and manufacture electric motors for Mercedes-Benz and Smart cars. The 50:50 joint venture company will be called EM-motive GmbH, with headquarters and manufacturing facilities in Hildesheim plus an engineering site located close to the parent companies in the Stuttgart area.

Some 100 employees are expected to start working for EM-motive from the fourth quarter of this year. Production is scheduled to begin in 2012 and the motor will debut in the full electric version of the new-generation Smart ForTwo, which goes on sale early next year. The electric motor will also be sold to interested parties, something Bosch will handle.

“Like lithium-ion batteries, electric motors are key components for our electric vehicles. It is extremely important that competence in this field is maintained in Germany. In joining forces with Bosch, we have now teamed up with a long-standing partner, and are confident that this move will lead to outstanding results,” said Prof. Dr. Herbert Kohler, VP of e-drive & Future Mobility in Group Research & Advanced Engineering and Chief Environmental Officer of Daimler.

This JV is expected to churn out more than 1 million electric motors by 2020.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

No related posts.

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz World AMG car driving demo

Paul Tan — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 10:45:22 +0000

For fans of the marque with the silver arrow – here’s a video produced by Mercedes-Benz UK featuring a bunch of AMG cars burning rubber on the track. The cars are driven by the Mercedes Silver Arrows team, the Stuttgart car company’s display driving team. Nothing like the rumble of a V8 engine to ease up the mid-week stress!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Mercedes GP Petronas happy with new exhaust system

Danny Tan — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 02:29:04 +0000

Mercedes GP Petronas gave its new exhaust system a debut at last weekend’s British GP, and not only is the team happy with the better performance it brings, they’re expecting a stronger showing for the remaining half of the season. The MGP W02s of Rosberg and Schumacher ran a longer exhaust design to improve the efficiency of the blown diffuser, something the top three teams also use.

“We are on a new path with the exhaust system. With the system we had before we had explored most of the potential of it, and we were finding it very difficult to make progress. The new exhaust system is quite encouraging because we are seeing greater levels of potential with the new system than we saw with the old system,” team principal Ross Brawn explained.

“Our challenge – and we haven’t proven it yet – is to get over the reliability issues, and the installation issues. It wasn’t helped with the changes in engine mapping which have come along right in the middle of our project, but if is generally positive,” he added.

There are more updates on the way. “We can see potential in the system, but more important we have things coming which will take more and more advantage of this technology and this approach. We are reasonably optimistic. I am optimistic we will find some good advances with the system,” an upbeat Brawn said.

Rosberg was sixth and Schumacher ninth in Silverstone despite his misadventures, pushing Mercedes up to fourth in the Constructors’ Championship.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

No related posts.

Mercedes S-Class updated with new BlueDirect engines

Danny Tan — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 08:01:40 +0000

UPDATE: Full live gallery from the launch added.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia unveiled the S-Class with updated BlueDirect engines this morning. This engine refresh exercise involves the S350L and the S500L, which will now get BlueEfficiency tags on their names. The “entry level” Mercedes-Benz S300L soldiers on with the old 231 hp 3.0-litre V6 lump.

The updated models are based on the facelifted W221 that was launched in Malaysia last April. The main component of BlueDirect engines are the BlueDirect combustion chamber, direct injection, improved fuel pump, lightweight camshaft plus double chain drive, electronic controlled thermostat, modified camshaft adjuster and exhaust gas turbocharger on selected engines. The result is higher power and torque with lower consumption and emissions.

The S350L BlueEfficiency gets a naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 M276 engine that puts out 306 hp and 370 Nm of torque. That’s a useful 12.5% and 5.7% more than the previous 272 hp/350 Nm unit. Max torque is also available from a broader range, from 3,500 to 5,250 rpm.

And the best part is the improved fuel consumption – 7.6L per 100 km, or a massive 24% better than the M272′s 10L per 100 km. CO2 emissions is down by 23.5%, so it’s a gain on all fronts. Performance wise, this variant does 0-100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and top speed is capped at 250 km/h.

It”s pretty much the same story for the S500L BlueEfficiency. Under that long hood lies a new biturbo V8 engine that’s smaller in capacity (4,663 cc vs 5,461 cc) but bigger in performance.

With 435 hp and 700 Nm of twist available from 1,800 to 3,500 rpm, this is a very rapid limo that does the century sprint in five seconds flat. This is a 2.1 tonne hulk of a machine, mind you. The old V8 made 388 hp and 530 Nm, by the way. Fuel consumption is 9.3L per 100 km, 16% better than before.

It’s an S-Class, so you’ll find a long, long list of tech and equipment, even if some owners never get to use half of them. The highlighted ones are Adaptive Highbeam Assist (auto dip high beam when oncoming car is detected), Night View Assist Plus (infrared camera with pedestrian detection), Attention Assist (detects drowsiness), long and medium range radars used for Brake Assist Plus and Distronic Plus and Blind Spot Assist.

Inside, there’s Splitview tech for the COMAND control and display system. Basically, this allows the driver to see navigation and the front passenger a DVD movie via the same central screen, for instance.

The rear seat entertainment package adds on two 8-inch displays at the back of the front seat headrests, two wireless headphones and a separate DVD player with connections. Other new features are an SD card slot and USB/Bluetooth interface. The “Music Register” is a 7.2 GB moving jukebox.

Audio wise, the S350L gets a Harman Kardon surround sound system with “Logic 7″, but the S500L offers the ultimate experience with a 15-speaker, 1200 watt Bang & Olufsen Beosound AMG system. It’s very obvious too – look out for the “hour glass” showpieces at the A and B pillars and the B&O panel behind the rear headrests.

Another S500L exclusive is the AMG Sports Package, which all big bad bosses will love. It includes 20-inch twin five-spoke AMG alloys (S350L wears 19-inch multi spokes), AMG bodystyling package, larger front brake discs, brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs and AMG floor velour mats.

Locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, the S350L BlueEfficiency is priced at RM840,888 while the S500L BlueEfficiency will cost you RM1,056,888.

The increase is reasonable (RM5k for the S350L and RM57k for the S500L) considering the improved engines and added equipment. Potential Sonderklasse buyers aren’t the most price sensitive folks around either, so it should matter little. The entry point of S-Class ownership is RM659,888 for the S300L.

A gallery of live snaps from this morning’s launch is after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (1) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG powerslides for 2,308 metres – Mauro Calo sets new world record for longest car drift

Anthony Lim — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 03:08:45 +0000

Driving a stock Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Mauro Calo has set a new world record for the longest car drift at the Mercedes-Benz World in Surrey, UK. Calo smashed the existing world record by 394 metres, drifting a total distance of 2,308 metres to add his name to the record books.

To achieve the record breaking distance, Calo chose part of the Handling Circuit at Mercedes-Benz World – the circuit provided a complete 360 degree circle of tarmac which saw him complete almost eight laps.

Calo, a precision stunt driver and senior driving specialist for Mercedes-Benz and McLaren SLR, broke the record set in 2009 by 2010 Formula Drift champion Vaughan Gittin Jr.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

No related posts.

Mercedes M-Class revealed with twin-turbo four-pot diesel

Danny Tan — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 04:43:40 +0000

Mercedes-Benz has released pics and details of its next gen M-Class SUV, which will premiere at the Frankfurt show. They’ve taken the evolutionary route in terms of styling, which masks the fact that this M-Class rides on new underpinnings. No major change in recipe too – the ML still sits five in two rows.

Although the new car’s 2,915 mm wheelbase is unchanged, it’s 24 mm longer, 16 mm wider and 19 mm lower than the car it replaces. But at 4,804 mm long and 1,926 mm wide, the Merc is still 53 mm shorter than rival BMW X5, which is also slightly (7 mm) wider. Because of the familiar proportions and design, the ML is immediately recognisable as one. Perhaps Merc surveys showed that most are happy with the current looks.

What’s clearly all new is the cabin design, a big upgrade from the dated dash of the current car. The elements are the same, but the housing isn’t. As you can see here, it also looks very luxurious with a leather bound dash top, matte finish wood trim and quilted hide on the seats and door cards.

Three engines will be offered at launch, including a small four-cylinder diesel unit. It’s a twin-turbo 2.1-litre oil burner in the ML 250 Bluetec that produces 204 PS and 500 Nm of torque. That’s very impressive as it’s just 41 PS and 40 Nm short of the X5 30d despite displacing almost one litre less. For something we know, the N47D engine in the F10 520d does 184 hp and 380 Nm. Combined with stop-start and brake energy recuperation, the ML 250 Bluetec achieves 28% better economy than the current six-pot ML 300 CDI.

A step up is the ML 350 Bluetec with a 3.0L V6 diesel engine. This one has 258 PS and 619 Nm of torque. This should be good for a 7.5-second 0-100 km/h run before topping out at 224 km/h.

For the petrol fans in America and Asia, the ML 350 BlueEfficiency comes with a 3.5-litre V6 engine that pushes out 306 PS and 370 Nm of torque. A twin-turbo V8 powered ML63 AMG is in the works, as is a diesel hybrid. The latter will add an electric motor to the 2.1L diesel in the ML 250 Bluetec to make it the eco champ of the range. Autocar UK’s sources say that the hybrid will have 19.2 km/l economy.

All engines are paired to Merc’s 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission and an AWD system. There’s also selective damping suspension and the optional Airmatic self-leveling air suspension plus Active Curve System with dynamic roll stabilisation. All these chassis tricks are controlled by knobs between the seats.

Full gallery after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (1) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster – more pix and info

Anthony Lim — Mon, 30 May 2011 07:33:17 +0000

More photos of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster have come about, as well as further details on features and kit. The vehicle, which rolls in at 1,660 kg (40 kg more than the Coupé), is of course due to make its official debut in Frankfurt in September before beginning to enter European markets before the year is out.

The car wears the same 6.3 litre V8 engine as the Coupe, and with the AMG Speedshift DCT 7-speed sports transmission in attendance, offers comparable performance – the 571 hp and 650 Nm on call offers a 0-100 kph sprint time of 3.8 seconds and an electronically-limited 315 kph top speed.

The fabric soft top, which can be opened and closed in 11 seconds while on the move at up to 50 kph, will come in three colour choices – black, red and beige, to suit the nine exterior and eight interior colours available for the vehicle. Boot capacity is 173 litres, just three litres less than the Coupe version, and this is the same with the roof open or closed.

As for interior trim, owners will be able to pick from the finest leather, matt-finished solid metal or optional, real carbon-fibre trim. Standard issue on the SLS AMG Roadster include black designo leather, AMG sports seats with heating, a slot-in glass draught-stop, Comand APS with DVD player, anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection and interior monitoring, Thermotronic luxury automatic climate control and Keyless-Go start.

Single-tone or two-tone designo leather in espresso brown is available as a new interior colour – this dark shade of brown matches an optional new metallic paint finish called AMG Sepang brown. Leather-lined roll-over bars with integrated mesh in a “Silver Shadow” look are available with the optional designo Exclusive leather, and ambient lighting is integrated into the optionally available, electrically folding exterior mirrors.

Other available options include the Airscarf system, integrated into the backrests of the AMG sports seats, and a Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system, as well as an Android-based AMG Performance Media system, replete with vehicle telemetric data displays and high-speed mobile internet access.

In addition to the standard-fit AMG seven-spoke light-alloy wheels, 5-twin-spoke wheels and weight-optimised 10-spoke forged wheels – painted in matt black with a high-sheen rim flange – are on the options list, and the SLS AMG Roadster wears 265/35 19-inch front and 295/30 rear 20-inch rear tyres, with a tyre pressure monitoring system fitted as standard. Large gallery after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Join the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia: Stories That Drive You, Drive Us Facebook Photo Story Competition

Paul Tan — Mon, 30 May 2011 03:08:39 +0000

In conjunction with its 125 years of innovation, Mercedes-Benz is having a Facebook photo story competition called Stories That Drive You, Drive Us where participants have a chance of winning a 3 day, 2 night stay for two at Club Med Cherating. What’s more, you’ll be driving there in a W204 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, filled to the brim with fuel. The winner will also get Mercedes-Benz merchandise.

You don’t have to currently own a Mercedes-Benz to participate – it might be your dad’s car or an uncle’s car, or even fond memories of traveling in a comfy W123 taxi cab, which BTW there were a few in great condition exhibited at the recent Historic Mercedes-Benz Concours 2011.

Even if you don’t win the grand prize, there are Mercedes-Benz Driving Experience courses waiting for the winners of the 2nd and 3rd best stories. There are also five consolation prizes, where the top five most “liked” stories will win Mercedes-Benz merchandise.

Once registered, participants can submit as many stories as they would like, but only submissions in English will be accepted, and these will be moderated before being posted.

So head onto the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Facebook Fan Page to participate now. The contest closes on July 7. All registrants must be over the age of 18 to participate in the contest. To collect the grand prize or 2nd and 3rd prizes, the winner must have a valid driver’s license and be over the age of 21. Participants are of course only eligible to win one prize.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Next Mercedes B-Class to be armed with S-Class gadgets

Danny Tan — Wed, 25 May 2011 04:08:11 +0000

Concerns about emissions and economy won’t be going away anytime soon, and small cars are becoming the new battleground for luxury brands. Mercedes-Benz is set to refresh its compact assault with new A and B-Class models; the latter is set to debut first at this year’s Frankfurt show, one year ahead of the new A. Tasked with luring younger buyers, the B will be armed with gadgets from segments above.

The redesigned B-Class will be available with safety and entertainment gadgets, such as a radar-controlled collision prevention system and in-car Internet, when it goes on sale this year, said Hans Engel, chief engineer for the B-Class. “They will have lots of technology that wasn’t available in this segment before,” he said, adding that the new B will use engines from the C-Class range, which is an upgrade from today’s B engines.

Besides that, Mercedes hopes to win over young families with sportier styling and a more luxurious interior, said Anders Sundt Jensen, head of brand communication at Mercedes. But don’t expect a big change in shape, since the new car is also meant to retain current drivers of the A and B-Class with its MPV proportions and elevated seating position.

Compared to the A1/A3 and 1-er, Merc small car buyers are older, and the company wants to lower the average age. The current W204 C-Class is proof that they can pull it off. Let’s now see if this high-tech gadget strategy coupled with more dynamic styling works for the B.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (1) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

No related posts.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia: Stories That Drive You, Drive Us

Paul Tan — Tue, 24 May 2011 10:13:04 +0000

In conjunction with its 125 years of innovation, Mercedes-Benz is having a Facebook photo memory competition called Stories That Drive You, Drive Us where participants have a chance of winning a 3 day, 2 night stay for two at Club Med Cherating. What’s more, you’ll be driving there in a W204 Mercedes-Benz C-Class, filled to the brim with fuel. The winner will also get Mercedes-Benz merchandise.

All you have to do is head on to the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Facebook Fan Page, click Share & Win at the left below the profile photo, and you’ll be guided as to how to participate. You can also view existing stories there. You don’t have to currently own a Mercedes-Benz to participate – it might be your dad’s car or an uncle’s car, or even fond memories of traveling in a comfy W123 taxi cab, which BTW there were a few in great condition exhibited at the recent Historic Mercedes-Benz Concours 2011.

Essentially, all you need to do is submit a Mercedes-Benz related story complete with text, no more than a maximum of a thousand (1000) characters long, and a photo. A video is optional, but you can make your story more interesting by including a YouTube link of a video or re-enactment of your story. Once registered, participants can submit as many stories as they would like, but only submissions in English will be accepted, and these will be moderated before being posted.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Sun, 12 Feb 12 16:55:29 +0000.

This story makes me...

Excited (0) Think (0) Angry (0) Happy (0) Sad (0) Meh (0)

Paul Tan's Automotive News » Mercedes Benz

Mercedes-Benz Citan small city van to launch this year

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz’s turn to do the triple play – C-Class Coupé, SLK and CLS introduced in Malaysia

Related Posts

Daimler-Nissan joint engine production in US begins 2014

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz E300 BlueTEC Hybrid introduced, in both saloon and estate form – E400 Hybrid also debuts

Related Posts

All-new sixth-gen Mercedes-Benz SL officially revealed

Related Posts

Next gen Mercedes-Benz SL leaked ahead of Detroit debut

Related Posts

BYD-Daimler set to roll out electric concept at Beijing show

Related Posts

Silver Arrows rebranded, now officially called ‘Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula One Team’

Related Posts

Nico Rosberg extends contract with Mercedes GP Petronas

Related Posts

Schumi on Singapore crash: It was a misunderstanding

Related Posts

Petronas Syntium Team’s Merc SLS tops MMER qualifying

Related Posts

Frankfurt: Mercedes-Benz F 125! fuel-cell plug-in hybrid

Related Posts

All-new Mercedes-Benz B-Class officially revealed!

Related Posts

Mercedes B-Class image leaked ahead of Frankfurt debut

Related Posts

LEGO TECHNIC Unimog U400 – playfully plastic, this one

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI – diesel for the first time

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG revealed – NA V8 with 415 hp

Related Posts

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Dashboard Teaser Pix

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz C-Class W204 facelift arrives in Malaysia – C200 CGI and C250 CGI BlueEfficiency driven

Related Posts

Rosberg to drive Fangio’s 1954 Mercedes at Nurburgring

Related Posts

Daimler and Bosch form JV to manufacture electric motors

Related Posts

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz World AMG car driving demo

Related Posts

Mercedes GP Petronas happy with new exhaust system

Related Posts

Mercedes S-Class updated with new BlueDirect engines

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG powerslides for 2,308 metres – Mauro Calo sets new world record for longest car drift

Related Posts

Mercedes M-Class revealed with twin-turbo four-pot diesel

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster – more pix and info

Related Posts

Join the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia: Stories That Drive You, Drive Us Facebook Photo Story Competition

Related Posts

Next Mercedes B-Class to be armed with S-Class gadgets

Related Posts

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia: Stories That Drive You, Drive Us

Related Posts