Mercedes-Benz is bringing their unmistakable styling and high standard of quality to the living room with their latest furniture collection. In collaboration with the Formitalia Luxury Group, one of the leading Italian manufacturers of designer furniture, Mercedes-Benz Style has created a furniture collection consisting of one sofa, a chaise lounge, a dining room table, various chairs, a sideboard, a shelf unit with integrated home theatre system, a chest of drawers and a bed. The collection will be presented at the “Salone Internazionale del Mobile”, April 17 – 22, 2012 in Milan.

“The various pieces of furniture reflect the progressive, dynamic design idiom of our current show cars and concept vehicles, offering an exclusive, emotional experience outside our vehicles as well” says Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. The interplay between dynamic proportions, naturally stretched forms and curved lines conveys an extraordinary harmony and modern ease. The furniture gives the impression of floating in space.

Before Mercedes-Benz opened the Advanced Design Studio in February 1998, in the Villa Salazar near the shore of Lake Como, Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace produced bow-ties and neckties there. With its contemporary ceiling paintings, long corridors and different terracotta and wooden floors, the villa, built around 1750, is exceptionally inspiring for the 20 designers who work there. This also holds true for the region itself: the famous triangle between the cities of Como, Milan and Turin is a center of fashion and the furniture industry. Traditional crafts are highly valued there – an ideal environment for the Advanced Design Studio and the perfect place to create Mercedes-Benz Styles first furniture line.

The Mercedes-Benz Style furniture collection

Sofa Class (three-seater) MBS 001

Elegant and graceful lines, comfortable upholstery as well as lovingly created seam details and great workmanship: the “Class” leather sofa spreads a timeless and incomparable charm. An offset area in the backrest with rolling lines and artistic stitching accentuates the sofa’s particular dynamism and elegance. The sofa is presented in two colour variants: in black aniline leather with metal legs in matt graphite black; the second in pearl grey leather at the front and night blue leather on the rear and underside, as well as light, brilliant aluminium legs. Dimensions: 240 x 100 x H 70 cm

Dining table MBS 002

The four legs extend from the central aluminium beam like elegantly sculptured spokes. The optical lightness of this construction culminates in a grey-shaded transparent glass plate. The table is available in two frame variants: one in matte graphite black and another in a light satin finish. Dimensions: 248 x 90 x H 73 cm

Chair MBS 003

The futuristic-looking chairs set new standards in terms of shape and material. Through the exciting interplay of convex and concave lines, a dynamic shape is created which gives the chairs a particular air of lightness. A seat shell made of laminated wood ensures for perfect, long-lasting seating comfort. Two chairs will be presented: one with a seating area covered in night blue leather which offers an optical contrast to the grey wooden shell, and another upholstered with black material on the seating area and pearl grey leather-covered wooden shell. Dimensions: 58 x 57 x H 75 cm

Bed MBS 004

In the same way as with the chaise lounge, the bed’s sleek, elegant silhouette is also characterised by the three-dimensional form of the wooden frame. The pedestal in aluminium and the cover, either in material or leather, lend an optical contrast to the wood. The bed will be presented with a light grey wooden shell, light grey leather and contrasting stitching, which complement the grey-blue anodised aluminium frame. Dimensions: 190 x 222 x H 81 cm

Sideboard MBS 005

A well-proportioned, futuristic-looking sideboard on an aluminium frame. The front has a glass door with a surrounding bevel reminiscent of the air intake on a sports car. The sideboard will be presented in two variants: one with a dark grey painted surface and light satin-finish aluminium legs, the second with Mercedes-Benz original paint in indium silver metallic and metal legs in matt graphite black. Dimensions: 230 x 57 x H 72 cm

Chaise Longue MBS 006

The three dimensional formed wooden frame makes for an elegant and sleek silhouette, whilst at the same time, ensures the utmost level of lounge relaxation. The Aluminium pedestal and the cover, available in either material or leather, provide an optical contrast to the wood. The chaise lounge combines opulence and lightness. There are two colour and material variants on show: the first has anthracite-coloured fabric with a natural pattern, natural-coloured wooden shell and metal legs in matte graphite black; the second variant offers a beige leather cover, black wooden shell and light satin-finish aluminium legs. Dimensions: 171 x 80 x H 68 cm

Chest of Drawers MBS 007

The seemingly very light chest of drawers purposefully takes on the design idiom and design elements of the bed MBS 004 and supplements the product range for the bedroom. The chest of drawers will be presented in two variants: one with grey painted body and light grey leather-covered front, and the other with dark blue painted body and light grey open-pore wood front. Dimensions: 230 x 57 x H 72 cm

Home theatre system MBS 008

The system, with its pronounced, mirrored screen, is elegantly integrated into a shelf unit. The painted rear panel supports three wing-shaped wooden shelves. In Milan, the shelf units in Mercedes-Benz original paint indium silver metallic will be combined with a dark grey painted rear panel. Length: 461 cm

Mercedes-Benz is calling it the pulse of a new generation, Auto Motor & Sport said “A” for all perfectly done”,”A” as in “all different”, Focus said, “Top-class, this “A” (Bild), “A” as in “all new” (Der Spiegel), “Muscular, low, sporty” (AutoBild), and the list could go on. So what is it about the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class that has everyone raving?

Standing as much as 7 inches lower on the street than the previous A-Class model, the new 2012 A-Class communicates a passion for design at the very first glance. This radical form language, presented and enthusiastically acclaimed around the world with the Concept A-CLASS, was consistently implemented in the series production car. The appearance of the new A-Class reflects this new Mercedes-Benz design strategy. The result is what is known as a two-box design with a distinct character of its own, a sportily emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.

“Translating the new dynamic style of Mercedes-Benz into the compact class was a challenge that was great fun to tackle”, explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz. “No other car in this segment is as progressive as the A-Class. Absolutely typical for Mercedes is the sculptural shape of the A-Class. The character lines, in particular on its sides, lend the A-Class structure and terseness. The new dynamic style is perceptible at first glance in the interior as well.”

Defined edges and tautly drawn surfaces mark out the exterior design of the new A-Class. The constant interplay between concave and convex surfaces creates a characteristic play of light, particularly along the sides of the car, which contributes to its unique appearance.

Typical features of the long, sporty front are its pronounced V-shape, the separate headlamps, the radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, as well as the additional air intakes on the sides. The “dropping line” apparent in the side profile dissipates towards the vehicle’s front end. The design of the headlamps, together with the configuration of the light functions within them, is a key element of the design concept.

The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic “flare effect” for the daytime running lamps and indicators. The so-called “flare” is made up of the feature line within the headlamp, the LED modules for the daytime running lamps and the bulb sets for the indicators. This signature effect gives the car its energetic look and so helps to define a new, youthful face for Mercedes.

The perfect interplay of dynamic design and excellent aerodynamics is nowhere more apparent than in the roof, with its smooth surfaces and taut, arcing curve. The silhouette reveals smooth, flowing lines finishing in a flat edge. The roof spoiler, which conveniently hides all the aerials, provides an extra sporty touch and gives structure to the roof assembly. The beltline rises to the rear to form a pronounced wedge-shape. The side view is distinguished by sensuously moulded sculptural side panels and crisp lines. The front structural edge, above the wing, falls in what is known as a “dropping line” in a gentle arc towards the rear. The powerfully-shaped shoulder muscles above the rear axle serve to emphasise the car’s coupé-like character. A further line sweeps up from just in front of the rear wheel arch, then gently fades away. All these lines give depth and dynamism to the car’s profile. Dynamic side sill panels provide a final finishing touch towards the bottom of the car, enhancing the appearance of elegant light-footedness.

The broad emphasis of the tail end is revealed in an interplay of convex-concave surfaces and edges. The tail lights continue the line of the muscular shoulders back towards the rear, while their horizontal orientation emphasises the car’s powerful breadth. The light functions are provided by fibre-optic cables and LED modules. Here, too, the interaction between design and aerodynamics is very clear: the surface finish of the tail lights is not only an interesting design feature, but also improves the airflow around the vehicle thanks to defined airflow break-away edges in the rear section.

While the essence of the press release below is to cover the integration of smart phones into the new A-Class, the real story is in the photos that they provided.  The first official images of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class show the Apple iPhone pairing seamlessly with the new interior.  Sure the article is interesting and a good read, but don’t skip the photo gallery below.

Mercedes-Benz is making smartphones mobile and ensuring that such electronic assistants will in future be fully linked into the car’s infotainment system. First off the blocks is the Apple® iPhone®, which Mercedes-Benz has now integrated comprehensively into the user experience concept of the new A-Class, as the first automotive manufacturer in the world to take this step. Thanks to a new “Digital DriveStyle App”, developed in-house, together with the “Drive Kit Plus for the Apple® iPhone®”, drivers can now access all the key content of their Apple® iPhone® through the in-vehicle display and enjoy safe and convenient operation of the device via the Controller on the center armrest. The attractive ‘look’ is ensured by the revolutionary user interface design. In a further world premiere, Mercedes-Benz will enable access to the voice-based intelligent companion Siri™ in the vehicle. This allows natural speech input, without the need for specific commands, to send messages, select music tracks and check the weather forecast or stock prices, as well as to make appointments. All the iPhone® integration functions can be used even with the entry-level Audio 20 system.

This seamless integration of the Apple® iPhone® into the vehicle, in conjunction with the new revolutionary user interface design, means that Mercedes-Benz is now able to offer the Facebook generation its natural home on four wheels, in the form of the new

A-Class. Along with Facebook, Twitter and so on, the “Digital DriveStyle App” developed by Daimler offers further services and content to suit the digital lifestyle and will be available to download free of charge from the Apple® iTunes® store. Its highlights include:

• Personalised internet radio by AUPEO! Personal Radio, which offers radio stations that compile an individual program for listeners and recommend similar music by genre or artists based on personal taste.
• The advanced navigation software from Garmin, with internet-based real-time traffic information, online POI searches and 3D map display, all of which work even in combination with the entry-level multimedia system Audio 20
• A socially interactive experience involving “sharing”, “posting” and the integration of music and other content from social networks including text-to-speech.
• An intuitive ‘Car Finder’ which automatically stores the vehicle’s location. Pedestrian navigation makes it completely easy to find your way back to the car.
• Access to the voice-based intelligent companion Siri™.

New here is also the contextual and location-based display of menu content under the headings “Social”, “Media” and “Places”. The basic logic behind this was presented by Daimler for the first time in January of this year at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Appearing under the heading “Social”, for example, are the various friends and latest news from the social networks.

The user interface design is unique and revolutionary. Transparent symbols are illuminated in red to create three-dimensionally arranged navigation levels. Within the three-dimensional illustration provided by this menu structure, the user can move intuitively between the various functions in fluid, animated transitions. The user interface concept was designed and implemented by designers and engineers in the Mercedes-Benz research and development center in Palo Alto, California/USA. Enlarging the display of content on the screen to an appropriate format for use in a vehicle and allowing it to be controlled through the ergonomically positioned Controller on the center armrest makes operating the system both safe and easy.

The iPhone® is connected through an interface developed by Mercedes-Benz Accessories GmbH. This allows content to be fed directly from the graphics output of the device to the display of the vehicle. At the same time, the iPhone® is both powered and charged automatically while it is being used.

Full iPhone® integration is not only possible in conjunction with the COMAND Online multimedia system. All functions, including navigation, can also be used even with the entry-level Audio 20 system. Mercedes-Benz is thus making it possible for the A-Class’s younger target group in particular to continue their digital lifestyle seamlessly inside the vehicle. Both the “Digital DriveStyle App” and the “Drive Kit Plus for the Apple® iPhone®” will be making their debut in the new A-Class, which will be celebrating its world premiere at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, and are also planned to be available from autumn 2012 for the B-, C- and E-Class.

Always at your service: the voice-based intelligent companion Siri™

As the first automotive manufacturer to do so, Mercedes-Benz will be introducing Siri™ in a vehicle with easy access to it from the “Digital DriveStyle App”. While conventional voice recognition software demands the use of specific spoken commands, Siri™ understands natural speech patterns and will even ask questions in return should more information be needed in order to complete a given task.

Siri™ is a function of the latest iPhone® generation, 4S, and acts as a personal assistant. Given verbal instructions, for example, it will access the personal calendar to make or decline requests for appointments or meetings. SMS text messages can be dictated or read out, and emails sent. Siri™ can also be used as a convenient way of accessing the complete range of music stored on an iPhone® or to request the latest weather forecast.

Always up-to-date: COMAND Online with Cloud technology and Mercedes-Benz App Shop

Safe and convenient access to the internet on the move is already available in a whole series of Mercedes-Benz models: the fully integrated multimedia system COMAND Online was introduced in 2011. As well as innovative applications such as Google Local Search including Google Street View and Panoramio, Mercedes-Benz is the only manufacturer to offer the option of sending individually preconfigured routes from Google Maps on a PC to the vehicle. The internet connection that is required for the functions in COMAND Online is established via a mobile telephone Bluetooth link and a secure Virtual Private Network (VPN).

Mercedes-Benz is firmly convinced that the future lies with cloud computing. The software used in the COMAND Online applications is not stored in the vehicle, but runs off the Daimler Vehicle Backend. The advantage of this is that applications can be continually updated in the cloud, and new applications released to Mercedes-Benz customers, without the need to visit a workshop.

In this sense on March 31st, 2012 a new Mercedes-Benz App to access News will be available to COMAND Online customers.

Additionally, Mercedes-Benz Apps for COMAND Online will be offered soon in the new Mercedes-Benz App Shop. The first two Mercedes-Benz Apps to become available in the App Shop will be the Parking Finder and Morningstar Finance, that offers access to stock prices.

It is planned to introduce a dozen or so new applications each year. To this end, Daimler has set up App Development Groups in both Palo Alto, California/USA, and Bangalore, India.

As I’ve come to learn, designing a kitchen is like putting together a very complex puzzle.  There’s a bevy of considerations to take into account, including its day-to-day usability, the amount of space at your disposal, and the specific style you’re trying achieve.  Once you actually start breaking these considerations down, you quickly come to realize just how huge the amount of decisions you have to make are, and how difficult it can be to bring the solutions to all three together in perfect harmony.

Despite the many challenges I’ve faced in my own kitchen renovation, there is one item in the kitchen that was tremendously easy to select, probably more so than any other area – the kitchen faucet.  From the moment I began seeking out my ideal kitchen, there’s been one brand that’s made its way into virtually all of the top kitchen designer’s spaces, and that brand is ROHL.

ROHL History

Before I delve into why I picked ROHL for my current kitchen, I wanted to touch briefly on who exactly ROHL is, simply because I’m a huge fan of companies with an interesting heritage.  ROHL is in many ways the quintessential American company – the kind of company you read about, where one person with a vision manages to transform an entire market.   In this case, it was a man with a vision that would eventually alter the kitchen faucet landscape as we know it.

The story begins in 1983, when a gentleman by the name of Ken ROHL recognized an opening in the kitchen faucet market:  the concept of a pull-out faucet.  Working out of a converted bedroom office and selling faucets out of the trunk of his car, Ken’s vision was one that was quickly met with success.  Needing help, Ken’s son Lou joined his father in expanding ROHL, forging relationships with the company’s European suppliers before returning to California to expand operations here in the United States.  Not long after, Ken’s oldest son Mark joined ROHL, opening an East Coast office in New York, and the family tradition was completed when Ken’s youngest son Greg joined the company 10 years after its start.

Today, it’s this tradition of family that continues to lead ROHL, with Lou serving as Chief Operating Officer, Mark serving as president of ROHL’s Eastern Division and Greg heading up ROHL’s Western Division.  Just as impressive as its family heritage, however, is how ROHL has managed to expand from its pull out faucet roots.  Today, the company offers an impressive range of kitchen and bath products, including both pull-out and non pull-out faucets, showerheads, sinks, etc.  Their products are all exquisite, ranging from classic to contemporary, and all are built with an attention to detail that is absolutely stunning.

The ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray Overview

In my own kitchen, the most difficult part of selecting a kitchen faucet wasn’t the brand, it was selecting the particular ROHL kitchen faucet that best suited my style.  Truthfully, I could pick almost any of their kitchen faucets and be completely happy, but in the end, I settled on the ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray, a gorgeous bridge style kitchen faucet with goose neck design.

In selecting the Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet, my goal was to find a faucet that would bring a classic feeling into the kitchen irregardless of cabinet type.  Although I haven’t yet finalized my kitchen cabinet design, I tend to favor a slightly more contemporary style of cabinets with classic elements mixed in.  Mick de Giulio, for example, is a kitchen designer that exemplifies the idea of blending contemporary with traditional.  So I wanted a faucet that would allow me to bridge the gap between both styles, allowing me the ability to potentially choose a more contemporary styled cabinet, but keeping the kitchen anchored with traditional elements.  And that’s exactly what ROHL’s Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet does.

It perfectly bridges the gap between contemporary and traditional, and frankly, it could be used in virtually any style of kitchen.  I’ve seen it used in country farmhouse style kitchens, I’ve seen it used in ultra luxurious English kitchens, I’ve seen it used in Hamptons style kitchens, and I’ve seen it used in the aforementioned traditional and contemporary kitchens.  There’s just something about the Perrin & Rowe Bridge faucet’s design that makes it perfectly adapted for almost any space.

ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray Design

In selecting a ROHL faucet, some of the elements to consider are handle type (and number of handles), bridge vs. no bridge, and the arc and height of the faucet itself.  ROHL faucets span the design range from what they call their Country Kitchen collection up to their Modern Kitchen collection, with many of their Perrin & Rowe line stylistically falling in the middle.  No matter which line you look at however, the common thread among all ROHL faucets is the gorgeous, meticulous attention to detail and character that exudes from the entire lineup.  They are in many ways sculptures for your kitchen – metallic works of art that while not always the centerpiece of your kitchen, play an integral role in complimenting it and bringing it all together.

In my case, I wanted a style that bordered on traditional, but one that could be paired with other more contemporary kitchen elements, and that’s exactly what the ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen faucet does.  It’s sweeping gooseneck design is one traditionally found on a more contemporary faucet, capturing your eye with it’s beautiful shape and giving height to the faucet.  Paired with it, a bridge design with traditional lever handles keep the faucet rooted in traditional, perfectly blending together attributes of luxury, traditional and contemporary styling.  Lastly, an additional sidespray matches the styling of the levers, adding extra functionality to the already stunning design.

ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray Construction

The ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen faucet is incredibly well crafted, built from solid brass and absolutely stunning in person.  I’ve already made mention of this, but the Perrin & Rowe Bridge kitchen faucet really does feel like a sculpture when viewed and touched in person.  It’s so stunning and well-built, you forget it’s there to serve a purpose.  Despite having seen the faucet online, in too many kitchens to count, it’s a faucet that’s even more beautifully crafted than I anticipated, and one that really does need to be witnessed firsthand to be truly appreciated – both for its quality and style.

For my home, I opted for the polished chrome finish, as my kitchen will note a lighter, almost white cabinet color with chrome accents.  Depending on your style, however, there’s a total of five finish options for the ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge kitchen faucet – the aforementioned polished chrome, polished nickel, satin nickel, English bronze and Inca brass.

ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray Conclusion

Selecting the ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray wasn’t a difficult decision for me, but it was one that I would unequivocally recommend to anyone considering a faucet.  ROHLas a whole produces a range of stunning kitchen and bathroom products, and the Perrin & Rowe Bridge faucet is one of the jewels in their lineup.  It stunning design bridges the gap between traditional and contemporary,  it notes an understated luxury that’s as much at home in an ultra extravagant English kitchen as it is in a country kitchen, and it’s built with a quality that’s absolutely impeccable.  In my opinion, for my kitchen, it’s simply the perfect faucet.

To learn more about the ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray, you can find more info at the official ROHL website.  Pricing for the faucet varies, but you can find it at your local showroom or on Amazon.com.  You can also see more photos of the ROHL Perrin & Rowe Bridge Kitchen Faucet with Sidespray in the gallery below.

This year’s Los Angeles Design Challenge was not just about developing the Hollywood car of the future, but also about inventing a story worthy of Hollywood. Thanks to the ingenious work from the designers at the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Sindelfingen, the smart 341 Parkour won the design contest. “With the 341 Parkour, smart hit the nail on the head: the design combines innovation and functionality with an exciting film plot” is how the jury consisting of multi-discipline design professionals justified their decision.

With the smart 341 Parkour the Mercedes-Benz designers created a revolutionary super all-rounder with a completely transparent passenger cell for maximum all-round visibility. It can drive normally on the roads, climb up the façade of skyscrapers and even fly! This is the vehicle that reporter Annie Angle sets off in to research her first title story which she hopes will kick-start her career. She has read in the newspaper that the incredible “smart Granny Robots” have gone missing and sets off to find them.

For the film story the designers took up the visionary smart concept which won them first place in the Los Angeles Design Challenge last year. Then the smart 454 was knitted from carbon fibre by “smart Granny Robots”.

Smart 341 Parkour – Annie get the Grannies!

In a world of continuous change, in Cantpark City, reporter Annie Angle is beginning a new chapter in her life. Cantpark City is famous for its friendly people, the beautiful weather, but notoriously known for a lack of parking spaces. On an early Sunday morning, an article in a newspaper catches Annie’s eyes… “Smart Granny Robots missing!!!”

Annie sets off on a journey to solve the mystery of the missing Grannies and to earn her first, potentially career-making, front page news article. Her Smart 341 Parkour vehicle plays a key role in this private investigation, providing both effective transportation and favourable sleuthing capabilities.

Several features enable her to take pictures from the best possible locations. The large greenhouse gives Annie 360 degrees of visibility while travelling through the inner city. The wheels are retractable and contain impulse pads and vacuum cups. The hexagon skin around the wheelhouse is adjustable to release the wheels. The Smart has different modes: a typical drive mode, a fly mode that allows the vehicle to hover far above the streets and a climb mode that allows the vehicle to run up the walls of skyscrapers.

The film for Mercedes-Benz “Silver Lightning” has been awarded as “Best Animation”.

For the past eight years, the Design Los Angeles Board of Directors – made up of  twelve design studio executives – have chosen a theme for the the LA Auto Show’s Design Challenge. This year’s chosen them is “Hollywood’s Hottest New Movie Car” and design studios from around the globe have been invited to participate and submit their designs.  Studios from Germany, Japan and the U.S have chosen to compete including Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, smart, Honda, Subaru and Hyundai.

How the vehicle reflects its brand attributes relative to the movie plot; how the vehicle relates to the targeted audience or brand; the level of imagination; the character development of the vehicle; and the uniqueness of the combination of story, car and character are the various factors that the entries are judged on.

Mercedes Silver Arrow- Silver Lightning

In homage to 125 years of automotive innovation and design excellence, Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design of North America features a story with two techno characters that have achieved a unique harmony between safety and style; the iconic Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow racecar, and the underappreciated ‘Crash test dummy.’

In a futuristic society of increased artificial intelligence, two enlightened crash test mannequins, Hans05 and Franz02, show that they’re no dummies when it comes to recognizing a potential catastrophe and decide to take matters into their own hands. As the evil battering ram Dr. Crash-Barrier seeks to continue his reign of terror and mayhem, the two heroes take action to save their beloved Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow. They lead the relentless ‘Dr. Barrier’ on an action packed thrill ride through the past and future of transportation.

A long-slung, sculpture on wheels – actually on ‘Hoops’ – the Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrow has proportions reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz W125 series, a Silberpfeil racecar of the late 1930’s and the Uhlenhaut SLR from the 50’s. The overall shape follows distinguished Mercedes-Benz design traditions and is born from a dominant Formula 1 racing legacy. It also features a diagonally configured, hub-less roller track for ‘Omni-Directional’ maneuvering.

Brought to you by the creators of ‘Biome, a car grown from trees’, this epic adventure has it all, including a surprise ending that will have audiences cheering as our reluctant heroes save the day with a little old- school subterfuge and help from the great tradition of the Mercedes-Benz automobiles.

Maybach Berline- Cinderella and the Maybach Berline

Berline Carriage Engineer, her Stepmother, a retired Actress, and her Stepmother’s spoiled daughter who spent her days partying at the Billionares Club while Cindy spent all day working at her father’s workshop.

On the night of her birthday, Cindy’s father surprises her with a beautiful dress and allows her to take a new Maybach prototype out on the town – a reinterpretation of the historic Berline Carriage. Based on the dimensions of a Mercedes-Benz GL-Class, the Maybach Berline Carriage is an E-Cell or F-Cell vehicle and features autonomous driving that allows Cindy to have an amazing night out, where she meets a handsome stranger.

The Carriage is teleoperated via a satellite link to a Maybach Virtual Chauffeur Center. This leaves maximum interior space for the passengers and also allows maximum privacy. The passengers are seated in a vis-à-vis seating layout with a “Royal Lounge” on one side and two single seats on the other. A large glass screen with 3D laser projection is suspended from the ceiling and can display the Virtual Chauffeur or a variety of media and entertainment. The interior and exterior come together seamlessly and are comprised of sustainable materials like wood. Large divided gullwing doors with oversized privacy glass open wide for entry with retractable stairs for convenient entrance (inspired by business jets).

Moviegoers will awe in the romance and new technology as Cindy goes on the journey of a lifetime.

Smart 341 Parkour- Annie get the Grannies!

In a world of continuous change, in Cantpark City, reporter Annie Angle is beginning a new chapter in her life. Cantpark City is famous for its friendly people, the beautiful weather, but notoriously known for a lack of parking spaces. On an early Sunday morning, an article in a newspaper catches Annie’s eyes… “Smart Granny Robots missing!!!”

Annie sets off on a journey to solve the mystery of the missing Grannies and to earn her first, potentially career-making, front page news article. Her Smart 341 Parkour vehicle plays a key role in this private investigation, providing both effective transportation and favourable sleuthing capabilities.

Several features enable her to take pictures from the best possible locations. The large greenhouse gives Annie 360 degrees of visibility while travelling through the inner city. The wheels are retractable and contain impulse pads and vacuum cups. The hexagon skin around the wheelhouse is adjustable to release the wheels. The Smart has different modes: a typical drive mode, a fly mode that allows the vehicle to hover far above the streets and a climb mode that allows the vehicle to run up the walls of skyscrapers.

Follow Annie’s investigative search in Smart’s “Annie get the Grannies!” this November.

Style in the home is a funny thing.  What one person can like, another person can hate.  But unlike style when it comes to fashion, where your style choice must only meet your approval, style choices in the home are usually a cooperative effort, needing approval from both you and and your significant other.  It’s a truth I’m intimately familiar with, as my wife and I are in the midst of not only a home renovation, but also a style renovation.

When it comes to home style, I tend to favor more of a modern, contemporary feel.  Not too contemporary – I don’t mean floating beds and unfinished concrete walls – but more of a contemporary yet still inviting feel.  My wife on the other hand, prefers more classic, traditional elements in the home, and has a special affinity for aged, distressed pieces – not necessarily antiques, but pieces that show a certain degree of character.  As you can imagine, as much as we both love and respect each others’ personal style, our differences present an immense challenge when it comes to furnishing our home.

To be honest, I truly didn’t think we’d be able to find common ground when it came to our home’s style.  Let me rephrase that:  initially I thought we’d be able to find common ground when it came to our home’s style, but once we set out to furnish the first room in our house – our bedroom – I quickly realized how wrong I was.  There was a clear divide when it came to home style, meaning the pieces we looked at were either distinctly contemporary or distinctly traditional.  Everything I picked was too contemporary; everything she picked was too traditional.

Logically, this meant that sooner or later I could forego my dreams of contemporary styling in favor of tradition, because as all men know, women are the deciding factor when it comes to the home.  My wife, however (being the perfect wife she is), felt differently, following her conviction that somewhere there existed the mythical blend of traditional and contemporary we could both fall in love with.  And then, just when I thought all hope was lost – just when I was ready to abandon my contemporary dreams in favor of her more traditional style – we found it.  The Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection.  The perfect union of contemporary and classic.  A blending of woods, metals and materials in more classic shapes, but with an air of modernity, meeting my desire for a contemporary feel while maintaining the character and classic nature of more traditional pieces.  Stanley’s Avalon Heights Collection is exactly what we had been searching for.

Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection Overview

Defining the Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection is difficult, to say the least, because it encompasses so many different style elements.  It’s current, but not overly so.  It’s relatively casual, but there’s a certain luxuriousness to it as well.  Overall, it’s the perfect blending of contemporary with traditional.

Before I go any further, I should note that the  Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection isn’t merely a bedroom collection, as the title of this story implies.  Rather, it’s a collection for the entire home, including the bedroom, living and dining areas and the home office.  As of now, I’ve only purchased pieces for the bedroom (which I’ll discuss a little later), but the Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection offers the aforementioned blending of contemporary and traditional for the entire home, not just the bedroom.

In looking at Stanley’s Avalon Heights Collection, the first thing that drew both my wife and I to it was the unique shapes of the pieces.  Whereas traditional contemporary style tends to be simple, with relatively basic shapes, the Avalon Heights collection makes extensive use of curved and serpentine shapes and projecting friezes, eliminating sharp edges and harsh lines.  It’s an effect that makes the Avalon Heights Collection significantly warmer and more inviting than traditional contemporary pieces, but not enough that the style loses its modern feeling.  Paired with the unique overall shapes, the Avalon Heights Collection also makes extensive use of Lyre shapes (made famous in Duncan Phyfe chair backs), blending classic shapes into modern designs.

The second element of the Stanley Avalon Heights Collection, and what has become my favorite attribute, is the perfect mixture of materials used throughout the various pieces.  Gorgeous woods like cherry, mapa burl and anigre fiddle are paired beautifully with glass and metal, and it’s this combination that plays an integral part in creating Avalon Heights’ contemporary yet still classic look.  Further adding to its unique styling, a blanc noir leather and chrome fabric are used on select pieces, adding in additional textures that are luxurious, clean and modern.  The result is a collection that despite the uniqueness of each piece, blends together perfectly across the complete range.  And that’s really the beauty of Avalon Heights.  Pieces can be used interchangeably throughout the house, meaning a table can be used as a night stand, as an accessory table in a living area, or by itself.  Chairs can be used in dining areas, or they can serve as extra seating in the bedroom.  The entire collection works together beautifully – pieces maintain their individual character, but it flows together beautifully as well.

Lastly, the final defining element of Stanley Furniture’s Avalon Heights Collection lies in the details of the pieces.  Helping add a warmer, more traditional feel to the collection, Stanley added various aging to the pieces, including rock, spatter, fly speck, cowtailing and water marks, giving the pieces a more lived in, slightly more casual feeling.  Piano scratch distressing on surface tops adds in additional character, as does soft skiving on select surfaces, creating indentations on the wood to give it a ripple effect.  In addition to the distressing, smaller architectural and finish details play an integral role in helping achieving Avalon Heights’ gorgeous rich appearance.  Carved posts reminiscent of Provencal furniture, collared and fully-turned sabre legs, hidden cedar storage drawers, felt-lined serving drawers – all are features found on the individual furnishings in the collection.  Stanley has done an incredible job bringing a richness and beauty to each piece, adding in an incredible amount of detail to the entire Avalon Heights Collection as a whole.

Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Bedroom Collection Overview

In furnishing our new home, my wife and I started with the bedroom, for the very simple reason it’s the last room you see at night and the first room you see in the morning.  After a long day, there’s nothing better than having a place you can retreat to that’s calming and relaxing, but at the same time, you want it be stylish the next morning.  Waking up to great style instantly puts you in a better mood for the day, and that’s exactly what the Avalon Heights Bedroom Collection offers.  It’s warm; it’s elegant; it’s inviting; but it’s also distinctly stylish, reflecting a certain sense of modernity.

In looking at the Avalon Heights Bedroom Collection, it’s almost two bedroom collections in one.  There are two main bed designs – one slightly more contemporary, one slightly more traditional – and there are similarly two dresser and chest designs.  At one end of the design spectrum, the dressers and chests note a larger, slightly more elegant design, whereas at the other end of the spectrum, dressers and chests are somewhat smaller and slightly less formal.  The beauty of the collection, however, is that all the pieces work together beautifully, and because of the varying scales, there’s tremendous flexibility when it comes to furnishing both large and small spaces.

My wife and I loved the larger, slightly more formal designs, and I’ve detailed each of our chosen pieces below, but you can also see photos of the other Avalon Heights bedroom pieces available in the gallery at the end of the article.  In truth, they’re all stunning, and no matter which style you choose, you can’t go wrong with anything.  The collection is simply incredible, and after living with it for the past two months, I have to say, I absolutely adore everything we purchased.

Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Fair Park Upholstered Storage Bed

The centerpiece of the bedroom, the Avalon Heights Fair Park Upholstered Storage Bed is brilliantly designed, perfectly combining elements of traditional, contemporary and functional design.  Noting a gorgeous cherry design with wide panel rails, the taller upholstered headboard is the focal point of the bed, featuring stunning Blanc Noir ivory top-grain leather.  It’s overall shape is relatively simple, giving it a more contemporary feel, but it maintains an overall elegance befitting of a New York City penthouse.  Topping it off, two large cedar storage drawers with touch latch drawer guides at the foot of the bed maximize functionality, offering the perfect storage space for bedding, pillows, etc.

Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Neo Deco Lamp Table

Probably the most versatile piece in the Avalon Heights Bedroom Collection, the Neo Deco lamp table makes a gorgeous bedside table, but it’s just as much at home in a living area or reading nook.  On top, a mapa burl center medallion is one of its strongest design elements, and the lyre-inspired base adds a stunning serpentine shape to the piece.  For storage, there’s also a single drawer that blends seamlessly into the Neo Deco lamp table’s design.  In person, the Neo Deco lamp table is simply beautiful, offering an incredible finish and details while still maintaining a warm and inviting character.

Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Swingtime Dresser

The key to happiness in the bedroom is ample amounts of storage to ensure everything has its proper place, and the Avalon Heights Swingtime dresser offers plenty:  nine storage drawers, to be precise.  Best of all, it does so in a beautiful serpentine design – perfectly exemplifying Avalon Heights’ blending of contemporary and traditional.  Featuring a gentle curved front with fluted bar pulls, the Swingtime dresser is the perfect mix of modern and classic, and as is the case with the entire Avalon Heights Collection, it adds an approachable elegance to the space.  It’s beautiful; it’s functional; it’s inviting; and it’s a gorgeous compliment to the rest of the Avlalon Heights Bedroom Collection.

Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Swingtime Night Stand

The last piece in the Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection that my wife and I selected was the Swingtime night stand, the perfect compliment to the Swingtime dresser.  Like the Swingtime dresser, the night stand features a subtle serpentine shape, and is complimented by beautifully carved frame posts.  For storage, there’s a total of three drawers at your disposal, along with an integrated electrical outlet in the rear to handle lamps, phone charging, etc.  Completing its style, a stunning Chelsea finish in cherry and scalloped knobs in tarnished nickel offer a warm, elegant look that perfectly compliments the Fair Park upholstered bed.

Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection Conclusion

I know I’m starting to sound redundant, but the Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection is the first collection I found that truly manages to bring together contemporary and traditional in a welcoming, warm way.  It offers a perfect blend of details, materials and styling, with the end result being a collection that’s extremely approachable.  The Avalon Heights Collection isn’t furniture meant to be put on display – it’s a gorgeous collection that’s meant to be lived with… that’s meant to be used.  And that’s really the true beauty of Avalon Heights.  For all its style, its elegance and its sophistication, it’s truly furniture you can feel comfortable in.  And let’s face it:  when it comes to the home, and home style in particular, there’s truly nothing more important than being comfortable.  In this respect, Stanley’s Avalon Heights Collection has no equal.

To learn more about the Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection including a closer look at the various finishes, materials, etc., head over to the official Stanley Furniture website.  You can also see select pieces from the Stanley Furniture Avalon Heights Collection including the aforementioned bedroom pieces that I purchased in the gallery below.

The new B-Class from Mercedes-Benz may be considered entry level but when you’re behind the wheel, it truly is anything but.  It offers high-quality materials and finely structured surfaces, stylish details, precision workmanship and most importantly, spaciousness – the interior of the new B-Class will no doubt set the benchmark for all other compact vehicles.

Many features that have been reserved for the higher vehicle classes to date and that embody Mercedes-Benz’s special understanding of quality and aesthetics can now be found inside the 2012 B-Class. The dashboard is optionally available in ARTICO leather finish with stitching, for example. Four equipment packages (Chrome, Sports, Exclusive and Night package) enable individualisation according to personal tastes.

The interior: emotional design with sporty attributes

High-quality materials and finely structured surfaces, stylish details, precision workmanship and a new spaciousness – the interior of the B-Class defines a whole new benchmark in the compact segment. In the interior, the large, three-dimensional trim covering the entire dashboard first strikes the eye. The three large round vents in the middle and their uniquely designed cruciform nozzles add a sporty attribute to the interior’s emotional design idiom.

The display, which is available in two sizes with a diagonal or 147 or 178 millimetres, appears to hover over the vents. With its stylish design – the trim frame with galvanised finish contrasting with the piano black of the front panel – and slender lines, the colour display (TFT) is a highly attractive showpiece in the cockpit. The menus on the display are operated by means of rotary pushbuttons in the centre console. The “hovering” screen concept also serves two additional effects: the screen blends more harmoniously into its surroundings while at the same time conjuring up an impression of greater space in the centre of the instrument panel.

The 3-spoke steering wheel, which always features a matte chrome insert in the middle spoke, the instrument cluster with four analogue round dials and suspended pointers in 6 o’clock position and the seats with contrasting stitching underscore the sporty character.

The instrument panel features a mat, soiling-resistant surface with a pleasant, quality feel. The large trim situated centrally in the driver’s and front passenger’s field of vision is available in four variants covering a broad spectrum from modern through sporty to classic. Common to all versions is a high-class appeal combining an attractive look and feel with easy care and durability.

Instead of a high-gloss black finish, the trim on the basic model features the fine “Matrix” pattern on a piano lacquer-like background, for example. The trim is produced by means of the IMD technology (In-Mould Decoration), which involves spraying thermoplastic onto the backs of printed films in the mould. This results in mouldings with an excellent surface finish and quality appeal.

The trim in the Sports package is also produced by means of IMD. Here, the film is printed on both sides, creating an impression of even greater depth. On closer examination, the fascinating trim surfaces thus reveal further interesting details.

In the Exclusive package the trim is available in real matt walnut veneer.

The trim is optionally available in high-gloss black ash.

All the metallic surfaces in the interior are also genuine, thanks to electroplating. Various items, such as the outer ring on the round vents, the frame of the colour display and the upper shell of the shift lever, are finished in shimmering silk matt silver shadow. All silver surfaces possess the same lustre and the same surface quality, lending the interior a seamless appearance.

The high-quality impression is reinforced at night by the ambient lighting which is available in the Light and Sight package. A fibre-optic cable in the bottom edge of the trim diffuses gentle amber light. The scope of the ambient lighting also includes the front footwell lighting and the illuminated handle recesses on all doors.

While the design of the new B-Class continues to offer space in abundance, the line’s new dynamic character is directly apparent in its exterior dimensions. The most striking aspect is the reduced height: at 1557 millimetres, the new model crouches almost five centimetres lower on the road than its predecessor. The seat height in relation to the road has also been reduced (minus 86 mm). At the same time, this seat height also makes rolling movements substantially less noticeable.

In response to requests from many customers, the sitting position is more upright, however. At the same time, the headroom has been further improved. With maximum headroom of 1047 mm at the front (without sliding roof), the B-Class is among the most spacious cars in its segment in this discipline, too. The ergonomically expedient more upright sitting position in combination with a lowering of the vehicle’s floor at the rear leads to a segment-leading degree of legroom (976 mm).

The B-Class offers plenty of space for luggage, too. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 488 litres on the basic model. Even more important than this abstract volumetric measurement is the actual usable volume. The B-Class comes up trumps here with a luggage compartment width between the wheel arches of 1050 millimetres (40 mm more than its predecessor). Six crates of mineral water, each containing 12 0.7-litre bottles, or three medium-sized packing cases (measuring 440 x 345 x 470 mm) can be transported without encroaching on the space available in the second row of seats. As a particularly convenient feature, the loading sill has been lowered by five millimetres in comparison to the predecessor and is now at a height of 616 millimetres.

The rear seat backrest comes as standard in a folding variant with a 60:40 split. As an option, the B-Class is alternatively available with the so-called EASY-VARIO-PLUS system. This enables flexible reorganisation of the interior in next to no time. Features of the EASY-VARIO-PLUS system include separate fore/aft adjustment of the rear seats by up to 140 millimetres. The luggage capacity then increases from 488 to 666 litres.

The inclination of the rear seat backrest is also adjustable. In so-called cargo position, a washing machine can be transported with the tailgate closed without folding the backrest down, for example. Equally, nine crates of mineral water or six medium-sized packing cases fit under the tailgate in this position. With the EASY-VARIO-PLUS system, the backrest of the front passenger seat can additionally be folded down onto the seat cushion to enable the transportation of long objects.

The height-adjustable luggage compartment floor also offers added variability according to individual needs. It can be moved into two different positions with one hand and locked firmly into place. In the upper position the luggage compartment floor forms a continuous surface with the load sill, facilitating loading and unloading. The rear seat backrests can be folded forward to produce a level load surface. An additional 72 litres of stowage space is then available under the loading floor. On the basic version the floor is limited to the lower position, but is removable.

The deployment of the electric parking space and the resultant omission of the handbrake lever gives rise to key advantages regarding the design of the tunnel trim and the area of the centre armrest. A stowage compartment has been integrated in the resultant space under the hinged armrest, which is optionally available as a sliding version. The interfaces to the mobile communication devices are located here: AUX (option: UCI) and USB connection and the entire comfort telephony.

In conjunction with the DCT transmission, whereby the shift lever is relocated from the tunnel trim to the steering wheel as the DIRECT SELECT lever, additional stowage space becomes available, Other stowage facilities include the door pockets, which now securely accommodate 1.5-litre bottles on the driver’s and front passenger’s side. A special compartment for the reflective safety jacket which is required in many countries is also to be found here. There is an umbrella holder next to the driver’s and front passenger’s seat, and stowage compartments are incorporated on the left and right of the luggage compartment. Optional extras include fold-out stowage compartments under the driver’s and front passenger’s seat, folding tables on the front seat backrests and an insert for a double cup holder for the stowage compartment in the tunnel trim between the front seats.

A super-sports car and cruiser in one: whether with the soft top open or closed, the SLS AMG Roadster offers its occupants an unrivalled driving experience. This is in large part due to the functional interior and extensive, exclusive standard appointments.

The driver of the SLS AMG Roadster has a low seating position typical of a sports car just 368 millimetres above the road surface. In combination with the generous effective headroom of max. 982 millimetres and the effective legroom of 1058 (driver) and 1078 (passenger) millimetres, this results in a very relaxed seating position. Good all-round visibility is made possible by the relatively upright angle of the windscreen. Decisive factors for the impression of spaciousness include the generous shoulder-room of 1483 millimetres and an elbow width of no less than 1606 millimetres.

The sports seats with integrated head restraints feature so-called two-zone seat cushions. Prominent side bolsters with a harder foam filling provide optimal lateral support, while the inner areas of the seat cushion and backrest are softer for a high level of comfort on long journeys. A black designo leather interior is standard equipment. The seat backrests are made from magnesium, a high-tech material that combines light weight with high strength. This leads to significant advantages where weight distribution and a low centre of gravity are concerned.

The fore-and-aft position, height, backrest angle, seat cushion angle and steering column are adjusted mechanically. If the optional Memory package is specified, these adjustments including the seat cushion angle are electric; three individual seat settings can also be stored in this way. The Memory package also includes four-way lumbar supports and adjustable seat side bolsters for more lateral support when cornering at speed. Pivoting air vents are integrated into the head restraints if the optional AIRSCARF® system is specified. The airflow can be adjusted to different body sizes using movable louvres, and the heating level can be set in three stages by pressing a button. The head and neck areas of the occupants are then bathed in a warm airflow – extending the roadster season. AIRSCARF® is operated using two keys in the centre console.

Glass draught-stop as standard

Irritating turbulences are prevented by the standard glass draught-stop: this is slotted onto the bulkhead between the seats and fixed in place with two levers. When not in use, the draught-stop is securely stowed in a textile bag in the boot. In combination with the optional single or two-tone designo Exclusive leather or designo Exclusive natural/textured leather in light brown, the SLS AMG Roadster features leather-lined roll-over bars with integrated grilles which improve occupant comfort even further.

AMG Performance steering wheel with high-quality, solid metal insert

The adjustment range of the Performance steering wheel is 60 millimetres axially and 2.3 degrees either up or down – this applies to both manual and electric adjustment. The steering wheel is lined in perforated leather in the specially formed grip area, and has a high-quality, solid metal insert and a rim with a diameter of 370 millimetres, with a flattened profile in the lower section. The best possible vehicle control is not least ensured by the specially formed steering wheel cross-section. A Performance steering wheel with leather/Alcantara inserts is available as an option.

The seven gears of the dual clutch transmission are shifted using solid metal shift paddles. A brief pull on the left (–) or right (+) shift paddle is enough to engage the required gear. Multifunction keys in the left and right steering wheel spokes provide rapid access to the audio, telephone and navigation functions, and to the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system. The main menu in the instrument cluster can also be accessed using the ergonomically shaped steering wheel keys.

Numerous instruments and AMG main menu

Two dial instruments provide information about the vehicle speed and engine speed, and have two small, integrated displays showing the fuel level and the engine oil temperature. When the ignition is switched on, the needles of the rev counter and speedometer simultaneously spin around to their maximum position, then instantly return to zero. Between the dial instruments there is a central display for information such as the odometer reading, range, fuel consumption, trip mileage, driving time and average speed.

The AMG main menu not only shows the individual tyre pressures at each wheel, but also has three modes for comprehensive driver information: “Warm Up”, “Set Up” and “RACE”. “Warm Up” shows the engine oil, coolant and transmission oil temperatures, while “Set Up” shows the current ESP® mode. “RACE” makes the RACETIMER available, with which the driver is able to measure lap times on a closed race circuit. Customers opting for AMG Performance Media (optional) will not find the above functions in the AMG main menu, but rather in the display of the standard COMAND APS multimedia system.

Permanently displayed information includes the currently selected gear and the activated driving mode of the dual clutch transmission – plus the time of day, ambient temperature and digital speed. Information on the navigation system, audio functions and telephone, individual vehicle settings and the ASSYST PLUS service interval display can be accessed in the central display. The gearshift indicator is located above the display, and therefore ideally in the driver’s field of vision: seven LEDs coloured white, yellow and red indicate the necessary gearshift if the driver of the SLS AMG has selected the manual (M) transmission mode. The faster the engine speed approaches the maximum of 7200 rpm, the more LEDs light up.

COMAND APS with DVD player as standard equipment

The centre console is also designed with the best possible ergonomics in mind. The upper section has an array of keys for the COMAND APS multimedia system. All the functions of the radio, DVD player, telephone and navigation system can be controlled from here. When switched on, the TFT colour display in the dashboard shows the unmistakable AMG logo for ten seconds – and depending on the function, a high-resolution map or other information such as the radio station, music track or telephone keypad. The Europe-wide navigation system has a 40-gigabyte hard disc on which the navigation data are stored, which means that route calculation is extremely rapid.

The car radio with integrated CD/DVD player features an FM/MW/SW and LW twin tuner with automatic station search, RDS, a 4 x 25 watt amplifier and a total of 6 loudspeakers. In addition, COMAND APS includes a music server with a memory capacity of 6 gigabytes, which enables the driver to store up to 1500 music files. A DVD player for video and audio is also on board, and an integrated 6-disc DVD changer is available on request. Below the DVD aperture the unit has an adapter that enables various PC memory cards for the reproduction of music files to be used. External audio devices such as an “iPod” can be connected to COMAND APS via the optional Media Interface. As a standard feature, Mercedes-Benz combines COMAND APS with the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system and the Bluetooth interface, which provides a wireless connection between the mobile phone and the hands-free system.

AMG DRIVE UNIT with E-SELECT lever

One of the visual and functional highlights in the interior of the SLS AMG is the solid centre console, which immediately calls an aircraft cockpit to mind. All the central control functions including the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which is inclined towards the driver, are grouped on this striking, solid-metal feature also optionally available in genuine carbon-fibre. The AMG E-SELECT shift lever with embossed AMG emblem for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission also has a jet aircraft look: the one-touch drive-by-wire system enables the driver to shift between R, N and D extremely rapidly. When the car is stationary, simply pressing the P-key activates the parking position – this also happens automatically when the engine is switched off. To the left are the rotary controls for the transmission’s driving modes, including RACE START, as well as the keys for the ESP® functions, the extendable rear aerofoil, the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension and the AMG memory function.

The engine start button is also integrated into the AMG DRIVE UNIT: this lights up in red when the vehicle is unlocked. When the button is pressed, the “Engine Start Stop” flashes during the starting process.

The Controller directly integrated into the centre console operates the mutimedia system COMAND APS. This rotary/push control can be moved in seven directions: turning the controller selects the main menu and submenus on the display, while pushing it activates or confirms the displayed function or setting. The buttons next to the Controller marked with “R” and “C” symbols are used to quit submenus quickly or delete entries.

Optional Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system

The new sound system realised by Mercedes-Benz and AMG together with the famous Danish audio specialist Bang & Olufsen was developed specifically for the SLS AMG Roadster. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound surround-sound system with Dolby Digital 5.1 provides an exclusive listening experience at the highest level. This is not only thanks to the amplifier with a total output of 1000 watts and 11 loudspeakers, but also to the sound processor’s precise distribution of the music signals to selectable driver, passenger or central positions. The digital sound processor (DSP) also makes it possible to choose between a high-end studio sound (“Reference”) and surround-sound. All the functions are controlled via a special Bang & Olufsen menu in COMAND APS. Particular highlights are provided by two illuminated 50-watt lens tweeters on the dashboard. As a Roadster-specific feature, a 250-watt subwoofer is integrated into the aluminium cross-member behind the seats. High-quality loudspeaker covers bearing the Bang & Olufsen logo indicate the exceptional status of this high-end system.

THERMOTRONIC comfort automatic climate control as standard

The sophisticated THERMOTRONIC two-zone luxury automatic climate control system is included as standard for outstanding climatic comfort. A powerful air conditioning compressor ensures rapid cooling of the interior; the cooled air flows from the four multi-adjustable vents in the dashboard, two apertures in the A-pillars, three at the windscreen and one in each footwell. Sensors constantly monitor the interior temperature, the temperature of the air flowing from the air vents, the air moisture content and the intensity and angle of the sun. A pollutant sensor recognises excessive carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide concentrations in the outside air, and automatically closes the air recirculation flap if levels of these pollutants increase rapidly. A key with an Off symbol switches THERMOTRONIC off if required – for example if it is not needed because the soft top is open.

The modern, short-travel control keys in the SLS AMG require an operating force of only four newtons. All keys and switches are treated with Softtouch paint, which creates a silky sheen and a soft surface. The homogeneous, amber-coloured illumination of the control symbols ensures easy recognition, and also underlines the high-quality appearance of the interior when driving at night.

A wealth of stowage spaces for typical Mercedes day-to-day suitability

The interior also impresses with practically designed stowage facilities for typical Mercedes day-to-day suitability. The glove compartment with a capacity of 3.7 litres and a spectacles compartment is in the dashboard on the passenger side. To the right of the E-SELECT lever there is a small compartment with a 12 V socket or on request an ashtray with cigar-lighter. The armrest behind the centre console not only facilitates operation of the COMAND Controller, as it also has the conveniently integrated control switch for the electrically operated fabric soft top.

The armrest can be moved in two stages at the touch of a button, revealing a stowage compartment in which there are two cupholders and a telephone cradle (optional). Other items can be stowed in compartments in the doors, the stowage system on the rear bulkhead between the seats and the map pocket in the passenger footwell. Two clothes hooks are attached to the seat backrests. The unlocking switch for the boot lid is located below the light switch in the dashboard. Alternatively the boot can also be opened using the button in the vehicle key. The boot has a capacity of 173 litres (acc. to VDA measuring method).

Overview of the comprehensive standard equipment (selection):

• AMG sports seats with three-stage seat heating
• COMAND APS
• Floor mats with AMG logo
• Interior in black designo leather
• Anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection
• and interior monitoring
• Electric parking brake
• Headlamp Assist
• KEYLESS-GO start function
• PARKTRONIC
• Rain sensor
• Tyre pressure monitoring system
• Child seat recognition in the passenger seat
• Sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
• Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC
• THERMOTRONIC

Optional extras include the following (extract):

• AMG alubeam silver
• AMG Le Mans red
• AMG Monza grey Magno
• AMG Sepang brown
• designo magno alanite grey
• designo mystic white 2
• 6-disc DVD changer
• AIRSCARF®
• Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system
• Interior appointments in designo single-tone Exclusive leather
• Interior appointments in designo two-tone Exclusive leather
• Interior appointments in designo Exclusive light brown natural leather/embossed leather
• Automatically dimming interior mirror and exterior mirror on driver’s side, as well as electrically folding exterior mirrors left and right with ambient lighting
• Media interface
• Memory package with electric seat and steering column adjustment,
• as well as a four-way lumbar support
• Blind Spot Assist

Even more individuality is possible with optional extras from the AMG Performance Studio:

• AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirrors
• AMG carbon-fibre engine compartment cover
• AMG Interior Carbon Fibre package (carbon-fibre trim, trim on seat backrest and side, door sill panels)
• AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
• AMG light-alloy wheels in a 5-twin-spoke design, painted in titanium grey with high-sheen finish, size 9.5 x 19 inches (front) and 11.0 x 20 inches (rear), tyre sizes 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear)
• AMG Performance steering wheel in leather/Alcantara®
• ·AMG Performance Media
• AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with adaptive damper adjustment
• AMG forged wheels in a 10-spoke design, painted in titanium grey and polished, size 9.5 x 19 inches (front) and 11.0 x 20 inches (rear), with tyre sizes 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear)
• AMG forged wheels in a 10-spoke design, painted in matt black with high-sheen finish, size 9.5 x 19 inches (front) and 11.0 x 20 inches (rear), with tyre sizes 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear)
• AMG carbon-fibre trim
• AMG high-gloss black trim
• Red-painted brake calipers

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.

When discussing the new more luxurious interior of the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, a few thoughts come to mind – high-quality materials and superbly finished surfaces, fine details, precise workmanship and spaciousness. The interior of the redesigned B-Class raises the bar in the compact car segment.

Many of the details or elements now found in the Mercedes B-Class were once seen only in higher-end Mercedes vehicles. In order to correspond with the new Mercedes-Benz design philosophy in terms of image and quality, that is no longer the case. For example, the B-Class dashboard may be covered with stitched ARTICO man-made leather.

The first thing that strikes you when looking at the vehicle’s interior is the large, three-dimensional decorative element spanning the entire dashboard. This is available in four variants covering a broad spectrum including modern, sporty and classic. What all of these versions share is a high perceived quality that, in addition to the visual and haptic experience, also includes ease of care and a long useful life.

With this high-quality overall concept and a harmonious balance between the familiar, new and progressive, the interior of the B-Class reflects the latest findings in the field of perceptual psychology made by Daimler AG’s Customer Research Center (CRC).

The three large circular vents in the centre of the dashboard and their unique grilles, in the style of the sporty Mercedes-Benz model ranges, add to the design idiom of the interior.

Above the vents is the high quality screen, which is available in two sizes. With its first-class design (including an ornamental frame with galvanised surface contrasting with the piano black of the front panel) and sleek dimensions, the colour display (TFT) is a real gem in the cockpit.

The new three-spoke steering wheel, used for example in the CLS, including an insert in the centre spoke that is always finished in silver chrome, an instrument cluster with four round, analogue displays and hanging needles in the 6 o’clock position and seats with contrasting stitching reinforce the car’s sporty image.

The influence of the Advanced Design Studio in Como is also reflected in the interior design of the new B-Class. One example is the free-floating, streamlined screen in the new Mercedes B-Class. The fact that the B-Class takes quality in the compact class to a whole new level is also thanks to a new approach by Mercedes-Benz that first originated in Como. Following the “appreciation model”, designers can implement their ideal concepts then look for a way to transfer these ideas to series production. This produces a harmonious and high-quality end result.

The new B-Class will be making its international debut at the IAA in Frankfurt (13th to 25th September 2011). It will then be rolled out to European dealerships in November 2011.

Have you ever considered the possibility that on those 100 degree days when you are stuck in traffic that your car might overheat or when you’re in a -20 degree blizzard that your car might also run into trouble?  Luckily, if you’re driving a Mercedes, you don’t have to worry about such trivial things like weather. Mercedes’ new testing facility at the Sindelfingen site is specifically designed to run prototypes through a myriad of weather conditions.  

Mercedes-Benz recently inaugurated two wind tunnels capable of temperatures ranging from -40 degrees up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.  In addition to testing the Mercedes-Benz Prototypes against brutal temps, the test vehicles can also be hit with hurricane force winds up to 164 mph, heavy rains and snow.

The ability to run the prototype vehicles through at such an early stage allows Mercedes-Benz to move more quickly through the design and development process, only have to do real life road tests on components that have already proven themselves.  Another advantage of the new climatic wind tunnels is that they are designed to accommodate the use of hydrogen and therefore eminently suitable for all alternative drive systems of the future. Special sensors and an effective air extraction system mean that fuel-cell powered vehicles can also be subjected to exacting test programmes here.

Expand the full press release or view the photo gallery below to find out more.

The new dynamic driving simulator from Mercedes-Benz is the most powerful in the entire car industry. Going into operation at the end of 2010, it offers a 360 degree screen, fast electric power system and a nearly 40 foot-long rail for transverse or longitudinal movements.

According to Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Development, Mercedes-Benz Cars, “With the new simulator, we are able to reproduce highly dynamic driving manoeuvres such as lane-changing even more realistically and to research the behaviour of the driver and the vehicle in road traffic in even greater depth,”. The system is not intended to replace real test drives entirely. The simulator will enable systems and components for future Mercedes models to be tested throughout all development phases, however. The new Mercedes B‑Class was one of the first models to receive its final fine-tuning in the new driving simulator prior to the real test drives.

The driving simulator is additionally used to conduct tests with test subjects. During these, normal car drivers are able to approach the physical limits with no danger, providing the Mercedes engineers with findings concerning the acceptance and operation of new safety systems, such as radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST with adaptive Brake Assist in the new B-Class.

How the simulator works

The simulator cell is a hexapod mounted on six moveable supports. Inside there is a complete Mercedes model in which the test driver is seated, as well as the 360° projection screen showing a realistic image of the traffic scenario, with moving pedestrians, oncoming traffic and houses.

The vehicle controls are linked to the computerised control system of the driving simulator by data lines. When the test driver turns the steering wheel, accelerates or operates the brakes, these reactions are registered by the computer control system and have the same effects as in real traffic situations. The scenery on the screen changes constantly, and the moving cell simulates the vehicle’s attitude on the road, for example front-end dive when braking or body roll during fast cornering. The computer calculates the driving behaviour of the car more than 1000 times per second, issuing the relevant commands to the electrics. It is able to move the cell transversely by up to twelve metres at a maximum speed of ten metres per second (36 km/h), so that double lane-changes can also be simulated, for example.

Equally high-tech: part of the energy required to operate the simulator is obtained by means of energy recuperation during braking and fed into the power network of the Sindelfingen plant.

Mercedes-Benz has been playing a pioneering role in the use of simulators for a long time. The first driving simulator, an in-house development, was commissioned at the Daimler-Benz research centre in Berlin-Marienfelde over 25 years ago.

In everyday driving, the aerodynamics of a vehicle plays a major role on fuel consumption, leaving you to wonder how the 2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class is able to achieve good gas mileage. Designers at Mercedes worked hard to give the new B-Class an outstanding drag coefficient of cd = 0.26, placing the new Mercedes B-Class at the forefront of its market segment. In the near future, with the optional ECO Technology package, the five-door B-Class will achieve the world-class aerodynamic credentials of the E-Class Coupé, attaining a drag coefficient of cd = 0.24 which is nothing short of sensational for a vehicle with a station wagon rear end.

If you are unfamiliar with cd values, a change of cd .01 adds up to .11 gallons per 62 miles at a speed of 80 mph. It may not sound like much but you are saving over a gallon of gas between every fill up.

“A whole range of measures were necessary in order to attain the excellent drag coefficient of cd = 0.26,” explains Dr. Teddy Woll, Head of Aerodynamics at Daimler AG. “Apart from an aerodynamically efficient basic design, these include numerous optimisation measures on points of detail, such as the air flow around the front wheels, the underbody design and the flow of cooling air.”

Designers and aerodynamicists worked closely together. Aerodynamically efficient lines are demonstrated by the exterior mirrors with braces, for example. The low height of the shoulder on the A-pillar accompanied by optimised A-pillar geometry also contributes to the good aerodynamics. The entire front apron is sealed, including special seals fitted on the headlamps, for example. The large roof spoiler at the rear provides for defined flow separation.

Flow losses at the front wheel arches have been reduced substantially with the aid of innovative serrated wheel spoilers at front and rear – patent pending -, slots in the wheel arches and optimised hub caps. These measures result in improved wind flow around the wheel arches.

Equally comprehensive measures have been undertaken to design the underbody along aerodynamic lines. The main floor panel features extensive cladding up to the rear wheel arch, followed by additional cladding of the rear axle. The rear silencer has also undergone aerodynamic optimisation.

The improved cooling air flow by means of an adjustable radiator shutter which is familiar from other Mercedes models now features on the basic petrol-engine model in the B-Class. This feature enables infinite adjustment of the air flow through the engine’s cooling module and the engine compartment by means of a circular louvred shutter installed in parallel with the fan. When there is no special need for cooling air, the shutter is closed. This improves the aerodynamics and reduces fuel consumption.

The ECO Technology package, which will be optionally available for all versions of the B-Class, incorporates additional optimisation measures designed to further reduce drag. These include lowering of the body, the sealing of joints at the rear window and the cladding of chassis components at the rear axle.

The aerodynamics of the new B-Class were optimised at an early stage in the development process by means of complex computer calculations and flow simulations. Over 275,000 CPU hours were required for the purposes of digital flow simulation. Models and prototypes spent around 1100 hours in the wind tunnel for measurement purposes.

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class designers worked hard to combine the interior expected in an SUV with the luxurious feel of the top Mercedes Saloons. While an expressive dome shape embodies the power of an SUV, the gently sloping dashboard in the front passenger area affords an outstanding sense of space, thereby highlighting the vehicle’s suitability for long journeys.

The evolution of the dashboard in Mercedes-Benz off-road vehicles, from the early days of the G-Class through to today’s new M-Class, makes it clear how much aspects of comfort and wellbeing have now come to the fore:

• In the G model dating from 1979, square-edged shapes defined the flat dashboard. The angular instrument panel was laid on top of this, while the dashboard console, also angular in shape, and the glove compartment area were hung beneath. As if pieced together from modular sections, the individual elements reflected the clear look of a commercial vehicle. Their simple practicality dispensed with any embellishments, instead giving off an air of rustic charm with a rather metallic-like effect. At the time, this was totally appropriate for an off‑road vehicle.

• The dashboard in the first generation M-Class dating from 1998 was also primarily functional in nature, and made only tentative concessions to a design based around comfort. Nevertheless, the first hints of the more comfortable and friendlier interior design to be found in saloons were noticeable. Curves and sweeping lines helped to avoid an impression of austerity. Trim elements were not often incorporated into the sober visual design, however, and functionality continued to dominate.

• The design of the instrument panel in the new M-Class is completely on a par with its counterparts found in luxury-class saloons: modern, friendly, equipped with high-quality materials and stylishly designed. At the same time, matching details reflect the superior character of a premium SUV.

SUV environment with the comfort of a luxury saloon

The modern Mercedes-Benz definition of the appropriate interior of an SUV becomes evident as soon as the pleasantly high seating position is accessed via the wide-opening doors. The spacious, bright interior provides noticeably more elbow room than its predecessor (34 mm more in the front, 25 mm more in the rear) and thus an enhanced sense of space and comfort. The driver takes to the wheel behind a 4-spoke multifunction steering wheel with twelve trapezoidal control buttons for trip computer, radio, telephone, etc. – which is also of a high saloon standard. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission is controlled via the DIRECT SELECT DIRECT SELECT lever as well as DIRECT SELECT shift paddles on the steering wheel.

The broad instrument panel stretches out behind the steering wheel. With its clear emphasis on width, it continues the horizontal lines from the exterior design in the interior. Exciting areas and powerful lines highlight the vehicle’s sporty aspirations.

An eye-catching feature of the instrument panel is a large decorative trim element that is then continued along the doors in a very harmonious wrap-around effect. These generously proportioned trim elements, in a three-dimensional design, are available in four high-quality wood finishes, or in aluminium. The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class can thus be appointed to reflect either exclusive refinement or sporty sophistication, according to the customer’s taste. The door openers and seat adjustment switches have been inset with precision craftsmanship into the side trim elements. The door centre panels feature distinctive decorative stitching, with a separate, exclusive look for the Sports package.

All clear: instruments and COMAND screen

The state-of-the-art instrument cluster with its two clear and extremely legible round dials and a large, 11.4 cm monochrome display between them, impresses with the high quality of its design. Dominating the centre of the instrument panel in the centre of the vehicle is the large colour screen for the infotainment system. There is a choice between CD radio, CD radio with integrated navigation system or the COMAND control and display system with the latest navigation system (14.7 cm screen diagonal for the CD radios, 17.8 cm for the internet-enabled COMAND Online). The control and display concept was developed specifically with user-friendly operation in mind. Infotainment, navigation and communication systems are intuitive and easy to operate using the metal Controller located on the centre console. Two buttons are used to switch the display on and off.

Vertical rectangular air intake vents either side of the large screen serve to emphasise the more functional aspects of the SUV. The outer air vents are the same shape but in this case horizontally positioned, thus giving an added design flair. The dashboard console and air intake vents feature edging with a quality Silver Shadow finish. The row of high-gloss silver switches in the dashboard console are characterised by their ergonomic design and discernible precision. The same applies to the air conditioning and ventilation setting, as already proven in Mercedes-Benz saloons.

The centre console incorporates an integrated arm and handrest, in front of which is located the Controller and various switches, such as those for the off-road programmes and AIRMATIC air suspension. All controls feature a quality, uniform look. They create a harmonious effect and the lend the interior a touch of class in the many places in which they are used.

Numerous stowage facilities, high degree of variability and temperature-controlled cup holder

Numerous, easily accessible stowage facilities in the M-Class can accommodate bottles, mugs, keys, coins and much more. Each of the four doors can also easily accommodate a large 1-litre bottle.

A light touch of the handrest in the centre console opens up a large stowage compartment which houses a 12V socket as well as easily accessible connections for mobile audio devices. To make long journeys and extensive off‑road excursions more enjoyable, the centre console also features two innovative cup holders which can keep drinks either cool or warm at temperatures of between 8°C and 55°C.

High-quality materials and strong colour values

The seats in the new M-Class are designed to provide a high level of comfort on long journeys as well as excellent lateral support. All important parameters can be electrically adjusted, including height, backrest angle, seat cushion angle and reach. Generous seat adjustment travel of more than 350 millimetres lengthways and more than 90 millimetres in height ensure that drivers of all sizes will always find the ideal seating position.

A high level of variability characterises the rear seats, which are fitted with an armrest and cup holder. The angle of their backrests can be adjusted, and they can be also folded in the ratio 1/3:2/3, thus creating a through-loading feature for long objects, such as skis, without having to sacrifice all of the rear seat positions. Folding both backrests as well as the seat cushions forward creates a level load compartment with a capacity of 2010 litres up to the roof liner.

Exclusively available for the new M-Class are three seat and two sports seat variants in six different colour combinations. The sports seats reserved for the Sports package feature a different stitching pattern which is also incorporated into the door centre panels.

Four colours are available for the interior appointments: black, almond beige, alpaca grey and marron/tobacco brown. These can be combined with a wide range of materials: fabric/ARTICO man-made leather in black, ARTICO man-made leather and leather in six colour combinations, in conjunction with the Interior Sports package with DINAMICA microfibre and leather in black.

The Mercedes-Benz Aria Concept is a vision from Macedonian design student Slavche Tanevski developed at the Mercedes-Benz Design Studio under the supervision of the company’s design chiefs and designers.. The Aria is an electric, luxury car for the year 2030.

It showcases a remarkable quality, with a careful design research carrie out through an incredible number of sketches and renderings – check the gallery below for enlargable photos.

The goal was to create a car with a timeless design that could combine a sleek silhouette with dynamic proportions and sensual, sculptural surfaces, to express a vision of what a luxury car from Mercedes-Benz could look like in the year 2030.

As Slavche explains, “I intended to do a car with a timeless beauty. So I asked myself, what body, which products have this quality? – Musical instruments.”

“The grand piano for example, when it’s closed it looks elegant, classy, noble. When open, one sees the keyboard, the strings etc. which put the product to another level.”

At first glance the attention is caught by the body surfaces, inspired by female body, violin, the Coke-Bottle – and supported by tensioned and articulated lines which give the car definition and character.

A further analysis reveals a number of details, such as the distinctive “aero pins” which define the tail volume the wheels, the interior. The main inspiration for the exterior is the flying hair. “Something very likable, spontaneous and elegant.”

Exterior Design

To express the car’s character, the front end is inspired by Alexander’s helmet, a symbol of power, leadership and with a sense of protective aesthetics. At the same time the traditional Mercedes-Benz grille is subtly indicated.

The vehicle has wheel hub electric engines, so the air intakes are positioned on the sides instead of the center. The volumes around are dictated by the aerodynamics.

The arrow-like traditional Benz nose is still there to change the direction of the air. The fascia form ensemble is being supported by two shovel-formed blades which again divide the air and channel it to the E-engines and brakes respectively. In the side view, the design is characterized by the sleek trapezoidal shape. The body is extremely stretched, with a very low greenhouse.

“The roofline is coupe-like and is subjunctively integrated in the body, for a better flow appearance.

“The character line is positioned very low and is a quotation of the Mercedes 500K Specialroadster.

“It supports the car’s stylish appearance and matches the design of the roofline, which gives homogeneousness to the overall look.

“The belt line is droplet-shaped, which underlines the aerodynamic efficiency of the car. The front half of the shoulder edge has the opposite direction to give the car push-forward effect.

“The crisp character lines, in contrast, are connected by soft and mainly positive surfaces which show the car’s muscles.

“By avoiding too many creases and showing an interesting play of light and shadow, the surfaces articulate the reflections to achieve dynamism.”

“The radii and the direction changes on the surfaces are similar to those of a silk dress.”

Wheels design

The wheels are based on a five-spoke configuration, which is combined with a complex surfaces that echoes the exterior form language while hinting at the electric drivetrain.

The volume is segmented to give the rim an electric feeling, to express the craft precision and to reduce weight. The wheel is secured by copper wires, which also optically support the electrical character. The Mercedes-Benz logo is pulled outside and has a floating impression, as it doesn’t rotate when the car moves.

Interior Design

The main characteristic of the interior is its modularity and the way it is connected to the body of the car: it is not welded to the exterior but wired to the copper skeleton.

This makes it easily interchangeable, like home furniture. This connecting system also allows better comfort, as the wires have a flexibility that results in a second suspension system. Inspired by a cradle, the system enables a flying sensation for the passengers.

“The design statement set with the exterior is even stronger in the interior. The flow continues inside the car as well. It’s represented by the main central metallic frame and continues on the conjunctive seats.

“At the front the “dashboard” is formed by two piano black leafs which “levitate” over the ray-shaped structure and enhouse the steering wheel as well as the airbags.

“The atmosphere in the cabin is very airy and roomy to give the feeling of freedom.

The concept of contrast is also used in the choice of materials: copper and aluminum used to express strength, leather and piano black surfaces as symbols of high class and exclusivity, while the wooden floor resembles a yacht deck.

Back in January, Pagani released information on their Zonda successor, the Huayra, pronounced “hoo-aii-ra.” Compared to the company’s previous offering this new model has a relatively understated design, which is designed to “shape the wind” instead of tearing it a new one like the Zonda did. With that said, the Huayra still shares key elements that make it unmistakably Pagani – headlights, short nose, and a pear shape.

We were recently alerted to AMG web-special featuring the beautiful Pagani Huayra and had to share it with you.  Click here to view the web-special or continue on to view photos of the beauty or to find out more information.

Design

The eternity of the element air. Gentle and refined, yet the strength of the wind it is able to erode even the toughest of materials giving birth to distinctive shapes known in nature. Elegant and muscular the Huayra merges the past, present and future in a timeless interpretation of automotive art.

The styling of the car was perfected over the course of 5 years to find each line’s beginning and end. During this study, eight scale models were created, as well as two 1:1 models, each an evolution of the previous in a never ending quest to perfect the form and refining the substance.

The bi-xenon headlamps are just one of the many precious gifts from the Zonda R, and LED daytime running lights are seamlessly integrated in the elliptical shape of the design. The rear bumper integrates with the diffuser and is dominated by an elliptical frame that surrounds the four central exhaust outlets, now becoming a characteristic Pagani element.

Spine

The new central monocoque on the Huayra is an entirely new design made from carbontitanium. However, with the gull wing doors cutting deep into the roof, much research was focused on achieving the highest levels of rigidity through the application of new advanced composite materials and technologies first tested on the Zonda R. The fuel tank is located integrally in the best protected area of the monocoque, behind the driver, reinforced by safety cell made of different composite and ballistic materials. The front and rear CrMo subframes offer an exceptional rigidity-to-weight ratio to allowing the suspensions to work at their best while incorporating an advanced energy absorbing crash structure, ready to protect the occupants in the unlikely event of an impact.

The never ending quest for weight reduction resulted also into the combination of structural and non-structural or aesthetical elements. An example is the integration of all ventilation air ducts into the monocoque’s structure, making the use of additional parts and ducts unnecessary. The result of this attention to detail is a vehicle weighing 1.350 kg making the Huayra the lightest sportscar in its class.

Heart

Mercedes-AMG provides the heart for the Huayra. The 60 degree 12 cylinder turbocharged engine with a displacement of 5980 cm3 has been developed not just to meet the strictest technical and quality requirements, but also to give the car its many faces.

The calm and harmony of driving one of the world’s most refined GT car is interrupted when the driver calls upon the Huayra to unleash its 700 horsepower and 1000 Nm of torque. The turbos have been studied to offer immediate response to the slightest throttle input, giving the driver full control over the engine at any rpm and preventing unwanted delays in the delivery of power.

The engine’s systems have been designed and tested to stand up to the most adverse conditions of temperature and performance. The Huayra has been subjected to the highs of Death Valley and the lows of the Arctic Circle. The two lateral radiators are positioned in the front to guarantee the best cooling efficiency of the intercoolers placed over the cylinder heads. Dry sump lubrication ensures an optimal oil feed to the engine even when the car is subjected to the most extreme lateral accelerations. It also regulates the oil flow so that only the necessary amount of lubricant is actually pumped into the engine from the external oil tank, reducing the friction caused by an excessive volume of lubricant inside the engine sump. An oil/water heat exchanger reduces warm-up times by heating the engine lubricant during cold start and keeps engine coolant and lubricant levels at steady operational temperatures. Extensive weight saving programs led to ingenious yet simple solutions. In order to reduce hoses and connections as much as possible is built directly to the engine. The intercooler covers serve as expansion tanks to the low temperature circuit and the engine coolant circuit. The vertical fins contribute to the cooling of the tanks.

The M158 engine is homologated to meet the strictest environmental regulations, EU5 and LEV2. Despite the increase of power compared to the other Mercedes-AMG V12 engines developed for Pagani, CO2 emissions as well as the fuel consumption have been reduced, to make the Huayra class leading amongst 12 cylinder sports cars with values that are respective of much smaller vehicles in the market. The two stage fuel supply system features two microprocessor controlled pumps feeding fuel to the engine with the second pump only activated when necessary, thus reducing the energy required to run the fuel pumps and eliminates the waste of excessive fuel being transported and heated in the fuel lines. This efficiency combined with a large 85 liter fuel tank ensure Huayra’s grand touring ability.

As an homage to the decennial tradition of Mercedes-AMG in building world class sports car engines, the M158 displays the historic AMG emblem on the intake manifold alongside the name of the technician that assembled the engine by hand at the Mercedes-AMG headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany.

The Titanium exhaust system has been engineered by MHG-Fahrzeugtechnik and is a direct application of race proven technologies on a high performance road car and the complete exhaust weighs less than 10 kg. Hydroformed junctions are used to reduce backpressure and guarantee a free flow of the exhaust gasses. Titanium guarantees a low weight in the muffler area while Inconel guarantees reliability on the parts of the exhaust more exposed to high temperatures. Careful attention has been paid to the tuning of its sound, which has led to a harmonic rumble at idle speeds with a hint of the power that lies hidden at low speed and a deep thunderous growl of motor and air, reminiscent of an airplane, at high speeds.

Feet

The power and prodigious torque generated by Huayra’s V12 are transferred to the wheels through a transverse sequential seven speed gearbox and a dual plate clutch and the complete gearbox weighs only 96 kg. Keeping the weight of the rear overhang as low as possible has been a priority as we aim for a neutral behavior at the limit. A further benefit of this layout is a better behavior of the car during a rear impact. A dual clutch system was evaluated but ultimately not selected as it would have increased the weight by approximately 70kg, thus negating any minor improvement in shift-time.

Xtrac already supplied the gearbox for the Zonda R and so it was the natural choice for the development of a new high performance gearbox. Xtrac’s expertise in motorsports was obvious throughout the design and material selection processes that resulted in the strongest and lightest gearbox possible suitable for road use, with a synchromesh box that offers comfort levels a race car gearbox will never be able to offer.

The suspension geometry has been designed to further enhance the sure-footed nature already present in the Zonda on the longer wheelbase Huayra. The individual suspension made with forged AvionAl double A-arms have been tested extensively on the Zonda R programme. Incorporated into the wheel hub assemblies are cooling ducts that connect directly to the support brackets, thus extending the reliability and lifespan of the bearings. Pushrod operated adjustable Ohlins shock absorbers keep everything under control and have been optimized for the dynamic requirements of the vehicle.

“Power is nothing without control…”

Pirelli say “Power is nothing without control” and to assure complete control for the driver Pirelli has developed the bespoke P Zero tires, specifically for the Huayra. The Pirelli engineers were faced with a demanding task, combining road holding for excitement behind the steering wheel and lower rolling resistance to reduce CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. These P Zero tires are built in a dedicated MIRS™ (Modular Integrated Robotized System) facility, dedicated to the production of ultrahigh performance tires and are at the forefront of what is technically possible, suited to top speeds above 370 kph as well as to lateral forces exceeding 1,5 G.

Skin

The aerodynamic concept of the Huayra is that of a wing. The vehicle can modify the properties of this wing by varying the front ride height, which can be adjusted dynamically, and by adjusting the 4 control flaps on each of the four corners of the car. The goal is to have a neutral vehicle behavior under all conditions and control body roll via aerodynamic means. The behavior of the flaps is managed by a dedicated control unit that is fed information from the ABS and ECU, which pass information about the car’s speed, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, steering angle and throttle position.

The system improves aerodynamic efficiency in a variety of driving conditions, where a low drag coefficient is not the determining factor. During braking, for example, the rear flaps and the front suspension are raised to counteract the weight transfer and balance the weight distribution between front and rear axles, allowing a better use of the rear brake force.

Another vital design tenant for the Huayra project was to ensure clean airflow over the body of the car. The shape of the two engine air intakes behind the occupants shoulders are a tribute to the supersonic aircraft of the late 1950s and 1960s, but also allow the motor breath without disrupting the flow. The intake for the gearbox radiator is located between the engine bay window and the carbon clamshell of the rear bonnet, which provides an excellent airflow to the radiator without having a substantial impact on aerodynamic drag. This decision also led to the omission of a rear wing, replaced by the movable flaps.

The flow of air through the car was also carefully studied. The radiators are angled to contribute downforce and provide the best flow for hot air to be extracted. Air from the central radiator is extracted by vents on the front bonnet and trough the front wheelhouses. Air from the side radiators is channeled to ducts cooling the brake discs and wheel hubs. This air blows onto the brakes at a temperature of approximately 50°C warming the brakes up when cold and improving the first bite significantly. Lateral air outlets behind the front wheels generate a negative pressure inside the wheelhouse providing efficient extraction to lower the drag coefficient and generate downforce on the front.

In addition to the downforce generated by the flaps and body, two high negative pressure areas were designed into the shape of the underbody and the diffuser at the rear, thus enhancing the aerodynamic stability and guaranteeing the Huayra downforce under all circumstances.

For Man

As soon as the doors are closed the Huayra transports the occupants to a new dimension; a world that pleases and surprises the senses. Having everything at arm’s length is not close enough for a vehicle with the capabilities of the Huayra. Consequently, the driver will find all primary functions directly on the steering wheel. The gearshift paddles are mounted directly to the steering wheel so the driver never needs to take his hands off the steering wheel. The seats provide both the comfort to make long trips enjoyable as well as the lateral support required when the g-forces build up on extreme driving.

A Pagani is able to present drivers with state of the art solutions while still drawing on the rich history that precedes it. The ever present emphasis is on a living breathing being rather than a digital one. This can be seen in everything from the leather latches to the toggle switches, but this ethos finds its purest expression in the mechanical aluminum gearlever assembly, a monument to the art of the manual gearshift; progress that does not deny the past. The aluminum dashboard takes inspiration from the most complex swiss watch designs and includes a central Multi-Function Display displaying performance relevant information when SPORT mode is engaged and a trip computer when the COMFORT mode is activated. The aluminum center console is machined from one solid block of aluminum and features a clarinet style array of mechanical switches controlling the HVAC system. The high definition central touchscreen is the heart of the vehicle infotainment system, controlling audio functions, satellite navigation, secondary vehicle functions and Bluetooth phone.

On the road

To this date five prototypes have been built which have been conducting road tests for the past 4 years. Currently, over half a million kilometers have been covered by our prototypes and before entering the US market we will have reached one million test kilometers.

Each prototype has been assigned to a specific development task. At Mercedes-AMG one is used to develop drivability, and another is used for emission development. One car is operated constantly by Bosch Engineering for the application of ABS and advanced stability and performance enhancement systems. Still another vehicle is used for gearbox testing, and general vehicle dynamics development.

Safety

The car complies to the strictest European and American standards in term of safety and pollution regulations. Several studies were conducted to determine the most frequent types of crashes involving high performance cars. The results of these studies have let us to develop specific safety measures not required by law but to guarantee an enhanced protection for the occupants. Several cars have been used to perform these tests.

Technical data:

Engine:

• Mercedes-AMG M158 V12 twin-Turbo
• displacement: 5980 cc
• power: >700cv
• torque: >1.000 Nm

Gearbox:

• transverse sequential seven speed gearbox
• AMT robotyzed system with driving programs

Dimensions:

• length: 4605mm
• height: 1169mm
• car’s body width: 2036mm
• car’s width with rear mirrors: 2356mm
• dry weight: 1.350 kg (*)
• weight distribution: 44% front 56% rear

* changing according to the model

Mercedes-Benz Style has officially released there first product: TheEC145 “Mercedes-Benz Style” helicopter from Eurocopter will celebrate its world premiere on May 17, 2011 at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition 2011 or EBACE in Geneva. After showing off in Geneva, the stylish new copter will then be handed over to an unnamed European customer. The EC145 “Mercedes-Benz Style” is tailor-made for luxury-class business and private travel with an interior designed specially by Mercedes-Benz to be versatile and incorporate the finest materials available.

“We are very pleased to have realized the first product of ‘Mercedes-Benz Style’ with Eurocopter,” said Prof. h.c. Dr. Gorden Wagener, head of design at Mercedes-Benz. “The interior design of the EC145 ‘Mercedes-Benz Style’ helicopter represents the classic passion of the Mercedes-Benz design language and fulfils the very highest expectations in terms of elegance, luxury and comfort.”

The luxurious interior design was created in the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studio in the Italian city of Como and is inspired by the luxury-class saloons created by the brand with the three-pointed star. The EC145 “Mercedes-Benz Style” offers deluxe materials, elegant woods, and ambient lighting familiar from the S and E-Class that can be adjusted to a number of different colour and brightness settings, as well as spacious multi-function boxes with various equipment options.

Moreover, the designers have placed a great deal of emphasis on variability. The passenger cabin is incredibly versatile, making the EC145 “Mercedes-Benz Style” ideal for a diverse range of travel needs – from business or family travel, to leisure and sporting trips. All seats are fixed to rails and can be rearranged very easily in a number of different arrangements for four to eight passengers, or removed altogether in order to create space for luggage. The spacious load area also offers a high degree of flexibility with an extensive range of anchoring options on the floor and walls.

“Only one year after Eurocopter presented the EC145 ‘Mercedes-Benz Style’ concept at EBACE 2010, we now are unveiling the first aircraft and can already announce the initial sale to a European corporate operator,” said Olivier Lambert, Eurocopter’s Senior Vice President Sales and Customer Relations. “These achievements confirm Eurocopter’s successful approach in developing products that meet the demanding expectations of executive and private customers worldwide.”

The designers have tailor-made an outfit for the new SLK which emphasises its classic roadster proportions and puts them in the spotlight to thrilling effect. Behind the long bonnet is a compact passenger compartment positioned far back, and a short tail end. The SLK will tempt potential customers with the key attributes that characterise all the classic roadsters from Mercedes-Benz, and that have also made many of them automotive icons.

Professor Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars: “The SLK continues the illustrious roadster tradition of Mercedes-Benz, and excitingly takes it into the future. The design idiom accentuates its lively, sporty presence, and is also sculptural. It expresses personality and sensuality. The same applies to the interior. High-grade materials, lovingly crafted details and a very exclusive finish characterise the essentially very sporty atmosphere.”

Striking front end

The first feature to catch the eye is an upright radiator grille that stands proud and confident in the wind, bearing the new face of the Mercedes-Benz brand. It facilitates the long and well-proportioned bonnet and with its rearward light-catching contours it already hints at the roadster’s dynamic qualities. The bonnet ends with two air intake grilles in front of the windscreen, each embellished with three louvres.

The wide radiator grille bears the Mercedes-Benz star in a prominent central position and displays a powerfully contoured fin, chromed at the front. The clearly defined headlamps complete the look for the new SLK’s face, and daytime running lamps with chrome surrounds (round lamps in the base version) in the bumper round off the front end. The “face” of the new SLK is reminiscent of the legendary 190 SL from the 1950s, which is regarded by many as being the original “SLK”. But it was certainly not just the past that the designers were focusing on; with the new SLK’s front end they also intentionally created a close visual link with the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG “gull-wing model” and the new CLS.

The amazing and measurable proof of the meticulously detailed work that has been carried out is that in spite of the more striking, steeper front and the larger frontal area, the Cd value has been cut to just 0.30 (preceding model 0.32).

Dramatic lines

The classic, timeless lines of the side aspect with its typical roadster proportions embodies the utmost aesthetic appeal with a visual assurance of sportiness and fun. The vario-roof spans the interior like a drawn bow. When opened it disappears into the boot, creating the typical roadster silhouette. From any angle and in any position it blends harmoniously into the overall design. A fillet conceals the boot joint, so that it does not disturb the side aspect as with similar roof designs. Neither are the lines disturbed by aerials in most equipment variants: in most cases they are integrated into the windscreen, rear window and parcel shelf.

The air outlet grilles with a chromed fin in the front wings are reminiscent of the famous Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster from the 1950s. In the new SLK they form the elegant starting point for a feature line which extends right back to the muscular rear wings, and uses light and shadow to lend style and elegance to the side aspect.

This is emphasised by the stemmed exterior mirrors, which are positioned on the beltline where they allow a better forward view to the side. With their very narrow stems painted in the vehicle colour, these make a sporty and filigree impression. Their sophisticated aerodynamics also help to keep the side windows practically dirt-free, while ensuring a low level of wind noise.

Depending on the engine variant, the wheel arches house 16 or 17-inch light-alloy wheels, or 18-inch wheels with mixed-size tyres in conjunction with the sports suspension.

Muscular rear end

At the rear the eye is drawn to the integrated spoiler lip and wide tail light clusters. The roll-over bars feature double-skinned plastic claddings with a high-quality soft-look surface. As an optional extra these rear claddings can be of anodised aluminium.

For the first time, the tail lights with their pronounced horizontal emphasis are in all-LED technology. Their upper edge extends forward into the sides, harmoniously culminating in the feature line. A twin exhaust system with trapezoidal tailpipes rounds off the muscular impression created by the rear view.

High-grade materials and stylish sportiness

The new SLK is 31 millimetres longer and 33 millimetres wider than its predecessor. With the most compact dimensions in its class, the new SLK has an interior whose generous size is nonetheless exemplary. To achieve this, the designers have developed interior appointments which offer the driver and passenger outstanding perceived value, purist precision and a real feel-good ambience. The interior in the base colour black is characterised by sporty refinement, well thought-out ergonomics and high-quality, authentic materials which have been processed with painstaking attention to detail and skilled craftsmanship. Even in the base version, the centre console and other trim parts gleam in brushed aluminium. Wood can be selected as an option in high-gloss dark brown walnut or high-gloss black ash.

Echoing the exterior design, the black dashboard emphasises the horizontal lines and therefore width of the vehicle. On request it is available in a two-tone colour scheme and with a leather lining. Four round, galvanised air vents similar in form to those in the SLS are recessed into the dashboard, underlining the car’s membership of the Mercedes-Benz sports car family and at the same time deliberately creating associations with the dynamism of jet aviation.

Two large dial instruments – a speedometer and a rev counter – flank a display for the information generated by the online computer. The display menus can be conveniently accessed by the driver using the control buttons on the steering wheel, without taking his eyes off the road. The colour display for the communication and entertainment functions is housed in the centre of the dashboard, and can be easily read by both the driver and passenger. A comfortably shaped controller on the centre armrest ensures safe and easy operation.

On the top of the dashboard, also in the centre, sits a fine analogue clock (optional), subtly underlining the roadster’s stylish character.

An easily handled (diameter 375 millimetres) multifunction sports steering wheel with a flattened bottom section and a thick leather rim makes the high quality and sporty character of the new SLK a constant tactile experience. Metal trim on the spokes enhance the impression of both sportiness and refinement. Shift paddles to perform upshifts and downshifts in the automatic transmission are available as an option. The interior can be enhanced even further with a wood/leather steering wheel.

The sweeping lines of the upper dashboard section are continued into the door panels. The door centre panel is colour-coordinated with the interior. The door openers and seat adjustment switches are trimmed in aluminium or wood.

Sporty yet comfortable seats

The sporty, ergonomic seats with adjustable, crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints integrated into the backrests have high side bolsters for optimum lateral support and a high level of comfort on long journeys. Maximum operating convenience and seating comfort is ensured by optional electric seat adjustment with a memory function and 4-way lumbar support.

In the base version the new SLK is equipped with black fabric seats. There is also a choice of:

• embossed leather in black, sahara beige or crystal grey
• nappa leather in black, bengal red or moccha/nut brow
• Exclusive nappa leather – in this case the upper dashboard section and the doors are lined with black nappa leather

All leather and nappa leather seats are upholstered with leather which noticeably reduces heat build-up. The leather has a special coating which reflects the sun’s rays. Comparative measurements have shown that this leather reduces the temperature of the seats by more than ten degrees Celsius – a significant improvement in comfort when the car has been parked in the sun.

As in the previous model, the neck-level heating system AIRSCARF is available as an optional extra for the new SLK. This creates a flow of warm air around the neck and shoulder areas of the occupants from a vent in the front of each head restraint.

Magical lighting

An ambient lighting system available as an option for the first time creates an impressive effect in the interior of the new SLK. It consists of discreet optical fibres and spots in SOLAR RED, which produce an extremely pleasant yet sporty lighting effect in the door panels, around the door pulls and on both sides of the centre console. This mood-enhancing ambient lighting is activated when the doors are opened (“welcome home” effect), and its intensity can be individually varied by a dimmer.

The central lighting unit in the overhead control panel has two interior lights and a centre console spotlight.

Clever stowage compartment concept

For a two-seater roadster, the new SLK has an exemplary variety of stowage facilities in the interests of versatility and day-to-day utility. The basis for this well conceived interior concept is a large glove compartment with a remarkable capacity of 6.4 litres. Useful features such as holders for a pen, credit cards and coins are integrated into the glove compartment lid.

There are three stowage compartments in the centre console – below the air conditioning controls (this can be replaced by an ashtray on request), next to the controller in front of the armrest (roller-top compartment, optionally a drinks holder) and under the armrest with a 12 V socket, USB interface and AUX connection (optionally a media interface for integration of e.g. an iPod and mobile phone connection). A net attached to the tunnel in the passenger footwell can be fitted with a flexible bottle-holder which can securely accommodate even 1.5-litre bottles.

Excellent climate

The new SLK is equipped with air conditioning as standard. The automatic climate control system THERMOTRONIC with separately adjustable interior temperatures for the driver and passenger is available on request.

An example of the detailed refinements: a windscreen demisting sensor in the stem of the rear-view mirror registers the glass temperature and interior humidity level of the new SLK. In dry weather, when no cooling is required but A/C is operating, the control system powers the compressor down but activates it as soon as it registers that the windscreen is misting up. This has two advantages:

• The A/C function can remain active all the time, but the demand-controlled system saves energy.
• As the air conditioning only demoisturises and cools as much air as is required to maintain the interior temperature, the air is never too dry and this benefits the physical comfort of the occupants.

From the initial vision to the final production SLK model – watch the development and testing of the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class below.  Under the body of the new roadster a gigantic effort has been taken, intense engineering work, including several years of test runs.  Freezing cold, scorching heat and long-term stress tests – these are only three of the many hurdles Mercedes-Benz engineers had to overcome to bring the SLK Roadster into series production