Mercedes-Benz cars have scooped triple honours at this year’s prestigious TopGear Magazine Awards.

Mercedes-AMG GT: ‘Sports Car of the Year’

Judges crowned the mighty Mercedes-AMG GT ‘Sports Car of the Year’. Paul Horrell, Consultant Editor, said: “Everything about the driving of the AMG is pretty well spot-on. Its bark is fierce and its actions sharp, but it’s on your side. It’s got the racing spirit of AMG and the thoroughness of a Mercedes. It’s got looks and soul, and is duly our Sports Car of the Year.”

C-Class Estate: ‘Family Car of the Year’

Meanwhile the new C-Class Estate wowed the judges with its exceptional versatility and efficiency, winning the ‘Family Car of the Year’ honour.

To test its credentials, TopGear Magazine journalists Vijay Pattni and Sam Philip set out across Germany in identical cars to see how far they could travel on a single tank of fuel. Summing up his experience, Vijay Pattni said: “The high point of this trip was the C-Class itself. Capable of big miles, it’s the ideal companion for such a mission: a relaxed, gorgeously appointed estate that never once put a foot wrong. A worthy Family Car of the Year.”

S-Class Coupé: ‘Luxury Car of the Year’

The 2014 ‘Luxury Car of the Year’ accolade went to the all-new S-Class Coupé. The latest in a long line of luxury coupés from Mercedes-Benz, the flagship model was recognised for its unprecedented levels of luxury, design and technology.

Associate Editor, Tom Ford, commented: “The S-Class Coupé from Mercedes-Benz is both a technical highlight, and a beautiful thing to boot. And for those reasons, it is also TopGear Magazine’s Luxury Car of the Year.”

Tobias Moers: ‘Men of the Year’

The cars weren’t the only winners. Chairman and CEO of Mercedes-AMG, Tobias Moers, was also singled out as one of TopGear Magazine’s Men of the Year.
The judges said: “Moers is the sort of bloke you’d want steering your car company. Especially if your car company is AMG. He’s been there for 20 years, and his fingerprints have been all over the firm’s products since 1999. He probably enters and exits his office sideways.”

For the tenth time in a row the Mercedes-Benz Unimog has been named best Cross-country Vehicle of the Year in the “special-purpose vehicles” category by readers of the specialist journal “Off Road”. The “Cross-country Vehicle of the Year” was selected from thirteen categories with off-roadable vehicles from a total of 58 manufacturers. More than 63,000 votes were cast, and 127 were available for selection. The Unimog takes first place amongst the special-purpose vehicles with a superb 35.5 percent of the readers’ votes.

Unimog is Cross-country Vehicle of the Year 2014

2014 Unimog model series

Whether it’s in the bone-dry Gobi desert, in the tundra and taiga of Siberia or on the hot volcano crater road on Vesuvius – there is barely a challenge in the whole world which the Mercedes-Benz Unimog would not be capable of taking on. Especially in its new Euro VI variant.

The genes for such extreme applications are in its blood. Thanks to the new mid-engine location in the all-terrain Unimog Euro VI the frame drop is now further back, and overall this means that a lower vehicle centre of gravity with simultaneously high ground clearance has been achieved, which further optimises the handling in off-road applications. Degrees of articulation of up to 30 degrees are possible due to the thrust tube technology in conjunction with the coil springs. Portal axles and a slope climbing ability of 45 degrees complete the all-terrain Unimog – model designation U 4023/U 5023. In addition to this there is the maximum fording depth of 1.20 m and a side inclination angle of up to 38 degrees. Driving in extreme situations with engaged all-wheel drive is supported by the engageable differential locks and the “Tire control Plus” tyre pressure control system. This can simply be set with buttons on the steering wheel for the respective application via the “road”, sand” and “rough road” programs.

The power comes courtesy of the high-torque BlueTec 6 common-rail OM 934 LA engine, a four-cylinder unit with 5.1 l displacement, 170 kW (230 hp) and 900 Nm torque. Eight forward and six reverse gears are available, and optionally there is also an off-road gear group for all-terrain applications in the speed range between 2.5 and 35 km/h.

Alongside this all-terrain Unimog the new implement carrier model series is available with the model designations from the U 216 to the U 530. It also boasts state-of-the-art Euro VI engines with outputs up to 220 kW (299 hp).

When it comes to maintenance, diagnosis or repair, too, everything is taken care of for the Unimog. For in over 650 service outlets in more than 130 countries knowledgeable Unimog dealers look after the vehicle, whilst special service offers and financial services round off the overall package.
The magazine “Off Road” has been holding the readers’ poll for Cross-country Vehicle of the Year since 1982.

Mercedes-Benz has been awarded the Seal of Quality from ECARF, the only car manufacturer to have this title – in simpler terms, it has been recoginized for having the cleanest interior air.  Mercedes-Benz has been awarded the Seal of Quality of the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation (ECARF) for its passenger cars. This makes Mercedes-Benz the only vehicle manufacturer to bear this seal. The ECARF Seal of Quality is used by ECARF to designate products that have been scientifically tested and proven to be allergy-friendly. Alongside comprehensive testing for inhaled and contact allergens, Mercedes-Benz has been testing the interior emissions of all its model series for 22 years now. And a team of olfactory experts works to ensure that odours in Mercedes-Benz vehicles remain at a consistently pleasant level.

“We are delighted that the allergy-friendly nature of our Mercedes-Benz passenger cars has now been scientifically and independently recognised through the award of the ECARF Seal”, commented Dr Jörg Breuer, Director Certification, Regulatory Affairs & Environment at Daimler AG. “Indeed, the constant improvement of air quality in the interior has for many years now been a key aspect of the development of components and materials for Mercedes-Benz vehicles.”

“In our estimation, Mercedes-Benz currently represents the benchmark in terms of allergen optimisation for vehicles”, according to Professor Dr Torsten Zuberbier, Director of the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation (ECARF), which is based at the Charité university hospital in Berlin.

The new C-Class is the latest Mercedes-Benz model to have received the ECARF Seal of Quality. The conditions of certification have been met by all model series launched in recent years, from the A-Class to the S-Class. The criteria behind the ECARF Seal are also included in the specifications book for all future Mercedes-Benz passenger car model series.

The emphasis on clean air applies for Mercedes-Benz in three particular areas: along with the avoidance of allergens, the concern is to reduce interior emissions and to keep odours at a consistently pleasant level. “We have been measuring the interior emissions of our vehicles since 1992 and have been able to make steady progress in reducing them”, according to Dr Breuer. “We have a strict internal limit these days, which has to be met by all Mercedes-Benz passenger cars – by our compact vehicles and roadsters but equally by our large estates and SUV models.”

There are currently a dozen or more experts working in the development and materials technology area on the interior air quality of new models. Over the course of the coming year, the team will also be moving into a new test centre at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Centre in Sindelfingen – a fact which also serves to emphasise the importance given to this topic.

Even in the early stages of the development of a vehicle, up to six years before it goes into production, the minimisation of interior emissions is a factor helping to define the materials concept. As far back as 1996, Mercedes-Benz’s own internal standards set emission levels for materials used for components in the passenger compartment and boot. Today designers and developers can make their choice from a database of around 8000 interior materials that have been approved by the specialist department.

Mercedes-Benz World’s Cleanest Car

Interior emissions: extensive testing of many components and all cars

Just before a new model goes into series production, its interior emissions are tested in a series of complex procedures. This type of analysis has been conducted by Mercedes-Benz since 1992. Component assessment involves the testing of numerous parts from each equipment variant of a model series – door panels and seats as well as the roof liner and trim. In order to ensure that a realistic impression is gained, the team do not use specially produced sample components but standard production components produced using the tools that will be subsequently used for series production. The testing procedure prescribes adherence to the VDA 276 standard as laid down by the German Motor Industry Association – the components are stored and measured in a test chamber 1 m3 in size at a defined temperature, humidity level and air circulation rate. Air samples are then extracted and used to measure the quality and quantity of gaseous substances in the air.

The examination of the vehicle as a whole involves an even more complex process. The necessary preparation of the vehicle alone, in other words the installation of the measuring equipment, takes the well-rehearsed team three quarters of an hour, while the measurements themselves last a full week. The test chamber is lined with stainless steel in order to prevent it giving off emissions of its own. Large radiant heaters are used to simulate the sun and heat up the interior of the vehicle, since for physical reasons emissions are greater under the influence of heat. The solar irradiance is measured by special devices called pyranometers.

Inside the vehicle, as many as ten sensors are used to record the temperature in various areas, for example on the top of the dashboard. A rotating paddle stirs up the air inside the vehicle to ensure an even mix. Overall emissions within the vehicle are calculated with the help of a rack-mounted flame ionisation detector. The rack projects into the vehicle interior over the opened window on the driver’s side, which has been made airtight and emission-neutral with the aid of aluminium foil.

If taking measurements according to test method FAT AK 26, for example, measuring can begin as soon as a temperature of 65 degrees Celsius has been reached at the level of the driver’s nose. Samples of air are extracted from the interior and the air flow directed into a series of test tubes. The chemical composition of the evaporated substances is then analysed in the laboratory.

“We use different sampling techniques for the various categories of substance that we analyse”, explains Hartmut Kovacs, Design for Environment, Head of Interior Emissions at Mercedes-Benz. “All in all, we take more than 100 samples from each vehicle.” As well as the overall emissions, it is therefore also possible to measure the emissions of individual organic compounds.

The emissions experts also look at a vehicle’s propensity to fogging – in other words the creation of a film of condensable substances on a car’s windscreen: the measuring rack therefore also includes a cooled sheet of glass upon which these less volatile substances, if present, are deposited.

In addition to this static test, a further series of tests are used to evaluate emission activity in the interior of the vehicle while it is in use. These tests take place with the engine running and the air-conditioning system switched on, with and without air recirculation. A further touch involves the driver’s door being opened once during each measurement cycle to simulate the driver getting into the vehicle.

Mercedes-Benz World’s Cleanest Car

ECARF Seal: extensive allergen testing

“In our estimation, Mercedes-Benz currently represents the benchmark in terms of allergen optimisation for vehicles”, according to Professor Dr Torsten Zuberbier, Director of the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation (ECARF), which is based at the Charité university hospital in Berlin. In industrialised countries these days, allergic conditions are now the most common form of chronic illness. In Germany, for example, around 30 percent of the population are affected. One in ten absences from work as a result of sickness is now attributable to an allergy.

But the pollen count is not the only problem to afflict motorists who suffer from allergies: emissions given off by the materials used in the interior or when contact surfaces are touched can also lead to a strong reaction, with symptoms such as swelling and inflammation of the nasal passage, hay fever or asthma.

But not in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle: numerous model series, from the A-Class to the S-Class and now also the C-Class, meet the criteria of the allergy label. The conditions involved are extensive: numerous components from each equipment variant of a vehicle have to be tested for inhaled allergens, for example. Furthermore, the function of the pollen filter must be tested in both new and used condition.

And then there are tests with human “guinea pigs”. Driving tests, for example, were conducted with people suffering from severe asthma, with lung function tests providing information about the impact on the bronchial system.

In addition, all materials that might come in contact with the skin were dermatologically tested. So-called epicutaneous skin tests were undertaken with test subjects suffering from contact allergies in order to test the tolerance levels for known contact allergens such as chrome-nickel and various pigments. This involved substances from the interior that were deemed to be potential allergens being applied with plasters to the skin for 72 hours and the reaction to them being evaluated after 48 and then 72 hours.

The air-conditioning filters also have to meet the stringent criteria of the ECARF Seal in both new and used condition: amongst other things the tests measure their retention efficiency with regard to dust and pollen.

Mercedes-Benz World’s Cleanest Car

The professional sniffers: tracking down pleasant smells

Ultimately responsible for ensuring that odour levels in Mercedes-Benz vehicles remain consistently pleasant is a team of olfactory experts. Mercedes-Benz has carried out an odour test since 1992. The olfactory experts take a sample of every single material that is to be used inside a new vehicle. They place this sample in a standard, odour-free preserving jar, which is then sealed and heated for two hours at 80 degrees Celsius. This is the temperature that can be reached inside a car if it is left in the blazing sun. And it is a fact of physics that odours become stronger under the influence of heat. The testers than allow the jars to cool down to 60 degrees, ready for the “sniffing” to begin.

Each tester lifts the lid up slightly, smells the air inside the jar and writes down a mark for the strength and quality of the smell. The final result represents the mean value of all the marks. The assessment scale corresponds to the German school grades system, i.e. from one to six. A grade-one odour is “imperceptible” (for example glass, metals, stones), while three indicates an “obvious and distinctive smell, but not unpleasant” and six is “unbearable”. Everything in the grade range from one to three passes the test. Materials that fare worse cannot be used in the vehicle. It’s then up to the supplier to make improvements. If the material passes a re-test, that test result becomes mandatory.

In order to test the odour produced by the interaction of all the various materials, the experts quite literally stick their noses into the finished vehicle before it goes into series production. Four of them jump in, close the doors and have a good sniff. The odour team also carry out an olfactometric test. For this, the interior of the vehicle – with all its doors and windows closed – is warmed up by large heaters. Using a bag, the specialists take an odour sample of the ambient air inside the closed vehicle. This bag is then attached to an olfactometer, a special device for measuring smells, and diluted with pure, odourless air before being smelt by a group of test subjects.

New C-Class: Climate control system uses signals from space

A significant factor in the excellent air quality found in the interior of the new C-Class is the further developed climate control system. The two-zone automatic climate control has separate settings for the left and right, THERMOTRONIC a further setting for the rear. However, instead of channelling the air to the rear via an air duct as is customary, it has its own blower in the centre console. This lets rear-seat passengers set their own feel-good climate.

The THERMOTRONIC three-zone automatic climate control is optionally available, the only real such system in this segment. In addition to separate controls for the driver and front passenger, it provides the option of setting the temperature and air flow in the rear compartment. It also offers a choice of three ventilation modes: Medium, Focus, Diffuse. In addition the system is equipped with a pollutant sensor that switches automatically to air recirculation mode – particularly useful, for example, when caught in a traffic tailback alongside trucks.

The new C-Class is the only vehicle in the segment to offer tunnel detection via satellite navigation. On the basis of map information from the navigation system and the GPS location data, the system detects when the vehicle enters a tunnel. It then automatically closes the air recirculation flap in order to prevent the exterior fume-filled air from entering the vehicle via the air vents. Once the vehicle has left the tunnel, the flap opens and fresh air can once again flow into the interior.

Another highlight for creating the feel-good atmosphere is the AIR-BALANCE package with active fragrancing, ionisation and even more efficient filtration compared with the standard model. It was adopted from the S-Class, in which the AIR-BALANCE package only recently celebrated its world premiere. The various fragrances available have been specifically developed for this purpose and, like the ionisation and filtration functions, tested by ECARF for their acceptability to allergy sufferers.

Ionisation is another component of the AIR-BALANCE package, with which the air from the air conditioning is conducted into the interior via the ioniser. The ioniser generates oxygen ions by means of high voltage. The air ionised in this way can eliminate certain viruses, bacteria and spores. At the same time the air can be freshened by an increased concentration of negatively charged oxygen ions. Both help to increase the well-being of passengers. In tests undertaken with asthmatics, under the supervision of Professor Zuberbier, the test subjects reported a clear improvement in their well-being as a result of the ionisation process.

Readers of car magazine “AUTO BILD Sportscars” have voted the Mercedes SLS AMG Coupé Black Series “Sports car of the year 2013”. The SLS AMG Coupe Black Series is the high-end version of the gull-wing model and well deserving of a first place finish in the series production super sports cars category.

2014 Mercedes SLS AMG Coupe Black Series

There were 143 vehicles spread across 17 categories in the final round of the poll for “Sports cars of the year 2013”. 77,218 AUTO BILD Sportscars readers voted online for their personal favorites. Following first place for the SLS AMG GT in the category of series production super sports cars in 2012, the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series won this year’s poll.

2014 Mercedes SLS AMG Coupe Black Series

As the high-end super sports car version of the gull-wing model, the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series was inspired by the SLS AMG GT3 racing version. The fifth Black Series model from Mercedes-AMG boasts a fascinating combination of breath-taking design, superlative driving dynamics and uncompromising lightweight construction in accordance with the “AMG Lightweight Performance” strategy. With a DIN kerb weight of 1550 kilograms, the SLS AMG Coupé Black Series achieves a power-to-weight ratio of 2.45 kg/hp. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine generates a power output of 464 kW (631 hp) at 7400 rpm and accelerates the most dynamic road-going gull-wing model of all time to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds.

2014 Mercedes SLS AMG Coupe Black Series

The all-new Mercedes CLA45 AMG has received nothing but praise since its debut and now Motor Authority has named the 2014 CLA45 AMG the “Best Performance/Luxury Car to Buy for 2014.” The  accolade is likely due to the model’s bold style, lean shape, and 355-hp that is delivered by the most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder production engine on earth.  As you can see, it is a car that’s easy to love.

2014 Mercedes CLA45 AMG

Here’s a look at what they had to say about the 2014 CLA45 AMG

“Fast, stylish, compact, reasonably priced, and incredibly fun, the 2014 Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG is Motor Authority’s Best Performance/Luxury Car To Buy 2014. But it was an exceptionally close race.

2014 Mercedes CLA45 AMG

So what makes the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG a keeper? The masterful combination of its many aspects into a relative-bargain price bracket. All-wheel drive means you can use it all year, even if you live in the snow belt.

Four seats and four doors mean you can bring friends (or your kids) with you–while there’s not a ton of space in the rear, it’s more than the Cayman, Corvette, or F-Type offer.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine’s 355 horses make it the most powerful production four-cylinder on the planet–and each one is hand-built by a single builder at the plant in Affalterbach.

Elegant four-door coupe styling, with AMG’s added touches, mean you will look like you spent considerably more than the $48,375 price of entry.

2014 Mercedes CLA45 AMG

But most of all, the CLA45 is the kind of car that commutes in comfort, but never fails to inspire a face-splitting grin. It is, quite possibly, the best all-around, attainable, everyday enthusiast car we’ve driven.”

As a CEO, coach, manager – any kind of leader, the ability to internally examine, identify and accept weaknesses, is a key factor in success.

In the automobile industry, we are often required to attend “training sessions” led by a consultant. Now with leadership comes an inherent sense of ownership (ahem, stubbornness, pride) that makes us wary of outsiders telling us how to conduct our business. A couple weeks ago, I received a call from Mercedes-Benz informing me that J.D. Power would be visiting the store. It was like the world stopped turning. I leaned back in my chair and thought, “Do we really need this? Right now?” Reluctantly and quietly (which you only see from me on very rare occassions) I accepted and asked when we could expect them.

It usually goes down like this: In comes the consultant, introduced as having something like 50 years of experience, someone who has “done your job” and “been in your shoes” and can “relate” and all the while I’m thinking, “Here we go again…” But this time was different. Prior to the consultant meeting, thorough a series of discussions with my team and my wife, I decided to change my mentality going into it. This time was going to be different. After all, you get what you want to get out of life, right? So I promised myself I’d welcome this consultant with some southern hospitality, open my eyes and ears and soak in as much valuable input as I could.

Let me be the first to tell you what a huge difference that mentality shift made – and not just for me. My new outlook was infectious. I looked around at my team, sitting upright, engaged, and right then and there, learned my lesson. A good leader keeps an open mind, and is able to swallow and nod when their flaws are pointed out. Our recap meeting, scheduled for 30 minutes, ended up lasting 2½ hours. We had a great discussion about how to implement the consultant’s ideas to make positive changes to our dealership. The meeting ended with handshakes and hugs (you know me, I’m a hugger!) and we were off to the races. Now Alex Rodriguez has started the next chapter in becoming the greatest place to work while continuing to provide world-class service.

Later that night, my wife asked skeptically how the consultant was. I replied, “You know…” as she held her breath for the inevitable, “It was incredible!” in all seriousness. Because it was. So thank you, Mercedes-Benz and J.D. Power for that little nudge to welcome an outsider’s opinion that will help us grow and develop as leaders and as an organization. We are grateful!

It is not surprising news that the new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has taken home two first place finishes in the 2013 Automotive Brand Contest.  The “Best of the Best” award was given to both the exterior and the interior design of the Mercedes S-Class. In addition the jury consisting of world-leading design experts voted the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system, an optional sound system on the new S-Class, a “winner” amongst others. The Automotive Brand Contest is organised by the well-known “Rat für Formgebung” (Design Council). The awards will be presented at the Automotive Designers Night which will take place on the first press day at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.

With the title “Best of Best” in the exterior design category, the S-Class occupies the peak position. With its classic architecture and flowing silhouette, it embodies sensuous clarity in a modern interpretation. Its design builds a bridge between today’s progressive design idiom and the classic elegance of the Mercedes-Benz cars from the 1930s. Stylish sportiness and sensuous shapes synthesised with timeless clarity as well as poise and assurance make the S-Class a design icon.

The new S-Class likewise takes first place in the interior design category, and is the “Best of Best”. With its clear architecture, the interior design of the S-Class embodies a classic, superior, cutting-edge saloon. The interior’s expressive character derives from a uniquely fluid, sensuously elegant style. Horizontal elements and lines create a setting characterised by visual breadth and calm solidity.

The Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system was also voted a “winner”. It provides the most exquisite listening enjoyment with sound settings that are optimised for every occupant and, for the first time in a luxury saloon, three-dimensional surround sound as standard. This 3D surround sound is created with the help of special Burmester algorithms and three speakers integrated into the headlining. A combination of analogue and digital technologies produces an exceptionally expressive and natural sound – the Burmester “feel-good sound”.

Renowned design competition: the Automotive Brand Contest

The 2013 Automotive Brand Contest is organised by the well-known “Rat für Formgebung” (Design Council) for the third time. The awards go to outstanding product and communication design, which the jury assesses in 14 different categories and four special categories.

In 2013 the “Rat für Formgebung” is celebrating its 60th birthday. In spring 1953 the Federal Association for German Industry (BDI) and a number of leading German companies founded the trust on the instigation of the federal German parliament. At present more than 180 design-oriented German companies with more than 1.8 million employees are members of the “Rat für Formgebung”.

The specialist car magazine “auto, motor und sport” has been giving readers the chance to vote for the “Best cars of the year” for over three decades now. This year, around 112 000 participants took part in what has now become a somewhat traditional readers’ competition. Readers voted for the best cars of the year 2013 across ten different categories. In the cabriolet category, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster overtook the competition to move into pole position and be awarded the title of best car of 2013. Readers not only honoured its unique and fascinating style, but also its technological prowess. The super sports car impresses with its consistent implementation of lightweight construction methods, its well thought-out driving dynamics, and its exemplary levels of safety. All of this is backed up by a one-of-a-kind technology package comprising an aluminium space frame body, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine with 420 kW (571 hp) and a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. This combination guarantees the best possible level of driving dynamics.

Mercedes-Benz has once again significantly upgraded the G-Class last year, so re-emphasising its position as the leader among off-road vehicles. The interior is characterised by high-quality appointments finished with exquisite materials. The instrument cluster and centre console have been completely redesigned. The driver’s field of vision now encompasses a colour screen, between two new round dials. The car features as standard the sophisticated COMAND Online infotainment system, including a navigation system and internet access. New LED daytime driving lamps and new exterior mirrors bring a few discreet changes to the appearance of the luxury off-roader. The range of safety equipment can be optionally enhanced with the addition of Blind Spot Assist, the parking aid PARKTRONIC and the adaptive cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS. New to the range are the G 63 AMG with an eight-cylinder biturbo engine and the ECO start/stop system as standard, and the G 65 AMG with twelve-cylinder biturbo engine.

Mercedes-Benz and Hollywood’s elite actors and actresses are ushering in the 2013 awards season this weekend at the 24^th Annual Palm Springs International Film Festival.  As the official vehicle, Mercedes-Benz is sponsoring the annual awards gala and an array of spectacular films from January 3-14, 2013.

The highlight of the festival is the annual Awards Gala on January 5^th, where celebrity presenters and honorees include, Ben Affleck, Tom Hanks, Richard Gere, Bradley Cooper, Sally Field, Helen Hunt, Naomi Watts, Helen Mirren, Robert Zemeckis, Diane Lane, Ang Lee and David O’Russell.  The gala hosted at the Palm Springs Convention Center, is featuring Hollywood’s top talent in addition to Mercedes-Benz luxury vehicles for presenters and honorees as they make their red carpet arrivals.

“As the kick-off to the glamorous awards season, Mercedes-Benz is delighted to be the official vehicle and sponsor of the Palm Springs International Film Festival.” said Jill Martinette, regional marketing manager for Mercedes-Benz. “Alongside Hollywood’s most notable talent and phenomenal films, Mercedes-Benz can highlight its latest vehicle innovations and cutting-edge design for those that want the best in automotive luxury.”

Mercedes-Benz vehicles are already a choice for many of Hollywood’s top talent.  Actors and actresses such as Kevin Costner, Sofia Vegara, Courtney Cox, Julianne Moore, Natalie Portman and Bryan Cranston drive Mercedes-Benz luxury eco-friendly vehicles, which offer safety, technology and style without compromising luxury.

Throughout the festival, Mercedes-Benz is displaying several 2013 models including the SL63 AMG, SLS AMG Roadster, S63 AMG, E350, SL550, C250 Coupe and GLK350 SUV.

From the smart fortwo to the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake and on to their concept vehicles, there is no question that Mercedes-Benz and smart build the most exciting vehicles. This is no longer just my opinion but also the conclusion suggested by the “2012 Green GOOD DESIGN” awards. The “Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design” has paid tribute to the one-off Mercedes-Benz BIOME and smart forvision vehicles, as well as the smart ebike. The jury praised the exceptionally environmentally-friendly and sustainable designs of these vehicles in particular. In the “Automotive Brand Contest 2012” meanwhile – held by the German Design Council – Mercedes-Benz has made it onto the list of winners no less than 16 times.

Hundreds of products from numerous countries were put to the vote for the “2012 Green GOOD DESIGN” award. A jury comprising some of the world’s leading design experts crowned the one-off Mercedes-Benz Biome and smart forvision vehicles as winners, along with the smart ebike, awarding them the internationally renowned prize – ranked among the oldest and most famous awards for designers. In addition to their design, the vehicles were primarily assessed in terms of such criteria as energy efficiency, recycling and sustainability.

Mercedes-Benz BIOME grows organically

The one-off Mercedes-Benz BIOME concept is the revolutionary vision of a vehicle which, taking its inspiration from nature, is fully integrated into the ecosystem, from the moment of its creation right through to the end of its service life. The Mercedes-Benz BIOME grows in a completely organic environment from seeds grown in a nursery. Out on the road the car emits pure oxygen, and at the end of its lifespan it can be simply composted or used as building material

smart forvision stands for energy efficiency

The smart forvision is also a one-off vehicle concept which combines a futuristic design with technologies relating to energy efficiency, lightweight design and temperature management. One particular eye-catching feature is its roof made of transparent organic solar cells. It allows light to pass through and at the same time generates energy which is used to power the multimedia components as well as the fans which assist with climate management in the vehicle interior.

smart ebike – unconventional, high-performance “pedelec”

smart eBike

The smart ebike boasts an unconventional design in line with the style of the popular brand as well as functions appropriate for city use. These come courtesy of high-quality components such as the hydraulic disc brakes, LED light with daytime driving light function and also an exceptionally high-performance drive system with a completely maintenance and oil-free carbon toothed belt. For infotainment there is also a USB connection. The smart ebike is already available, with prices in Germany starting at 2849 euros (including VAT).

Automotive Brand Award 2012

The international expert jury of the German Design Council was faced with selecting the winners of the “Automotive Brand Award 2012” from among no less than 350 submitted suggestions. The Mercedes-Benz brand fared particularly well, with its products making it onto the list of winners no less than 16 times. A particular highlight picked out as the “Best of the Best” was the near-series one-off Concept Style Coupé vehicle. It provides a glimpse of the next member of the new compact car family from Mercedes-Benz. The four-door style rebel “sets the benchmark for avantgarde design in the executive segment”, according to Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars. “Its breathtaking proportions, sinewy fluid surfaces and sculptural lines are the physical expression of our dynamic design idiom.”

Other awards for excellent design were also picked up for both the exterior and interior of the new A-Class, the SL-Class, the CLS Shooting Brake and the interior of the B-Class. The German Design Council also crowned a number of concept vehicles as winners, including the Mercedes-Benz F125, smart for-us, smart forvision and the standard version of the smart ebike.

Mercedes-Benz Concept Style Coupe

Worthy of a special mention by the design experts were the innovative headlamps of the Concept Style Coupé. They are reminiscent of the ever wary, almost intimidating eyes of a predatory animal. In standby mode they shine red. The indicators are another special feature: when activated, the individual elements light up one after another in a “Mexican wave” effect.

Additional innovations from Mercedes-Benz which collected awards include the DICE sculpture, the Digital Drive Style app and the Mercedes-Benz diamond grille:

• the DICE (Dynamic & Intuitive Control Experience) sculpture provides a vision of the interactive, intuitive and at the same time safe operating experience in premium automobiles of the future

• the Digital Drive Style app enables the driver to access the main content on his iPhone® conveniently and safely via the large vehicle display and the controller – including Siri voice control

• With the progressive diamond grille and its innovative pins, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class is redefining the radiator grille

Mercedes-Benz is know for setting sustainable trends in automotive design while maintaining the utmost attractiveness. The jury of the world’s most renowned design competition has acknowledged Mercedes by awarding them the coveted red dot award for three new Mercedes-Benz car models simultaneously. The winners are the B-Class, the C-Class Coupé and the SLS AMG Roadster. The smart ebike has received the red dot: best of the best award for highest design quality.

The red dot design award dates back to 1955 and is now one of the world’s largest and most distinguished design competitions. More than 14,000 participations from over 70 nations in 2011 alone document the relevance of the internationally sought-after red dot.

In 2012, 1,800 companies and designers from 58 countries registered to the “red dot award: product design” and grabbed their chance to prove their design ability in an international comparison with renowned designers and up-and-coming talents. Within the competition’s 19 different categories, a total of 4,515 registrations have been submitted. But only the best were awarded.

According to the hard-to-please and highly respected jury, the new B-Class, the C-Class Coupé and the SLS AMG Roadster satisfy these stringent requirements, all earning the red dot award for high design quality. In addition to the three car models, the Actros truck is also permitted to bear the red dot label.

The smart ebike has received the red dot: best of the best award for highest design quality.

The designers at Mercedes-Benz have picked up yet another prize for no fewer than four models in the form of the internationally renowned “iF product design award 2012”. A top-class specialist jury has bestowed the award on the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster, and the Concept A-CLASS show car, as well as the smart electric mobility concept, all for their outstanding designs.

First presented in 1953, the “iF product design award” ranks among the world’s most important design awards and represents the seal of approval for good design. For 2012 the 24-member jury was again faced with the task of choosing its favourites, this time from more than 2000 candidates. Four models from Mercedes-Benz stood out in particular: the M-Class, the SLK, the SLS AMG Roadster and the Concept A-CLASS show car.

The M-Class won thanks to its characteristically distinctive SUV design and its variable interior with high wellness factor. The open-top SLS AMG Roadster, meanwhile, owes its victory to its exciting lines, which are reminiscent of the legendary 300 SL from the 1950s. The SLK Roadster also dominated the competition with its powerful sports car design, which portrays its outstanding qualities to brilliant visual effect – stylish comfort, light-footed sportiness and exemplary ecology.

With the Mercedes-Benz Concept A-CLASS, the jury acknowledged the birth of a new vehicle generation which provides a glimpse of the expressive design of the future A-Class.

As an overall concept, the trend-setting developments achieved by the automotive brand smart in the field of electric mobility also received the coveted “iF product design award 2012”. For its innovative e-mobility concept, smart created one-off vehicles such as the open-top smart forspeed, the smart e-scooter and also the smart e-bike, which is to be incorporated into the smart product line this year.

It should come as no surprise that the S250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the ML250 BlueTEC 4Matic are among the most environmentally friendly vehicles in their class. Both vehicles are powered by a four-cylinder diesel unit with direct injection and turbocharging. The engine has a displacement of 2143 cubic centimetres, from which it delivers an output of 150 kW (204 hp), placing a powerful torque of 500 newton metres at the driver’s disposal.

The S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, which is in the luxury class, uses the four-cylinder diesel to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 8.2 seconds, while the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, in the SUV category, takes 9.0 seconds to complete the 0-100 km/h sprint.

But, even with their sporty performances, both of the models are easy on fuel. The S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY consumes 5.7 l/100 km combined (which corresponds to CO2 emissions of 149 g/km combined). The ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC consumes 6.0 litres over 100 kilometres, with CO2 emissions of 158 g/km (both figures combined).

Recently, the “ÖkoTrend” institute declared the S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC to be not just among the best in their class but the best in terms of being the most environmentally friendly cars in their class.

Since 1997 the ÖkoTrend institute has been publishing an environmental ranking for cars on an annual basis. In order to reach a conclusion the institute evaluates the environmental compatibility of several tens of thousands of data relating to around a thousand car models in twelve categories. This stringent assessment includes information on consumption, pollutant emissions, manufacturing, logistics, recycling and the manufacturers’ environmental systems.

The above reseach led to the “AUTO TEST WINNERS in GREEN!” awards from the specialist publication AUTO TEST to go to the Mercedes S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class is one of the most popular cars around the globe. Recently, this statement was confirmed by two recent awards: in Japan the C-Class leads the field as the best imported car for the second time in succession. Down under, the C 250 CDI and the C 63 AMG Coupé scooped the “2011 Australia’s Best Car Award” in their respective segments.

The title “The Imported Car of the Year Japan” is traditionally awarded at the Tokyo Motor Show for the automobile with the best concept and the most innovative technology. As in the previous year, the title for 2011/2012 went to the C-Class Saloon and Estate. C-Class models also claimed Australia’s most important independent automobile award. The Australian Automobile Association presented the C 250 CDI as the best of the best premium mid-size cars. The C 63 AMG Coupé won its award category as best sports car.

Mercedes-Benz carried out a comprehensive upgrade of the C-Class in the spring of 2011. The new generation boasts a dynamic design and numerous new assistance systems: from the ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system to proximity control with DISTRONIC PLUS, it offers a new standard of safety in this segment. In addition, fuel consumption has been cut by up to 31 percent in comparison to the previous generation.

The readers of the motor magazine Auto Zeitung have chosen the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class the best off-roader in the over 30,000 euros price segment. In addition, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG took first place twice – the Roadster as best convertible in the over 30,000 euros segment and the Coupé variant as best super sports car – for the third time in a row. All three models received the prestigious “Auto Trophy”. The awards were accepted at Meilenwerk in Düsseldorf last night by Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, and Dr Joachim Schmidt, Member of the Management of Mercedes-Benz Cars, responsible for Sales and Marketing.

This was the 24th annual readers’ poll conducted by Auto Zeitung to determine the best cars of the year. Almost 100,000 readers cast their votes, choosing the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class as the best car of the year in the “over 30,000 euro off-roader segment”. Following on from the “Goldenes Lenkrad” award, this is the second readers’ poll to be topped by the third generation of the successful SUV, which was only presented in June 2011.

The readers valued not only the characteristic and distinctive design and variable interior, with that all-important sense of wellbeing, but also the excellent energy efficiency and thus environmental acceptability of this premium SUV. The permanent all-wheel drive system of the Mercedes-Benz M‑Class also proved a determining factor thanks to its well-balanced ride comfort along with excellent driving dynamics, both on and off road, along with the car’s outstanding range and high level of safety.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Gullwing Coupé has topped the readers’ poll as best super sports car for the third time in succession. The open-top SLS Roadster simultaneously scooped the award in the over 30,000 euros convertible segment to give the SLS a double victory this year. The super sports car owes this outstanding position to its fascinating lines, which evoke memories of the legendary 300 SL from the 1950s. But it backs this up by exquisite engineering and technology, including aluminium body, AMG 6.3 litre V8 front mid-engine with dry sump lubrication, a power output of 420 kW (571 hp) and 650 Newton metres of torque, 7-speed double clutch transmission in transaxle configuration and agile sports suspension with aluminium double-wishbone axles. This unique combination of high-tech features guarantees the very highest level of driving dynamics both in the Gullwing Coupé and in the Roadster.

Traditionally, Mercedes-Benz vehicles always figure prominently in voting for the best cars of the year’s crop. In 2010 the Mercedes-Benz CLS and, for the second time, the SLS AMG were awarded the “Auto-Trophy”, while the year before the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and once again the SLS AMG came away with top honours.

With over a quarter-million voters ranking their favorites in this year’s Europe-wide reader  vote, the Mercedes-Benz M-Class and Mercedes SLK won their respective category. These two additional wins have made Mercedes-Benz the most successful automotive brand at the “Golden Steering Wheel” awards over any other car brand in history. Mercedes-Benz has won the “Golden Steering Wheel” 21 times including last year’s “Golden Steering Wheel” win for the Mercedes-Benz CLS. On hand to accept the awards were Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, and Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler AG Board of Management member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

More than 260,000 readers of the German publications “Bild am Sonntag”, “Auto Bild” and their European sister publications in 22 countries registered their votes in this year’s “Golden Steering Wheel” awards. The winner of the SUV class was determined in a direct vote, so making the Mercedes-Benz M-Class the winner of the “Golden Steering Wheel” in this group. The SLK won its category after being shortlisted along with four of its competitors. In the unimpeachable judgement of a panel of experts, and after undergoing real-life testing, it too was awarded the “Golden Steering Wheel” in its category.

Readers from across Europe valued not only the M-Class’s characteristic and distinctive design and its variable interior, with that all-important sense of wellbeing, but also the excellent energy efficiency and thus environmental acceptability of this premium SUV. The permanent all-wheel drive system of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class also proved a determining factor thanks to its well-balanced ride comfort along with excellent driving dynamics, both on and off road, along with the car’s outstanding range and high level of safety.

What ultimately swayed the result in favour of the SLK Roadster in the “Golden Steering Wheel” competition was, above all, the way it manages to combine light-footed sportiness with stylish comfort, striking sports car design with absolute everyday practicality, and superb performance with exemplary ecological credentials. With the excellent performance it derives from its economical and yet powerful engines, along with technical innovations such as the unique panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which can be switched from light to dark at the touch of a button, the SLK takes driving pleasure and open air enjoyment to a whole new level.

This year’s double win in the “Golden Steering Wheel” awards marks the continuation of a fine tradition: with a total of 21 victories to date, the brand with the three-pointed star now leads the field of the most successful car brands to win the competition for the “Golden Steering Wheel”, a prize that has been awarded since 1976.

The readers of “Auto Straßenverkehr” magazine have confirmed what we’ve known all along – that the E-Class Estate is the perfect family vehicle.  It offers outstanding safety features, comfort and space commonly reserved for a larger vehicle, and topping it all off, all the luxuries you’ve come to expect from a Mercedes-Benz.  A total of 12,648 readers of the “Auto Straßenverkehr” magazine voted the E-Class Estate their personal favorite in the specified price category, in which they were invited to choose from particularly family oriented cars such as estates, vans or SUVs.

Tune in in the coming weeks for our first hands on review and photos of the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate.

The “Deutscher Zukunftspreis”, or German Future Prize, is the Federal President’s prize for technology and innovation and is acknowledged as the country’s most prestigious award for technical and scientific innovations. In the anniversary year of the automobile, a team from Daimler is again among the three teams of researchers nominated for the prize by Federal President Christian Wulff. With their 6D-vision technology, which can make a vital contribution to the avoidance of accidents, the researchers won through against other potential candidates and are now nominated for the final selection.

“Road safety for all road users has always been a major area of focus and a core competence at Mercedes-Benz.” Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, continues: “The 6D-Vision project represents a milestone along the road to accident-free driving and will form the basis of our future safety systems. I am absolutely delighted that this unique technology has been honoured in this special way by being nominated for the “Deutscher Zukunftspreis” in our 125th anniversary year.”

Specifically named in the nomination were Dr Uwe Franke, Dr Stefan Gehrig and Dr Clemens Rabe, who are responsible for this pioneering project as part of their work in Daimler AG’s Research and Advance Development department for Assistance Systems and Chassis Systems.

6D-Vision – faster than the human eye to recognise danger

The Daimler research team’s 6D-Vision project opens up whole new possibilities for future assistance systems that will make our roads safer for all road users. Key to bringing about reductions in accidents is a timely and full understanding of the often very complex issues going on around a vehicle and of the traffic situation. Other road users have to be recognised within split seconds and possible collision hazards reliably identified. For the first time in a car, 6D-Vision is able to convey the three-dimensional perception of a person and the identification of potential risks on a small, powerful piece of hardware that is absolutely viable for series production.

6D-Vision uses a stereo camera, acting in much the same way as the two eyes of its human exemplar, to compute the three-dimensional geometry of the situation in front of the vehicle in real time from the images it sees, using special algorithms developed by Daimler to do so. An analysis of consecutive pairs of images allows instant and reliable identification of any movement. Dr Uwe Franke: “The capability of 6D-Vision is such that we are able to support the driver in precisely the sort of situation where the complexity of traffic conditions increases the potential for an accident, for example at junctions or in roadworks.”

Split seconds are crucial

By linking the perception of both space and time, it is possible to differentiate between stationary and animated objects, even from a moving vehicle. Animated objects, for example children running unexpectedly into the road, are perceived within 200 milliseconds across a broad range of vision. Even the most alert person takes twice as long to do so; and should he or she be distracted, a further 500 milliseconds may be added to this time. An additional moment of shock adds further delay while the situation is assessed and until a reaction kicks in.

In purely mathematical terms, one second at a speed of 50 km/h equates to a vehicle covering a distance of around 15 metres. The computer works twice as fast as the driver and initiates safety measures after just seven metres. In an emergency braking situation, the vehicle therefore comes to a standstill more than a whole vehicle length sooner.

Since 6D-Vision technology is seen as being able to contribute significantly to reductions in road traffic accidents, it is Daimler’s aim to make this technology available in the future to other manufacturers as well. Prof Dr Thomas Weber: “6D-Vision will take its place in the long line of safety innovations that have celebrated their premiere in our company over the last 125 years. Ultimately, however, it will benefit all motorists.”

The “Deutscher Zukunftspreis” of the country’s Federal President has been awarded annually since 1997. As well as recognising scientific achievement, the award takes account of the marketability of a particular development. The award is given for projects that improve people’s lives, create new employment opportunities and sustain the country’s prosperity. Those organisations entitled to make nominations submit possible projects to an eminent jury made up of independent experts from both academia and industry. The jury then selects the three teams of researchers who, in their view, have the most innovative and marketable projects.

Daimler has been nominated for the award four times previously in the following areas:

• 1997 |”An environmentally compatible and resource-efficient fuel cell-based vehicle drive system”

• 2002 | “Protector – anticipatory emergency braking system for commercial vehicles”

• 2003 | “Anticipatory occupant protection system for passenger cars” 2006 | “Night View Assist – infrared technology for safer driving after dark”

The presentation of the award by German Federal President Christian Wulff will take place on 14 December 2011 in Berlin.

It’s official, Mercedes-Benz design is outstanding. As confirmed by three first places in the Automotive Brand Contest 2011. The competition’s top-flight expert jury voted the Mercedes-Benz design team “Team of the year”. They additionally awarded the ultimate “Best of Best” plaudit to the Mercedes-Benz CLS in the Exterior category. The Concept A-Class interior was also deemed “Best of Best”, taking first place in the Interior area of the Concept & Study category.

The Automotive Brand Contest is the first international brand and design competition for the automotive industry. It was launched by the German Design Council, which was established as a foundation by decree of the German Bundestag back in 1953. The independent institution organises this competition dedicated exclusively to the automotive sector in order to acknowledge outstanding achievements in brand management, brand communication and design. In this way, the internationally reputed German Design Council highlights the great importance of design and brand image to the success of an automotive company.

Mercedes-Benz design director professor h.c. Gorden Wagener and his staff of around 500 based in Sindelfingen and at four studios abroad were found to be in a league of their own. The expert jury of the Automotive Brand Contest 2011 awarded them the title of “Team of the year”. “We are all delighted to receive this valuable award in recognition of a magnificent joint effort,” says professor Wagener. “Everyone in our team works with great dedication day-in, day-out to ensure that the Mercedes-Benz models of the future retain their distinctive, hallmark Mercedes character in keeping with the very highest aesthetic standards.”

Two “Best of Best” titles in the Automotive Brand Contest 2011 additionally underscore the Mercedes design team’s efforts. The Concept A-Class interior by Mercedes-Benz took first place in the Interior area of the Concept & Study category. Bionic cell structures, echoes of aircraft design, an operating concept with fully integrated smartphone and unique and revolutionary graphic design featuring three-dimensional, dynamically growing glass elements provide a foretaste of a new generation of the A-Class.

The “Best of Best” title in the Exterior category saw the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class following in the footsteps of its predecessor, which has long enjoyed international renown as a design icon. The new CLS combines an elegant coupé silhouette with an expressive front. Its dynamic, athletic figure features a beguiling composition of lines and surfaces and a dropping line, drawing on the uniquely rich fund of design treasures to be found in historical Mercedes sports cars to embody a contemporary aesthetic statement.

The awards will be presented at the Automotive Designers Night which is to take place at the Frankfurt International Motor Show on 13 September.

At a press conference hosted by Bridgestone Corporation and the New York International Auto Show at the Geneva International Motor Show, the top three finalists for the World Car of the Year, World Performance Car, World Green Car and World Car Design of the Year awards were announced.

The winners will be declared at the New York International Auto Show on Thursday, April 21, 2011.

From an initial entry list of thirty-nine new vehicles from all over the world, then a short list of ten finalists, the top three contenders for the overall 2011 World Car of the Year title are, in alphabetical order: the Audi A8, the BMW 5 Series and the Nissan LEAF.

To be eligible for the overall World Car award, the candidates must become available for sale on at least two continents during the period beginning January 1, 2010 and ending May 30, 2011.

Vehicles are selected and voted on by an international jury panel comprised of sixty-six top-level automotive journalists from twenty-four countries around the world. Each juror was appointed by the World Car Steering Committee on the basis of his or her expertise, experience, credibility, and influence. Each juror typically drives and evaluates new vehicles on a regular basis as part of their professional work. All hold significant stature within their own regions and countries.

The top three finalists for the 2011 World Performance Car award are, in alphabetical order: the Ferrari 458 Italia, the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and the Porsche 911 Turbo.

While the winner of the overall World Car award must excel in a broad range of attributes, the World Performance Car award must demonstrate a specific and overt sports/performance orientation while satisfying the same availability criteria as for the overall World Car of the Year award.

Entrants may be chosen from that list of eligible vehicles, or they may be newly introduced variants that satisfy the same criteria, but are derived from existing rather than brand-new models. In all cases, they must have a minimum annual production rate of five-hundred vehicles.

The World Green Car* award is presented by Bridgestone Corporation (Japan). Ryoji Yamada, General Manager of Brand Management said, “We are very pleased and honored to sponsor the 2011 World Green Car award. The environment is everyone’s responsibility. And throughout our global family of companies, we take this responsibility very seriously. We believe it is our mission to serve society with superior quality… not just with eco-friendly products but also in the way we produce those products and the way in which we support our many communities with environ mentally-friendly activities such as wildlife habitats and our Lake Biwa initiative in Japan”.

Due to the complexity of some of the ‘green’ technologies, three (3) green experts were appointed by the World Car Steering Committee to extensively review all documentation and specs associated with each candidate. They then create a short-list of finalists for review by the sixty-six (66) jurors in their second round of voting in February. The three green experts were in alphabetical order: Sam Abuelsamid (representing North America), Dean Slavnich (representing Europe) and Tadashi Tateuchi (representing Asia).

The sixty-six member jury chose the following top three finalists for the 2011 World Green Car* award: the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Edition, the Chevrolet Volt and the Nissan LEAF.

Cars eligible for the 2011 World Car Design of the Year award are taken from the list of World Car candidates or they may be included as a stand-alone entry provided the vehicle is introduced and available for sale in at least one major market during the period beginning January 1, 2010 and ending May 30th, 2011

A design panel consisting of five highly respected world design experts was asked to first review each candidate, and then establish a short-list of recommendations for the jurors. The design experts were: Masatsugu Arimoto (Japan), Silvia Baruffaldi (Italy), Gernot Bracht (Germany), Sam Livingstone (UK) and Tom Matano (USA). Jurors then voted on the experts’ recommendations. The top three design finalists as chosen by the jurors are, in alphabetical order: the Alfa Romeo Giulietta, the Aston Martin Rapide and the Ferrari 458 Italia.

Prime Research International, a global leader in strategic communication research and consultancy is once again the World Car Awards’ research partner. The company will provide strategic reports in 2011 that analyze our awards global automotive media coverage.

Now in their seventh year, the annual World Car awards have become one of the world’s most prestigious, credible and significant programs of its kind.

The awards were inaugurated in 2003, and officially launched in January 2004, to reflect the reality of the global marketplace, as well as to recognize and reward automotive excellence on an international scale. The awards are intended to complement, not compete, with existing national and regional Car of the Year programs.

The awards are administered by a non-profit association, under the guidance of a Steering Committee of pre-eminent automotive journalists from Asia, Europe, and North America. Peter Lyon (Japan) and Matt Davis (Italy) are the co-chairs; John McCormick (USA), Jens Meiners (Germany) and Gerry Malloy (Canada) are the directors. There is no affiliation with, nor are the awards in any way influenced by any publication, auto show, automaker, or other commercial enterprise.