Over the last couple of weeks, Mercedes has been offering up bits and pieces of information regarding the all-new, 2013 S-Class.  With the launch of the new S-Class comes quite a few new, never before seen safety features; and with those new features comes quite a a large amount of questions regarding the new terminology (namely, what exactly are the assistance programs and what do they do?)  To make reading future press releases easier on you, we’ve compiled a list of the top new assistance programs to keep you up to speed on the new terms, some of which are seen only on the S-Class and some of which are available brand wide.

Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS: permanent main beam with no dazzling. If the camera-based Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS picks up oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead, it adapts the light distribution according to the specific situation when the main beam is on. A mechanism in the headlamp module masks the portion of the LED headlamps’ cone of light where there are other vehicles to prevent their drivers being dazzled. Possible backglare caused by increased use of the main beam and highly reflective signs at the side of the road is also detected and eliminated by dimming the headlamps accordingly. Consequently, the driver can simply leave the main-beam headlamps on at all times and use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users. The system is active at speeds above 30 km/h when travelling in the dark on roads without street lighting.

Active seat-belt buckle: comfort and safety. An electric motor extends and retracts the belt buckle automatically. In this way, any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax can be reduced so that passengers are secured more firmly in both the sideways and the lengthways direction. Fastening seat belts in the rear has also been made simpler: the seat belt buckle emerges from the upholstery when the rear doors are opened and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot.

Active Parking Assist: automatic manoeuvring into and out of parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. The Active Parking Assist is designed for automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces. The driver moves the vehicle by manually pressing the accelerator or releasing the brake. What’s more, the system is now also able to manoeuvre out of parallel parking spaces again all by itself with automatic steering and brake control, assuming the vehicle was parked there automatically previously.

Active Lane Keeping Assist: intervention to correct unintentional lane changes even with a broken line. The new improved version of the Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also able to intervene should the driver inadvertently cross a broken line when there is a risk of a collision. The system uses the information from the radar system to detect when the adjacent lane is not clear. The radar system has been supplemented by a sensor at the rear, which works in unison with the other sensors in the front and rear bumpers. The Active Lane Keeping Assist is not only capable of recognising critical situations such as overtaking vehicles, parallel traffic and parking vehicles, it can also respond effectively to oncoming traffic. If the system detects the risk of a collision, not only does it cause the steering wheel to vibrate in pulses as a haptic warning for the driver, it intervenes with lane-correcting single-sided braking via the ESP®. It thereby forms the ideal complement to the Active Blind Spot Assist.

Active Blind Spot Assist: warning for lane changes. This radar-based system alerts the driver if it detects another vehicle in the blind spot when changing lanes. If the driver ignores the system’s warnings and comes dangerously close to the vehicle in the adjacent lane, Active Blind Spot Assist intervenes by applying the brakes at the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle to create a yawing movement that can avert a collision.

BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: braking assistance also for crossing traffic. For the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist can help to avoid not just rear-end collisions with vehicles directly in front, but also imminent crashes with cross traffic at junctions. If the anticipatory system detects a hazardous situation of this type based on the amalgamated data from the new stereo camera and the radar sensor system, it prompts the driver to start emergency braking by activating visual and acoustic warnings. If the driver presses the brake pedal too tentatively, as is often the case, BAS PLUS will step in by automatically boosting brake pressure for effective emergency braking, even applying the brakes at full power if necessary. The Cross-Traffic Assist is active at speeds up to 72 km/h.

BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake: preventing traffic accidents with pedestrians and vehicles in front. Pedestrian detection has been added to the BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake functions, while autonomous braking for vehicles in front has undergone a major advance. By fusing the data from the stereo camera and radar sensors, it is now possible to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle. Visual and acoustic warnings are given when a hazard is spotted. If the driver then reacts by braking, the braking power will be boosted by BAS PLUS as the situation requires, right up to a full brake application. Should the driver fail to react, the PRE-SAFE® Brake will trigger autonomous vehicle braking. The pedestrian detection is active up to approx. 72 km/h, and is able to prevent collisions with pedestrians from an initial speed of up to 50 km/h. The operating range of the autonomous braking function for stationary vehicles has been optimised so that rear-end collisions can likewise be avoided at speeds of up to 50 km/h now.

Beltbag: reduces the risk of injury to passengers in the rear. This inflatable seat-belt strap is able to reduce the risk of injury to passengers in the rear in a head-on collision by lessening the strain placed on the ribcage. Should the crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact, the airbag control unit will trigger deployment and inflation of the beltbag. A gas generator then inflates the multi-layered belt strap with Velcro seams to nearly three times its normal width. The resulting larger surface area is able to better distribute the force acting on the seat occupant, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

Data fusion: amalgamation for reliable operation. Highly sophisticated sensors and the necessary networked algorithms provide the foundation for innovative new functions. Data fusion enables the algorithms for the varying systems to amalgamate the visual information from the stereo camera with the readings from the radar sensors. Many of the assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz work in this way, fusing multiple or complementary data sources to ensure reliable operation.

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: comfort-enhancing assistance with lateral lane guidance. The DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control system is a driver aid designed to keep the vehicle at the desired distance from another vehicle in front, even in stop & go traffic. This basic radar-based function has now been enhanced by the addition of a Steering Assist, which helps drivers to stay centred in their lane by generating the appropriate steering torque when travelling on a straight road and even in gentle bends. The stereo camera recognises lane markings as well as a vehicle driving ahead, and relays this information to the electric steering assistance system. When driving at slow speeds, e.g. in congested traffic, the Steering Assist can use the vehicle ahead as a means of orientation, even when there are no clear lane markings visible.

The system’s design is so refined that the sensors can detect whether the driver’s hands are actually on the steering wheel. If they are not, a visual warning is issued first. Should the driver fail to react, a warning signal sounds and lateral lane guidance is deactivated.

The system can be activated at speeds up to 200 km/h. A green steering wheel symbol appears in the instrument cluster to indicate when the Steering Assist is operating while DISTRONIC PLUS is activated.

Infrared headlamps: two separate light sources in the headlamp assemblies light up the road ahead with invisible infrared light. Used for the Night View Assist PLUS.

Far-infrared camera: detects relevant objects (pedestrians and animals such as deer, horses, cattle) at a distance of up to 160 m as a thermal image, enabling it to control the warning function. Used for the Night View Assist PLUS.

Multi-level functionality: dazzle protection for following traffic. The intensity of the brake lights is reduced at night-time or while waiting at traffic lights out of consideration for any road users behind.

Night View Assist PLUS: alerting to pedestrians and animals. The new Night View Assist PLUS is capable of detecting pedestrians and animals in potentially hazardous positions in front of the vehicle. It automatically switches the instrument cluster display from the speedometer to a crystal-sharp night view image to alert the driver in unlit areas. Pedestrians or animals detected ahead are clearly highlighted in colour in this image. The spotlight function is additionally used to repeatedly flash pedestrians in the warning zone by means of a special module in the front headlamps. This attracts the driver’s attention to the source of the danger at the same time as warning the person on the side of the road. These functions are now available in urban areas, too. Infrared headlamps, a long-range infrared camera, a short-range infrared camera and a spotlight function are used to provide the various functions.

Near infrared camera: shows a sharp greyscale image of the area in front of the vehicle in the instrument cluster display. Used for the Night View Assist PLUS.

PRE-SAFE® Impulse: at an early phase of the crash, before the resulting deceleration starts to increase, the front occupants are pulled away from the direction of impact and deeper into their seats by their seat belts. By the time the accident enters the phase when loads peak, the extra distance they are retracted by can be used while dissipating energy in a controlled fashion. Pre-acceleration and force limitation allow the occupants to be temporarily isolated from the effects of the crash, significantly reducing the risk and severity of injuries in a frontal collision. With PRE-SAFE® Impulse, the seat belt strap can be retracted by pyrotechnic means at all three belt anchorage points, and released again with controlled force. The fundamental difference compared to conventional belt tensioners is that the force for retracting the belt strap is maintained for a much longer time. The deployment logic fires the seat belt system’s belt tensioners progressively depending on the seriousness of the accident. In this way, the tensioning force can be adapted as required.

PRE-SAFE® PLUS: occupant protection for an imminent impact from the rear. PRE-SAFE® PLUS offers an extension of the familiar occupant protection measures in situations where traffic behind poses a danger. A radar sensor in the rear bumper monitors the traffic behind the vehicle and can detect the risk of a rear-end collision. The system warns the driver of the vehicle behind by activating the rear hazard warning lights at a higher frequency than normal. Apart from this, the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures, including the reversible belt tensioners, are also deployed. If the vehicle is stationary, PRE-SAFE® PLUS will keep it firmly braked. Minimising the forward jolt in this way can greatly reduce the strain placed on the occupants, such as the risk of whiplash injuries. Firmly applying the vehicle’s brakes can help to prevent secondary accidents too, such as running into a vehicle in front, for example, or colliding with pedestrians or other road users at junctions.

Radar: sensor technology for picking up relevant obstacles. New improved versions of the short-range and long-range radars combine with a new multi-mode radar to detect relevant obstacles such as vehicles or people in defined areas in front of, next to and, now, behind the vehicle, too. The system employs 2 x short-range radars at the front (range 30 m, opening angle 80°), 1 x long-range radar at the front (200 m, 18°) with mid-range scan (60 m, 60°), 2 x short-range radars on the sides at the rear (30 m, 80°) and 1 x multi-mode radar at the rear (30 m, 80° and 80 m, 16°).The algorithms for the varying systems amalgamate (data fusion) the radar readings with the visual information from the stereo camera. Many of the assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz work in this way, fusing complementary data sources to ensure reliable operation.

Spotlight function in the front headlamps: flashes pedestrians detected with the help of the controllable main beam module. Used for the Night View Assist PLUS.

Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera (SMPC, stereo camera for short): 3D vision. Just like the Multi-Purpose Camera (MPC) fitted previously, the stereo camera is positioned behind the windscreen in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror. However, the camera features two “eyes” that produce a 3D view of the area up to around 50 metres in front of the vehicle while monitoring the overall situation ahead for a range of up to 500 metres. In this way, the camera is able to provide data for processing by various systems. Intelligent algorithms perform a visual evaluation of this three-dimensional information in order to detect and carry out spatial classification of both vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs within a large field of vision. Used for example for BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist and DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist.

Traffic Sign Assist: now recognises no-overtaking zones and access restrictions, too. The new Traffic Sign Assist, which builds on the capabilities of the previous Speed Limit Assist, represents yet another contribution to accident prevention from Mercedes-Benz. The system is now also able to recognise no-overtaking zones and alert drivers to access restrictions. The camera on the inside of the windscreen continues to pick up speed limit signs, including those on overhead gantries and in roadworks, for example. The camera’s data is cross-referenced against the information in the navigation system and can be displayed in both the instrument cluster and the map view. If the camera fails to spot any road signs showing a speed limit or a speed limit is lifted, the legal speed limits based on the navigation data are shown instead, such as a maximum speed of 100 km/h on country roads in Germany or 50 km/h in built-up areas. No-overtaking zones and the signs signalling their end are also registered and displayed, while in the case of signs imposing access restrictions, an acoustic warning is additionally emitted together with a visual warning in the instrument cluster.

While the world premiere of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will take place in May / June 2013, they have released the first information about the car’s new technology.

Our good friends in Germany have, in advance, some information about the new technology, in the form of handy display graphics. One of the most interesting features is the system including Distronic PLUS with Steering Assist. The system helps the driver to maintain the desired distance – even in stop and go traffic. The basic function of radar-based Distronic PLUS is now extended to the steering wizard, which assists the driver in the lateral control of the vehicle. The camera detects lane markings and vehicles ahead and makes the car drive at slower speeds.

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Technical Details

The Brake Assist PLUS with crossover wizard provides brake support, even when crossing traffic. Using a new camera and radar sensors, the system helps to prevent rear-end collisions – even when crossing traffic.

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Technical Details

The new Adaptive Highbeam Assist PLUS on the new S-Class also allows for glare-free high beams using the standard LED headlights. The mechanics in the headlamp module hides the field in the light cone, which is found in other vehicles – in order to prevent glare. The high beam is switched on so permanent, allowing for maximum visibility. A glare from reflective plates will cause the system to selectively dim the lights – the system will work at night on roads without street lighting.

The traffic sign assistant has now been extended and now offers the detection of overtaking and entry.

The Night View Assist PLUS will warn against animals and people -they will be illuminated several times by a Spotlight feature.

The 2013 S-Class will also ise parking assistant to park fully automatic – even the brakes will be taken over by the technology.

2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Technical Details

And last but not least, in the new S-Class, there are not normal bulbs, instead the vehicle is fully equipped with LED technology and, the belts for the passengers now have an airbag..

In short, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be the safest car on the road and pretty much drive itself.

Source: Mercedes-Benz Passion

What could be better than a personal coach with a tailor-made training program to enhance your fitness and general well-being, on hand to support you at any time of the day or night? Tomorrow’s Mercedes-Benz cars will take on this very role. Active Comfort, defined as “performance-enhancing comfort”, provides for well-being, recuperation and subsequent fitness at the wheel. The experts from Mercedes-Benz Cars and Mercedes-Benz Trucks are working closely together in this field: a number of ideas from the Daimler research vehicle “TopFitTruck” will feature on board future series-production passenger cars from Mercedes-Benz.

More and more, people are spending ever more time in cars. At the same time, health care and health insurance expenditure is rising and the wellness market is booming. The Germans alone spend around 70 billion euros on wellness annually. In future, “star treatment” from Mercedes-Benz will attend to all on‑the-road wellness needs.

Active Comfort sees Mercedes-Benz opening up a new dimension. “The Mercedes-Benz becomes a personal coach”, explains Jörn Petersen, Head of Human Factors at Daimler AG. A tailor-made fitness program keeps the driver in good shape to master the demands of driving the vehicle on a sustained basis. And well-being in the vehicle is supported both actively and passively by addressing all the senses more intensively than has previously been the case. An insight into the ideas occupying the Daimler experts is provided by the “TopFitTruck” research vehicle, which is a wellness oasis and fitness studio in one. Some of the ideas explored in this vehicle will soon feature on board series-production vehicles from Mercedes-Benz.

The possibility of making effective use of “power napping” for recuperation purposes will play a key role in the Active Comfort concept from Mercedes-Benz. This brief, deep sleep has become firmly established in many different languages and cultures: what is known in Britain and America as a “power nap” is a “turbosieste” in France, an “inemuri” in Japan, “Turboschlaf” in Switzerland and “Nickerchen” in Germany. Sleep researchers confirm that this brief sleep of up to 20 minutes’ duration enhances concentration, reactions and general performance substantially.

Mindful that only a relaxed driver is a safe driver, Mercedes-Benz has been conducting research in this complex field of “driver-fitness safety” for many years, and systematically uses its findings to improve the models in series production. As a result, Mercedes drivers demonstrably remain fit and retain their powers of concentration for longer.

Their health benefits, too: “People who feel relaxed behind the wheel, take the right sort of break in good time and are supported in their seat by innovative technology have a good chance of avoiding the back trouble which has become a ‘national ailment’. Stress is a key cause of back complaints, which even afflict the majority of young people today,” confirms renowned Bochum-based doctor Prof. Dr Dietrich Grönemeyer. He served as a sparring partner in the development of the “Active Comfort” concept, in order to corroborate the research findings with views from outside.

Wellness oasis and fitness studio: the “TopFitTruck” from Mercedes-Benz

“Drowsiness at the wheel is one of the most common causes of accidents in goods transport. The research carried out with the ‘TopFitTruck’ has demonstrated that truckers who do not sleep well or do not enjoy a sufficient amount of sleep at night drive more erratically”, explains Siegfried Rothe, Head of Condition Enhancement, Group Research at Daimler. There is also an economical and ecological dimension: “Our investigations have revealed that tired truckers consume around one litre of diesel per 100 kilometres more than their counterparts who sleep well,” Rothe elaborates.

The declared aim of the work with Daimler’s “TopFitTruck” research vehicle was thus to improve working conditions and, in turn, the quality of life for drivers in long-haul trucks. Daimler Trucks has realised numerous ideas for improved ergonomics and added comfort in this yellow-painted semitrailer tractor. Many innovations, such as improvements in the area of noise insulation and fresh air management, have already been incorporated into the new Actros generation. The technology transfer to passenger car models is now impending. This represents a reversal of an established trend, as in recent decades passenger car innovations have generally led the way, with developments such as power steering, ABS and ESP®, air conditioning or subsequently improving working conditions for truckers.

The cab of the “TopFitTruck” is equipped with a massage seat, steering wheel cushion, a wider bed and a perfume atomiser. The latter device emits a stimulating menthol fragrance while on the road or supports power napping during breaks with an orange fragrance. For a particularly relaxing nap, the massage seat in the “TopFitTruck” moves into a raised position. The driver is then able to rest his legs on a round cushion which is fitted over the steering wheel.

The intelligent hi-fi system also aids power napping, its software automatically categorising pop and rock titles according to whether they are in a relaxing or enlivening vein. The system then selects songs depending on whether the driver is dozing off or waking up, playing them with a pleasant fade-in and fade-out effect. The wake-up function also takes account of the driver’s sleep phases, avoiding waking him from deep sleep, which would leave him feeling drained.

It is also possible to carry out regular fitness training to keep the driver fit and healthy on a sustained basis. Expander bands can be attached to lugs in the cab roof and floor. The experts at Daimler have teamed up with doctors and physiotherapists to develop a special exercise programme for truckers. The training focuses especially on the muscles which come under particular strain on long-haul trips. Short videos on the screen in the cab outline the individual exercises.

The “TopFitTruck” is an interdisciplinary project – apart from the Daimler experts, musicologists, sports scientists, sleep researchers, human biologists, psychologists, traffic scientists and cytophysiologists have also been involved in the development process.

All in the service of a relaxed driver: driver-fitness safety

Optimum driver-fitness safety is an essential factor in the Mercedes-Benz philosophy of performance-enhancing comfort, and is one of the high-priority targets for development. The experts from Mercedes-Benz have based their work in this area on scientific investigations, including medical trials. The pulse rate, for instance, is one of the most important indicators of driver well-being and strain, as well as their concentration and performance levels. One of the key findings: the faster the heart is beating, the more strained the driver is and the greater the likelihood of making an error in critical situations.

Hallmark Mercedes-Benz energising comfort derives from the combined effect of numerous, perfectly coordinated individual measures: the interior offers adequate space for people of all sizes, for example, and the seats can be adjusted perfectly to individual requirements. A good suspension and soundproofing of the engine keep noise and vibrations at bay. The air-conditioned interior ensures a “cool head” at the wheel in the truest sense of the word. The positive effect of readily accessible switches and controls is further enhanced by LINGUATRONIC voice control. Similarly conducive to driver-fitness safety are Mercedes innovations such as Night View Assist, Intelligent Light System with automatic curve illumination and dipped beam or DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control. These and other intelligent systems such as the rain sensor relieve the driver of numerous routine tasks which would otherwise require his attention and cause him to tire more quickly. And ATTENTION ASSIST features on board all Mercedes-Benz as standard to warn of any signs of drowsiness.

Another important factor here is efficient interior climate control, which is perfectly tuned to the occupants’ requirements in a Mercedes-Benz. The air conditioning system has a direct influence on well-being, fitness and concentration, as it allows drivers to literally keep their cool, even at extremely high outside temperatures. When the air conditioning is switched off, a clear deterioration in overall driver fitness can be detected after just a few miles of driving, as has been verified by independent medical experts: the body temperature rises and the powers of comprehension worsen. This leads to premature driver fatigue, faltering concentration and slower reactions.

Measurements of spinal column movement provide a further indication of the strain placed on the driver. A poorly upholstered or poorly adjusted seat has been shown to tire the driver faster in the same way as a high interior temperature.

The new C-Class to be launched in spring 2011 is a comprehensive modernisation. The front and rear sections of this bestselling model have a more striking design. Together with the optional, high-resolution colour display in the instrument cluster, the new dashboard with its elegant, grained surface and prominent decorative trim emphasises the premium character of the interior. Fuel consumption has been lowered by up to 31 percent. Efficiency-enhancing measures include new engines, the improved 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function. Ten new driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control are now available for this model series. The new-generation telematics include internet access and a 3D navigation display with plastic city views.

“In terms of drive and protection systems the new-generation C-Class offers the same comfort and safety as our luxury models. And with numerous high-grade features in the interior that remind one of the new CLS, the C-Class sets completely new standards in its segment with respect to perceived value and quality,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Sales & Marketing Director at Mercedes-Benz Cars. This interior modernisation is supplemented with a new telematics generation that not only includes completely redesigned displays, but also makes onboard internet access available.

A total of more than 2000 new components distinguish the latest generation of the Mercedes-Benz C-Class from its predecessor. Both the Saloon and Estate versions can be ordered from 10 January 2011. The European market launch will take place from March 2011. In addition to the standard appointments – which now include a leather steering wheel – the two design and equipment lines ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE are the basis for the individualisation programme of the C-Class. The two lines are now even more readily distinguishable from each other.

The C-Class is the highest-selling model series, and therefore of particular importance for Mercedes-Benz. The current series has found well over one million buyers worldwide since its launch in March 2007. Since the introduction of the first C-Class in 1982 (then known as the model 190), Mercedes-Benz has sold more than 8.5 million vehicles in total in this segment. In 2010 too, the C-Class has repeatedly won top places in the registration statistics.

Dynamic, resolute, self-assured: the exterior

The front bumper has a more expressive and dynamic contours, the front section being brought closer to the brand’s new design idiom. This starts with a more prominent radiator grille surround. The central air intake opens out upwards in a V-shape, forming a visual base unit for the radiator grille. Pronounced side sections extend from the sporty V-shape at the centre of the bumper. Continuing beneath the headlamps, these sections blend into the feature lines along the vehicle flanks, linking the front section with the sides. The side air inlets in the bumper are positioned low down, giving the car a more road-hugging appearance.

The Saloon and Estate now have a new aluminium bonnet, which contributes to weight reduction and therefore fuel efficiency. Its contour in the area of the headlamps and radiator grille emphasises the V-shape of the front section more heavily than before. In conjunction with the newly designed headlamps, this gives the front section a more resolute impression.

The shape of the clear-lens headlamps has been modified to create a more dynamic and resolute impression, and to act together with the bonnet, radiator grille and bumper to emphasise the V-shape of the front section. This impression is reinforced by both the exterior form of the headlamps and the interior of the housings. The headlamps show their modernity by precision and an interplay between matt and high-sheen areas. The halogen headlamps are arranged in the classic way, with low beam on the outside, high beam on the inside and the indicators neatly arranged in the outer corner formed with the front wing.

If the optional bi-xenon headlamps with the Intelligent Light System (ILS) are specified, the impression of depth is reinforced by a row of lighting modules. A position light with a distinctive C-shape emphasises the night design. Behind it is a cornering light extending to the main headlamp module on the outside. All three levels are connected by a transverse strip extending through the complete headlamp interior with dark contrasts, shiny areas and matt areas. A visual base in the lower section of the headlamp is formed by a horizontal broadband LED indicator unit. The horizontal LED daytime running lamps in the bumper also make the C-Class unmistakable from a distance.

In the case of the rear bumper, the light-catching contours and dividing lines have been modified to emphasise the width of the Saloon and Estate even more strongly. This change is particularly obvious in the more steeply rising course of the side light-catching contours towards the tail lights. A continuous light-catching contour at the upper end of the rear bumper extends into the flanks to connect the rear end with the sides to emphasise the sporty character of the rear aspect. In the facelifted model, the tail lights are even more neatly integrated into the rear section by a continuous covering lens. The characteristic surface meander is now on the inside of the light, and reminiscent of preceding model series. The particular impression of depth is achieved by a centrally located LED indicator, which appears to float in front of the red upper and lower light bands with their more deeply set LEDs. The tail lights have a particularly high recognition factor in the dark.

The aerodynamics of the C-Class are the mark of the bodyshell’s efficiency. With a Cd figure of 0.26 it not only sets the benchmark in its class, but also glides through the wind better than most compact cars with its drag area of Cd x A = 0.57 sq. m.

Sporty, high-quality interior

The main focus of the design work in the interior was on restyling the dashboard with its integrated screen and new surface grain. The touch surfaces of the controls are now also more finely detailed and galvanised. A stepped extension to the instrument cluster now also accommodates the central display. The instrument cluster and a discreet light-catching contour continue into the front passenger side. The central, trapezoidal air vents and the round vents on the outside are highlighted in detail by galvanised trim.

The large section of trim is an important part of the newly designed dashboard. This extends from the centre air vents across the front passenger side to the outer air vent, while the lower edge of the upper dashboard section continues into the beltlines of the door panels with a new surface grain.

The control panel of the new-generation communication and information unit has keys with high-gloss surface inserts. The combination of keys, high-gloss areas and a new knurled wheel design accentuates the higher perceived value of the interior. In conjunction with the new telematics generation, the facelifted C-Class is also available with an optional, high-resolution colour display in the instrument cluster.

The premium character of the interior is underlined by the new-generation steering wheel, which was introduced with the new CLS and is now available in the sporty AVANTGARDE line for the C-Class. The steering wheel with its chromed central spoke stylishly accentuates the sporty atmosphere in the C‑Class.

The ELEGANCE and AVANTGARDE lines are more readily distinguishable from each other. This has been partly achieved by new trim in matt ash wood or walnut (ELEGANCE), or dark aluminium or black ash wood (AVANTGARDE). Stand features in the ELEGANCE line include luxury head restraints whose side bolsters can be adjusted as required.

More power, lower consumption: the engines

A reduction of up to 31 percent has been achieved in fuel consumption. All the rear-wheel drive C-Class models are equipped with the ECO start/stop function as standard. All the engine variants are now classed as BlueEFFICIENCY units, showing that they are particularly efficient and environmentally compatible in their use of fuel. In future all automatic versions with the exception of the C 300 CDI 4MATIC will feature the further-developed 7G-TRONIC PLUS seven-speed automatic transmission (introduction in the C 250 CDI 4MATIC in June 2011). In addition, the overall ratio of all new powertrain variants has been optimised for fuel economy.

All the petrol engines in the model series have direct injection. One of the highlights is the introduction of the new V6 petrol engine with its innovative and highly efficient BlueDIRECT process in the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY. The quantum leap in efficiency is particularly well illustrated by the six-cylinder unit: Power has increased considerably, the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY delivering 225 kW (306 hp) and 370 Nm (previously 215 kW/292 hp and 365 Nm). Fuel consumption has been significantly reduced, however: the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY has a mean consumption of 6.8 litres per 100 km – 1.5 litres or 31 percent less than the preceding C 350 model. [1]

The four-cylinder petrol engines, which made a great evolutionary leap forward in 2009 and all feature direct injection and turbocharging, excel with high performance and exemplary economy.

All C-Class petrol models at a glance [2]

BE = BlueEFFICIENCY, * figures for automatic transmission, manual transmission in brackets

The most economical model in the Mercedes C-Class has also become even more frugal: the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY with the manual six-speed transmission and the standard ECO start/stop function has a mean diesel consumption of 4.4 litres per 100 km – 0.4 litres less than before. This corresponds to 117 grams of CO2 per kilometre. In conjunction with the improved 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission and the ECO start/stop function included as standard, the C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY both deliver top-class figures with a combined diesel consumption of just 4.8 litres per 100 km. This corresponds to CO2 emissions of 125 grams per kilometer.

All C-Class diesel models at a glance2

BE = BlueEFFICIENCY, * figures for automatic transmission, manual transmission in brackets

Warning and intervening: the new driving assistance systems

With a total of ten new driving assistance systems ranging from ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the C-Class reaches a new level in safety. The assistance systems are based on the latest radar, camera and sensor technology, and cover frequent accident causes such as driving too closely, fatigue and darkness. The new assistance systems, some of which only warn and some which actively intervene in hazardous situations, at a glance:

• Adaptive Highbeam Assist
• Active Lane Keeping Assist
• Active Blind Spot Assist
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• DISTRONIC PLUS
• Speed Limit Assist
• Parking guidance including PARKTRONIC
• PRE-SAFE® Brake
• Lane Keeping Assist
• Blind Spot Assist

More operating comfort, better connectivity: new-generation telematics

The new C-Class also sees the debut of a new telematics generation which will also be gradually introduced in other model series. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, telephone directory transfer, display of SMS messages, wireless music reproduction via Bluetooth and a USB interface now accommodated in the centre armrest.

The multimedia system COMAND Online now provides internet access for the first time. When the car is stationary, customers are able to browse freely or surf to a Mercedes-Benz Online service whose pages load particularly rapidly and are also easy to use while on the move. The integrated services include weather information and a special destination search via Google, as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google Maps and sent to the car. The navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with plastic city views. Also new: routes covered can be recorded and repeated later, specific personal destinations can be imported via an SD card and four alternative routes can be displayed on the navigation map, one of them a particularly economical variation.

As a first in the C-Class, the Becker® MAP PILOT makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the entry-level Audio 20 CD radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the central controls and the Audio 20 display, a concealed location in the glove compartment and updating via an internet portal.

Early next year, Mercedes-Benz will launch the all-new 2012 SLK-Class. The agile sports car will feature a bold, new design, exceptionally high levels of comfort, as well as plenty of open-air driving pleasure. At the same time, it will also set new safety standards for convertible sports cars. The third generation of this trend setting roadster will make use of a whole host of the latest assistance systems to support the driver, including the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, developed by Mercedes-Benz and fitted as standard equipment; available occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, which is unique in the world; and the PRE-SAFE® Brake, which can apply the brakes autonomously in the event of an impending front-end collision. With the 2012 SLK-Class, Mercedes-Benz continues to set new standards of automotive safety.

The best or nothing – the safety experts at Mercedes-Benz have long adopted this motto, coined by Gottlieb Daimler, as their guiding principle. Far from chasing ratings targets, they work intensively on attaining a level of safety which far exceeds the standards stipulated by the world’s legislators. The most important component of their work is not in the laboratory or crash test facility, but real-world accident research. The result of this study is Real Life Safety, a concept which is based on research into thousands of accidents. Using this evidence, Mercedes-Benz engineers have created or refined most of today’s assistance systems which effectively support drivers and have been adopted by many of the company’s competitors.

ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE as standard

The 2012 SLK-Class will feature a unique combination of driver assistance systems to help avoid accidents. These include the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, which helps monitor the level of attentiveness of the driver and can provide an early warning of overtiredness.

Also making up part of the standard equipment is the ADAPTIVE BRAKE. It comprises ABS, the acceleration skid control system ASR and also active yaw control. In addition, it features the following functions:

• supports the driver when moving-off on an incline, by preventing the vehicle from unintentionally rolling backward;keeps the vehicle stationary without having to keep the brakes applied
• continuously – for example when waiting at traffic lights;
• if the driver abruptly releases the accelerator, ADAPTIVE BRAKE brings the brake pads into light contact with the brake discs as a precautionary measure, so that the necessary braking pressure can be attained quicker in the possible event of emergency braking;
• automatically applies light brake contact in wet conditions to help dry the brake discs.

Emergency braking – detecting an acute risk of a front-end collision

Available as optional extras are the DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control as well as PRE-SAFE® Brake, already proven in other Mercedes-Benz models. Both systems work together and can initiate emergency braking automatically if there’s an acute risk of an accident. In normal driving conditions, the radar-based DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control adjusts the distance to the vehicle in front automatically. If necessary, it can apply the brakes, even bringing the SLK Roadster to a stop, and accelerate it again. This takes some of the strain off the driver, particularly in bumper-to-bumper driving conditions. If the distance starts to narrow too quickly, the system gives the driver visual and audible warnings, thereby prompting the driver to take action, at which point he is also supported by the Brake Assist System PLUS (BAS PLUS).

If the systems detect an acute risk of a front-end collision and the driver does not react, the electronic system activates the PRE-SAFE® Brake after visual and audible warnings. In the initial stage, partial autonomous braking is initiated. If the driver does not react to this, the second stage of PRE-SAFE® Brake provides full, autonomous emergency braking.

Safety and comfort

The following optional features will be available to enhance both safety and comfort:

• the optional Bi-Xenon lighting system provides lighting functions (Cornering light function and Active Curve Illumination), which are activated depending on the driving conditions.
• the optional PARKTRONIC incl. Parking Guidance uses ultrasonic sensors to measure the length of parking spaces as the car drives past; the cockpit display then provides a schematic representation of the recommended parking maneuvers.

Only available from Mercedes-Benz – the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®

An additional safety highlight which will be available in the new SLK (as part of the optional DISTRONIC PLUS system) is the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®. If the system detects an impending risk of an accident, it reflexively activates precautionary protective measures for the vehicle occupants, so that the seat belts and airbags can provide maximum protection during an impact. Mercedes-Benz developed PRE-SAFE® on the basis of research into actual accidents, and is the only manufacturer in the world to offer such a system.

In the 2012 SLK, additional post-crash measures will also supplement the PRESAFE® system to enable prompt assistance after an accident has occurred. Depending on the damage, the interior lighting can be switched on automatically, the side windows can be opened by two inches, to provide better ventilation in the interior, and in vehicles with memory seats the steering wheel can be moved upwards.

Taking into account all of the requirements of the rating institutes

In developing the new SLK, the requirements of Euro NCAP as well as all of the global consumer ratings have been taken into account. This has contributed to the development of the bodyshell structure of the vehicle, which follows established concepts and has been optimized in a number of detailed areas. These include, among other things, reinforced members, a new side impact structure and new fiber-reinforced roll-over bar.

In the event of an accident, front-mounted sensors and lateral satellite and rollover sensors help the central control unit to predict the nature and severity of the accident.

New headbag and crash-responsive head restraints

The restraint systems with two-stage driver and front passenger airbags have also been enhanced. A new feature is the headbag, which provides generous lateral protection for the head during an impact. An additional thorax airbag in the seat backrest protects the upper body in the event of a side impact. The seat belts, with belt buckle tensioners and speed sensitive belt force limiters are also hallmarks of the high Mercedes-Benz safety standards.

Throughout the world the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is synonymous with the ultimate in active and passive safety systems. A significant part of such systems is also made up of the unique combination of trend-setting camera and radar-based driver assistance systems. The latest innovations are called Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, both of which are available as optional extras.

The combination of state-of-the-art assistance and protection systems turn the AMG S-Class into an “intelligent” partner which is able to “see”, “feel”, to respond “instinctively” to detected dangers and to act “on its own initiative” in order to avoid accidents or to reduce the severity of accidents. The vehicle makes use of cameras radar sensors which look far ahead, observe the conditions around the vehicle, and are able to interpret typical critical situations.

When the S 63 AMG unintentionally drives over a solid line to the right or left of a lane or on the outside of a bend, the new Active Lane Keeping Assist intervenes and prevents the vehicle from unintentionally leaving the lane. In such cases it applies the brakes to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle, using the sensor system of the Electronic Stability Program ESP®.

Similarly, when the new Active Blind Spot Assist system detects that changing lanes would be dangerous, it the driver by displaying a red warning in the glass of the relevant exterior mirror. If the driver ignores the warning signal and a vehicle in an adjacent lane comes too close, the ESP® takes corrective action by applying the brakes to the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle.

Night View Assist PLUS and Speed Limit Assist

The Night View Assist Plus with infrared camera (optional extra) is equipped with a special pedestrian detection function: as soon as the system detects pedestrians on the road ahead, they are highlighted on the display to make them more readily noticeable.

The images supplied by the windscreen camera are also used by the Speed Limit Assist, which is available as an optional extra. It recognises speed limit signs in passing and shows the relevant speed limit in the central display.

Drowsiness detection on the basis of more than 70 parameters

Thanks to an innovative technology the S-Class has a very sensitive antenna for the attention level of its driver, and can warn him in time when he becomes drowsy. The ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system continuously monitors more than 70 different parameters. Once the evaluation electronics recognise the steering behaviour pattern that typically indicates the onset of drowsiness on the basis of information from the highly sensitive steering angle sensor, a warning signal is sounded and “ATTENTION ASSIST. Break!” appears in the instrument cluster. ATTENTION ASSIST is fitted as standard.

“Electronic crumple zone” for maximum occupant protection

In addition, Mercedes-Benz has enhanced the wide and intermediate range radars for the optional extras Brake Assist PLUS (BAS PLUS) and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control. Mercedes-Benz also offers another radar based system for the S-Class in the form of the PRE-SAFE® brake. If the driver is distracted and fails to recognise the immediate danger of a rear-end collision, or the warning signal of an assistance system, this system can intervene and brake the vehicle independently. The S-‑Class makes use of the latest development stage of this safety system: if the driver fails to react even after automatic, partial braking action, the PRE-SAFE® Brake activates the maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before what is now recognised as an unavoidable accident – an emergency braking action that can significantly mitigate the severity of the impact. The PRE-SAFE® Brake therefore acts as something like an “electronic crumple zone”.

The restyled CL-Class boasts two new safety features based on state-of-the-art radar, camera and sensor technology. Renowned as the flagship coupe from Mercedes-Benz, the 2011 CL-Class debuts Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist, both designed to help the driver avoid danger through corrective braking. Building on the innovative technologies introduced last year on the E- and S-Class, the CL-Class now showcases the height of safety technology form Mercedes-Benz including features such as ATTENTION ASSIST, PRE-SAFE Brake with automatic emergency braking, and Night View Assist PLUS with Pedestrian Detection. The 2011MY CL-Class will make its U.S. debut in Fall 2010.

Active Lane Keeping Assist

Using a multi-purpose camera mounted in the windshield and a computer that analyzes the images, Active Lane Keeping Assist recognizes lane markings and alerts the driver by simulating rumble strip vibrations in the steering wheel (via an electric motor) if the car drifts from its lane unintentionally. Should the driver fail to react to this warning, the car intervenes by gently braking the wheels on the opposite side of the car. The unequal distribution of braking forces causes a yaw movement which helps the driver to stay in their lane. Active Lane Keeping Assist makes use of the existing ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) system to apply the brakes and maintain vehicle control.

Active Blind Spot Assist

The second innovation on the 2011 CL-Class, Active Blind Spot Assist, monitors both blind spots alongside the vehicle using close-range radar sensors. When a vehicle is detected, a yellow warning triangle is illuminated in the corresponding side-view mirror. Should the driver disregard this warning and activate the turn indicator, the warning triangle changes to red and an audible warning also sounds. If the driver continues to ignore these warnings and moves dangerously close to a neighboring vehicle, the system activates corrective braking intervention to the wheels of the opposite side of the vehicle. Like Active Lane Keeping Assist, the yaw movement helps correct the car’s path or minimize the consequences of a collision.

Summer sunshine and sandy beaches by the sea – in a few days’ time the great annual holiday period gets under way in a number of German federal states, starting with Bremen, Niedersachsen, Sachsen-Anhalt and Thüringen. For many people, heading off on holiday is the longest car journey which they make during the whole year. “The more the car is able to take the pressure off the driver, the more stress-free driving on long journeys can become”, explained Dr. Jörg Breuer, Head of Active Safety of the Mercedes-Benz passenger car division, speaking on the fringes of a traffic safety conference in Berlin. Avoiding stress-induced accidents and improving physiological safety are among the main focal points of the safety research undertaken by Stuttgart-based automotive manufacturer Mercedes-Benz.

By way of example, Breuer referred to a warning system to detect drowsiness at the wheel, called ATTENTION ASSIST, which Mercedes-Benz is fitting as standard to all E and S-Class vehicles (with the exception of the S 400 HYBRID). “In the near future we plan to equip other model series with the system too”, announced Breuer. Based on 70 parameters, the system detects unusual steering wheel movements, such as when drivers are in danger of momentarily nodding off. The system then issues visual and audible warnings requesting the driver to take a break.

In Germany, drowsiness is currently the cause of 25 percent of all fatal road traffic accidents. According to scientific studies, material damage amounting to some five billion euros is caused each year in Germany by drivers who are overtired. If other manufacturers were to follow the example being set by Mercedes it is expected that a further significant reduction in the number of casualties on the roads could be achieved. “Our research shows that following the introduction of new safety systems, the frequency and severity of accidents involving vehicles fitted with the systems drop significantly”, explained Breuer.

In addition to an improved traffic infrastructure, the efforts of the automotive industry to increase road safety have had a positive effect. According to figures from the German Federal Office of Statistics (Destatis), the number of road traffic victims has fallen continually since 1970. In 2009 there were 4154 deaths on German roads, the lowest since 1950. The figures peaked in 1970 with 21,332 road fatalities. Since then, the number of deaths on the roads has fallen by around 80 percent.

For years, Mercedes-Benz has been setting benchmarks in the development of new technologies for the continuous improvement of active and passive safety in automobiles. Innovations in passive safety such as the rigid-form passenger cell, crumple zone, airbag and three-point safety belt, plus active safety like ABS, ESP® and brake assist all trace back to Mercedes-Benz. They have made a substantial contribution to improving traffic safety and to reducing significantly the number of injuries and deaths among road users.

The current status of active safety technology is defined by intelligent assistance systems that turn the vehicle into a “thinking partner” – one that can see and feel, and that can react in the event of danger. Systems like the blind spot assistant, ATTENTION ASSIST and the night view assistant are focused specifically on accident problem areas such as lane changes, fatigue or poor visibility at night.

“With future driver assistance systems, we will be able to address even more complex traffic situations and therefore to ease the dangers of further accident hot spots – like intersections,” says Prof. Bharat Balasubramanian, Head of Product Innovations & Process Technologies at Corporate Research and Advanced Engineering Daimler AG. “Our new automated driving test methods help us to fulfil the extremely high quality and operational safety demands placed on our safety systems more efficiently.”

Autopilots ensure greater precision and relieve development engineers

In addition to established methods, Mercedes-Benz will fulfil requirements for reliable functionality and operational safety in future assistance systems through the “automated driving” of test manoeuvres on dedicated proving grounds. Prototypes used for this purpose are usually series production vehicles equipped with “robots” for steering, acceleration and braking. An on-board computer controls the autopilot so that a pre-programmed course is followed exactly – even if several vehicles are involved in one manoeuvre.

Test engineers in the control centre monitor all events and can stop the vehicles at any time. In parallel, the vehicles perform self checks and brake automatically if they register deviations. Thus, the test configuration is safe, yet flexible. All Mercedes-Benz models can be equipped with the technical equipment for “automated driving”. Moreover, a large variety of different safety systems and equipment can be tested.

Using “automated driving”, engineers analyse safety innovations under real-life conditions in the vehicle, addressing two critical challenges:

• Reproducibility. In order to calibrate the systems under test exactly, extensive variations and repetitions of tests are needed. In so doing, all parameters such as vehicle distances, speeds and steering angles have to meet specifications and always need to be maintained precisely in order to guarantee comparability.

• Safety. Because the systems are intended to kick in only in critical situations, such scenarios must be induced during testing. The manoeuvres demand precision timing and should not create a real danger for anybody.

Both requirements are usually beyond human abilities – humans cannot react quickly enough and cannot repeat manoeuvres with the desired accuracy. However, for complex in-vehicle electronic systems and for assistance systems in particular, such driving tests are indispensible as their functional validation must be carried out in a manner that is comprehensive and as close to reality as possible.

The repeat accuracy of the test methodology enables test vehicles to maintain a pre-determined speed and course exactly and to brake very precisely. For example, if a vehicle drives a pre-planned course several times, the tracks of all the runs vary from one another by less than two centimetres. Should the vehicle be brought to a complete halt at a particular location, the end points of all braking manoeuvres are within a radius of three centimetres.

Alongside the proving of assistance systems, “automated driving” will also be used for so-called “extreme tests” in future. These put the vehicle under loads that are well in excess of those reached under normal use in traffic. The intention is to ensure, for instance, that airbags are not activated unintentionally should the car be driven heavily over a ramp or against a kerb. Test drives that involve a high degree of physical stress for the driver can thus be avoided.

State-of-the-art test methods for the highest safety demands

In their development work, Mercedes-Benz engineers use the results from the company’s in-house accident research, which delivers important findings. Several combined validation methods guarantee that all systems function reliably at any critical moment. Company philosophy insists on validation to go considerably farther than required by regulatory standards. When it comes to passive safety, Mercedes-Benz internal crash test requirements go well beyond meeting public crash test standards.

The combination of computer simulations and real-life crash tests ensures passive safety to Mercedes-Benz standards. Mercedes-Benz also makes use of state-of-the-art, networked test methods when it comes to active safety. Drive simulator tests combined with simulation procedures deliver a faster and more reliable development process and complement test drives under real-life conditions. “In Sindelfingen, we are currently building a new driving simulator. The state-of-the-art technology of this equipment will make the future development of new safety systems even faster and more precise,” confirms Balasubramanian.

Automated driving as the basis of future innovations

Mercedes-Benz is the only vehicle maker in the world to use “automated driving” as an additional element in the testing process. It will be used on dedicated proving grounds in tests that would be virtually impossible to reproduce manually, like merging at different speeds and vehicle distances; high-risk tests where, for example, a vehicle brakes heavily in front of another that swerves at the last minute; and safety-critical tests where, at an intersection, one vehicle crosses just in front of or behind the path of a second vehicle.

With “automated driving”, Mercedes-Benz has developed a new, unique testing method for safety systems. It is yet further proof of the innovative power of Mercedes-Benz. The new test method guarantees the fast and efficient development of assistance systems to the highest levels of quality and reliability and also offers maximum safety at work for employees.

Bharat Balasubramanian sums up: “In order to continue to set trends in the field of safety in future, our test procedures must be able to keep pace with the wealth of ideas generated by our engineers. With automated driving, we feel we are well equipped for the development of the next generation of assistance systems.

Specially tailored for the growing market for luxury saloons in China, the long-version of the new Mercedes E-Class will be celebrating its world premiere at “Auto China 2010” With its inclined radiator surround, muscular-shaped rear fender and well-defined boot lid, the design of the new E-Class L embodies status and effortless superiority in a number of its details. Now available in a lengthened version, the model is even better positioned to meet the requirements of the Chinese market in this segment. The vehicle’s refined appointments also help to create an extremely impressive and comfortable interior.

With a length of 5,012 millimetres and a wheelbase of 3,014 millimetres, the new model for China has gained an extra 140 millimetres in both of these areas compared with the saloon model sold in the rest of the world. As a result, in the rear of the five-seater vehicle passengers can enjoy an extra 140 millimetres of legroom compared with the regular wheelbase E-Class, a model already renowned for its comfort. Another added touch of comfort: the front seats are also electrically adjustable from the rear.

In addition to the generously dimensioned interior, the vehicle’s high level of safety – typical a Mercedes-Benz car- also sets standards. Unique features include the PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system, Rear Seat Safety package with belt force limiters on the outer seats and rear side airbags, as well as ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection. A luggage compartment volume of 540 litres and a compact turning circle of 11.25 metres also represent class-leading values for this segment. At the time of its commercial release inJune2010, buyers will have a choice of two petrol engines producing 150 kW (204 hp) and 180 kW (245 hp), as well as several luxury appointment levels. Additional engine variants are expected to become available at a later date.

The E-Class segment is currently enjoying a boom in China: a total of around 122,000 vehicles from this class were sold there in 2008, but according to experts this figure is already expected to exceed 200,000 in 2010. Long versions dominate the segment with a share of close to 90 percent. Customers are primarily entrepreneurs and the self-employed, many of whom use the services of a chauffeur.

Produced in Germany, the new E-Class Saloon (W 212) has already sold more than 12,000 units in the People’s Republic of China since the middle of 2009. The new E-Class L (V 212), on the other hand, is produced locally at Beijing BenzAutomotive Co.,Ltd (BBAC) with a local share in value terms of more than 40 percent. BBAC is a joint venture between Daimler AG and its long-term partner Beijing Automotive Industry Holding Company (BAIC). The E-Class models are produced in a new plant in the Beijing Development Area in the southeast of the city.

Engine and suspension: the highest level of comfort is the trump card

From launch, the new E-Class L will benefit from a choice of two refined petrol engines featuring high pulling power in the form of the E 260 CGI BlueEFFICIENCY , using the latest direct injection technology, and E 300. Both models are offered with automatic transmissions that are ideally suited to the respective engine characteristics. Furthermore, transmission control is intelligent and adjusts the shift points adaptively to match the driving profile of the driver.

The AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system as standard forms the basis for the highest level of ride comfort. Ground clearance has also been increased. The standard Direct-Steer system provides particular convenience at slow speeds or when parking since, in conjunction with the speed-dependent service brake, steering effort is reduced thanks to the direct ratio.

Appointments: a high degree of luxury as standard

E260 CGI ELEGANCE, E260 CGI AVANTGARDE and E300 AVANTGARDE are the three appointment lines which will be available for the long version of the E-Class when it launches in China. Typical of the brand is the extensive scope of appointments available as standard. The ELEGANCE version already comes, among other things, with bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive ILS (Intelligent Light System), electric sliding sunroof, automatic air conditioning and COMAND DVD system.

Additional highlights of the E 260 CGI AVANTGARDE version includeselectric panoramic sliding sunroof, COMANDAPS with DVD changer, THERMATIC air conditioning system, heated rear seats and residual heat system. The E 300 Avantgarde also features a Rear Seat Entertainment System (two large 20.3 cm screens in the backs of the front seat head restraints), KEYLESS-GO electronic drive authorisation system and remote boot closing.

It’s no secret that Americans do not get enough sleep. This isn’t just a health issue; it’s also a public safety issue. Recent studies show that drowsy driving leads to 100,000 accidents in the U.S. each year, more than drunk driving. During a panel discussion at the National Sleep Foundation’s Sleep Health and Safety 2010 Conference recently held in Washington, D.C., a Mercedes-Benz executive explained that in order to prevent these accidents and advance safety technology into the future, you must look to the past.

Sascha Simon, head of advanced product planning for Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), said, “Moving forward means going backward in time. When people think about safety, they think about passive safety features like airbags that are designed to mitigate the impact of collisions. The other aspect is active safety – technology like traction control and handling dynamics that help enable vehicles to avoid collisions. The next dimension is helping drivers avoid the situations that can lead up to collisions. The Mercedes-Benz ATTENTION ASSIST™ system monitors drivers so they don’t get into dangerous situations in the first place. This is accident prevention at its best because it can help stop accidents before they happen.”

Simon explained that the Mercedes-Benz ATTENTION ASSIST™ uses an algorithm to produce an individual driver profile that recognizes typical patterns of behavior and then compares that profile with current data from sensors to detect the driver’s transition from a state of alertness to a state of tiredness – – with 70 parameters measured in total. Over the course of several years of drowsy driving research, company scientists observed several consistent behaviors during early stages of drowsiness behind the wheel, including trouble steering a precise course in their lane and making minor steering corrections both quickly and abruptly.

The in-vehicle sensors used in ATTENTION ASSIST™ can detect unintentional lane departures, delayed reaction times coupled with over-corrective steering as well as driver inactivity. That data is then combined with information detailing the time of day and the length of time the driver has been behind the wheel. When drowsy driving is detected, ATTENTION ASSIST will sound an alarm and offer a visual warning in the form of a coffee cup, displayed in the vehicle’s instrument cluster.

“Mercedes-Benz has a long history of pioneering safety features and is a leader in safety patents. ATTENTION ASSIST™ was built on existing sensor data used in our array of safety systems, including Lane Keeping Assist and Brake Assist. As we shifted our focus from the vehicle to the driver, we conducted more than10,000 tests with 670 drivers over more than 600,000 miles to develop this innovative, next-generation technology.”

ATTENTION ASSIST™ is standard on all 2010 E-Class coupes, sedans and 2011 cabrio models as well as the V8 and V12 S-Class sedans.

What Car?, the UK’s biggest car buyer’s guide, has named Mercedes-Benz the winner of its 2010 prize for best safety innovation for the ATTENTION ASSIST feature, which is designed to combat overtiredness in drivers – one of the most frequent causes of accidents. The Mercedes-Benz S-Class also took home the Car of the Year Award for best buy in the luxury segment for the fourth time in succession.

The most important source of independent information for car buyers in the UK, found Mercedes-Benz’s ATTENTION ASSIST feature exceptionally clever and presented the Stuttgart-based carmaker with its 2010 Car of the Year Safety Award as a result. During a test, British consumer testers were shocked by how drivers almost imperceptibly have difficulty keeping the vehicle on track when they are overtired. In practical trials, the innovative ATTENTION ASSIST driver support system was found to help combat this problem.

Like in Germany, driver fatigue is one of the most common causes of accidents in the UK. Overtiredness is a factor in a quarter of all motorway accidents. ATTENTION ASSIST, which comes as standard on all new Mercedes-Benz E-Class models, monitors over 70 parameters relating to driving behaviour to recognise when a driver is tired. If the system detects signs of fatigue, it warns the driver to take a break by means of an audible signal and a message on the display in the instrument cluster.

Other active safety features on the E-Class include Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Speed Limit Assist, the PRE-SAFE® Brake which initiates partial or emergency braking automatically if there is an acute risk of a head-to-tail collision, and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control.

These driver assistance systems are also available on the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, setting the standard in the luxury class. This year the UK’s consumer organisation for car buyers, What Car?, acknowledged the S-Class’s special position and again awarded the top model from Stuttgart its Car of the Year award in the luxury class for the fourth time in a row.

The evidence is now clear: drivers of Mercedes vehicles are safer on the road than drivers of other car brands. This is the result of a study of Mercedes accident research based on official, anonymous data samples from the Federal Office of Statistics. Having looked at 18,748 accidents resulting in personal injury during the period from 2003 to 2007, the study found that the risk of being seriously or fatally injured as the driver of a E‑Class, is 10.4 percent lower than for comparable vehicles of other brands.

The study did not even allow for the fact that Mercedes-Benz vehicles are involved in accidents less frequently than the vehicles of other brands – primarily because, among other reasons, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to introduce ESP® across the board. The study of accident severity only took into account accidents resulting in personal injury. The criteria were initial registration from 2002 onwards, as well as a performance and weight class corresponding to the E‑Class.

The result represents clear evidence of the contribution made by the passive safety systems of Mercedes-Benz to reducing the consequences of an accident. Thanks to adaptive front airbags and belt-force limiters, which can adapt to the severity of an impact, rollover sensors, windowbags as standard and an intelligently designed body structure which provides occupants with excellent protection even in the event of severe collisions, at the time of its world premiere in 2002 the E-Class became the new benchmark for passenger car safety in the luxury class.

In the course of a facelift of the E-Class in the spring of 2006, the Mercedes engineers continued to achieve further substantial advances in the field of high-level safety, equipping the E-Class with safety systems which no other passenger car in this class was able to offer. At the time PRE-SAFE® was introduced, the interlinking of systems for accident prevention with occupant protection marked the start of a new era in this vehicle class. This Mercedes invention takes advantage of the time between detecting an accident-prone situation and possible accident damage for occupant protection. With the new E-Class, Mercedes-Benz has continued to build on the advances being made in the field of safety. Around a dozen new or enhanced driver assistance systems contribute to preventing accidents and reducing the severity of an impact. These include the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system, as well as the optional DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control system and PRE-SAFE® Brakes with autonomous emergency braking. For the first time, PRE-SAFE® can also make use of information from the short-range radar sensors in the front bumper to tighten the front seat belts in the very last split second before an unavoidable accident, thus helping to reduce the loads suffered by the driver and front passenger in a crash.

With nine airbags as standard, four seat-belt tensioners and belt-force limiters as well as crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints for driver and front passenger, the new E-Class provides an even more comprehensive level of safety equipment than its predecessor. As well as the air cushions, which can be activated in milliseconds in the event of an accident, there are also two adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, a kneebag for the driver, two sidebags in the front seat backrests, and also two generously sized windowbags which span the area from the A to the C-pillar in the event of a side impact. For the first time, pelvisbags have also been incorporated for the front seat occupants. These can also help to reduce loads in the upper body and pelvic areas in the event of a side collision. Sidebags are also available as an optional extra for the rear passengers, while another safety innovation includes automatic adaptive belt-force limiters in the rear, now available for the first time as an option from Mercedes-Benz. These adjust automatically to the size and weight of the passengers.

With trailblazing innovations for even more safety, comfort and functionality, the 2009 S-Class once again sets the pace and provides decisive impulses in automobile technology. The high technological level of the luxury saloon is combined with an intriguing design that exudes the serenity, self-assurance and elegance of the vehicle even at first glance.

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class provides a choice of two body variants and nine engine variants. Customers are also able to choose between rear-wheel drive and 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Engine output ranges from 170 kW/231 hp to 380 kW/517 hp. The V6 and V8 models are optionally available with a 130-millimetre longer wheelbase; the luxurious S 600 flagship model is available only with the long wheelbase.

Innovative systems in series production

A number of new or further developed high-tech systems that enhance safety and comfort are included in the standard appointments of the new S-Class. Among them are ATTENTION ASSIST, which warns the driver when it detects signs of drowsiness, Active Body Control with crosswind stabilisation for the S 450, S 500 and S 600, the Direct-Steer system, a driver kneebag and the further refined preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®.

Selection of standard appointments:

• Adaptive driver and passenger airbags
• Adaptive brake lights
• AIRMATIC with Adaptive Damping System
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• ATTENTION ASSIST
• 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission
• Bluetooth® interface
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE
• COMAND system with CD/DVD player , SD card slot and USB interface
• Diesel particulate filter (for all diesel variants)
• DIRECT SELECT gearshift
• Direct-Steer
• Displays in the instrument cluster and for COMAND in black with LED backlighting
• ESP® with acceleration skid control (ASR)
• Headlamp assist
• Electric parking brake
• Belt tensioners on all seats
• Automatic climate control with separate settings for front footwell area
• Kneebag for driver
• Leather upholstery (S 500 and S 600)
• Light-alloy wheels: 17-inch (S 350, S 400 HYBRID and S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY) and 18-inch (S 450, S 450 CDI, S 500 and S 600)
• Memory function for the seats (S 500 and S 600)
• Metallic paintwork (S 500 and S 600)
• Nappa leather multifunction steering wheel
• NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints
• PRE-SAFE®
• Two-stage rain sensor
• Tyre pressure loss warning system
• Front and outer rear seatbelts with automatic comfort-fit feature
• Sidebags front and rear
• Daytime driving lights and foglamps integrated into the bumper
• Telephone keypad
• Doorhold
• Front seats with electric fore/aft and height adjustment with lumbar support and PRE-SAFE® positioning function
• Tinted, sound-insulating, infrared-reflecting laminated glass all round
• Windowbags
• Additional standard equipment for the long-wheelbase version of the new S-Class includes:
• Leather upholstery
• Electric rear windscreen roller blind
• Tilting/sliding glass sunroof, electric, with PRE-SAFE® function
• Heated front and rear seats
• Rear seat bench with electrically adjustable outer seats and PRE-SAFE® positioning function for the seat bench and outer head restraints

Equipment packages: substantial benefits thanks to perfect combinations

No automobile in the luxury class offers such an extensive and intelligently coordinated combination of modern assistance systems and comfort-enhancing features as the S-Class. To ensure that customers derive the greatest possible benefit from these technologies, Mercedes-Benz offers specific innovations as optional packages. This ensures that the systems work together perfectly and complement each other. In addition to their major benefits, these packages also have a clear price advantage for the customer.

• In the Driving Assistance package Mercedes-Benz mainly combines systems that can actively help to prevent rear-end collisions: the radar-based proximity cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS, Brake Assist PLUS and the automatic braking system PRE-SAFE® Brake. This equipment package also includes Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist.
• Mercedes-Benz has put together the LED Light package for drivers who are frequently on the road at night, or who wish to give their S-Class even further visual enhancement. This not only includes the Intelligent Light System, LED daytime driving lights as well as indicators and side lights employing LED technology, but also the innovative Adaptive Highbeam Assist (standard for S 400 HYBRID and S 600).
• Mercedes-Benz offers the Navigation package for drivers who cover high mileages. This includes the multimedia system COMAND APS with 40 GB HDD navigation, 3D map display, LINGUATRONIC voice control, the MUSIC REGISTER, Music Search and Speed Limit Assist (standard for S 400 HYBRID and S 600).
• An exclusive audio experience and video entertainment for the front passenger is provided by the Front Seat Entertainment package. This includes the SPLITVIEW display, the 6-disc DVD changer and the Harman Kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system (standard for S 600).
• In the Rear Seat Entertainment package Mercedes-Benz combines a DVD player with remote control unit and two colour displays in the front head restraints with the surround-sound system.
• For comfort-oriented customers the S-Class is available with the Front Seat Comfort package, which comprises improved active multicontour seats with massage function and dynamic function with comfort head restraints featuring adjustable side bolsters and NECK-PRO technology.
• The Rear Seat Comfort package equips the S-Class with multicontour rear seats with a massage function and comfort head restraints (standard for S 600).
• The Parking package comprises PARKTRONIC including Parking Guidance and a reversing camera (standard for S 600).
• The Memory package has electrically adjustable seats with 4-way lumbar support for the driver and front passenger, including a memory function for the seats, exterior mirrors and steering column (standard for S 500 and S 600).
• ·The Rear Seat Memory package for the short-wheelbase S-Class includes the rear seat unit of the long-wheelbase version with electrically adjustable outer seats and a folding centre armrest with wood trim, as well as the seat memory function.
• The KEYLESS-GO package offers additional convenience with the keyless access and starting system KEYLESS-GO and automatic boot lid closing (standard for S 600).

The S 600: luxury and performance with a distinctive appearance

Mercedes-Benz stylishly underlines the exceptional status of the twelve-cylinder S 600 with numerous distinguishing features in the exterior and interior. In addition to the model-specific radiator grille with three twin louvres, these include the V12 emblem on the flanks, model-specific, five-spoke 18-inch wheels in a bi-colour look and a large range of option packages. Standard ex factory specifications include:

• LED Light package
• Navigation package
• Front Seat Comfort package:
• Rear Seat Comfort package:
• Front Seat Entertainment package
• KEYLESS-GO package
• Comfort telephony

The active multicontour front seats and multicontour rear seats are upholstered in particularly soft “Exclusive PASSION” nappa leather. In addition to the familiar transverse contouring in the S-Class, the seats also feature longitudinal piping. This pattern is repeated in the Alcantara roof lining and interior door panels. Travelling pleasure is further enhanced by comfort head restraints in the front and rear. The V12 symbol in the backrests underlines the exclusive character of this model. When entering the car, the logo also lights up in the instrument cluster. Brown poplar wood trim with a high-gloss finish and ambient lighting as standard equipment round off the matchless appearance of the Mercedes-Benz S 600. Technical highlights include the Active Body Control suspension with crosswind stabilisation.

designo and designo Selection: individual and exclusive

For further individualisation, S-Class customers are also able to choose from a restructured range of designo features. Ten different designo paint finishes can be combined with twelve designo aniline leather interiors and four natural leather interiors – with practically no limitations on personal taste. For designo wood trim, customers have a choice between natural-grain maple and natural-grain matt oak. The unique natural stone designo trim of genuine granite is available for the S-Class in two versions – Labrador Blue Pearl and black Star Galaxy. Trim in black piano lacquer and champagne white piano lacquer can also be ordered.

With designo Selection, Mercedes-Benz is for the first time offering a special, high-end package of designo features for the long-wheelbase S-Class. Customers are able to configure their car according to their personal preferences and taste from the different designo features available. The highlight is designo lettering in solid 18-carat gold on the rear air conditioning unit cover. This is exclusive to the designo Selection.

AMG Sports package: the S-Class in a muscular and dynamic outfit

The S-Class becomes even more dynamic with the AMG Sports package with AMG bodystyling and AMG light-alloy wheels. At the front the newly-designed front apron ensures a decidedly muscular appearance to make the 2009 S-Class look even more imposing. Its distinguishing feature is a tapered air intake with a wider lower edge. The side skirts continue the design of the front bumper, with striking contours that find an echo in the rear apron. The prominent rear bumper with a black insert is the perfect finishing touch.

A particularly sporty touch is also provided by the 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels in a five-spoke design, which are painted in sterling silver. Shod with wide-base tyres in size 255/40 (front) and 275/40 (rear), they not only fill the wheel arches to perfection to give the S-Class a decidedly dynamic appearance, but also contribute to the outstanding handling characteristics. A sporty look is also ensured by the silver-painted front brake callipers with Mercedes-Benz lettering. When equipped with the AMG Sports package, the 6-cylinder models also receive the 350-millimetre (standard: 335 mm) perforated front brake discs of the 8-cylinder variants.

The interior is characterised by a wood/leather steering wheel, black ash wood trim and sports pedals of brushed stainless steel with black rubber studs. Like the striking AMG light-alloy wheels, AMG bodystyling is available for all engine variants of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.