Mercedes-Benz Archives

Global debut of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class W223

After months of shutdown and cancellation of many activities, it seems that the auto industry is now making up for lost time with a vengeance. New models are being launched almost every month but in a new way: online. The traditional launch crowded with guests and media is no longer appropriate in the current pandemic situation where social distancing is necessary. So the car companies are instead using the internet to present their new models and it goes out to a global audience.

Actually, broadcasting a global debut online is not new and has been done for a number of years now, except that it is now more focused online. Money saved on renting spectacular venues and lavish events can now be used to produce even better presentations, and the technology today makes smooth and reliable streaming of events live possible.

France, UK and tonight, Germany
Yesterday, Peugeot revealed its updated 3008 and some hours later, Rolls-Royce presented its all-new Ghost. Today, it’s the Germans’ turn and Mercedes-Benz unveiled its flagship S-Class model with key board members personally introducing various aspects of the product.

As in the launch of the now-superseded W222 generation in May 2013, Alicia Keys, the singer-songwriter, also participated in the event along with 6-time F1 champion, Lewis Hamilton who drives for the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Racing Team.

2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W223 — *Alicia Keys provided a virtual tour of the new S-Class.*

A pioneer again
Highlights of the all-new S-Class – designated ‘W223’ – have been publicized in the last few months and as the ‘snippets’ suggested, this new generation is once again a pioneer with numerous innovations in the areas of driver assistance, protection and interaction. It is, of course, also a benchmark in the luxury segment, as its predecessors have been for decades.

‘Focus on people’ is how Mercedes-Benz describes its product development for the next generation of individual mobility. Extensive digitization is now used to provide convenience, comfort and connectivity for every occupant, besides enhancing operating efficiency. Even the well-being of its occupants is looked after, with an effective air filtering system referred to as ENERGIZING Air Control.

MBUX becomes smarter
Cars are becoming more ‘intelligent’ and in the new S-Class, this is exemplified best by the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). Debuting in its second generation with the new S-Class, this ‘learn-capable’ system is even more digital and intelligent. Both the hardware and software have made great strides with displays on up to 5 large screens, in part with OLED technology.

There’s a new 3D driver display which allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time. It gives a real 3-dimensional effect without having to wear 3D glasses. There are also two different head-up displays (HUDs), one with augmented reality (AR) content and the other is a more conventional type.

MBUX now has services for each individual passenger, making the possibilities for personalization far more extensive. The voice assistant, which responds to ‘Hey Mercedes’, is even more learn and dialogue-capable by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword.

Using cameras in the overhead control panel and learning algorithms, MBUX Interior Assist recognizes and anticipates the wishes and intentions of the occupants. It does this by interpreting head direction, hand movements and body language, and responds with corresponding vehicle functions.

With the MBUX Smart Home function, the S-Class now also becomes a control centre for the home. The driver or passengers can monitor and control things like room temperature and lighting, roller blinds and compatible appliances. Of course, there must also be smart and connected devices at home as well.

Dimensional concept and interior design
The S-Class is a big car, as befits its status and the W223 S-Class has increased in size compared to its predecessor. It has extra length and width, with the wheelbase extended as well (there is a long-wheelbase variant too). Apart from expanding rear legroom, it also makes for generous boot volume.

The interior design has associations with interior architecture and yacht design elements. The sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape. Systematic reduction in the number of controls gives a minimalist appearance of the interior. A fine divide between the upper section of the dashboard and the large trim element structures the area and creates horizontal breadth.

Alongside up to five screens, there are large areas of trim in the dashboard and in the rear. One particularly attractive version of the trim is an open-pored wood veneer shot through with inlays of real aluminium that follow the contours.

New design elements include the flat, four-square centre vents with horizontal nacelles. Two slim, vertical side vents on each side round off the ends of the dashboard. The driver display and media display can be personalized in up to four display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Exclusive, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service).

There are no less than 19 motors inside the front seats, which makes them quite complex structures. Therefore no one should complain that he or she cannot get a comfortable position. The flowing, three-dimensional layer design theme gives an impression of lightness and different finishes give the seats different characters. Five different rear seat variants make it possible to configure the rear of the S-Class as a working or rest area.

In earlier years, seats were carefully shaped and cushioned with advice from ergonomic specialists to reduce fatigue on long journeys. Today, cars like the S-Class have seats that massage your body so you reach your destination fresh and alert. There are 10 different massage programmes available using vibration motors. The relaxing massage is enhanced with warmth based on the hot-stone principle.

Even more support for the driver
The new S-Class arrives in the market ready for a high degree of autonomous operation. Specifically, it will be able to operate in Level 3 mode which means it can drive itself from point A to designated point b without human control – but the human must be ready to take over when necessary. Mercedes-Benz says this capability will be available in Germany from the second half of 2021 with the new DRIVE PILOT. Availability elsewhere would depend on infrastructure and regulations permitting autonomous operation.

Each S-Class generation has introduced new safety technologies and the W223 continues the tradition with numerous new or extended driving assistance systems. The operating principle of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the driver display.

Innovations in restraint systems also confirm the leading role of the S-Class when it comes to passive safety. A significant new safety feature is the optional rear airbag system. During severe frontal collisions, the rear airbag can considerably reduce the loads acting on the heads and necks of seatbelt-wearing occupants on the outer rear seats.

During a severe side impact, depending on the direction of impact, impact severity and front seat occupancy, the new centre airbag positions itself between the driver and front passenger seat, reducing the risk of their heads making contact. It is integrated into the driver’s seatback in the middle of the vehicle.

The parking systems are also more sophisticated and the driver can park and recall the car via a smartphone with remote parking assist. With the INTELLIGENT PARK PILOT, the S-Class can provide Automated Valet Parking and if the required services are available, it can even enter and leave multi-storey car parks in highly automated mode – without a driver. In other words, the car can come to you on its own.

More maneuverable and dynamic
The new S-Class has rear-axle steering (optional) with a steering angle of up to 10° that improves maneuverability in urban areas to the level of a compact car, with the turning circle reduced by up to 2 metres.

The optional, fully active E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension on a 48V basis offers a unique synthesis of comfort and agility, plus additional protection in the event of a lateral collision. The AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment.

Mercedes-Benz has now added a new function of PRE-SAFE Impulse Side to its measures in the pre-accident phase. When a side impact threatens, the vehicle body can rise by up to 80 mm by the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension within a few tenths of a second. This reduces the loads on the door structures, as the door sill can absorb more of the energy thanks to its higher position. As a result, deformation of the passenger cell and the loads acting on the occupants can be reduced. Radar sensors are used to recognize a potential side crash.

The optional DIGITAL LIGHT system is introduced for the first time in a Mercedes-Benz. It is am exceptionally intelligent system which can warning of recognized roadworks by projecting an excavator symbol onto the road surface, aiming a spotlight at pedestrians detected at the roadside as a warning, and projecting guidelines onto the road surface in narrow lanes.

In each headlamp, DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle, enabling highly precise light distribution.

More electrification, more efficiency
Although its electrification program is well underway, Mercedes-Benz will still offer petrol and diesel engines with the new S-Class. These are 6-cylinder units with various outputs and there will also be a V8 engine with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) and 48V onboard electrical system. A plug-in hybrid with an all-electric range of around 100 kms will follow in 2021.

Ola Kallenius, Chairman of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, also mentioned the EQ S, an all-electric S-Class to come in due course, but gave no details about it. It’s not something new, though, as the company displayed the Vision EQS concept which was described as a ‘future S-Class-like sedan’ with an all-electric powertrain and a projected range of 700 kms.

New factory for the new generation
Production of the new S-Class is now underway at the new Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, Germany. Like the S-Class which has been considered (by Mercedes-Benz) as the future of the automobile, the new facility also represents the future of automobile production at Mercedes-Benz. Advanced manufacturing technologies and processes enable it to have maximum flexibility to produce vehicles of different designs and drive systems, from conventional to all-electric drive.

Deliveries to customers in Germany will begin during the last quarter of this year and the new model will be progressively launched in other global markets from the start of 2021. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia would now be planning for the introduction of the new generation on the assembly line at its plant in Pekan, Pahang, and we should also see in sometime in 2021.

VISION EQS shows future large luxury electric saloon design

Birthplace of the Mercedes-Benz SL – the racetrack

‘300 SL’ was the designation of the competition car from Mercedes-Benz with which the brand returned to international motorsports in 1952 for the first time after the Second World War. Although this car was not sold to the public, it did light the fuse for the development of the later SL-Class.

The development of the 300 SL began in 1950, when Mercedes-Benz began to think about a return to racing. The attempt to reactivate the 1939 W 154 Grand Prix racing car, however, met with failure in Argentina in 1951. So the engineers pressed forward the development of the new racing car, some of the components of which came from the 300 model.

1952 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL — *The 1952 300 SL with the current generation of the SL Roadster which was launched in 2012. Production has ceased and there will be about a year’s gap before the new generation appears in showrooms*

SL means ‘Super Light’
In June 1951, the Board decided to resume participation in racing events from 1952 and gave approval for the construction of the 300 SL, the two letters meaning ‘Super-Light’. Its M 194 engine was derived from the 300 type unit, the M 186, with an overhead camshaft, large inlet valves, combustion chamber in engine block and pistons, a displacement of 3 litres and an output of 115 bhp. For racing, the engineers increased the engine’s output to around 170 bhp.

The sports engine differed from the one installed in the saloon and coupe not only in its output, but also in its installation position, slanted 50 degrees to the left, and in having a dry-sump lubrication system, which due to the omission of the oil sump, enabled a lower installation height.

Weight savings were hardly possible with the engine and the transmission of the W 194 that was in the process of being created. And this was also true of the heavy steel axles which had also been taken from the 300 model. That left only the frame and the exterior skin for any possible weight-savings.

Early use of the spaceframe
Another possibility for enhancing competitiveness was to create a body as aerodynamic as possible. This led to a previous idea of a lightweight tubular frame and the designers then carried the concept forward to its logical conclusion – a lightweight, extremely torsionally-rigid frame. This consisted of very thin tubes joined together to form triangles, whose tubular elements were only subjected to tensional and compressive forces.

1952 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing car, W 194 series — *The racing prototype 300 SLR (W 196 S, 1955, extreme left) together with (from right) 300 SL (W 194, 1952), racing prototype 300 SL for the 1953 racing season, and 300 SL ‘Gullwing’ (W 198, 1954).*

The entire frame weighed just 50 kgs and became the backbone of the W 194, as well as the basis for the production version of the 300 SL (W 198 I) and for the successful 1954/55 racing and motorsports car.

No effort was spared with the aluminium body. Thanks to the canted position of the engine and the aerodynamic profile, the car was very low, free of trim right down to the underbody, with an elegant low bonnet line, intuitively round-shaped, with recessed headlamps and its wheels entirely covered by the bodywork.

The classic Mercedes-Benz radiator shape was replaced by a flat racing car front end analogous to that of pre-war cars. The Mercedes star dominated the radiator grille prominently. The coupe greenhouse was made as narrow as possible, with a strongly raked windscreen, curving towards the A-pillars. The large rear window flowed over into the aerodynamic rear end.

The result was a relatively small frontal area: 1.8 square metres. A drag coefficient was measured on a 1:5 scale model and found to generate a Cd value of 0.25. That was even without taking into account the realistic airflow through the engine compartment.

Origin of the ‘gullwing’ term
In order to lend a spaceframe the desired high rigidity, it has to be as wide as possible in the passenger cell sector. This requirement led to the spectacular and later so famous gullwing doors. In the first cars, the door opening began at the waistline. The doors, deeply cutting into the roof, opened upwards, creating an image reminiscent of outspread wings. This is how the term ‘gullwing’ originated (created by the North Americans).

In order to facilitate access over the high side sill, the bodywork designers had even originally intended to have an access step in the lower part of the vehicle body flank; however, this feature was never realised. Although the FIA regulations of the time did not specify the type and direction of opening doors, the stewards were still somewhat disagreeable when the car was presented to them for scrutineering before the Mille Miglia in May 1952. To avoid any future protests, after the race in Italy, the doors were extended down into the car’s sides, thereby assuming their final shape.

The interior was fully padded and lined, radiating a level of comfort unusual for racing cars. Speedometer and tachometer were accommodated under a common hood, and below that were the gauges for water temperature, fuel pressure, oil temperature and oil pressure. Even a stopwatch was installed. The bucket-type seats with high side sections were covered with tartan-style woollen fabric; the four-spoke steering wheel was removable to facilitate climbing in.

Ten W 194 cars were built for the 1952 season. After the Le Mans race, it was planned to enter the SL in a sportscar race on the Nurburgring. To shed as much weight from the competing cars, the engineers cut the roofs off three coupes. A fourth car had been set up as a roadster right from the start. To permit easy access, the section of the door extending into the side of the car was retained, and a small windscreen was mounted to deflect air and flying insects. This resulted in a weight advantage of 100 kgs over the coupe.

Multiple racing victories
The year 1952 was an extremely successful one for Mercedes-Benz racing cars with victories in various races in Europe. The last big adventure of the season was participation in the third Carrera Panamericana Mexico, a 3,100-km race through Mexico. Mercedes-Benz entered two coupes and two roadsters, all powered by engines with 180 bhp. At the end of the 5 days and 8 long stages, the team collected a legendary double victory for Mercedes-Benz.

The next generation of the SL Roadster is going back to its roots, which lay in motorsport back in 1952. Mercedes-AMG, which has been developing the new model, is now conducting a scheduled phase of wide-ranging driving tests at the Group’s own test course as well as on public roads. It is expected to be launched during the second half of next year.

Mercedes-Benz Museum offers a new perspective with indoor drone tour (w/VIDEO)

2020 Mercedes-Benz C 200 Coupe AMG Line

An enhanced C 200 Coupe AMG Line has arrived at showrooms of authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships in Malaysia. While ‘enhanced’ often refers only to cosmetic changes, for this model, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has also installed a new 2-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 204 bhp/300 Nm. Compared to the previous 1.5-litre EQ Boost engine, the increase in output is 20 bhp/20 Nm, with all 300 Nm available from 1,600 rpm.

The exterior appearance of the car is given a sporty, expressive character with the AMG Line accessories. The diamond radiator grille, integrated with the 3-pointed star and pins in chrome plus an AMG-specific front apron with new geometry, gives it a bold presentation.

Black trim elements in the AMG rear apron accentuate the LED rear lamps, while 18-inch AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels are powerful elements in the styling.

The inside of the C 200 Coupe also has AMG Line features. These include ARTICO leather upholstery, multifunction sports steering wheel in Nappa leather, galvanized steering wheel gearshift paddles, AMG sports pedals and AMG floormats.

The driver now has the services of Mercedes me connect which adds more convenience to the ownership experience. The connected car service can be used to unlock the car, start the engine remotely, or simply check the fuel level. And of course, the app also assists in vehicle maintenance and scheduling servicing.

Other features of Mercedes me connect – which can connect from anywhere in the world that there is internet service – include Mercedes–Benz emergency call system (eCall), remote vehicle diagnostics, pre-entry climate control, predictive navigation, and parked vehicle locator.

Pricing for the new C 200 Coupe AMG Line starts from RM336,129.38 (excluding insurance) , with sales tax exempted for the rest of 2020. Buyers who require financing can consider Agility Financing which starts from RM4,288 per month (terms and conditions apply) with perks such as lower monthly instalments, flexible end-of-agreement options, a guaranteed future value of the car and a MobilityPlus replacement car programme.

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Mercedes-Benz starts preview of next S-Class with details of new MBUX

As with some of its recent models, Mercedes-Benz is previewing the next generation of the S-Class (W223) in stages which highlight new features and innovations. First on the list is the new MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User EXperience – which goes into the second generation just two years after first being offered.

The new infotainment system has hardware and software progression with 50% more processing power, a 320GB SSD and 16GB of RAM. Over-the-air (OTA) updates will be available though this is fast becoming a common feature for cars with systems that can connect to internet services.

The ‘learn-capable’ system’s strong point is its networking with a wide range of vehicle systems and sensor data. For example, the exit warning function in the new S-Class will use cameras to recognize that an occupant wants to leave the vehicle. If another road-user is approaching in the blind spot, the active ambient lighting becomes part of the exit warning system and flashes red.

Advanced screen technologies with OLED
The latest screen technologies are used for MBUX, which is available for front as well as rear occupants (with up to 3 screens). The 12.8-inch media display has a spacious portrait format which, on request, can be offered with OLED technology and haptic feedback.

OLED panels emit light when subjected to an electric current and, unlike an LCD, they do not require external background lighting. Power is only consumed where pixels light up. Among other benefits, this ensures a better black level and even stronger contrasts. When showing typical video sequences, OLED technology has an up to 30% lower energy consumption than LCD technology.

More extensive personalization
The human factor is always the central consideration. The possibilities for personalization and intuitive operation have become far more extensive even for rear occupants. For the driver, the new 3D driver display allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time. A real 3-dimensional effect is achieved without having to wear 3D glasses.

By scanning a QR code with the Mercedes App, the vehicle is automatically connected to the Mercedes me account. As the profiles (up to seven) can be stored in the Cloud as part of Mercedes me, they can also be used in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles with the new MBUX generation

MBUX Interior Assist checks whether the childseat is correctly attached to the front passenger seat. The driver’s attention level is also monitored and ATTENTION ASSIST warns if there are signs of microsleep. Depending on the equipment level, MBUX Interior Assist recognizes up to 20 control wishes.

New convenience functions include prepositioning of the driver’s seat and outside mirrors according to body size, and operation of the rear roller blind by glancing over the shoulder. The sliding sunroof can also be operated by hand gestures. In fact, hand gestures and voice commands will likely become the dominant form of activation and management of many systems.

‘Hey Mercedes‘ becomes more intelligent
The voice assistant ‘Hey Mercedes’ listens even more carefully, and understands the occupants even better. It has the capability to understand up to 27 languages and can also be controlled from the rear. Several microphones help to tell the system which seat the voice is coming from. Flashing ambient lighting identifies the current speaker.

Domestic systems and home appliances can also be linked to the vehicle and voice-controlled, thanks to the Smart Home function although this probably means having dedicated compatible items at home.

HUD with augmented reality
Two different head-up displays (HUDs) are available, with the larger type having augmented reality (AR) content for more comprehensive route guidance. When navigating, for example, animated turn-off arrows (‘fishbones’) are projected onto the road lane at a virtual distance of about 10 metres. As this is superimposed directly onto reality, the result is directly perceptible information that is important for the current driving situation.

The driver display and media display offer a comprehensive aesthetic experience. The appearance of the screens can be individualized with a choice of up to four display styles. The number of ‘classic controls’ has been greatly reduced with 27 fewer hardkeys (mechanical switches) than in the current model.

“Our overarching goal is to offer the utmost in comfort, personalization and convenience for our customers. A system that is more detailed, thoughtful and individual than ever before. So I would even call it ‘My MBUX’,” said Sajjad Khan, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz AG. “Through even more ease-of-use, our customers gain extra time and added value. This goes beyond just displays and voice control. My MBUX now becomes the spinal cord, or even the central brain of the vehicle.”

More information will be presented in the next few months and the new S-Class will have its global debut sometime in September.

1972 Mercedes-Benz S-Class W116 — Although the flagship model’s history goes back to 1954, the introduction of the S-Class designation and model line began with the W116 model in 1972 (above). The current W222 generation (below) is the sixth which was launched in 2014.

Innovation in the steering wheel coming in mid-2020 in Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Enhanced insurance and takaful packages from Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia

A Mercedes-Benz is a valuable asset which an owner would want to protect ub the best possible way from damage or loss. To give owners peace of mind, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia (MBSM) now offers Mercedes-Benz Protection with two new insurance and takaful solutions. The Star Protect and Star Protect Plus insurance and takaful solutions, as the packages are known, are available at all authorised Mercedes-Benz dealerships.

Repair — *A temporary replacement vehicle will be provided if the car has to be at the authorised Mercedes-Benz service centre for repairs for many days.*

Replacement vehicle for up to 20 days
The solutions are said to be first-of-its-kind in the premium motor insurance and takaful category, and amongst other things, offer a temporary Mercedes-Benz replacement vehicle benefit for up to 20 days per period of insurance if the insured vehicle is in an authorised Mercedes-Benz workshop for accident repair.

There are also new benefits for Star Protect and Star Protect Plus. These include a nationwide limitless towing distance and reimbursement of car key replacement costs (today’s sophisticated key fobs are not cheap!). Coverage is also for all authorised drivers and does not require a prior driver name submission to the insurer.

MERCEDES-BENZ KEY — *Losing this key is bad enough but at least if you have Star Protect insurance, the replacement cost is covered.*

“The entire automotive industry is transforming and motor insurance is preparing for changes as the connected vehicle ecosystem comes into being and as consumer ownership preferences shift. Through our customer-centric approach, not only have we widened our insurance partner base, we deep dived into our current offerings in order to develop a more comprehensive motor insurance coverage for Mercedes-Benz owners,” said Mike Ponnaz, MD of Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia.

“Our aim is to increase the number of insured and satisfied customers under Mercedes-Benz Protection by offering products which provide owners with greater peace of mind,” he added.

Under the enhanced packages, vehicles will be covered for basic loss or damage such as damage resulting from accidental collision, burglary, housebreaking, theft and attempted theft, or any malicious acts, and liability to third parties, with additional protection for impact damage caused by falling trees due to acts of nature.

No mileage limit for towing assistance
The towing assistance, which includes unlimited towing distance for breakdown and accident, includes one-way toll charges of up to RM30. Under the towing plan, customer can utilize the flood towing for up to six occurrences, 24-hour minor roadside repairs and free assistance in arranging value-added benefits that offer accommodation, taxi transportation, and cross-border towing services. Customers will only have to pay for the value-added benefits if used.

The packages also offer owners compensation for loss of possessions as a result of window snatch theft, flood relief allowance for damage due to flood, and personal accident coverage for the driver and up to 4 passengers.

Mercedes-AMG wheel — *Compensation will be given for accidental damage to any of the four rims or tyres on the car.*

Those who opt for Star Protect Plus will also have coverage for 4 tyres and 4 rims. The coverage is for accidental damage caused by road debris or curbing which can adversely impact the resale value of a car, as well as optimum vehicle performance.

New Mercedes-Benz Pricelist with Sales Tax Exemption

Latest Autohaus with Mercedes-Benz Retail Brand Presence has opened in the northern region of Malaysia.

A new Mercedes-Benz Autohaus incorporating the latest Mercedes-Benz Retail Brand Presence has opened in the northern region of Malaysia. It is the first facility to showcase the German brand’s concept which is said to centre on the customer.

Operated by Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad (C&C), which originally brought Mercedes-Benz to Malaysia, the Autohaus is located in Alor Setar, Kedah, C&C has had a presence in the northern region for close to a decade, during which time it has built up a base of customers and fans of the brand.

The Autohaus is supported by a team of dedicated Star Assistants, Sales Executives, Product Experts and After-sales technicians with an in-depth understanding of its northern region customers’ needs. Needless to say, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia also provides additional support whenever needed.

Raising benchmarks
“Our mission to deliver ‘Exceptional Journeys’ throughout the customer journey is a continuous effort. We are embracing digital advancements to raise the benchmark of premium automotive retail and customer experience, while retaining the personal and human aspect that our customers have grown to love. In line with this commitment, we remain invested in our sites, systems and people and the Cycle & Carriage Alor Setar Autohaus is a testament to this,” said C&C CEO, Wilfrid Foo.

Congratulating the C&C team on the opening of the new Autohaus, Dr Claus Weidner, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia said: “The reintroduction of the Mercedes-Benz Autohaus in Alor Setar reflects our continuous effort in providing an upgraded retail experience for our northern region customers while retaining the Mercedes-Benz personality. We have merged automotive, technology, and luxury, as seen in our cars, making the retail experience just as gratifying as the drive.”

New architectural concept
All retail elements of the Cycle & Carriage Alor Setar Autohaus are considered and modernised with the Mercedes-Benz Retail Brand Presence; from the welcome area, sales and service to delivery, supported collectively by a personalised approach and digital elements.

The architectural layout and the way media are used are designed with fundamental processes in mind. It allows the architecture, media and processes to be regarded as components of an integrated element to optimise customer experience and stage vehicle display. They work together to enable a dealership experience characterised by a high-quality visitor environment, lightings to set the ambience in the showroom, smooth processes and a contemporary consultancy concept.

Spatial boundaries within the building are kept to a minimum to deliberately create an open-space feeling. A largely transparent building façade creates a flowing transition between the interior and exterior areas.

Strong focus on the customer
The entire showroom area is dedicated exclusively for customer service orientation without permanent workstations in the showroom. Leisure facilities for families at the hospitality cafe are available if they are waiting for their vehicles to be serviced.

At the waiting area, various seating arrangements are available, be it semi-public or a private area which can be selected flexibly for individual consultations in accordance with the preference of the customer. Salespersons and Product Experts will be on hand to offer information and other assistance.

The concept is modular in design and is oriented to the needs of customers and prospects. The flexibility and variability of the brand’s individual elements allow a high degree of spatial applications and formats. The result is a consistent application of the recognisable Mercedes-Benz Corporate Identity and Corporate Design. Furthermore, the new concept enables individual consultation and sales processes with a standardised global brand presence.

“We understand the value of establishing trust by first understanding the specific and personal needs of every customer who walks into a Cycle & Carriage dealership. Matching these needs promptly with the right channels, products or solutions is key and we are here to walk with customers through the entire process, as they begin their Exceptional Journey with us,” Mr. Foo explained.

“With the upgrades, Cycle & Carriage continues to ensure our presence delivers excellence to customers throughout our network across Malaysia, delivering on our promise of ‘Exceptional Journeys’,” Foo said, adding that the Johor Bharu Autohaus and Ipoh Autohaus will also be upgraded by the end of this year.

New Mercedes-Benz Pricelist with Sales Tax Exemption

Covid-19 — Fighting COVID-19 is our joint responsibility. Protect yourself and others: make these 6 simple precautions your new habits.

New Mercedes-Benz Pricelist with Sales Tax Exemption

2020 Mercedes-Benz prices x Sales Tax — *Note: Prices shown are for private registration, excluding insurance premiums. CKD models have full Sales Tax exemption of 10%, CBU models have partial Sales Tax exemption of 5%.*

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Mercedes-Benz Museum offers a new perspective with indoor drone tour (w/VIDEO)

Coinciding with its re-opening in mid-May 2020, the Mercedes-Benz Museum created a video of the premises and displays using drones. The mini-drones, weighing less than 100 gms and carrying high-resolution 4K cameras with them hovered through small openings whilst filming – including through open doors and even into the interiors of classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles!

Viewers can ‘fly’ through the open gullwing doors of the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL ‘Gullwing’, for example, or follow the drone through the passenger compartment of the colourfully painted LO 1112 bus from Argentina. The change of camera perspectives is also impressive. From a bird’s-eye view, the flight takes you through every level of the museum: from the roof terrace you go into the building through every Legend and Collection room right up to ‘Fascination of Technology’ and finally back outside via the doors of the entrance.

Filming during museum closure
The Mercedes-Benz Museum team and filmmakers Daniel Wagner and Andre Jung from minidrone.studio did the filming during the time the museum was closed due to the coronavirus. Right from the start, it was clear that, in addition to the inside and outside shots, there should also be impressive flights directly through the vehicles themselves.

It was a bold idea to try given that the assets exhibited at the museum are worth millions. But, at the same time, it was an opportunity to present the museum from viewpoints that have never been seen before. The video is shown in the museum’s social media channels.

The green light for filming was given under the proviso that the vehicles would be protected from being damaged at all times. That’s why the filmmakers practised the particularly tricky shots intensively in advance with real obstacles and also made use of digital simulations.

The filming was done over 3 days and then slick editing was done to create the dynamic, exciting flight through the museum. The work involved in making this 4-minute video wasn’t quite as light and playful as the final result appears, say the filmmakers. Did they fly especially slowly in tight spots in order to be able to navigate precisely and then speed up the video in the edit? No, it was precisely the opposite: only a rapid flight ensured nice, flowing tracking shots. This required a lot of experience and practice.

In the finished video, the speed of the recording was in many places digitally slowed down somewhat in order to achieve an optimum speed for the viewer. For example, for the steep turn in the Legend 7 room with the racing and record vehicles of Mercedes-Benz.

Four types of drones
“In total, we used four different types of drone for filming,” said Wagner. “Such drones are not available to buy ready-made; we adapted them precisely to suit our needs, using various components.”

The light drones, around the size of the palm of one’s hand, were used in order to fly through even the smallest of openings. The outside shots were used with a heavier aerial vehicle that could withstand the wind. The latter can also be operated from a distance by a pilot, who steered the drone by remote control and used video eyewear for orientation.

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ESP – the innovation that has prevented millions of accidents in 25 years

Until the mid-1990s, mention of ‘ESP’ would have had people thinking about Extra Sensory Perception, which is what those letters usually referred to. ESP was related to psychic abilities where some people could sense something that others could not, especially events that might happen. After 1995, though. ESP came to mean something else and interestingly, it also referred to a new innovation that could ‘sense’ something about the happen.

The modern ESP is Electronic Stability Program (also known as Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Assist or Vehicle Stability Control by some manufacturers) and it is a computerised system which can help prevent a car from skidding out of control, especially when taking a corner. Developed by Bosch and Daimler-Benz, it was first introduced almost 25 years ago in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Since then, ESP has been keeping vehicles safely on track, especially on slippery surfaces, and Bosch accident researchers estimate that in the EU alone, the system has saved some 15,000 lives over the past 25 years. Together with the seatbelt and airbag, ESP is one of the most important life-savers in a vehicle.

“The development of ESP was a milestone on the path to our ‘vision zero’ of no more road deaths,” says the Bosch board of management member Harald Kroeger. “ESP is an outstanding example of what we mean by ‘Invented for life.”

The innovation may be 25 years old but Bosch has continuously improved it to function more effectively and respond to potential accidents more quickly. Over 250 million ESP systems have been produced and most modern cars have it. According to Bosch, 82% of all new vehicles are equipped with ESP today, with even lower-priced models getting it.

Preventing up to 80% of all skidding accidents
Especially when roads are wet and slippery, when evading unexpected obstacles such as animals on the road, and also when driving into a bend too fast, ESP gores into action automatically. It combines the functions of the ABS system and the traction control system with additional inputs to stabilize the car as it is about to go out of control. Various sensors can detect vehicle skidding movements and actively counteracts them.

Up to 80% of all potential accidents due to skidding can be prevented although it must still be kept in mind that the laws of physics still apply. There are limits where the system will not be able to help if speeds are too high, overwhelming even the grip of the tyres.

The system uses information about vehicle dynamics to detect whether the car is heading in the direction the driver is steering. If there is a discrepancy between these two factors, ESP intervenes. This may sound simple but it is in fact a complex process.

Smart sensors help compare steering angle and vehicle trajectory 25 times a second. If the two diverge, ESP reduces engine torque and brakes individual wheels. In this way, the system helps the driver prevent the vehicle from breaking away or skidding – effectively avoiding loss of control that can lead to an accident.

Breakthrough following the elk test
The story behind this innovation is a long one. It started in the 1980s with initially independent efforts by Bosch and Daimler-Benz to achieve more vehicle stability. The legendary ‘elk test’ of 1997 helped the system achieve a breakthrough: during tests for a Swedish automotive magazine, a Mercedes Benz A-class tipped over when making an abrupt evasive manoeuvre. Mercedes-Benz responded by quickly making ESP standard equipment.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class elk test — *The extreme instability of the A-Class (left) in what was known as the ‘elk test’ – basically a high-speed evasive manoevre – led Mercedes-Benz to install ESP in all its models.*

*Mercedes-Benz driving courses for owners often given them the chance to experience the benefits of ESP in high-speed lane-change exercises.*

Safety authorities have also recognized the benefits of ESP and made it a mandatory feature of vehicles in some parts of the world. As the volume of systems has continuously risen, the cost has dropped to make it possible to offer even in low-priced models. Data from Europe shows that if the proportion of vehicles featuring the system rises, accident numbers fall.

Democratizing safety to achieve zero traffic accidents

Innovation in the steering wheel coming in mid-2020 in Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Since the first motorcar appeared in 1886, its overall shape and many individual elements have evolved over the decades, changing as new technology or new design philosophy was adopted. The steering wheel is one example and though it may seem as if this ‘device’ for controlling the car’s movements has never changed, the degree of change is actually quite significant.

The first step towards the modern steering wheel was taken by the then Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft 120 years ago. The first car in the world, invented by Carl Benz, had managed without a steering wheel. The driver used a simple steering lever or steering crank because at the time, carriage drivers were used to pulling on the right or left to direct the horses in the desired direction.

The first steering wheel as we know it today appeared in 1894 at the world’s first automobile race. A French engineer, Alfred Vacheron, is considered the inventor of the steering wheel. For the race – from Paris to Rouen in July 1894 – he installed a steering wheel instead of the usual steering lever in his Panhard & Levassor, which was powered by a Daimler engine.

Benz Patent-Motorwagen, 1886Benz Patent-Motorwagen, 1886 — *The first motorcar by Carl Benz had no steering wheel at all. But within 8 years, the control device would appear in a car for racing purposes (below).*

This wheel gave him better control because the steering movement of the front wheels could be distributed over several turns of the steering column from a neutral central position until it stopped. This enabled more precise steering and thus higher driving speeds. Although the Frenchman placed only 11th, the steering wheel prevailed.

From then on, the growing number of carmakers would adopt the steering wheel. And while, for many decades, the steering wheel had only a pad or button to activate the horn, it eventually gained buttons to give the driver more functionality. It has become something of a ‘high-tech command centre’ which enables the driver to steer precisely and, at the same time, comfortably and safely operate numerous comfort and assistance systems.

An innovation in steering wheels
In mid-2020, Mercedes-Benz will introduce in its E-Class (W213) a new, comprehensively digitalized generation of steering wheels. Known as the capacitive steering wheel, its rim contains a two-zone sensor mat that detects whether the driver’s hands are gripping the steering wheel. The touch control buttons placed in the spokes also work with digital signals.

Developers and designers have worked closely on this innovative steering wheel. For example, every millimetre of a circuit board determines how elegantly the surface can be designed. It’s all about looks and, above all, haptics (the science of applying touch sensation and control to interact).

“Steering-wheel design is a world of its own and a very special challenge that is often underestimated,” explains Hans-Peter Wunderlich, Creative Director Interior Design at Mercedes-Benz, who has been designing steering wheels for around 20 years.

Mercedes-Benz steering wheel — *How steering wheels have evolved over the decades.*

Physical contact
“Besides the seat, the steering wheel is the only component in the vehicle with which we have intensive physical contact. The fingertips feel little things that we normally don’t notice. If an unevenness is disturbing or the steering wheel does not fit snugly in our hands, we don’t like it. This haptic sensation is sent to the brain as feedback and determines whether or not we like the car. The emotional connection to a car is thus created through the sense of touch,” he says.

With the new generation of steering wheels with capacitive hands-off detection, the sensors on the front and back of the rim register whether the steering wheel is being held. No more steering movement is required to signal the assistance systems that the vehicle is under control.

Touch Control buttons integrated into the steering wheel spokes will also function capacitively. This reduces the mechanical operating surfaces to a maximum. The seamless control panels, which are divided into several functional areas, are precisely integrated flush with the spokes. As with a smartphone, touches are recorded and evaluated via capacitive sensor technology, which enables intuitive operation via swiping gestures and pressing of familiar symbols.

The high-quality materials have been selected in such a way that operation is possible even in an interior heated up by sunlight. The system automatically recognises where the finger is at any given moment.

Perfect proportions
The steering wheel is available in three versions: Sport, Luxury and Supersport. “It is the most beautiful steering wheel we have ever built,” says Hans-Peter Wunderlich. “The proportions of the airbag, spokes and rim are absolutely harmonious. The airbag is not concealed but staged as a flattering sphere.”

In the Luxury version, the spokes form a chalice inspired by elegant Callas flowers in a black panel look, in which the sphere floats. For the “Supersport version, it is held by two double-decker spokes in black panel design, reminiscent of the wheel wing nuts of sportscars. The size of the steering wheel has remained the same compared to the previous generation.

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