After returning to profitability in the third quarter of 2009, Daimler AG (stock-exchange abbreviation DAI) anticipates positive EBIT from its ongoing business also in the fourth quarter. However, general economic developments and their effects on dealerships and suppliers could lead to an impact on fourth-quarter earnings.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management (CEO) of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “In recent months, we have increasingly mastered the crisis. Daimler has been able to maintain its financial flexibility and has intensified the actions taken to enhance efficiency, while pushing forward with the development of new products and markets. We are now very well positioned and can look with confidence to the coming year, which will remain challenging due to the still-difficult situation of automobile markets worldwide.”

Daimler anticipates significant decreases in unit sales and revenue in full-year 2009 (2008: 2.1 million vehicles and €95.9 billion).

The Group has taken measures to cut costs and avoid additional expenditure. These actions include reducing fixed and material costs, reducing labor costs and streamlining the Group’s organizational structures. The measures taken are a supplement to the existing efficiency-enhancing programs. Daimler now assumes that it will surpass the original target of saving a total of €4 billion in full-year 2009.

Despite the still-difficult situation of the world’s financial markets, the Daimler Group has a sound financial position, which should remain stable also during the fourth quarter. Due to its current very high levels of liquidity, it is intended to make use of the capital markets to only a slight extent during the rest of this year.

The free cash flow of the industrial business increased to plus €2.3 billion in the first three quarters of the year, primarily due to the effective management of inventories, receivables and payables. Due to higher payments to suppliers and a seasonal inventory increase at the end of the year, from today’s perspective, the Group forecasts a negative cash flow in the fourth quarter. For full-year 2009, Daimler expects a positive free cash flow in the industrial business.

Mercedes-Benz Cars assumes that business will continue to improve in the last quarter of the year. Sales impetus will be provided not only by the recently launched new E-Class models and the station wagon to be launched in November, but also by the new generation of the S-Class, which was launched at the end of June 2009. However, Mercedes-Benz Cars will not be able to fully compensate for the weakness during the year to date of some important sales markets and market segments.

Overall, the division’s unit sales will therefore be lower in 2009 than in the prior year. Daimler sees lower volumes above all in the markets of the United States, Western Europe and Japan. But unit sales will be partially stabilized by growth in the emerging markets, particularly in China.

With support from the new E-Class station wagon and the full availability of the E-Class sedan, unit sales in the fourth quarter of the year are expected to be higher than in the third quarter.

Based on the expected development of unit sales and ongoing efficiency improvements, Mercedes-Benz Cars anticipates a moderate improvement in earnings from the ongoing business in the fourth quarter of the year compared to the third quarter.

At Daimler Trucks, orders received have improved continuously in recent months. Nonetheless, the division anticipates a significant decrease in unit sales in full-year 2009 as a result of substantially lower demand for transport services and underutilized transport capacities. From today’s perspective, unit sales in the last quarter of the year are expected to be similar to the volume sold in the third quarter. The division assumes that its market shares will at least remain stable in the major markets, although its regional mix will change. Whereas unit sales will rise in Asia, the European markets’ share of total unit sales will decrease.

The weak condition of major markets will also be reflected by the development of the division’s earnings, and the fourth quarter will be additionally affected by the unfavorable regional mix of its sales structure. The measures taken to reduce costs will only partially offset that negative effect.

The expenses of the measures initiated to restructure and reposition the business operations of Daimler Trucks North America and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation will reduce EBIT once again in the fourth quarter of 2009.

Overall, EBIT in the fourth quarter is likely to be lower than in the third quarter.

Despite the continuation of the very difficult economic situation in major regions, Mercedes-Benz Vans expects unit sales in the fourth quarter of the year to be slightly higher than in the third quarter. In terms of EBIT, the division anticipates at least breakeven in the fourth quarter.

Daimler Buses expects core markets to stabilize in the fourth quarter. Due to higher vehicle shipments in connection with major orders, unit sales should increase compared to the third quarter. The division continues to anticipate positive EBIT in the fourth quarter.

Daimler Financial Services anticipates rising credit defaults and continued high refinancing expenses in full-year 2009. The division is confident that it will be able to compensate for the increased costs at least partially through its efficiency programs, and expects its operating result to be positive once again in the last quarter of the year.

Overview of the third quarter of 2009

As already disclosed on October 19, 2009, Daimler posted Group EBIT of €470 million in the third quarter of 2009 (Q3 2008: €648 million). Group EBIT had amounted to minus €1,005 million in the second quarter of 2009 and minus €1,426 million in the first.

The development of earnings in the third quarter reflects on the one hand declining unit sales in all vehicle segments. On the other hand, the full availability of the E-Class and the measures taken to improve efficiency had a positive impact on third-quarter earnings. Daimler Financial Services posted a decrease in earnings, primarily due to increased credit risks.

A gain of €48 million was recognized on the valuation of Chrysler-related assets in the third quarter. The plans for the repositioning of the business operations of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation and Daimler Trucks North America led to total charges of €3 million in the reporting period. In connection with the expected increase in annual contributions to the German Pension Protection Association, the Group increased its provisions for contributions by a prorated €59 million.

EBIT for the prior-year quarter was reduced by charges relating to the reassessment of vehicles’ residual values (€449 million) and relating to the equity interest in Chrysler that the Group still held at that time (€351 million). (See the table on page 10 for special items.)

Net profit for the third quarter of 2009 amounted to €56 million (Q3 2008: €213 million). In the second quarter of this year, the Group posted a net loss of €1,062 million. Earnings per share for the third quarter amounted to €0.04 (Q3 2008: €0.21).

Unit sales down by 26% in third quarter

In the third quarter of 2009, Daimler sold 386,500 cars and commercial vehicles worldwide, which is 26% fewer than in the prior-year quarter.

Daimler’s revenue fell to €19.3 billion from €24.5 billion in the third quarter of 2008. Adjusted for exchange-rate effects, revenue fell by 22%.

At the end of the third quarter of 2009, 256,900 people were employed by Daimler worldwide (end of Q3 2008: 275,500). Of that total, 163,500 people were employed in Germany (end of Q3 2008: 168,700).

The free cash flow of the industrial business was positive in the first three quarters despite the difficult economic situation at €2.3 billion (Q1-3 2008: negative €0.3 billion). The main reason for the increase in the free cash flow was the development of inventories, trade receivables and payables, as well as of investments in property, plant and equipment, which offset the negative effects from the divisions’ earnings.

There was also a negative net impact of €0.6 billion from internal payments within the Group received by the industrial business from companies in the financial services business in connection with fiscal unities (cash outflow in prior-year periods). These intercompany payments are related to a settlement with the US tax authorities and are not recognized in profit and loss.

Details of the divisions in the third quarter

In a still-challenging market environment, Mercedes-Benz Cars sold 271,900 vehicles in the third quarter of this year (Q3 2008: 315,800).After the seasonally weaker summer months of July and August, the division achieved its strongest month of the year in September. Compared to the third quarter of last year, revenue decreased by 12% to €10.2 billion.

The division’s EBIT amounted to €355 million, which is significantly higher than the €112 million posted in the prior-year quarter. The earnings improvement primarily reflects the fact that EBIT for the prior-year quarter was reduced by €449 million due to charges relating to the reassessment of leased vehicles’ residual values. The reduction in earnings in the third quarter of 2009 caused by generally lower unit sales was partially offset by the actions taken to optimize business operations, particularly in production and sales, as well as by measures designed to adjust personnel expenses. There were additional positive effects on earnings from the full availability of the new E-Class and a more favorable model mix.

Daimler Truckssold 66,100 units in the third quarter of 2009 (Q3 2008: 122,700). This substantial drop in sales is due to a slump in demand for transport services. Revenue fell from €7.3 billion to €4.4 billion.

The division’s EBIT of minus €127 million was substantially below the very high EBIT for the prior-year period of plus €510 million. This earnings development was primarily the result of lower unit sales. The implementation of efficiency improvements such as the adjustment of personnel expenses had a positive effect on EBIT. The realignment of the business operations of Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation resulted in additional charges of €13 million. The adjustment of provisions recognized in connection with the repositioning of Daimler Trucks North America had an opposing effect, leading to a gain of €10 million.

Mercedes-Benz Vans sold 40,100 vehicles in the third quarter, which is significantly better than the average of the first and second quarters (Q3 2008: 73,200). Weak markets continued to affect the division’s business development, however, so it was not possible to equal the record unit sales of the prior-year quarter (Q3 2008: 73,200 units). Revenue fell from €2.4 billion to €1.6 billion.

The division achieved EBIT breakeven (Q3 2008: €212 million). It was unable to escape the general market development, so unit sales fell although market share increased. The resulting charges on earnings were not fully offset by efficiency improvements.

Daimler Busesslightly increased its unit sales compared to the second quarter of this year, but sales of 8,400 buses and chassis were below the high level recorded in the third quarter of last year (Q3 2008: 10,800). Revenue of €1.0 billion was also lower than in the prior-year quarter (€1.2 billion).

The division posted third-quarter EBIT of €23 million, which was below the high prior-year figure of €92 million. In addition to negative currency effects, the division’s earnings decline was primarily caused by the worldwide slump in demand, reflecting the general market development. Demand was significantly weaker than the high level of the prior-year quarter, above all in Mexico and the other markets of Latin America. In Europe, the city bus business continued its stable development, while demand for coaches weakened.

At the end of the third quarter, Daimler Financial Services’ contract volume decreased compared to the end of 2008 by 7% to €58.7 billion. Adjusted for exchange-rate effects, there was also a decrease of 7%. Compared to the third quarter of 2008, new business decreased by 22% to €6.0 billion.

The division posted EBIT of €101 million (Q3 2008: €173 million). The decline in earnings was mainly caused by higher expenses for credit risks, but expenses were also incurred in connection with the expansion of the direct banking business at Mercedes-Benz Bank.

Other business activities, in particular the investments in EADS and Tognum, which are accounted for using the equity method, have been included in the “reconciliation” item since the beginning of the year 2009.

For those seeking a little more output from the C63 AMG, Mercedes has announced the availability of a new Performance Package Plus which aims to make the model even more appealing.  Available ex factory, power in the C63 AMG is increased 22 kW/30 hp to 358 kW/487 hp, enough to help the model accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.4 seconds and 0-124 mph in 13.9 seconds (standard C63 AMG:  0-62 mph in 4.5 seconds and 0-124 mph in 15.2 seconds).  Top speed remains at 155 mph, electronically limited.

Other highlights of the C63 AMG Performance Package Plus include a new AMG high-performance braking system, a carbon fiber spoiler lip on the trunk and a new AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather/Alcantara.

Pricing for the package is set at EUR €7080.50 or €6426 (saloon/estate; prices include 19% VAT), with the market launch this December. You can, however, place your orders for the C63 AMG fitted with the Performance Package Plus immediately.

Right on time for the start of autumn smart is presenting a new fashion collection for the cold season. Designed for people who like things that are a little out of the ordinary, these trendy products are in keeping with the environmentally conscious lifestyle brand.

The new smart collection boasts functionality and an innovative design. To meet the varied demands of city life the collection comprises the pure, pulse, passion and ecological lines – perfect for a pulsating urban lifestyle! In addition, they reflect the basic values of the successful smart fortwo – the trendsetter for urban mobility. The ecological line stands for environmentally friendly products and some of them contain bamboo fibre. The passion line, especially for women, features checked patterns, skyline prints and yellow accents. The pulse line for men focuses on the colours brown and grey and features orange contrasts. The pure line offers products with a clear and sporty design for both men and women.

All items have been carefully designed with a fresh look and affordable prices. Products for men include the pure rain jacket (€49.90), the pulse outdoor jacket (€99.90) or the eggshell limited T-shirt (€34.90). Highlights for women include the passion city jacket (€79.90) and the ecological bodywarmer (€79.90). The wide range of accessories includes the ecological woolly hat set consisting of a hat and a scarf (€24.90), the ecological pocket sunbrella (€49.90) and the clever pulse shaky pocket pen with a gas pressure cartridge (can also write upside down), polished chrome-plated metal parts and the logo laser-engraved onto the cap (€29.90).

Further products from the new smart collection can be found in the brochure that is available from every smart dealer.

The foundation stone for a new Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicle plant in Kecskemét, Hungary was laid in an official ceremony held earlier today. In the presence of Hungarian Prime Minister Gordon Bajnai, Rainer Schmückle, Chief Operating Officer of Mercedes-Benz Cars, and the project head for the new plant Michael Frieß, this marked the start of construction work on the additional location. Compact vehicles from the follow-up generation to the current A- and B-Class will be produced in Kecskemét from 2012. The plant will produce the vehicles in conjunction with the German location in Rastatt, Daimler AG’s centre of excellence for compact vehicles.

Some €800 million is being invested in the new factory in Hungary, while the Rastatt plant is also being extended with an investment in the triple-digit millions. In future, Mercedes-Benz will be represented by four models in the compact vehicle segment rather than the current two, which has given rise to an additional capacity requirement that cannot be covered only by the main plant in Rastatt.

“Our new location in Hungary will significantly boost our competitiveness in this price-sensitive compact premium vehicle segment, and will also contribute to tapping new markets,” said Rainer Schmückle, Chief Operating Officer of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “Kecskemét offers the best prospects from a commercial

standpoint and meets the high qualitative and quantitative criteria for a successful Mercedes-Benz production site. At the same time, Rastatt will remain a central proven component of our production network,” added Schmückle.

Preparatory construction measures (land levelling) began at the site of the future location in Hungary on 1 July 2009. Today’s ground-breaking ceremony marks the start of construction for the paint shop of the new factory, which is the first to be built. From the start of next year, construction of the body shop and the assembly shops will follow.

Concomitantly with the start of construction work, Mercedes-Benz Manufacturing Hungary Kft. began recruiting and training a core team of employees at the location. The first positions to be filled were in the areas of Administration, Human Resources and Controlling.

The first technical specialists for the future plant have already been hired and have started their corresponding qualification programme. In the long term, a total of 2,500 jobs will be created at the new plant in Kecskemét.

Mercedes-Benz is already a successful premium manufacturer of compact vehicles with the A-Class and B-Class. In the follow-up generation, it will broaden its range from two to four models in order to gain new customer groups and expand into new markets. The future models will also offer product aspects which are already popular with customers of the A-Class and B-Class, such as overall spaciousness, while additional variants and designs will set new trends.

On 21 July 2008, Daimler AG signed a memorandum of understanding with representatives of the Hungarian government and the city administration for the investment project. The final contract signing with the government was on 27 October 2008.

Mercedes-Benz Manufacturing Kft. signed the contract for the acquisition of the land for the future plant site – which is around 440 ha in size – on 13 February 2009. Kecskemét is situated some 90 kilometres south-east of Budapest und has approximately 110,000 inhabitants.

In September, Mercedes-Benz Cars sold 114,300 (September 2008: 122,200) Mercedes-Benz, AMG, smart, and Maybach brand vehicles worldwide (minus seven percent). Mercedes-Benz delivered 104,900 (September 2008: 110,700) passenger vehicles to customers (minus five percent). The smart brand sold 9,400 (September 2008: 11,500) units (minus 18 percent). With these results in September, Mercedes-Benz Cars recorded the highest sales total in any month this year. Contributing to this development were the new E-Class and the new generation S-Class, but also strong growth rates in the Asia/Pacific region, particularly in China, and a stabilization of sales in Western Europe and the United States.

“We observed a positive sales trend in September. And here, the growth rate of the new E-Class played a particularly important role,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Cars. Deliveries of the sedan were up 64 percent worldwide, and increased in Western Europe by 95 percent compared to the result posted in September 2008. More than 70,000 units of the new E-Class have been delivered to customers since the market launch, and in September the sedan was once again the best-selling car in its class.

“The new E-Class is outstandingly positioned in its segment,” adds Schmidt. “In Germany it is the market leader by far with a market share of about 60 percent, and in the other Western European countries it has gained a market share of around 40 percent. We intend to continue this success story with the new station wagon, which we presented at the IAA.”

The new generation of the S-Class also will provide positive momentum in the fourth quarter. The sedan was number one in its segment in September. The S 400 HYBRID is especially successful, and is ordered by about 20 percent of the customers.

A look at the markets shows that Mercedes-Benz Cars continued to achieve strong growth rates in the Asia/Pacific region, with an increase of 15 percent, and sold 17,700 (September 2008: 15,400) passenger vehicles in September, a new record. Particularly in China, Mercedes-Benz Cars continues on its successful course. With a new record of 7,000 (September 2008: 4,400) vehicles in September, the division succeeded in increasing sales by 59 percent. Mercedes-Benz is still the fastest-growing premium brand in China. In addition to the new E-Class, the successful launch of the new generation S-Class also contributed to this result: 1,600 units of the luxury sedan were sold, an increase of 12 percent. Mercedes-Benz Cars is also experiencing dynamic growth in South Korea, where deliveries almost doubled to 1,500 vehicles in September, compared to the same month last year.

Mercedes-Benz sales in Germany stabilized in September, with 28,700 (September 2008: 30,300) units delivered to customers (minus six percent). Compared to recent months, Mercedes-Benz succeeded in gaining market shares in September and defended its position as the market leader in the premium segment.

Mercedes-Benz also gained market shares in the United States in September, selling 17,000 (September 2008: 18,800) vehicles (minus ten percent). Mercedes-Benz therefore is the most successful German premium brand. Also contributing to this development, in addition to the new E-Class, was the GLK, which once again was the top-selling vehicle in its class. In Canada, Mercedes-Benz had the best September ever, with record-breaking sales of 2,200 (September 2008: 1,800) passenger vehicles, corresponding to a growth rate of 25 percent.

Daimler AG today announced that it selected the smart plant in Hambach, France, as the location for future series production of the smart fortwo electric drive. As of 2012, the highly innovative electric vehicle, equipped with the most modern lithium-ion-battery, will roll off the assembly line in large-scale production and will be offered to customers through the smart sales network. The announcement was made on the occasion of an official visit of French President Nicolas Sarkozy at the Hambach plant.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: „The smart fortwo electric drive proves that emission-free driving in an urban environment is already feasible today. The initial series production will begin now with 1,000 vehicles, the first of which will be delivered to customers by the end of this year. As of 2012, the smart fortwo electric drive will then be part of the regular product program of the smart brand. With our decision to locate production here at the parent plant in Hambach, we are setting the course both for series production of electric vehicles and for the future of this highly innovative assembly plant“.

Daimler will invest a double-digit million euro amount at the Hambach plant for production of the next generation of the smart fortwo electric drive with lithium-ion-battery. During his visit, President Sarkozy announced that the French government will support the project through its PAT (Prime d’aménagement du territoire) program. Further support is to be extended by the Region Lorraine and the Département de la Moselle. Both these measures will comprise a total of 15 percent of the investment. The president was visiting the plant today to – amongst others – get a first-hand impression of environmentally compatible powertrains of the future.

In November 2009, the plant will start to produce a small series of about 1,000 units of the smart fortwo electric drive. In a first step, these vehicles will be provided to customers participating in various mobility projects in major cities in Europe and the U.S., in order to generate additional feedback from the use under everyday conditions.

As of 2012, the smart fortwo electric drive will be produced in significantly larger volumes as a regular part of the smart product portfolio and will be sold through the smart sales network. smart thus emphazises its pioneering role on the way to individual mobility with local zero-emissions in cities and urban areas.

First Milestones in 2007 and 2008

Since 2007, the smart brand has taken a pioneering role in the electrification of drive systems. Back then, smart started emission-free driving under tough everyday conditions of city traffic in London. 100 smart fortwo electric drives of the first generation have been in practical customer operation. The feedback from this project has been very positive and confirmed the high degree of maturity of this vehicle concept.

Just one year later, the company introduced the second generation with an even more advanced electric drive and an innovative, highly efficient lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion technology has decisive advantages over other types of batteries including higher performance, shorter charging times, a long life and high reliability. In addition, a smart fortwo electric drive can be charged at a regular household power outlet.

A story of success: The smart Plant in Hambach

The smart plant in Hambach was inaugurated in 1997. Since 1998, it has produced the smart fortwo, since 2007 in its current generation. In 2008, more than 800 employees of the plant and some further 800 people employed by seven system partners produced about 140,000 units of the smart fortwo. In September 2008, the brand celebrated its tenth anniversary along with the 1-millionth smart fortwo produced at the Hambach plant.

The Hambach plant has represented an innovative production concept since its beginning: The assembly line in the shape of a plus sign has been designed to optimally meet the demands of assembly and logistics and ensures highly efficient production processes. This principle enables the system partners to supply modules directly to the assembly line, which reduces transport and logistics efforts to a minimum and hereby also provides an advantage regarding ecological aspects. In addition, the environmentally friendly and cost effective paint shop, an energy concept with numerous savings opportunities and the construction principle of the vehicles ensure that the ecological product responsibility of the smart brand is translated into the production.

About smart

Environmental friendliness and contemporary functionality have been defining features of the smart fortwo ever since it was launched more than ten years ago. Since then its innovative concept has combined sustainable, forward-looking technologies with individual urban mobility. With a length of just over two and a half meters, the extremely compact and fuel-efficient vehicle brings its occupants to their destination comfortably and safely. Its distintive design made smart an automotive lifestyle icon which shows that mobility, responsibility to the environment and joie de vivre are compatible with one another. The smart fortwo has established a class of its own.

Today, smart is present in 41 markets around the globe, with most recent market launches in China and Brazil. Germany, Italy, and the U.S. are key markets.

Mercedes-Benz’ fully Internet-based infotainment system, myCOMAND, has now passed its first on-road test. During the Nokia Siemens Networks Solutions Forum 2009 in Munich, myCOMAND was run for the first time on a 4G wireless high-speed LTE (Long Term Evolution) network. Driving the S-Class prototype on normal roads produced a shining outcome: all myCOMAND features prove smooth and enhanced performance, with high resolution and improved quality. The roll-out of wireless technologies such as LTE, is a necessary prerequisite for myCOMAND connectivity. This first trial is an important milestone on the way to product realization of myCOMAND features and applications.

The research project myCOMAND for a completely new Internet-based infotainment experience was first launched in 2008: Using Internet connectivity, all data and features are seamlessly kept fresh and current at all times. All functions are concentrated on one attractively designed user interface for easy and intuitive access.

Until today all myCOMAND functions had been run on wired or lower-bandwidth wireless connections such as UMTS. To realize the full potential of new and useful telematics and infotainment applications in automobiles – as in myCOMAND – Internet has to be available almost everywhere in a mobile environment via cellular network with a higher bandwidth than what is available today. This is also a technical prerequisite for the series introduction of functions like the ones myCOMAND offers.

Wireless network providers and technology experts do not expect this wireless Internet coverage and performance to be a reality until a few years from now, but Mercedes-Benz already proved today how lower latency and higher bandwidth can boost automobile Internet-run functions like those in myCOMAND. At the test-ground in Munich, a LTE network was built up that supports bandwidths of five to 25 Mbps when multiple vehicles are moving at average speeds of 40 km/h. This is about two to eight times greater than with today’s telecommunication networks. The improvement in performance is significant: Most of myCOMAND features run smoother, maps load faster, higher quality audio and video can be streamed, and street view images with brilliant resolution can load quickly.

myCOMAND: Diverse personal services and unlimited entertainment

”In the areas of both information and entertainment, the entirely Internet-based solution affords decisive advantages over traditional systems found in today’s vehicles”, comments Johann Jungwirth, Head of the Mercedes-Benz Research & Advanced Engineering Lab in Palo Alto, California. Every time the engine starts myCOMAND automatically updates itself via the Internet and thus continuously provides up to date software. All retrieved data and information are always up to date, too, and available to the occupants in a simple and easy manner. Compared with current mobile devices, and in-dash systems, with myCOMAND the features and contents are not only up to date through the Internet, but are also presented in a much more user-friendly manner. The system offers the driver individually appropriate Internet services depending on the situation, making the whole experience more reliable and safer to use.

Thanks to the vast variety of information in the Internet, the optimum integration and absolute freshness enable unparalleled functionality. The most important new services of myCOMAND are:

Off-board navigation. It not only always works with the latest map, but also takes the traffic information available on the Internet into account for route selection. Along with the conventional map display it is also possible to show satellite images which enable easier orientation. The search for destinations no longer follows a rigid format; free input is possible. And destinations can be combined with up-to-the-minute data so that the driver can easily find, for example, the cheapest gas station in vicinity or along a route.

Trip Assist. This service automatically accesses the large amount of information available on the Internet and presents it to the driver in optimally edited form at the right time. This way the system can offer up-to-date information and services in the car. The Trip Assist of myCOMAND shows, for example, the weather along the route and informs the user about the hotels and leisure facilities at the destination. Making hotel reservations from the car is no problem for the Trip Assist; reserving a table at a restaurant or theater tickets at short notice likewise is a simple, stress-free process.

World Radio. Via Internet you can tune to practically every radio station in the world – while traveling in your car, you can even get radio stations from the other side of the world. With the World Radio of myCOMAND the driver can search for stations by genre to find the ones that cater to his or her individual music taste. Additionally, you can store your personal music library on the Internet, which is then available anytime worldwide in the car.

Internet telephony: With myCOMAND the telephone, like all other services, can also utilize the advantages of the Internet. Thanks to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), myCOMAND enables putting free or discounted phone calls, sending short messages via Internet and simultaneously transmitting voice and data.

Of course, a web browser additionally allows you to freely surf the Internet while the vehicle is parked.

myCOMAND is programmed so that it automatically collects from the Internet all information necessary for a service – be it hotel descriptions, weather forecasts or the details of available parking spaces – and puts it together to provide the desired service. There is no complicated searching via browser. This greatly speeds up access to data.

Attractive looks, intuitive operation

myCOMAND not only offers many new options, but is attractively designed for intuitive operation. The centrally arranged display has a brilliant resolution that is optimally positioned in the driver’s field of vision so that he or she can better keep an eye on the road. The myCOMAND controller – an ergonomically optimized rotary pushbutton on the center consol – enables simple, accurate operation.

The Home screen shows a stylized globe. All selectable functions revolve around it, moved by turning the rotary pushbutton; with a push you select the menu item in the foreground. The design of the menu, circling a symbolic globe, is not merely an optical delight; it greatly simplifies operation in conjunction with the rotary pushbutton and its synchronized circular motion.

By means of two buttons next to the central control, additional functions such as the menu options can be called up. Also, the “back” button enables quickly correcting any wrong entries. Connection with LINGUATRONIC in the future will enable operating myCOMAND also by voice.

myCOMAND lays the foundation for optimal use of the Internet in the car. The Mercedes-Benz researchers expect that it will take a few more years until LTE will be available globally and such a system is available in production cars.

Background-Information

LTE (Long Term Evolution) is the last step toward the 4th generation of radio technologies designed to increase the capacity and speed of mobile telephone networks. Where the current generations of mobile telecommunication networks are collectively known as third generation (3G), LTE is marketed as 4G and is a set of enhancements to the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS).

Daimler Financial Services AG, headquartered in Berlin, is expanding its global presence to include the Middle East growth region. Toward this end, the company announced the official opening of Mercedes-Benz Finance Middle East and Mercedes-Benz Leasing Middle East on October 7, 2009 at a press conference in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Both new companies are part of a joint venture between Daimler Financial Services and the Al Fahim Group, owners of Emirates Motor Company, the authorized Mercedes-Benz distributor in the Abu Dhabi Emirate as well as Gargash Enterprises, the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz Cars in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates.

The new companies are headquartered in Dubai and offer loans and leasing to private and business customers for new and pre-owned passenger cars and commercial vehicles, including a shari’a compliant Islamic finance product. This enables Mercedes-Benz dealers in the United Arab Emirates to now provide their customers with the complete range of financial services.

“Our presence in the United Arab Emirates is of high strategic importance for Daimler Financial Services,” said Daimler Financial Services CEO Juergen Walker at a press conference in Abu Dhabi. “It makes us the first automaker to have its own finance and leasing company in the United Arab Emirates. Once we have successfully established our business operations here, in the mid-term we will decide about offering financial services in other Middle Eastern markets as well.”

The United Arab Emirates represent the most important passenger car market in the region Middle East for Mercedes-Benz. In 2008, Mercedes-Benz sold 7,800 passenger cars and 3,100 commercial vehicles in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates.

Mr. Andreas Ernst, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Finance and Mercedes-Benz Leasing, said that the medium-term goal of the new companies was to achieve a contract volume of more than €300 million in the United Arab Emirates in three to five years: “To meet this target, we will be offering a comprehensive range of financial services from a single source to meet the needs of private or business customers. And we will support our dealerships with an electronic point-of-sale system that will result in faster loan decisions and a customer-friendly process.”

Mr. Rashed A. J. Al Fahim, Chairman of the Al Fahim Group, welcomed the formation of the joint venture and looked forward to a positive future: “We are confident and expect stronger Mercedes-Benz sales. The start of our jointly owned financial companies will further boost the attractiveness of the Mercedes-Benz brand in Abu Dhabi.”

Mr. Abdul Jabbar Gargash, Executive Director of Gargash Enterprises looked forward to the start of the new businesses: “For the first time, we can now provide our Mercedes-Benz customers in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates with a broad range of financial services products that make owning a new or used Mercedes-Benz the easiest it has ever been.”

With its new financial services in the United Arab Emirates, Daimler Financial Services AG has further expanded its global presence. The Daimler Group’s international provider of financial services employs about 6,800 people and is represented in more than 40 countries. The company currently finances or leases one third of all vehicles produced by Daimler worldwide and manages a contract volume of €60 billion.

Emirates Motor Company

As the flagship company of the Al Fahim Group, Emirates Motor Company(EMC) symbolizes the phenomenal growth and success that the Group has achieved. As one of the Middle East’s leading distributors of Mercedes-Benz, EMC is synonymous with immaculate quality in true Mercedes-Benz tradition. EMC has been the general distributor for Mercedes-Benz in Abu Dhabi since 1962. From the beginning, dedicated customer service has played a major role in the company’s success. EMC is also the first Mercedes-Benz distributor in the Middle East to be awarded the ISO 9002 certification. EMC markets, distributes and services all Mercedes-Benz vehicles from luxury saloons to the largest trucks and provides qualified service with the constant availability of genuine parts. Operations in Abu Dhabi are carried out from purpose-built premises with a well-integrated network of showrooms, offices, parts depots and workshop.

Gargash Enterprises

Gargash Enterprises has been the authorized Mercedes-Benz distributor in Dubai since 1958 and understands the special requirements for operating in the U.A.E. Customers are guaranteed not just-premium-quality products, but also top-notch after sales services. The company employs over 1,000 staff members and has become one of the largest premium brands in the U.A.E. Gargash Enterprises is a full-service Mercedes-Benz operation with five dealerships across Dubai, Sharjah and Northern Emirates, all professionally managed to satisfy the needs of the consumer. Gargash Enterprises also delivers a car rental service through its SIXT, which operates from Dubai International Airport, Sharjah International Airport, and Ras AL Khaimah. Furthermore, through its Silver Star Rental division, established in 2006, Gargash Enterprises offers customers highly acclaimed Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles on short and long term rental basis.

Up until now, the  only spy photos of the forthcoming 2011 Mercedes CLS-Class have been of the non-AMG variant – that is, until today.  That’s because the gentlemen over at SpeedLux.com have managed to capture the next-generation CLS63 AMG in action, providing those of you eager for the next high horsepowered four door coupe the first glimpses of what to expect from the model.

Unfortunately, heavy body paneling still adorns the model, making it difficult to discern the various design lines of the CLS.  What we can expect, however, is power similar to that of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG, meaning an AMG-built 386 kW/525 hp V8 with 630 Nm torque.

We’ll keep you posted as new details of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG are released; in the meantime, keep scrolling for a few of the spy photos highlighting the model, then head over to SpeedLux.com for the full action-packed gallery.

The Stuttgart-based automobile manufacturer Daimler AG has won four first places in the Europe-wide survey to decide the 2009 Internet Auto Awards. The Mercedes-Benz B-Class was voted Europe’s most popular van, for which it received the “Carolina” Trophy. The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG took first place in the online vote for the most popular new product at this year’s Frankfurt International Motor Show. The editors of AutoScout24 declared “e-mobility Berlin” with the smart electric drive to be the best environmental initiative – the first large-scale project for urban electro-mobility. The best innovation was the SPLITVIEW technology that now enables the driver and front passenger to see different displays on one and the same screen at the same time.

For the eighth time AutoScout24, Germany’s best-known online automobile market-place, conducted an online survey to establish Europe’s most popular cars and the best automobile-related ideas. In the “Vans and Compact Vans” category, the majority of the more than 250,000 users gave first place to the Mercedes-Benz B-Class. This year 331 models in nine vehicle categories competed for Europe’s largest public awards in the automobile sector.

In voting the Mercedes-Benz B-Class the most popular van, the participants above all acknowledged the fact that it combines the advantages of different vehicle concepts: this four-door model has the dynamic design of a sports saloon, the exterior dimensions of a compact car, the spaciousness of an estate car and the variability of a minivan.

The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG was the undisputed No. 1 attraction at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt. This is shown by an online public survey conducted in connection with the show by AutoScout24. By a wide margin, the new Gullwing model was voted the most popular among 27 new product presentations. This means that immediately after its world premiere, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has received its first sought-after award in the form of the Carolina Trophy.

The editors of AutoScout24 voted the project “e-mobility Berlin” with the smart electric drive the best environmental initiative. In cooperation with RWE and with the support of the federal German government and the city of Berlin, Daimler AG is currently creating the conditions for locally emission-free driving under battery-electric power in the German capital. Equipped with the innovative, highly efficient lithium-ion battery, more than 100 electric cars with environmentally friendly drive units will be on the roads as part of this project. The cars Daimler is using are the smart fortwo electric drive and the Mercedes-Benz A-Class with electric drive. Deliveries of the first vehicles will commence at the end of this year.

In the special category “Best Innovation”, for which an award was also presented by the editors of AutoScout24, Mercedes-Benz also took first place with the new SPLITVIEW technology. This system available in the S-Class enables the driver and front passenger to see two different displays on the same screen at the same time. While the driver is e.g. following the navigation instructions, the front passenger can be watching a film on the same screen.

Mercedes-Benz do Brasil is hiring 800 new employees to work in trucks and buses production, in its plant in São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo. Furthermore, the current 350 temporary employees will become regular contract employees during October. Additionally to the mentioned figures the company will take over 160 apprentices as regular employees.

The new hires are in response to the first signs of recovery in the Brazilian domestic market for commercial vehicles, driven by the Brazilian economy, including the recent announcement of GDP growth in the second quarter of this year. According to Gero Herrmann, president of Mercedes-Benz do Brasil, “the new contracts demonstrate the confidence of the company in the country’s economic recovery after a period of world crisis.”

The Brazilian market has shown a recovery in sales of trucks and buses by mid of 2009, driven mainly by sectors such as agro business, construction and mining and further renewal of bus fleets.

In August for example, the commercial vehicle market over 6 tonnes achieved the highest monthly level in 2009 with nearly 11,500 units sold. Mercedes-Benz do Brazil sold 2,914 trucks over 6 tonnes in August 2009, getting almost 32% market share. In the bus sector, Mercedes-Benz do Brasil had a market share of 50%, with 1,216 units sold in the same period.

Mercedes-Benz do Brasil is the largest manufacturer of Mercedes-Benz trucks outside Germany. São Bernardo do Campo is the only plant of Daimler Trucks to produce trucks, bus chassis and aggregates in the same production site. Since 1956, when it began its activities in Sao Bernardo do Campo, the Company has produced more than 1,200,000 trucks and buses around 540,000.

As in the passenger car segment, starting right now Mercedes-Benz Sprinter models which, owing to particularly sustainable technologies, stand for highest efficiency, and thus for improved fuel consumption and consequently reduced emissions, also will carry the BlueEFFICIENCY label.

The efficiency package or the NGT technology in the Sprinter are examples of this. These Sprinter models are identified by the BlueEFFICIENCY badges affixed to the sides in the area of the left and right B-pillars.

Efficiency package: new engines, new transmission and other components

BlueEFFICIENCY stands in this case for an efficiency package comprising the newly developed four-cylinder engine (OM 651) and the new transmission (ECO Gear) plus the ECO start/stop function.

New diesel engine generation: first-rate performance

Highest efficiency characterises the new diesel engines of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The centre of attention is the new four-cylinder CDI. Its three output ratings of 70 kW (95 hp), 95 kW (129 hp) and 120 kW (163 hp) cover almost all the demands on vans in the Sprinter class. The four-cylinder gets very respectable pulling power with torque of 250 Nm, 305 Nm and 360 Nm. Remarkable: the peak torque already is available at an extremely low engine speed.

On-demand control of the auxiliary units saves fuel

The Sprinter efficiency package also includes auxiliaries with on-demand control – something new in the van sector. The electrically switched oil pump regulates its delivery independently and adaptively – for the first time on a diesel engine. The piston-cooling oil spray nozzles also operate according to need, and the alternator too operates only when it is needed. The effect is that the mentioned components – unlike conventional units – only consume energy when they actually need it.

The new transmission cuts consumption, enhances dynamics

The efficiency package includes the new ECO Gear six-speed manual transmission designed specifically for vans. Its outstanding feature is a particularly large ratio between first and top gear with a low-geared 1st gear and a 6th gear designed as an overdrive.

Generally speaking, with the new transmission the engine speed level is distinctly reduced in favour of lower consumption and the resultant greater economy. This goes hand in hand with lower exhaust and noise emissions and enhanced ride comfort.

ECO start/stop function: engine off at every stop saves up to eight percent fuel

The efficiency package under the BlueEFFICIENCY logo also includes the ECO start/stop function: if the vehicle is standing at idling speed, the engine is automatically shut off. The savings potential is nothing to sneeze at: on average, the Sprinter with ECO start/stop function makes do with up to eight percent less fuel in urban operation. At the same time, noise emission is reduced by cutting out the engine.

The ECO start/stop function brings its savings potential to bear mainly in city driving, and here in particular during the frequent waits in tailbacks or at red lights. As soon as the vehicle stops for at least three seconds without a gear being engaged, the ECO start/stop function shuts down the engine. When the driver steps on the clutch pedal or releases the brake so that the vehicle begins to roll, the engine is promptly restarted.

Environmentally friendly, safe and comfortable all in one

Sophisticated electronics provide for safety: if the vehicle begins to roll the engine is immediately started to ensure power assistance for the brakes and steering. Also, with a gear engaged the engine only starts running if the clutch pedal is fully depressed. To prevent cold starts and engine overheating, the system operates exclusively at coolant temperatures between 40 and 100 degrees Celsius.

The Sprinter NGT: another BlueEFFICIENCY technology

Starting immediately the Sprinter NGT also proudly wears the “BlueEFFICIENCY” badge on both wings.

Both clean and economical, the vehicle drive system fuelled with natural gas unites opposites. The new Sprinter NGT with mono-fuel or bi-fuel natural gas drive confirms this assessment: sharply reduced exhaust gas and noise emissions, appreciably lower upkeep costs, and a large cruising range in combination with the standard drive are some of its advantages.

Mercedes-Benz offers the Sprinter 316 NGT and 516 NGT in different body variants. The basic engine, a four-cylinder petrol unit, develops 115 kW (156 hp) and torque of 240 Nm.

Both BlueEFFICIENCY technologies for the Sprinter can be ordered starting immediately.

Gran Turismo 5 is unquestionably one of the most anticipated games for the Sony Playstation 3, and when the title makes its debut next spring, one of the vehicles featured will be the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing.  To help highlight the game and the SLS’s debut in it, Mercedes has published some photos and a video showcasing what gamers can expect from both.

While we’re on the topic of the Mercedes SLS AMG, new spy photos have emerged today highlighting the not-yet-released cabriolet version of the model testing on the world famous Nürburgring.  It’s still tough to tell whether or not the SLS cabrio will feature a retractable hard top (as opposed to a soft top), but one thing that is clear is the fact the Gullwing doors are no more (a fact visible from prior spy photos as well).

Also present on this version of the SLS AMG Cabriolet is a prominent rear spoiler, a feature that up until now we haven’t seen.

To see more of the upcoming Mercedes SLS AMG Cabriolet being put through its paces, keep scrolling for a few additional photos, then head over to SpeedLux.com for the full article and gallery.

Dr. Joachim Schmidt (61), currently Head of Sales Central/Eastern Europe, Africa & Asia, will take over the position of Head of Sales and Marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars, including responsibility for sales companies around the world, as of October 1, 2009. He will replace Dr. Klaus Maier, who has decided not to extend his contract for personal reasons.

Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Chief Executive of Mercedes-Benz Cars: “As Head of Sales at Mercedes-Benz, Klaus Maier has made his mark in many ways. This applies to brand positioning as well as the realignment of the product portfolio towards a younger target group. In addition, Klaus Maier has initiated the reorganization of worldwide sales. I very much regret that Klaus Maier would now like to leave his position for personal reasons.”

The successor to Dr. Klaus Maier has more than 20 years of experience in the field of sales. Dr. Dieter Zetsche: “In Joachim Schmidt, we have a professional taking over sales at Mercedes-Benz Cars – an executive who knows the company better than most. It is largely thanks to him that the Mercedes-Benz brand grew at double-digit rates and extended its market leadership in the regions for which he was responsible in 2007 and 2008. I am delighted that we have gained him for this position.”

While one car boasts outstanding driving performance and high fuel efficiency, the other offers high fuel efficiency and good handling. What is the difference between the two? The sporty handling dynamics set the tone in the all-wheel drive GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: The modern, four-cylinder diesel with 150 kW (204 hp) and an impressive 500 Nm of torque guarantees top acceleration and flexibility. In fact, this model has the most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine in the SUV world. The rear-wheel drive GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with the familiar 125 kW (170 hp) diesel engine, on the other hand, impresses with even better fuel economy (consumption as low as 6.0 l/100 km) while at the same time delivering great performance.

The new models underscore the leading position of the distinctive yet compact GLK. Whereas the GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC featuring permanently engaged all-wheel drive, 7G-TRONIC transmission and the segment’s most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine augments the world of top-of-the-range compact SUVs, the GLK 220 CDI with rear-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission offers maximum fuel economy. It consumes only between 6.0 and 6.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres and combines these low consumption values with good performance. The rear-wheel drive vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 205 km/h. The GLK 250 CDI4MATIC completes the sprint to the 100 km/h mark in 7.9 seconds and doesn’t stop accelerating until reaching 213 km/h. This sports car-like performance does not come at the typical cost of higher consumption. The diesel consumes only 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres on average.

GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC: The fun yet frugal power SUV

The GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY brings the world’s most powerful four-cylinder diesel engine for an SUV to the Mercedes-Benz range. The new 2143 cc diesel engine with direct fuel injection produces 150 kW/204 hp and 500 Nm of torque in the GLK for outstanding performance. Just as impressive as the sprint times and the top speed is the GLK’s top-gear acceleration. Thanks to its high torque, which is already present at 1600 rpm, the GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC accelerates powerfully when overtaking, requiring only 7.0 seconds for the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h. In spite of its great performance, this GLK model is very economical to drive, consuming only 6.7 litres of diesel fuel on average per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC consumption, preliminary value). This makes the GLK significantly more fuel efficient than comparable models in this performance class. The vehicle produces CO2 emissions of 176 grams per kilometre.Furthermore, it not only meets the EU5 emissions standard but also has the potential to fulfil the EU6 limits as well as the BIN 5 requirements in the USA.

Diesel engine with advanced common-rail technology

One of the hallmarks of the new diesel engine in the GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY is the increased maximum rail pressure of 2000 bar. This increase in pressure potential is a prerequisite for increasing engine output and torque while at the same time significantly reducing untreated emissions. Newly developed piezo injectors take advantage of the fact that piezoceramics change their crystal structure – and therefore their thickness – in a matter of nanoseconds (one nanosecond = one billionth of a second) when electrical voltage is applied. The new injectors are equipped with a stack of thin piezoceramic layers (called the “piezo stack”) to enable them to achieve a sufficient overall stroke from the very small stroke per layer. The injector needle is actuated directly, so that the fuel injection can be adjusted even more precisely in line with the current load and engine speed situation. Another key factor behind the low emissions, low fuel consumption at full load and peak output is the ignition pressure of 200 bars, which puts the four-cylinder diesel at the head of the field when it comes to diesel engines for passenger vehicles.

A two-stage supercharging system comprising a small high-pressure (HP) turbocharger and a large low-pressure (LP) turbocharger ensures that the optimum charging pressure is always available. The two turbochargers are connected in series, and each has a turbine and a compressor driven by this turbine for the combustion air. The HP turbine is located directly at the exhaust manifold and initially allows exhaust gas to flow through it, causing it to rotate at up to 215,000 revolutions per minute. The HP turbine housing features an integral bypass duct, which can be opened or closed by means of a wastegate triggered by a vacuum unit. If the flap is closed, the entire exhaust stream flows through the HP turbine so that the exhaust gas energy is initially available to drive the HP turbine. This allows the optimal boost pressure to be developed even at low engine speeds. As the engine speed increases, the wastegate opens, distributing the exhaust gas energy to the turbines with optimum efficiency. Downstream of the HP turbine, the two exhaust gas streams reconverge, and the remaining exhaust gas energy drives the LP turbine at a maximum speed of up to 185,000 revolutions per minute. At intermediate engine speeds, the wastegate of the HP turbine is opened so wide that the HP turbine ceases to perform any appreciable work. This allows the full exhaust gas energy to be directed with low losses into the LP turbine, which then does all of the turbine work.

The two compressors are likewise connected in series and are in addition connected to a bypass duct. The combustion air from the air filter first flows through the low-pressure compressor, where it is compressed as a function of the LP turbine’s driving power. The compressed air then flows into the high-pressure compressor, which is coupled to the HP turbine, where it undergoes further compression for a genuine two-stage supercharging process.

The key benefit of this intelligent, on-demand control is the improved cylinder charging and, consequently, high torque even at low engine speeds. What’s more, fuel consumption is reduced. During normal operation, the advantages of this concept can be seen in the harmonious driving characteristics with no turbo lag, a good torque curve across the entire engine speed range, spontaneous throttle response and noticeably improved performance. As a logical supplement to the turbocharger system, Mercedes-Benz installs a larger intercooler that reduces the temperature of the compressed and heated air by as much as 140 degrees Celsius so that a larger volume of air can enter the combustion chambers.

The newly developed exhaust gas recirculation valve (EGR valve) works like a rotary disc valve and precisely controls the quantity of fresh air and recirculated exhaust air to effectively reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides.

Sacrifice without detriment: The GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with rear-wheel drive and six-speed manual transmission

The powerful, yet economical four-cylinder diesel engine in the GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is another unit from this same generation of engines. It produces 125 kw/170 hp and, depending on the equipment level, consumes only between 6.0 and 6.4 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (combined NEDC consumption, preliminary value). CO2 emissions are from 158 to 168 grams per kilometre. Not only does it meet the current EU5 emissions standard, this version also has the potential to fulfil the EU6 limits as well as the BIN 5 requirements in the USA.

In combination with a tried and tested six-speed manual transmission and rear-wheel drive, the engine of the GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY exudes a lot of power and responds to the driver’s commands with a great deal of agility. It boasts good pulling power and, like the more powerful variant, is extremely smooth running for a four-cylinder diesel engine. In addition to good performance, the engine generates an impressive torque at low engine speeds: Peak torque of 400 Nm is available over a wide rev range from 1400 to 2800 rpm, making it possible to drive very fuel efficiently at low engine speeds in everyday driving situations. The rear-wheel drive vehicle sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 205 km/h.

The GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is also available with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission as an option.

BlueEFFICIENCY: Efficient measures for reducing fuel consumption

Like all BlueEFFICIENCY models from Mercedes-Benz, the two new GLK models also feature an extensive package of measures that help to reduce fuel consumption. Measures besides the diesel engine with direct injection and the low-friction powertrain include weight savings achieved through the use of high strength and ultra high strength steels in the bodyshell and weight-optimised alloy wheels. Aerodynamic side mirrors and underbody panels lower the air resistance, and newly developed 235/60 R 17 V tyres reduce rolling resistance. A regulated fuel pump and the energy-saving electric power steering system further reduce the GLK’s fuel consumption. Thanks to a fuel-consumption computer and a display showing current fuel consumption, GLK drivers can check their fuel consumption at any time and adjust their driving behaviour accordingly.

New equipment details for the new model year

New equipment options are available for the distinctive compact SUV. These include convenience features such as KEYLESS GO or – in combination with the COMAND APS multimedia system – a reversing camera with static help lines that make it easier to manoeuvre in tight quarters. Effective immediately, all COMAND infotainment systems are able to receive digital radio (DAB). Passive safety was further improved by the standard pelvisbag*, which provide additional protection to the pelvis in the event of a collision. The crash-responsive exit assistant is a new function of the Memory equipment package that makes it easier to exit the vehicle after an accident by automatically moving the power-adjustable steering wheel to its highest position. The optional Intelligent Light System (ILS) now includes LED* daytime running lights, and 19 inch winter wheels have been added to the portfolio for the coming cold season.

Customers can choose ARTICO, a particularly robust, yet breathable synthetic leather for the interior of the GLKs.Also available is the luxurious designo line of two-colour leather appointments in black/light brown and black/corteccia.

Drivers with sporting ambitions can select EXTERIEUR*, a new AMG sports package based on the existing sports package. The scope of supply includes, in addition to the standard sports package, AMG-specific front and rear aprons with optical underbody protection in chrome, body-colour side skirts, a radiator grille with two smooth chrome louvers, a chrome rub strip and 20 inch, twin-spoke AMG alloy wheels asymmetrically shod with 235/45 R20 tyres up front and 255/40 R20 tyres in the rear.

* available from December 2009

Attractive model range: A choice of six GLK models

The GLK is a powerful and distinctive compact SUV.The striking, multi-talented vehicle sets itself apart from its competitors through its functional and appealing body shape while also combining attributes that previously were completely contradictory: Thanks to its AGILITY CONTROL chassis with variable damping, the vehicle brings together impressive handling with great driving safety and outstanding ride comfort.

The ultramodern engine line-up in all GLK models provides superlative drive comfort and compelling performance coupled with superior fuel efficiency and low emissions. Besides the two new models GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and GLK 250 CDI 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY, the vehicle is also available in four other versions: The new diesel models are supplemented by the 4MATIC version of the GLK 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the tried and tested GLK 350 CDI 4MATIC V6 diesel model. The GLK model range is rounded off by the two V6 petrol models GLK 300 4MATIC and GLK 350 4MATIC. They and the three four-cylinder diesel models meet the strict EU5 emissions standard.

All GLK models with all-wheel drive come standard with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz is launching its first series-produced fuel cell car on the road: the new B‑Class F-CELL. The environmentally friendly electric car has better a performance similar to than a 2,0-litre petrol car and is fully suited for everyday driving. The zero-emission drive system consumes the equivalent of 3.3 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). Production of the B‑Class F-CELL will commence in late 2009 with a small lot. The first of around 200 vehicles will be delivered to customers in Europe and the USA at the beginning of next year.

The new fuel cell vehicle offers everything that people expect from a Mercedes-Benz: High comfort and safety as well as no reduction in interior space and boot capacity. Customers will not have to sacrifice any driving pleasure either, because the electric motor has a peak performance of 100 kW/136 hp and a maximum torque of 290 Nm, which is available from the first rotation. It ensures that the B‑Class F-CELL, whose impressive dynamic handling properties are in some cases far better than those of a two-litre petrol car, gets off to an excellent start. Despite these qualities, the zero-emission fuel cell drive consumes the equivalent of only 3.3 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres (NEDC). Thanks to its great range of about 400 kilometres and short refuelling times of around three minutes, the B‑Class F-CELL ensures local zero-emission mobility even for long stretches.

“2009 is the year in which we are establishing further milestones where sustainable mobility is concerned. The B-Class F-CELL is taking on a pioneering role as the world’s first fuel cell powered automobile to be produced under series production conditions”, says Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Development for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

The vehicle’s technological heart is the new generation of the compact, high-performance fuel cell system, in which gaseous hydrogen reacts with atmospheric oxygen at 700 bar to generate a current for the electric motor. The fuel cell system of the B‑Class F-CELL has a very good cold-start capability even at temperatures as low as minus 25 degrees Celsius. The drive system was completely newly developed versus the F-CELL A-Class presented in 2004, with Mercedes-Benz engineers achieving considerable improvements in output, torque, operating range, reliability, starting characteristics and comfort. The B-Class F-CELL now offers driving pleasure and day-to-day suitability at Mercedes level – without local emissions.

As in hybrids with combustion engines, the fuel-cell car uses a lithium-ion battery with an output of 35 kW and a capacity of 1.4 kWh to boost power and recover braking energy. Lithium-ion technology offers several advantages over conventional batteries, including compact dimensions, high performance, great recharge efficiency and a long service life.

The B‑Class F-CELL employs the unique sandwich floor architecture that is well-known from the A- and B-Class. The advantage of this design is that the drive components are located in the sandwich floor, where they are protected and don’t take up much space so that the vehicle’s interior remains fully usable and a boot capacity of 416 litres is available.

The B-Class F-CELL does not need to fear comparison where equipment is concerned either. Eye-catching features include a bonamite silver paint finish and exclusive light-alloy wheels in a 10-spoke design. In the interior, leather upholstery, seat heating, automatic climate control and the COMAND-system, as well as other features, continue to ensure a high level of comfort.

Same level of safety as in other Mercedes cars

No matter what the conditions, the operational reliability of the B‑Class F-CELL is of the same high level as in Mercedes vehicles with conventional combustion engines. The B‑Class F-CELL’s integrated safety concept takes the specific characteristics of the innovative drive system into account. The concept incorporates the expertise from the many years of experience Mercedes-Benz has had with fuel cell drives and high-voltage applications. Mercedes engineers have tested and optimised the drive-specific components’ safety in more than 30 additional crash tests.

Network of filling stations required for car’s widespread use

With more than 100 test vehicles and a combined total of over 4.5 million kilometres of trial testing, Daimler and Mercedes-Benz have the most extensive experience with fuel cell vehicles of any manufacturer worldwide. The B‑Class F-CELL is further testimony of this technology’s high level of development for automotive use. However, a comprehensive network of hydrogen filling stations still has to be set up before locally zero-emission driving can become a widespread reality. To make this possible, Daimler is cooperating with government authorities, energy utilities and oil companies in joint projects in places such as Hamburg, Stuttgart and California.

Mercedes-Benz views the development of electric cars with battery and fuel cell drives for local zero-emission driving as a means of supplementing vehicles with high-tech internal combustion engines. Advanced diesel and petrol engines will remain important for automotive applications for a long time to come – not only for individual mobility in passenger cars – especially over long distances – but, more importantly, for freight transport in trucks. Electric vehicles, on the other hand, will increasingly be used in urban transport.

The near-series Mercedes-Benz Concept BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS electric car combines environment-friendly electric mobility in the city with unrestricted suitability for long-distance driving. This is made possible by the combination of the battery-electric drive with a combustion engine. The range extender gives the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS a total range of up to 600 kilometres, with 100 kilometres thereof solely under electric power and thus free of local emissions.

The BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS is part of a family of modularly constructed electric cars, which will enable Mercedes-Benz to meet all customer requirements for sustainable mobility in the future. In this variant of the concept vehicle, the electric motor of the purely battery-powered BlueZERO E-CELL is combined with an additional three-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine. Putting out 50 kW, the compact combustion engine is installed in the area of the rear axle and can charge the battery while the car is being driven. The CO2 bonus for the battery-electric driving mode reduces the vehicle’s emissions to only 32 grams of CO2 per kilometre. The range extender enables the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS to drive for up to 600 km, of which up to 100 km can be driven in electric mode with zero local emissions. The long combined range makes the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS fully suitable for everyday use and assures that the customer will reach his or her destination even with a depleted battery. After all, the car can be refuelled quickly and easily at any normal filling station.

Battery with superior lithium-ion technology

During rapid charging with a charging capacity of 20 kW, the high-performance, 18 kWh lithium-ion battery of the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can store enough power within around 30 minutes for a 50 kilometre cruising range. The complete electric range of 100 kilometres requires a charging time of somewhat more than an hour. Charging time with a standard charge cycle at a conventional household outlet with 3,3 kW is approximately 6 hours. Special on-board electronics support the intelligent charging stations and billing systems used by electric fuelling stations. Advantages of lithium-ion batteries compared to other battery technologies include their compact dimensions, high output and energy density, high charge efficiency and long service life.

Concept BlueZERO – the triad of electric mobility

Mercedes-Benz is showing the way to environmentally compatible electric mobility with the near-series Concept BlueZERO. The vehicle’s intelligent modular concept enables a single vehicle architecture to be used to create three models with different drive system configurations.

• The BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS is equipped with an electric drive and a supplemental combustion engine with an electrical generator (range extender). The car has a total range of up to 600 kilometres, of which up to 100 kilometres can be covered solely on electricity.
• Originally presented in Detroit at the beginning of the year, the BlueZERO E‑CELL is propelled exclusively by a battery-powered electric drive that allows the car to travel up to 200 kilometres on a single battery charge and completely free of local emissions.
• The third drive version is the fuel cell powered BlueZERO F-CELL, with a range of about 400 km on electric power and therefore also without any local emissions.

All three BlueZERO models feature front-wheel drive, which is typical for this class of car. The drive components have been modularly organised by the Mercedes engineers and can be combined as needed. These include state-of-the-art liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries with up to 35 kWh capacity, and a compact electric motor with a maximum output of 100 kW (sustained output: 70 kW). The maximum torque of 320 Nm is available from the electric motor’s first revolution, and it surpasses the value attained by today’s V6 petrol engines at 2,500 rpm. Like its two sister models, the BlueZERO E-CELL and the BlueZERO F-CELL, the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in less than eleven seconds. To ensure optimum range and energy efficiency, the top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h.

“The Concept BlueZERO offers a triple demonstration of the technical maturity of alternative drive systems from Mercedes-Benz. Electric vehicles with battery electric or fuel cell drive systems will not truly be on an equal footing with today’s combustion engine drive systems until the customers are confident that there is a sufficient infrastructure of electricity and hydrogen refuelling stations,” says Prof. Herbert Kohler, Head of E-Drive and Future Mobility and also Chief Environmental Officer at Daimler.

Concept BlueZERO: Modular architecture for flexibility and efficiency

The three BlueZERO variants were developed on the basis of the unique sandwich-floor architecture known from the A-Class and B-Class. The advantage of the enhanced design is that the key drive components are installed in the vehicle’s underbody in such a way that they take up little space, ensure a good centre of gravity, and are maximally protected. The BlueZERO models therefore differ considerably from conventionally designed electric cars, which have heavy and voluminous storage batteries installed in the boot, for example, or in the area of the backseat. All three BlueZERO variants share key technological components and have identical designs and vehicle dimensions. Even though they have compact exterior dimensions, the 4.22-meter-long BlueZERO models have a spacious and versatile interior and cargo space. The vehicles’ five full-size seats, approximately 450 kilograms of payload, and more than 500 litres of cargo capacity make them suitable family cars.

“Our modular system permits different drive configurations for each customer requirement,” says Dr. Thomas Weber, the Daimler Board of Management Member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “The improved sandwich floor platform serves as the perfect basis for a diverse range of vehicles with electric drives. We are currently developing an additional platform for future compact models that have drive systems using optimized internal combustion engines. The smart linking of both architectures will allow us to expand our product range in an extremely flexible and efficient manner. Beginning in 2009, we will manufacture the first small batch of Mercedes fuel cell cars. In 2010, they will be followed by a small batch of Mercedes-Benz vehicles that run solely on electric power supplied by a battery. Thanks to these measures, we are excellently positioned for the future.”

Electric powered vehicles are fun to drive

Mercedes-Benz vehicles will continue to combine environmental awareness and driving fun in future. One way in which the Mercedes-Benz designers have emphasised this aspiration is by introducing paint finishes in three new ALU-BEAM colours. Each of the three variants makes its individual mark: Confident ALU-BEAM Copper was chosen for the BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS. The BlueZERO E-CELL is painted a fresh ALU-BEAM yellow; the BlueZERO F-CELL appears in ALU-BEAM green.

Mercedes-Benz feels it won’t be just one technology that paves the way to sustainable mobility in the future, however. Instead the company is responding with solutions that are every bit as varied as the demands. The individual technologies are being used in specific applications where they can provide the greatest advantage with respect to optimal consumption and emission values. Mercedes-Benz views the development of electric cars with battery and fuel cell drives for local zero-emission driving as a means of supplementing the extremely clean and economical BlueEFFICIENCY and hybrid vehicles already available today. However, the unrestricted and convenient operation of electric cars still faces a series of challenges, including high system costs, insufficient infrastructure and short cruising ranges. Advanced diesel and petrol engines will remain the driving force for automobiles for a long time to come – not only for individual mobility in passenger cars (especially over long distances), but, more importantly, for freight transport in trucks. Despite all the progress that Mercedes-Benz has once again so emphatically documented with the Concept BlueZERO, electric cars will not be replacing vehicles with combustion engines any time soon. The electrification of modern, high-tech engines will, however, play an increasingly important role in the drive system mix of the future.

• Concept BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS
• Electric powered concept car with a battery-electric range of up to 100 kilometres
• A combustion engine that serves as an electrical generator (range extender) extends the range to up to 600 kilometres (total)
• The concept vehicle can be recharged simply and conveniently at a common household outlet
• With a charging capacity of 20 kW, the Concept BlueZERO E-CELL PLUS can be recharged within around half an hour for a 50 kilometre range
• The liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries used as an energy source have an energy content of up to 17.50 kWh
• Front-wheel drive
• Electric drive
• CO2 emissions: 0 g/km
• Range: up to 100/600 km
• Battery: Lithium-ion
• Rated output: 100 kW/136 hp
• Max. torque: 320 Nm
• Top speed: 150 km/h
• Acceleration 0-100 km/h: < 11.0 seconds
• Range extender
• Cylinders: 3
• Displacement: 1.0l turbo
• Output: 50 kW at 3500 rpm

Shortly after the successful market launch of the S 400 HYBRID, currently the most fuel-efficient luxury-segment saloon with a petrol engine, Mercedes-Benz will be presenting the first “three-litre car” in the premium class – the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID – at the 63rd IAA in Frankfurt. The technology vehicle will display the future of Mercedes-Benz’ modular set of hybrid systems. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID can drive for up to 30 kilometres solely on electricity and therefore without producing any local emissions. The efficient drive system combined with the CO2 bonus for the battery-electric driving mode enables the vehicle to achieve a certified consumption of only 3.2 litres of petrol per 100 kilometers. With CO2 emissions of only 74 grams per kilometre in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle), the experimental vehicle developed in Sindelfingen demonstrates the long-term viability of future S‑Class generations.

The outstanding values are made possible by the combination of a plug-in hybrid with the efficiency-boosting BlueEFFICIENCY measures. At the same time, the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID has all of the strengths that are typical of the S‑Class: top comfort, outstanding safety and masterful performance. The drive system in the concept car consists of three main components: a powerful V6 petrol engine with a next-generation direct injection system, a 44 kW/60 hp hybrid module and a lithium-ion battery with more than 10 kWh of storage capacity that can be recharged at charging stations. The Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds.

“The Vision 500 Plug-in HYBRID is a new milestone on our path toward zero-emission mobility,” says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars. “It is a luxurious and safe S‑Class that offers superior driving performance while at the same time consuming less fuel than current compacts. All of this shows that our top models will also be able to combine automotive fascination with responsibility for the environment.”

“Although it will take some time before this model can go into series production, our engineers will be working full steam to carry out the necessary integration measures and ensure that all components can meet the tough everyday demands required of a luxury long-distance saloon,” says Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “We’ve already got all the key technology we need for such a dream car, which is why I see it being included in the next generation of the S‑Class. The important thing now is that our development work be accompanied by the establishment of a full-coverage infrastructure that will allow the potential of this innovative drive system to be fully exploited.”

The electrical drive components of the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID demonstrate the versatility of Mercedes-Benz’ intelligently organised set of hybrid systems, which has a widely scalable range of performance. The hybrid module’s design does not differ much from the compact, disc-shaped 15-kW electric motor of the S 400 HYBRID, even though it is three times as powerful. As a result, the hybrid module can be elegantly incorporated into the housing of the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, allowing this model variant as well as the S 400 HYBRID to retain the S‑Class’ spacious interior. Future model generations will orient themselves on this system architecture.

Whereas the extremely compact lithium-ion battery in the S 400 HYBRID (0.9 kWh) can be housed in the vehicle’s engine compartment, the significantly higher-performing lithium-ion unit in the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID (over 10 kWh) requires more installation space. The battery is located behind the rear seats in the boot. The lithium-ion battery’s location above the rear axle provides crucial benefits, since it ensures that the vehicle has a balanced weight distribution and that the petrol tank remains adequate for long-distance cruising. In addition, the protected position of the tank ensures it is as safe as possible during crashes.

Additional clutch decouples the hybrid module and combustion engine

In accordance with the modular concept, the powertrain design for the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID is basically the same as that for the S 400 HYBRID. One system-specific attribute is the presence of an additional clutch integrated between the combustion engine and the electric motor. This device decouples the two components in the pure electric drive mode, thereby ensuring the highest level of efficiency in the latter. Moreover, because it is fully integrated into the vehicle’s converter housing, the clutch does not take up any additional space.

Electrical outlet as a filling station: Powerful plug-in battery

Another key difference between the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID and conventional hybrids involves the plug-in battery, which can be charged at charging stations, thereby enabling the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID to travel up to 30 kilometres on electric power. The rapid charge cycle takes less than 60 minutes with a charging capactiy of 20 kW. A standard charge cycle at a conventional household socket with 3,3 kW takes about four-and-a-half hours to recharge a completely discharged battery.

The model is also equipped with a compact onboard charger: Housed behind the side boot wall, this unit controls the recharging process and is protected against short circuits, voltage reversal, and voltage surges. The charging system also protects the battery by monitoring voltage, the charging level and charging time. The total weight of the electrical components in the current experimental vehicle is 215 kilograms, whereby the lithium-ion battery weighs approximately 130 kg. That’s much less than a conventional NiMH battery with the same capacity, as the weight of such batteries ranges from 180 – 200 kg.

The vehicle’s hybrid module also provides additional energy when the car is in motion through regenerative braking – the recovery of energy when braking. Here, the clutch enhances efficiency as well, as it enables complete energy regeneration without engine drag losses.

Range of up to 30 kilometres with all-electric driving

The high-performance battery and the 44 kW/60 hp hybrid module enable the vehicle to drive up to 30 kilometres purely on electricity. That is completely sufficient for many trips within cities, where the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID is quick and very comfortable without producing any local emissions. The petrol engine automatically adds its power to that of the electric motor when travelling at high speeds or driving up steep inclines. Before closing the clutch in such cases, the vehicle electronics synchronises the engine speed with the hybrid module’s rotational speed so that the engine is activated extremely smoothly without the driver noticing.

What’s more, the hybrid module’s sophisticated interplay with the combustion engine enables numerous additional functions that positively impact fuel consumption, emissions and vehicle agility. Like the system employed in the

S 400 HYBRID, the hybrid module in the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID also comes with the ECO start/stop function. This feature also enhances safety and driving pleasure because of its boost effect, which has the electric motor providing powerful support to the combustion engine during the high-consumption acceleration phase. This system has already proved its practical viability in a slightly different configuration in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

Extensive electronic safety and control components

The lithium-ion battery not only serves as an energy storage device for the electric motor in the S 500 Plug-in HYBRID; it is also linked via a DC-DC converter to the 12-volt on-board network, which provides power to standard consumers such as the headlamps and various comfort devices. To ensure a consistently high level of electrical efficiency, the voltage transformers are water-cooled via an additional low-temperature circuit.

Special power electronics are required for operating the three-phase AC electric motor in the high-voltage direct current grid, and the inverter for this task is housed in the engine compartment. Because the power electronics system itself is heated by the electric current thus created, it too is integrated into the low-temperature cooling circuit. Mercedes-Benz employs standardised components for the power electronics system as well, enabling them to be efficiently combined with different electric motors and battery types across all model series.

On the road to plug-in hybrids: Diesel-hybrid concepts

An important milestone on the road to plug-in hybrids is the recently unveiled Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID diesel hybrid. Like the S 400 HYBRID and the Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID, it is based on the Mercedes-Benz modular hybrid concept. This near-series vehicle study combines a new 2.2-litre, four-cylinder diesel engine with the 15 kW/20 hp hybrid module that is also used in the S 400 HYBRID, but which here also enables pure electric driving. This drive system configuration enables the Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID to travel 100 km on only 4.5 litres of fuel (preliminary value). This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 119 grams per kilometre with an output of 165 kW/224 hp and superior torque of

580 – 600 newtonmetres (combined in both cases), more or less the same performance as today’s six-cylinder diesel engines. Exhaust gas treatment is handled by the combination of an oxidizing catalytic converter, a diesel particulate filter and BlueTEC mit AdBlue® injection. The Vision E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID thus also has the potential to meet the world’s most stringent emission standards.

Vision S 500 Plug-in HYBRID – Technical data

Combustion engine (petrol)

No. of cylinders/arrangement: V6, 4 valves per cylinder

Displacement: 3.5 l

Hybrid module

Type: Permanently excited synchronous machine

Rated output: approx. 44 kW/60 PS

Rated torque: 250 Nm

Performance and fuel consumption

Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h: 5.5 s*

Top speed: 250 km/h

Fuel consumption: 3.2 l/100 km (combined)*

CO2 emissions: 74 g/km (combined):

*preliminary values

New spy photos have emerged showcasing the next-generation Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class undergoing a bit of fair weather testing.  Unfortunately, the four door coupe is heavily masked with plenty of false panelling, so distinguishing its various design elements is still an impossible task.  Parts of the front grille, headlights and tail lights, are however, a little more clear than they’ve been in the past, revealing a few subtle hints about what lies in store for the model.