An online publication dedicated to covering the latest Mercedes-Benz news and information. http://www.emercedesbenz.com Thu, 15 May 2008 10:05:00 CST en-us To help celebrate this year's European Soccer Championship, Mercedes-Benz CharterWay has laminated ten refrigerated truck trailers with European Soccer Championship motifs. Available via CharterWay Rental immediately, five of the trailers feature the alpine image form the TV commercial 'Alpenabenteuer' (Alpine Adventure), while the remaining five feature a collage of photos submitted by more than 5,000 soccer fans. Each of the units can be rented either alone or with a truck, and also for as little time as a single day, if you so desire. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/15_001148_Mercedes_Benz_CharterWay_Adorns_Ten_Trailers_With_European_Soccer_Motifs.html Thu, 15 May 2008 10:05:00 CST It was 1930 when Rudolf Caracciola achieved sixth place in the overall ranking of the Mille Miglia with a Mercedes-Benz SSK, and it was a year later when he won the event in a Mercedes SSKL. Since then, Mercedes and the Mille Miglia have been enduringly linked, whether it be the numerous victories achieved by Mercedes vehicles over the years or the company's current sponsorship support of the event. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/15_001147_Mercedes_Benz_At_The_2008_Mille_Miglia_Storica.html Thu, 15 May 2008 08:50:00 CST 1866: Carl Benz becomes draftsman and designer at a scales factory in Mannheim --1871: Benz and August Ritter set up a mechanical workshop on the plot known as T 6, 11 in Mannheim --1879: Benz two-stroke engine --1882: Gasmotoren-Fabrik Mannheim founded with financial backing from Emil Buhler --1883: Benz, Rose and EBlinger found Benz and Cie., Rheinische Gasmotoren-Fabrik --1886: New factory building goes up in WaldhofstraBe --1886: German Patent No. 37435 awarded for the Benz patent motor car http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/14_001146_Celebrating_100_Years_At_The_Mercedes_Benz_Manheim_Plant_Chronology.html Wed, 14 May 2008 10:50:00 CST December 1968 saw the production launch of the first O 305 standard regular service buses at Mannheim. This represented the beginning of a new era of bus design at Mercedes-Benz, since touring coaches and service buses were now built in separate model series. Other new buses included the O 307 standard regular-service interurban bus (STULB), which was built in Mannheim from February 1973, and the new O 303 touring coach. This expansion of the product portfolio was possible largely thanks to the increase of production capacity in 1970. By this time the Mannheim plant was producing 240 complete buses and the same number of bus chassis per month. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/14_001145_Celebrating_100_Years_At_The_Mercedes_Benz_Manheim_Plant_Constant_Investment_Safeguards_Competitiveness.html Wed, 14 May 2008 10:50:00 CST Mannheim was the first plant of Daimler-Benz AG to be occupied by the Allies at the end of the Second World War. The plant, one quarter of which was destroyed, was taken by the Americans on March 23, 1945. The US Army commandeered a part of the southern end of the plant for their own needs, and only gave up their occupation of the area in 1955. Production of the three-ton L 701 truck started again at the Mannheim plant in June 1945, making Mannheim the first plant belonging to Daimler-Benz AG to resume activities after the war. At the same time as building this version of the Opel Blitz under license, work began on reconstructing the plant. One measure introduced to help employees during this period was to grow vegetables on the premises to feed the workforce. But the war had taken its toll: 'The core of the plant is still functioning. It may be badly damaged, but the engineering department and assembly shops are still intact,' reported Rhein-Neckar-Zeitung in 1946. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/14_001144_Celebrating_100_Years_At_The_Mercedes_Benz_Manheim_Plant_Redevelopment_And_A_Shift_Of_Focus.html Wed, 14 May 2008 10:35:00 CST The merger between DMG and Benz and Cie. was completed on June 28/29, 1926. To mark the occasion, publicity material highlighted the combined power of the new brand that had been forged out of the two historic firms: 'Germany’s two oldest and largest automotive companies have merged with a view to pooling over 40 years of experience in automotive design, the purchase of raw materials and production equipment and an extensive field organization, and to offering customers all over the world an unbeatable range of passenger cars and commercial vehicles.' http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/14_001143_Celebrating_100_Years_At_The_Mercedes_Benz_Manheim_Plant_From_The_Merger_To_The_Second_World_War.html Wed, 14 May 2008 10:35:00 CST Once the economic circumstances had stabilized, the company was at last able to consider the construction of a new plant. In 1906, Benz and Cie. bought a plot of land on the slopes of the Luzenberg in Mannheim-Waldhof measuring 311,180 square meters. Here building work on the new Benz plant got under way in 1907 based on plans by the architect Albert Speer. At this time Benz was turning out an average of 520 engines and 400 cars annually, with a workforce of around 1,000 employees. The new premises were adjacent to the Mannheim-Luzenberg railway station, so it was conveniently situated for links to the rail network. The railway not only helped with material logistics, it also brought in workers living in more outlying communities. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/14_001142_Celebrating_100_Years_At_The_Mercedes_Benz_Manheim_Plant_Mercedes_Benz_Plant_In_Manheim_Waldorf.html Wed, 14 May 2008 10:35:00 CST Born the son of a locomotive driver in Karlsruhe in 1844, Carl Benz began studying at the city’s polytechnic in 1860 and made his first visit to Mannheim in 1866. Here, he was employed as a draftsman and designer by a scales manufacturer, before moving in 1868 to the firm of Gebruder Benckiser in Pforzheim. If Benz was already forming ideas about the automobile during this period, they were unlikely to have been inspired by his work, for "Benckiser, Eisenwerke und Maschinenfabrik" was involved above all in bridge construction. But Benz had shown great interest in the bicycle even during his time in Mannheim. He bought his first "velocipede" – as the two-wheeler was known at the time – in 1867, and this precursor to individual mobility on the road would later shape many of the design details of his patent motor car. After two years at Benckiser, Benz moved from Pforzheim, where he had met his future wife Bertha Ringer, back to Mannheim. Here, in 1871, the young engineer teamed up with a talented mechanic, August Ritter, and established the small company "Carl Benz und August Ritter, Mechanische Werkstatte" on a plot of land known as T 6, 11. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/14_001141_Celebrating_100_Years_At_The_Mercedes_Benz_Manheim_Plant_Carl_Benz_In_Manheim.html Wed, 14 May 2008 10:35:00 CST This year marks a historic milestone for Daimler AG's Mercedes-Benz Manheim plant, for it was 100 years ago that this location kicked off production under the joint stock company Benz and Cie., Rheinische Gasmotoren-Fabrik.  To celebrate the milestone, Mercedes today has published a fantastic look back at the history of the plant, detailing both its origins and its evolution over the past century.  For those of you unfamiliar with the plant or the history of Mercedes in general, I think you'll find both intriguing and informative. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/14_001140_Celebrating_100_Years_At_The_Mercedes_Benz_Manheim_Plant_Introduction.html Wed, 14 May 2008 08:45:00 CST Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. Kicking things off this morning we have a quick recap of the F1 race that transpired in Istanbul over the weekend. If you have the race TIVO'd and plan on catching it later, then read no further. Otherwise, keep scrolling for the full details of what transpired. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/12_001139_Team_Vodafone_McLaren_Mercedes_Race_Recap_Istanbul.html Mon, 12 May 2008 10:45:00 CST To celebrate the European launch of the new GLK this fall, Mercedes has announced today they'll be holding a special design competition centered around the SUV's groundbreaking styling. Titled 'The design:project', the rules are simple. Six universities located in six European design capitals have been asked to put together an interdisciplinary team, who then have until the end of July to create various objects in different design areas, such as furniture, everyday objects and technical equipment. The designs must all be in line with an overarching theme, and they can be submitted in any form, including sketches, graphics, animations and models. The condition is that all objects and creations must be presentable in a surface area measuring 10 x 15 meters. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/09_001138_Mercedes_Benz_Marks_Launch_Of_The_New_GLK_With_A_European_Design_Competition.html Fri, 09 May 2008 15:00:00 CST A little more than a week ago we brought you the first details and images of the new BRABUS tuning package for the updated Mercedes-Benz SL-Class. Today, the company has released a more complete list of specs and additional high resolution photos of what tuning products are available for the forthcoming models, starting with the BRABUS 4.0 displacement package for the SL280 and 350 models (332hp / 244kW and 420Nm torque) all the way up to the awe-inspiring SV12 S Biturbo package for the SL600 (730hp / 537kW and 1,320Nm torque). http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/07_001137_Another_Look_At_The_BRABUS_SL_The_Exclusive_BRABUS_Sport_Program_For_The_New_SL_Class.html Wed, 07 May 2008 11:30:00 CST As if the Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG isn't desirable enough, Mercedes today has unveiled the latest in their long line of limited-edition models: the Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG Edition IWC. Limited to a mere 200 units, the SL63 Edition IWC boasts the full plethora of features found in the standard SL63 AMG, and in addition, also features an all-new exterior paint color; an AMG Performance package and a number of exclusive interior appointments. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/07_001136_Mercedes_Introduces_Limited_Edition_Mercedes_Benz_SL_63_AMG_Edition_IWC.html Wed, 07 May 2008 10:00:00 CST For those of you gearing up for Germany's first Euro 2008 game on June 8th, Mercedes-Benz Accessories has unveiled the Mercedes-Benz European Championship Collection 2008 to help you celebrate your favorite team in style. Based closely on the actual team shirts, the Mercedes collection features a white and black or silver gray main color scheme accented by the black, red and gold of the German flag in a 'Mexican Wave' design. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/06_001135_The_Mercedes_Benz_European_Championship_Collection_2008_For_Euro_2008.html Tue, 06 May 2008 11:30:00 CST Daimler is reporting today that for the month of April, combined sales of the Mercedes-Benz, Maybach and smart brands have reached a total of 119,000 units, up 22 percent over April of 2007. This figure brings Mercedes-Benz Cars year-to-date total to 437,700 vehicles, a 14 percent increase over 2006's four month ytd total of 384,600 new units. Individually, sales of Mercedes-Benz were up 16 percent in April to 105,400 units (compared to 90,600 units in April 2007). This in turn has helped the Mercedes brand note a total of 395,100 vehicles delivered through the first four months of the year, an impressive eight percent increase over the same period last year (365,000 new units). http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/06_001134_Mercedes_Benz_Cars_Note_22_Percent_Sales_Increase_In_April.html Tue, 06 May 2008 10:30:00 CST Mercedes has announced today that since its launch in 1996, 500,000 units of the SLK-Class have been delivered to customers. Breaking this figure down by generation, roughly 310,000 first generation vehicles were sold, while its successor has sold some 190,000 units since its market launch in March 2004. According to Dr. Klaus Maier, Executive Vice President Mercedes-Benz Cars and the man responsible for sales and marketing: 'With the launch of the SLK in 1996, Mercedes-Benz successfully established the premium segment for compact roadsters. Thanks to innovative technology such as the vario-roof and the neck-level heating system AIRSCARF, the SLK has long been recognized as a cult car of modern times. The new-generation SLK models, which we are delivering to customers since April 2008, are sportier than ever. I’m confident that the dynamic looks and performance of the new SLK will again set pulses racing among sports cars enthusiasts around the world.' http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/05_001133_Mercedes_Benz_Delivers_500000th_SLK_To_Customer.html Mon, 05 May 2008 16:00:00 CST In our second and final Review Roundup of the day, we have a total of five articles analyzing the Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG, C63 AMG and SLK200 Kompressor for your reading entertainment. As always, you can find excerpts from each article along with links back to the full review immediately below. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/05_001132_Review_Roundup_Mercedes_Benz_SL63_AMG_C63_AMG_And_SLK200_Kompressor.html Mon, 05 May 2008 15:00:00 CST Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. Kicking things off this balmy Monday afternoon comes the first of two Mercedes Review Roundup installments, starting with one that looks at the Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, the S450 4MATIC, the CLC 200K and the Maybach 62 S. As is the case with all our Review Roundups, you can find excerpts from each review as well the links back to the full articles immediately after the jump. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/05_001131_Review_Roundup_Mercedes_Benz_S65_AMG_S450_4MATIC_CLC_200K_And_Maybach_62S.html Mon, 05 May 2008 14:10:00 CST On August 5, 1888, Bertha Benz made automotive history, taking the world's first long-distance journey in the patent motor car designed by her husband, Carl Benz. Bertha completed the trip with her two sons, traveling 106 kilometers from Manheim to Pforzheim, the town of her birth, and returning a few days later. With the exception of a few minor incidents, the patent motor car functioned perfectly. To commemorate the 120th anniversary of this remarkable journey, the town of Pforzheim will unveil a monument in honor of Bertha Benz, designed by local artist René Dantes. In recognition of Bertha's birthday, May 3, 1849, the monument will be also be unveiled May 3rd, with the celebrations to be attended by her great-granddaughter Jutta Benz. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/02_001130_New_Monument_Commemorating_The_Long_Distance_Trip_Of_Bertha_Benz_To_Be_Unveiled_In_Pforzheim.html Fri, 02 May 2008 15:30:00 CST Mercedes-Benz USA is reporting today that for the month of April, sales at the company dropped three percent to 20,271 new units (compared to 20,895 units in 2007). Despite the decrease, sales at the division remained positive for the first four months of the year, with MBUSA's YTD total up 1.4 percent over 2007 (77,918 vs. 76,880). As for the models making headlines, the new C-Class was once again the company's volume leader, with sales of the sedan up 33.5 percent in April to 6,850 new units (compared to 5,131 units in April 2007). This figure brings YTD sales of the C up to 23,991 units, a 37.8 percent increase over 2007. Two members of Mercedes' SUV family also managed to stay in the black, with sales of the M-Class increasing 8.4 percent in April to 2,582 new units and sales of the GL jumping 3.9 percent to 1,938 units. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/May08/01_001129_Mercedes_Benz_USA_Sales_Drop_Three_Percent_In_April.html Thu, 01 May 2008 14:45:00 CST For those of you pondering whether or not the Mercedes C63 AMG or C 220 CDI SE are worth you hard-earned wealth, our latest Review Roundup installment may help shed some light on your dilemma. In this episode, a total of three reviews are dedicated to analyzing the aforementioned models, with excerpts from each as well as links to the full articles immediately after the jump... http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/30_001128_Review_Roundup_Mercedes_Benz_C63_AMG_And_CLC_220_CDI.html Wed, 30 Apr 2008 14:20:00 CST It's no secret that we here at eMercedesBenz are fans of the fine work perpetually turned out by German tuning powerhouse BRABUS, and the latest addition to their tuning portfolio - a styling package for the new-generation Mercedes SL - is no exception to the rule. With a range of upgrades including a new front apron, side skirts, rear apron and 20-inch wheels, BRABUS has managed to successfully infuse a slightly more assertive character into the redesigned model without sacrificing its original, overall feel. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/29_001127_First_Look_At_BRABUS_S_V12_S_Tuning_Package_For_2009_Mercedes_Benz_SL.html Tue, 29 Apr 2008 14:00:00 CST If you're looking for a way to fill the few remaining gigs on your shiny new iPod (or any other MP3 player), Mercedes has launched the latest in a long line of Mixed Tapes. Available from now until June 26th, the Mercedes-Benz Mixed Tape 20 features 10 handpicked new tracks from various up-and-coming international artists, all procurable via free download. Highlights include Malinn's 'Stars,' Aless' 'Tru Luv,' Reggie B's 'Like a Dream' and Notic Nastic's 'Party Lights.' http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/29_001126_Mercedes_Benz_Mixed_Tape_20_And_New_Edition_Of_Mixed_Tape_Music_Magazine_Now_Available.html Tue, 29 Apr 2008 09:00:00 CST If the name Zhang Ziyi is unfamiliar to you, it shouldn't be. She's one of world's best-known Chinese film actresses, with Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon; Rush Hour 2; House of Flying Daggers; Hero; and Memoirs of a Geisha just some of the movies that make up her exemplary resume. As for why I'm telling you this, the alluring star recently took a break from her film roles to lend her acting ability to Mercedes and creative agency Ogilvy & Mather Beijing, appearing in an ad for the limited-edition SLK Passion 08. In the commercial (aptly-titled 'The Contract'), Zhang demonstrates her driving ability and the model's handling prowess, all with the intent of convincing her prospective employers she's suited to be their driver. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/28_001125_Fun_With_Video_Zhang_Ziyi_Stars_In_Mercedes_Benz_SLK_Passion_08_Commercial.html Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:15:00 CST Last but not least, in our third and final Review Roundup installment of the day, two more Mercedes models - the CLC and the C180 Kompressor Estate - are put under the microscope, giving those of you considering the purchase of either some idea of what to expect from each. As was the case with both our prior Review Roundups, you can find the complete collection of articles scutinizing both models immediately after the jump... http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/28_001124_Review_Roundup_The_Mercedes_Benz_CLC_And_C180_Kompressor_Estate.html Mon, 28 Apr 2008 09:45:00 CST If you've yet to grow tired of Mercedes reviews, don't worry - we've got more. Featuring a distinctly SUV fare, this Review Roundup installment boasts a total of three articles, with testers weighing in on the new Mercedes GLK350 and the GL320 CDI. As I'm sure you've already guessed, you can find each review along with excerpts of each immediately after the jump. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/28_001123_Review_Roundup_The_Mercedes_Benz_GLK_350_And_GL_320_CDI.html Mon, 28 Apr 2008 08:35:00 CST Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. To kick things off this morning we're going to get back to our Mercedes review coverage, starting with a total of four articles analyzing the Mercedes-Benz E500, the E300 BLUETEC by BRABUS, the E320 BLUETEC and the CLS320 CDI. First up: a comparison review pitting the E500 against the BMW 550i, the Jaguar XF SV8 and the Lexus GS450h, with the full collection of reviews immediately after the jump. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/28_001122_Review_Roundup_The_Mercedes_Benz_E_Class_And_CLS_320_CDI.html Mon, 28 Apr 2008 07:55:00 CST Taking a break from our Review Roundup segments, Mercedes today has published a behind-the-scenes look at their contributions to the upcoming Sex and the City movie. Although as a male I can't say the movie's at the top of my must-see list this summer - despite the fact my significant other will most likely have something to say about the matter - the press release still provides a unique look at the various challenges the company faced when providing a vehicle for the shoot. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/25_001121_Behind_The_Scenes_With_Mercedes_Benz_On_The_Set_Of_Sex_And_The_City.html Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:50:00 CST The next Mercedes Class to be put through its paces is none other than the CLS, with a total of four reviews dedicated to the model being published. As I'm sure you're quickly growing accustomed to, you can find each article along with excerpts from each immediately after the jump. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/24_001120_Review_Roundup_Part_Three_The_Mercedes_Benz_CLS_Class.html Thu, 24 Apr 2008 19:00:00 CST Next in our new-and-improved Review Roundup segment comes a total of three reviews looking at both the new Mercedes-Benz CLC as well as the CL65 AMG. You can find the complete set of articles along with excerpts from each immediately after the jump. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/24_001119_Review_Roundup_Part_Two_The_Mercedes_Benz_CLC_And_CL_Class.html Thu, 24 Apr 2008 16:50:00 CST Although we may have fallen a little behind in our Mercedes review coverage as of late (all right, so maybe that's a bit of an understatement), not to worry, because we're making up for it today. Even as you read this, we're hard at work catching up on the numerous MB reviews published over the past couple weeks, including the many sent to us by you, our beloved readers. But that's not all. As you'll notice, we're also introducing a new format for our 'Review Roundup' segment - one that we believe will make it far easier to see what other reviewers thought of the Mercedes they were charged with testing. Unlike before, where a concise one or two sentence snapshot of each review was all that our Review Roundup offered, you'll now have a much clearer view of the how the model in question scored; a better perspective of who published the review; and longer, more informative excerpts from each of the actual articles. We think it's a substantial improvement over the prior format; hopefully you'll agree. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/24_001118_Review_Roundup_Part_One_Mercedes_Benz_C63_AMG.html Thu, 24 Apr 2008 15:40:00 CST Just in time to coincide with the market launch of the new-generation Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class, BRABUS has introduced a number of new tuning products aimed at making the already dynamic model even more sporty and charismatic. Take, for example, the SLK55 AMG. Never a group content with factory output, BRABUS engineers tuned the SLK55's standard 5.5-Liter 265 kW/360 hp V8, boosting output to an impressive 327 kW/445 hp (438 hp SAE net). The result? A 0-62 mph time of just 4.3 seconds, and a top speed of 191 mph. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/22_001117_BRABUS_Debuts_New_Tuning_Package_For_The_Updated_Mercedes_Benz_SLK_Models.html Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:30:00 CST The Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class, the versatile new member of the Mercedes sport utility vehicle family, will make its U.S. dealer showroom debut in January 2009 as a 2010 model. Powered by a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6 engine the 2010MY GLK350 will form the basis of the U.S. lineup, and will be offered in both 4MATIC and two-wheel-drive versions, riding on standard 19-inch 10-spoke wheels with 235/50 tires. The GLK features a 108.5-inch wheelbase and boasts unique design language which sets it apart from the rest of the highly successful Mercedes-Benz family of SUVs that includes the M-Class (which spurred the trend toward more car-like SUVs), the larger GL-Class, the crossover R-Class and the iconic G-Class. Showcasing bold exterior design, generous cargo capacity and available 4MATIC all-wheel-drive, the GLK350 combines the perfect balance of styling, versatility and performance. The 2010 GLK-Class will be produced exclusively at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen, Germany. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/22_001116_Mercedes_Benz_At_Auto_China_2008_Details_Of_The_US_Bound_GLK_Class.html Tue, 22 Apr 2008 10:30:00 CST The smart fortwo will also be available to Chinese customers from mid 2009. This was announced by Dr. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG and head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, at the Auto China Beijing 2008 (22 - 28 April 2008). This means that smart is now set to open up another major automobile market, following the successful launch in the USA. Daimler AG expects additional sales potential for the brand in China as the small car is practically tailor-made for the increasing number of small car customers on the Chinese market: The smart fortwo combines modern technology, premium quality and safety, exemplary low fuel consumption and corresponding low CO2 emissions with a unique space concept that offers advantages in the dense traffic of China’s numerous large cities. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/21_001115_Mercedes_Benz_At_Auto_China_2008_smart_fortwo_To_Be_Launched_In_China_In_Mid_2009.html Mon, 21 Apr 2008 15:20:00 CST All GLK-Class models feature an exceptionally high level of standard equipment, including: -- 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive -- 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with Comfort and Sport modes -- Adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger -- Adaptive brake lights -- Aerial integrated in roof spoiler (additional roof aerial if COMAND is specified) -- AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system -- The full list of standard equipment and available equipment packages after the jump... http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/21_001114_Mercedes_Benz_At_Auto_China_2008_Standard_Equipment_And_Equipment_Packages_Of_The_GLK_Class.html Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:40:00 CST Technology highlights and equipment items for the new GLK-Class -- 4MATIC: permanent all-wheel-drive system from Mercedes- Benz. As well as the actual all-wheel-drive powertrain with 45:55 percent power distribution (front axle/rear axle), includes a single-stage transfer case and centre differential with a basic locking torque of 50 Nm as well as ESP and 4ETS control systems. The full list of standard and optional GLK equipment after the jump... http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/21_001113_Mercedes_Benz_At_Auto_China_2008_The_New_Mercedes_Benz_GLK_Class_At_A_Glance.html Mon, 21 Apr 2008 11:00:00 CST Brimming with genuine character, the new GLK-Class is set to take the world of compact SUVs by storm. Yet it is not just the distinctive all-rounder's practical and appealingly compact body form that sets it apart from the competition. It also brings together what were previously seen as entirely contradictory attributes. The Agility Control suspension serves up a unique blend of outstanding handling dynamics, exceptional driving safety and superlative ride comfort. Meanwhile the sophisticated, variable 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system joins forces with the latest electronic control systems to deliver consummate on-road performance and superb off-road suitability. It is precisely this kind of combination that lends the GLK-Class such immense appeal. The GLK-Class may be one of the more road-oriented Mercedes-Benz SUVs, but the 'G' - alluding to the archetypal Mercedes off-roader - still has a rightful place in the model name. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/21_001112_Mercedes_Benz_At_Auto_China_2008_The_New_Mercedes_Benz_GLK_Class.html Mon, 21 Apr 2008 09:40:00 CST Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. Kicking things off this morning comes coverage of the Auto China fair in Beijing, an event that in addition to being regarded as the most successful in the Middle Kingdom, also heralds the launch of the newest Mercedes class: the GLK. To celebrate the grand unveiling, Mercedes today has published a number of press releases and photos detailing both the GLK as well as the other models headlining the show, so to get them out as quickly as possible I'm going to publish each without commenting. Not to worry, however, because regular programming will commence immediately following our coverage of the fair. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/21_001111_Mercedes_Benz_At_Auto_China_2008_World_Premier_Of_The_GLK_Class_SL_M_Class_And_CLS_Now_Even_More_Attractive.html Mon, 21 Apr 2008 07:45:00 CST When the second DTM race weekend of the season kicks off in Oschersleben tomorrow (April 19th), taking the reins of the official Safety Car duties will be none other than the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. This marks the eighth continuous year Mercedes has provided a vehicle to serve as a DTM Safety Car, with the company alternating with Audi from race to race in furnishing a vehicle for the role. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/18_001110_Mercedes_Benz_C63_AMG_Set_To_Launch_As_Official_Safety_Car_Of_The_DTM.html Fri, 18 Apr 2008 08:30:00 CST If you're a regular reader of eMercedesBenz, you're no doubt familiar with the origins of the Mercedes-Benz brand and the three-pointed star. But for those of you who are just joining us or those of you who may have missed our past coverage on the subject, Daimler today has published a refresher course detailing briefly the historical milestones that led to the Mercedes-Benz we know and love today... http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/17_001109_The_History_Behind_The_Mercedes_Benz_Brand_And_The_Three_Pointed_Star.html Thu, 17 Apr 2008 11:30:00 CST Wondering what the interior of the forthcoming 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class looks like? Wonder no more. The industrious spy photographer of Auto Express recently captured an undisguised view of the new model's interior, revealing precisely what to expect in terms of ergonomics and styling. Although I won't go into too many details, due to the fact the photo pretty much speaks for itself, two highlights worth noticing include a large multimedia display screen positioned atop the center console (a la the S-Class) and the COMAND controller in the center console (a la the S-Class and C-Class). If you had to describe it, an amalgamation of the S-Class and C-Class interiors would probably best summarize the E-Class exterior as a whole. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/16_001108_An_Inside_Look_At_The_2010_Mercedes_Benz_E_Class.html Wed, 16 Apr 2008 17:30:00 CST If you're a fan of Mercedes' M-Class Edition 10 and its various darkened elements, you'll no doubt love the latest ML tuning package from German super-tuner Lorinser. Titled the ML Black and White, Lorinser's latest entrant in the vast sea of tuner Mercedes models is based on the ML320 CDI, and as you've no doubt noticed, capitalizes on the trendy contrasting color scheme that's grown popular as of late. As for the features of the new Lorinser M-Class, highlights include a new front apron, side skirts and rear apron all painted in white; 22-inch RS9 wheels in matte black; and a number of other darkened elements, including a new front grille and tinted windows. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/15_001107_Lorinser_Unveils_ML_Black_And_White_Tuning_Package_For_Mercedes_Benz_M_Class.html Tue, 15 Apr 2008 15:30:00 CST As was the case prior to unveiling of the 2009 SL-Class, Mercedes recently granted a sneak peak of the new SL65 AMG Black Series to a limited group of journalists, finally ending speculation as to what the future holds for the model. According to Inside Line - the first publication to detail their look at the SL65 Black - power for the new model will be abundant, with output from the 6.0-Liter twin turbo V12 being boosted to a staggering 670 horsepower. Peak torque will remain unchanged at 738 lb-ft, while two new Sport shift programs in tandem with the SL's five-speed automatic transmission will produce gearshifts in a mere 250 milliseconds. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/15_001106_More_Details_Of_The_Mercedes_Benz_SL65_AMG_Black_Series_Emerge.html Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:30:00 CST To coincide with the recent refinement of both the A-Class and B-Class models, Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH has announced that a new portable navigation system - the StreetPilot III - will be available for both models (as well as some prior A-, B- and C-Class). Produced in partnership with Garmin, the nav system features a 4.3 inch high-definition, non-reflecting display and a depth of just two centimeters, making it one of the slimmest products on the market. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/14_001105_Mercedes_Benz_Accessories_Introduces_StreetPilot_III_Portable_Navigation_System_For_A_Class_And_B_Class.html Mon, 14 Apr 2008 10:30:00 CST Welcome back ladies and gentlemen; I hope you all had a fantastic weekend. Kicking things off this morning comes word that Mercedes-Benz has achieved a record score in the latest round of workshop tests by German publciation AUTO BILD. Four verdicts of 'very good' and an average rating of 'good' were the marks bestowed upon Mercedes, the highest rating ever in the publication's history. As for how exactly the tests work, eight Mercedes-Benz workshops are chosen at random, each of which are then graded on their ability to diagnose and remedy seven intentional, straightforward faults during a service inspection. Also scrutinized is the quality of work provided by each outlet. After the latest round of tests, four MB workshops earned the highest possible rating of 'very good,' while only one scored a rating of 'satisfactory.' http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/14_001104_Mercedes_Benz_Achieves_Highest_Ever_Rating_In_Auto_Bilds_Workshop_Test.html Mon, 14 Apr 2008 09:00:00 CST If you're one of the many anticipating what the future holds for either the 2010 Mercedes E-Class or the Mercedes SL65 AMG Black Series, the fine gentlemen of Car and Driver recently captured a number of spy photos which will give you a slightly clearer vision of what to expect from each. In the pictures, both models' contours and styling are relatively distinguishable, including the E-Class' new headlights (which mimic the new SL headlights) and sculpted lines (reminiscent of the new C-Class) as well as the SL Black's various vents and bulges. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/11_001103_Car_And_Driver_Grabs_Spy_Shots_Of_The_2010_Mercedes_E_Class_And_SL65_AMG_Black_Series.html Fri, 11 Apr 2008 21:00:00 CST In case you haven't been to the Mercedes AMG website as of late, I wanted to post a quick note letting you know there's a new webspecial dedicated to the AMG variants of the 2009 Mercedes SL. Although we've brought you most of the information already, the site offers a slightyly more stylized outlet by which to view the various changes made to the model. There's a few desktop images for your computer and iPhone as well, so if you're looking to grab some high-resolution shots of the AMG roadster and plaster them across them you're monitor or phone, you're in luck. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/11_001102_Mercedes_Adds_New_SL_Webspecial_To_AMG_Website.html Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:25:00 CST For those of you questioning whether or not the new Mercedes C63 AMG is capable of dethroning the BMW M3 from its reign over the high performance sport sedan segment, our man Vincent over at Autoblog.nl posted a video review of the model recently that attempts to find out. Needless to say, the results are impressive. Watch the video, especially around the 5 minute mark, and you'll see what I mean. But be forewarned: that C350 Sport you're considering will look a little less appealing. http://www.emercedesbenz.com/Apr08/11_001101_Autoblognl_Video_Review_Of_The_Mercedes_Benz_C63_AMG.html Fri, 11 Apr 2008 10:30:00 CST