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Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia Sdn Bhd (MBSM) recently celebrated its 5th anniversary. Starting from ground-up to a portfolio of RM2.2 billion in just five years and financing and insuring four out of every ten Mercedes-Benz cars sold; MBSM is raring to go in 2018.

Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia celebrates five years of providing innovative financial solutions (from left) Daimler Financial Services AAP Regional Head SEA, Hong Kong and Taiwan, Mr Thomas Hungerland; Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia Managing Director, Mr Mike Ponnaz; and Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner, kicking off the celebration with a cake cutting ceremony.

“It’s been five fantastic years! We have so much to celebrate, and one of the reasons for our celebration is the long-term support of our esteemed media friends, who have, and continue, to play an essential role in our success,” said Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia, Managing Director, Mike Ponnaz (above, middle).

MBSM was first established in 2012, entering the Malaysian market at an opportune time to support its sister company, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM), with innovative automotive financing packages. At that time, MBM had registered a strong sales record of over 6,000 vehicles sold. In 2012 and 2013 MBSM focused on setting up the business, studying the needs of the market in order to begin catering to the aspirations of Mercedes-Benz customers.

After establishing its operations, MBSM progressed into building greater awareness of its role in the Mercedes-Benz customer journey throughout 2014 and 2015. This included retail and corporate customers in the passenger car category as well as customers from the Commercial Vehicles division. MBSM focused on empowering its customers by matching financing options with different financial flexibility needs.

Along the way, MBSM marked other accomplishments namely, its parent company, Daimler Financial Services AG (Daimler Financial Services) was ranked the top five World’s Best Multinational Workplaces in 2016. “Our employees are the foundation of our success and we are committed to cultivating a workplace environment that supports their growth and development and enables them to provide the very best service to our customers,” explained Ponnaz.

MBSM’s keen focus on supporting Mercedes-Benz customers led to its ability to identify the evolving needs and aspirations of customers. Over the last two years, MBSM launched cutting-edge solutions like Agility Financing and Lease2Go that have redefined the process of owning and financing a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

“We have 16,000 active customers, and we recorded contracts worth over RM1billion in 2017 alone. We are very proud of the collective achievement of the team and look forward to growing in line with the remarkable sales achievements of over 12,000 Mercedes-Benz cars sold by MBM, and 2,469 Commercial Vehicles sold last year. Moving forward, 2018 will be a year of strengthening our portfolio and serving our customers better,” said Ponnaz.

Following five years of steady growth, MBSM took the time to personally thank us recently at a special celebration with the members of the Malaysian Automotive Media. Also present at the milestone celebration was Mr Thomas Hungerland, Daimler Financial Services AAP, Regional Head SEA, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Dr Claus Weidner, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, President & CEO.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia together with authorised dealer, Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd, recently launched the Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus. To-date, Hap Seng has invested a total of RM250 million in expanding its customer touchpoints nationwide, with an investment of RM6 million for the Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus alone.

(From Left): Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad, Group Chief Operating Officer and Hap Seng Star Chief Executive, Mr Harald Behrend and Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.

Part of a highly successful on-going partnership between principal and authorised dealer partner, Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus is strategically located next to the Damansara-Puchong Highway (LDP – Puchong Barat Toll Plaza), providing easy access to customers residing in and around Puchong, USJ and Putrajaya.

Speaking at the official launch, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner, (above, right) said, “We are constantly looking to expand our dealer network, both in terms of coverage and to ensure that we are in the most advantageous locations to better serve our customers. It gives us great pleasure to congratulate Hap Seng Star on the launch of Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus and wish the team all the success in both sales and after sales. We will continue enhancing our customer touchpoints nationwide while investing in developing key areas including talent, technology, production and services, as we remain focused on providing our customers with the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience.”

With a built-up area of 21,577 sq ft, the Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus conforms to the Mercedes-Benz Presentation System II (MPS II) Autohaus concept, the global autohaus benchmark of customer experience, complete with the latest Mercedes-Benz Corporate Identity (CI).

“With the launch of this Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus, we are proud to announce our 10th authorised Mercedes-Benz dealership in Malaysia. While this is a significant milestone in our history as a passionate dealer of Mercedes-Benz vehicles, we continue to reaffirm our commitment to deliver the highest standards of customer service to those who are part of the Hap Seng Star customer family,” said Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad, Group Chief Operating Officer and Hap Seng Star Sdn Bhd, Chief Executive, Harald Behrend (above, 4th from left).

More on HSS Puchong South…

Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus has a total display capacity of eight Mercedes-Benz vehicles; and although an interim facility, the Autohaus is a full-fledged 3S centre equipped with 12 work bays, capable of servicing up to approximately 500 vehicles a month, providing general and specialised repair solutions.

To provide greater customer care and convenience, the 27 member team at Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus offers a complete one-stop solution in sales, financial and after sales services. This includes tailored service when intending to purchase a Mercedes-Benz, personalised one-on-one interaction with a Service Advisor on necessary vehicle maintenance and repair, and financial services from Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia, thus completing the customer’s journey in purchasing and owning a prized Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

All technicians at the Authohaus are Mercedes-Benz certified and able to provide exceptional repair works with state-of-the art specialised Mercedes-Benz equipment and tools.  The new Autohaus also offers customers specialised maintenance and 24 hour roadside assistance.

Customers can also opt for Service Differentiation – an exclusive range of personalised services tailored to customers’ individual needs that offers flexibility and convenience which includes premium express service, door-to-door service or merely drop and go their Mercedes-Benz vehicle at the autohaus.

Placing greater emphasis on customer comfort and individuality, the Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus is equipped with a private Star Lounge and Mercedes-Benz lifestyle products are available for sale to all fans of the brand.

Currently, Hap Seng Star operates in Jalan Sultan Ismail, Kinrara, Jalan Ipoh, Balakong, Bukit Tinggi, Iskandar Johor and the latest in Puchong South. In East Malaysia, Hap Seng Star is present in Kuching, Miri and Kota Kinabalu.

The Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus brings the total number of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia dedicated nationwide dealerships to 34 Autohauses, all delivering the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience throughout customers’ entire journey. This further fortifies the German marque’s position as the largest and leading premium automotive dealer network in the country.

The Mercedes-Benz Hap Seng Star Puchong South Autohaus is located at Lot 14225, KM3.8, Lebuhraya Damansara-Puchong, 47100, Puchong. For more info, call +603 – 8051 5616.

 

CKD AMG? OMG.

No, your eyes don’t deceive you, and you read that right; Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has indeed chalked-up yet another milestone for local-assembly (CKD) with the Mercedes-AMG C 43 and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 which were both launched at the Sepang International Circuit last night.

Priced at RM408,888 and RM468,888 for the C43 AMG and GLC43 AMG respectively, these “Pure Driving Performance” machines will offer ‘undeniable luxury appeal combined with AMG racing pedigree that the Mercedes-AMG 43 series is renowned for’. Here’s the launch gambit last night, right there at the front straight of SIC (skip to the 2min mark for the cars’ appearance)

“We are ecstatic to announce the launch of the first locally-assembled luxury performance cars in Malaysia – the Mercedes-AMG C 43 and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. With the introduction of these models, we expand the range of vehicles assembled at our Pekan production plant adding to our existing elegant limousines and premium SUV, the GLCs. With superior power, dynamic handling, aggressive design and luxurious appointment, this incredible AMG 43 pair of automobiles now come with irresistible value to the passionate Mercedes-AMG driver,” said an obviously elated Mark Raine, Vice President Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (below).

More on the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC – The racetrack limousine: 

The 43-series models from Mercedes-AMG provide the brand’s hallmark emotive appeal and exciting Driving Performance for everyday use. Even at first glance, the characteristic AMG body styling leaves no doubt that this model is part of the Mercedes-AMG model family. The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC makes it possible for an even broader target audience to experience sports car technology and motorsports flair. The design is based on the AMG Line exterior, augmented by design elements specific to the Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC in high-gloss black and silver chrome plus the “BITURBO 4MATIC” badge on the front wings.

AMG-specific: the 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine

The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine features technical advances including a modified boost pressure allowing AMG engineers to increase the engine’s power output and torque as well as its dynamism and flexibility to typical AMG levels. With 270 kW (367 hp) and 520 Nm, the V6 engine sets new standards in its segment. The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS. Especially tough and, therefore, wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminium insert in the engine cover.

The Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC at a glance:

Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC
Displacement 2996 cc
Output 270 kW (367 hp) at 5,500 – 6,000 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2000-4200 rpm
Fuel consumption
NEDC combined
8.0-7.8 l/100 km
CO2 emissions 183 – 178 g/km
Acceleration
0-100 km/h
4.7 s
Top speed 250 km/h***
Price (OTR without Insurance)

*price is inclusive of GST

RM 408,888

 

More on the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC – A Sports SUV:

The 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is used in numerous AMG performance models. It delivers 270 kW (367 hp) maximum output plus a maximum torque of 520Nm. The GLC 43 4MATIC sprints from rest to 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds and its speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h. The newly developed front axle, the taut elastokinematics and the highly precise AMG speed-sensitive sports steering make a substantial contribution to the agile driving experience.

High on power, low on consumption: the AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine: The AMG 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine is capable of producing a powerful output with low consumption and emissions. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers are especially spontaneous in their response.

The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners was also enhanced in the Mercedes-Benz Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines. Especially tough and, therefore, wear-resistant, this coating also reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The same applies to the spray-guided multiple injection with up to 200 bar fuel pressure. The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminium insert on the engine cover.

The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC at a glance:

Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC
Number of cylinders/arrangement V6 biturbo
Displacement 2996 cc
Output 270 kW (367 hp) at 5500-6000 rpm
Peak torque 520 Nm at 2500-4500 rpm
NEDC fuel consumption urban/extra-urban/combined 8.7 – 8.3 l/100 km
CO2 emissions 199 – 189 g/km
Acceleration
0-100 km/h
4.9 s
Top speed 250 km/h***
Price (OTR without Insurance)

*price is inclusive of GST

RM468,888

 

For more details the full press release of the Mercedes-AMG C43 & GLC 43, click here: Press Information_The New 43s CKD_FINAL

Nabil Jeffri becomes the ‘face’ of Mercedes-AMG Malaysia…

Nabil Jeffri (above, right) has become Malaysia’s first “face” of the AMG brand in conjunction with the launch of the locally-produced Mercedes-AMG C 43 and GLC 43. With his racing capabilities, Nabil Jeffri is the optimal partner for AMG as he embodies the performance brands’ values and characteristics. With his local and international recognition, the vehicle of choice is the sporty and agile Mercedes-AMG C 43. He is well-known in the motorsport world, having driven in the GP2 series, won second place in the German Formula Three Championship and this year driving in the legendary race of Le Mans. He also has the honour of being the youngest F1 test-driver.

Mercedes-AMG C43 & GLC43 Launch Photo Gallery…

 

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia together with authorised dealer, NZ Wheels, recently launched the Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus. Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang also features the first separate facility for a Mercedes-Benz Proven Exclusivity centre in Malaysia, a dedicated space for customers to view and test drive an extensive range of certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz cars located adjacent to the Autohaus.

“We congratulate our dealer partner NZ Wheels on the official launch of the Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus. This latest Autohaus demonstrates our continuous commitment to the Malaysian market, our customers and our fans. As we remain focused on providing our customers with the Best Products and Best Customer Experience, we will also continue expanding customer touchpoints nationwide, investing in developing key areas including talent, technology, production and services,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.

A total of RM6 million was invested in upgrading the Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus to now be compliant with the Mercedes-Benz Presentation System II (MPS II) autohaus concept, the global Autohaus benchmark of customer experience, complete with the new Mercedes-Benz Corporate Identity (CI). The new Mercedes-Benz CI goes beyond merely serving as a design concept, it also improves orientation to the customer, supports consulting discussions and naturally underlines the values of the Mercedes-Benz brand as the No. 1 premium automotive brand in the world.

With a total land area of 320,000 sq. ft. supporting a built-up area of 32,000 sq. ft., the NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus has a total display capacity of 17 vehicles — three of which are Mercedes-AMG cars at the AMG Performance Centre. NZ Wheels Klang is managed by around 70 personnel across sales, technical services and spare parts functions. A full-fledged 3S centre, the Autohaus is equipped with 30 work bays, capable of servicing up to approximately 650 vehicles a month, providing general and specialised repair solutions.

Speaking at the official launch event, NZ Wheels Sdn Bhd Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Dato’ Samson Anand George, said, “With the update of the NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus to the highest Mercedes-Benz standards and latest corporate identity, NZ Wheels reaffirms its presence as a steadfast and passionate Mercedes-Benz dealer. Having upgraded our sales and service facilities, we are confident that our customers in Klang and nearby areas will receive no less than the best care that is synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz three-pointed star.”

With customer comfort in mind, the i-Showroom in Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus includes digital touch screens for customers to gain a better understanding of Mercedes-Benz product features and sales processes. The Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus is also equipped with a private Star Lounge for a personalised and premium atmosphere. In addition, the latest upgrade now features Service Differentiation – an exclusive range of personalised after-sales services that offers flexibility and convenience which includes pick-up/drop-off of customer vehicles, after-hours drop-off and fast-lane service.

The Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus is one of seven authorised Mercedes-Benz Autohauses in Selangor, to support the increasing need for premium service and experience among Mercedes-Benz customers.

To date, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide delivering the Best Products and the Best Customer Experience throughout the entire customer journey, maintaining the German marque’s position as the largest premium automotive dealer network in the country.

Established in 1994, NZ Wheels is the third largest Mercedes-Benz authorised dealership in the country. The Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Autohaus is located at Lot 1385, Wisma NAZA, Jalan Kapar, Batu 2, Kawasan 19, 41400 Klang, Selangor Darul Ehsan. For more information, call +603 – 3343 9270.

Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Klang Photo Gallery…

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Commercial Vehicles (MBM CV) delivered a strong performance last year, recording a total of 2,469 vehicles sold in 2017, comprising FUSO light-duty and heavy-duty trucks as well as Mercedes-Benz trucks and vans. Despite the dip of 7.9% in Total Industry Volume (TIV) for 2017, MBM CV continues to be a strong supporter of the transport and haulage industry, attributing its robust performance in 2017 to its strategy of placing customers at the centre of its initiatives.

“Part of Daimler Trucks, MBM CV represents first-class product quality and service excellence in the Malaysian market. In everything that we do, our focus is on our customers. Safety, reliability and economic efficiency are our topmost priority. With the commitment of our dealer partners and the trust of the market, 2017 proved to be a positive year in many aspects. As a new year begins, we remain as committed as ever to deliver vehicles and solutions of the highest quality – Trucks you can trust,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Commercial Vehicles, Vice President, Mr Albert Yee (above, main image).

In 2017, the famed Mercedes-Benz Actros proved to be a top choice among hauliers recording an impressive total of 268 units sold, maintaining a double digit growth of 24.1%. Contributing 32.1% sales, the Mercedes-Benz Actros 2644LS 6×2 (L-cab) remains the most popular model. Meanwhile, FUSO trucks recorded 2,170 units sold.  As a result of securing fleet contracts from new small and medium operators during the year, MBM CV was able to achieve a market penetration 13.06% for Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles in 2017, a new record for the company.

Throughout 2017, MBM CV and its network dealers continued to raise the bar with best-in-class commercial vehicles and service quality for the haulage industry.  Product enhancements included the new TD Canter facelift and ensuring that MBM CV’s entire product portfolio complies with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) safety regulations set by Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ). These measures improve vehicle safety and ensure customers’ peace-of-mind.

2017 was the fourth consecutive record year for Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM), achieving an all-time high sales record of 12,045 vehicles sold in 2017. This translates into an overall 2.3 per cent growth compared to 2016. The three-pointed star is well ahead of the pack in the premium segment, maintaining a 2.3 per cent market share*.

“Mercedes-Benz Malaysia enjoyed a remarkable year in 2017 as a result of our customer centric strategy. We’re very proud of our achievements in 2017. It is the result of great teamwork from everyone in the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia team including our dealer partners. We understand our customers’ requirements and target to fulfill their expectations. To deliver the Best Products, we launched 17 new models…” (cont’d)

“To offer the Best Customer Experience, we launched nine new and upgraded dealerships, including a brand new dealer group, Auto Commerz Sdn Bhd. As a result, we successfully achieved a record-breaking year, our best ever performance in the history of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. Moving into 2018, we are confident of the growth potential in the Malaysian automotive market and will continue to invest substantially in developing key areas including talent, technology, production and service. This is the strategy behind maintaining our position as the No. 1 premium brand in Malaysia,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner (above, second from right).

“We are delighted to have delivered a record-breaking 12,045 Mercedes-Benz Cars to customers in Malaysia and by this confirming our position as the leading premium brand. Our locally produced vehicles, especially the new E-Class and the GLC have been our growth drivers. We are thankful that our customers have put their confidence in our premium products. With our innovative mobility solutions, digitalisation initiatives as well as upcoming product highlights, we are confident of continuing on this success path,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Sales & Marketing, Vice President, Mark Raine (above).

For FY2017, MBM’s sales was driven by the locally produced limousines which recorded 7,041 units sold. This was followed closely by the Mercedes-Benz SUVs with 2,599 units sold, spurred by the introduction of the locally produced Mercedes-Benz GLC 200 and GLC 250. Growth within this segment is expected to continue. The Mercedes-Benz compact cars recorded a total of 2,031 units sold, while the aspirational Mercedes-Benz Dream Cars, also known as the brand shapers, recorded a total of 374 units sold.

MBM marked the the year by launching six new 43 series models namely, the Mercedes-Benz E 43 4MATIC (above), SLC 43, C 43 4MATIC (below), C 43 4MATIC Coupe, GLC 43 4MATIC, GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe and later, the AMG GT R.
Complementing its line-up of Best Products, MBM invested in initiatives that demonstrated its signature Best Customer Experience by organising various customer engagement activities focusing on the different interests of its target audience. These included the Ultra Singapore 2017, Urban Hunting movement, and Hungry for Adventure in East Malaysia.

In addition, MBM also launched a Mercedes-Benz branded charging station in Bangsar Shopping Centre (BSC) and hosted the Mike Horn X Hungry for Adventure event, featuring the greatest explorer of all time who is currently on a two-year journey – Pole2Pole mission.

Moving even closer to its fans and customers, MBM continued to innovate exciting platforms to enhance customer touch points in 2017. These included mobile roadshows, the Mercedes-Benz Gallery, Customer Care Centre, and Test Drive Booking System. MBM also introduced experiencing cars in Virtual Reality, Digital Signage, Product Experts, Online Service Booking, Mercedes-Benz Financial Calculator and also a one-stop integrated state-of-the-art web platform which facilitates the needs of both new and existing customers known as OneWeb.

In regards to its dealer network, MBM introduced SalesTouch, a mobile sales tool which enables product experts and sales consultants to provide customers with real time information. The feature complements its existing features which are the Service Differentiation and Product Experts.

Always in touch with customers’ needs, MBM launched a new campaign in late 2017 in partnership with its sister company, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia (MBSM). The campaign, in anticipation for the Chinese New Year celebration in 2018, offers personalised and flexible financing packages to give Mercedes-Benz fans total peace of mind to finance their dream Mercedes-Benz cars based on their respective financing commitments.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has 33 dedicated dealerships nationwide delivering the Best Products and Best Customer Service throughout the entire customer journey. To date, Mercedes-Benz has the largest premium dealer network in the country.

In FY2017, Mercedes-Benz achieved a total investment of over RM 1 billion in the Malaysian market. One-third of this investment was made in its Pekan Production Plant and MBM Training Academy in Puchong, Selangor. This strategy demonstrates the leading premium German marque’s commitment in supporting the nation’s ambition of becoming an EEV hub.

*As of YTD November 2017
NB: The numbers for 2017 are unaudited and subject to change.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia charts best ever business performance in 2015. (more…)

Government continues tax exemption towards Mercedes-Benz Malaysia for hybrid vehicles. (more…)

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has officially announced the availability of the third generation V-Class six-seater people-carrier in Malaysia earlier this week. (more…)

Manic new Mercedes-Benz C63 S AMG super-saloon debuts in Malaysia – Yours for RM698,888 and RM723,888 (Edition 1). (more…)

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