In an impressive achievement, the Mercedes-Benz Production Plant in Pekan, as part of the global Mercedes-Benz production network, has reached a significant milestone by producing its 100,000th Mercedes-Benz passenger car. This accomplishment reflects Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s unwavering commitment to manufacturing excellence and innovation in the luxury automotive industry.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has been steadfast in its commitment to bolstering the local economy, having invested over RM500 million to date in its Pekan plant. This ongoing investment has not only enhanced the quality of local vehicle production but has also contributed to the growth of one of the world’s most coveted automotive brands.
A major achievement earlier this year was the successful commencement of local assembly for the EQS 500 4MATIC. This significant step forward accelerates Mercedes-Benz’s pursuit of electric mobility and sets the stage for the future of automotive manufacturing in Malaysia. In doing so, the company is consistently advancing the Mercedes-Benz strategy of transitioning towards an ‘electric-only’ future.
With a global vision of an all-electric future, Mercedes-Benz Cars is preparing to go all-electric by the end of this decade, wherever market conditions permit.
Sustainability is at the heart of Mercedes-Benz’s business strategy, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs). Under the “Ambition 2039” initiative, the company has set a challenging target to make its fleet of new vehicles net carbon-neutral over the entire lifecycle of the vehicles by the year 2039.
Mercedes-Benz, in collaboration with its contract manufacturing partner, HICOM Automotive, is actively pursuing a Green Production Target for its production plant. This commitment involves adopting best practices to reduce energy consumption, minimize water usage, and reduce waste while also increasing the share of renewable energy in its production processes. The company aspires to elevate its reliance on renewable energy from the current 30% to an impressive 85% by the end of this decade.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and electrification reaffirms its position as a pioneer in the luxury automotive industry, shaping the future of mobility in Malaysia and beyond.
Mercedes-Benz has introduced the latest-generation E-Class Long Wheelbase (LWB) in China, delivering increased legroom and enhanced luxury in this popular premium sedan. The 2024 E-Class LWB will be available for purchase in China in the coming months and is scheduled to join the Mercedes-Benz India lineup in late 2024.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB measures 5,092mm in length, 1,880mm in width, and 1,493mm in height, with a generous wheelbase of 3,094mm. It is 18mm longer and 20mm wider than its predecessor, with the most significant portion of the 18mm length increase attributable to the 15mm larger wheelbase.
The LWB body type, similar to the one unveiled in China, will also be made available to the Indian market, as it was with the previous-generation E-Class LWB. The extended wheelbase enhances rear legroom and knee space, while the cabin retains the same interior design and equipment as the standard model.
It also features air suspension and a rear-wheel steering system capable of turning the rear wheels up to 4.5 degrees.
Inside, the E-Class LWB closely mirrors the regular E-Class. The car showcased in China is offered in various configurations, each with unique feature sets, including power-reclining rear seats with an ottoman function. Some configurations come equipped with the “Superscreen,” a standard feature.
The Mercedes Superscreen configuration combines three integrated displays behind a single glass panel on the dashboard. The driver is presented with instrumentation on a 12.2-inch screen, while a 14.4-inch central infotainment display serves as the primary unit. A third screen is visible to the front passenger.
The Mercedes-Benz E-Class L is reported to be available with a 4-cylinder powertrain in two variations: the E270L with 201hp and the more potent E300L with 255hp. The lineup is expected to expand with additional options in the future.
Sales of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class LWB are set to commence in China in the coming months. Closer to home, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has just unveiled the all-new Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV, which is the latest addition to Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s luxury all-electric EQ portfolio.
Let’s not forget that BMW Malaysia took the leap and introduced the G28 BMW 330Li M Sport for the Malaysian market. Would Mercedes-Benz Malaysia take a card out of BMW’s strategy and offer something similar in Malaysia?
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the highly-anticipated all-new Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC SUV, marking its entry into the world of all-electric luxury SUVs. This innovative electric SUV is built on the bespoke electric vehicle platform EVA2, designed from the ground up for electric mobility. It represents a bold fusion of cutting-edge features and timeless elegance.
The EQS SUV distinguishes itself as the first all-electric luxury SUV from Mercedes-Benz, underpinned by a purpose-built electric vehicle platform. Its design reflects a unique blend of form and function, combining exceptional functionality and aerodynamic performance with an unmistakable and innovative aesthetic. The design philosophy, known as Sensual Purity, is evident in the generously sculpted surfaces, seamless transitions, and minimalistic joints. Even in its seven-seater configuration, the EQS SUV maintains a dynamic and commanding presence.
The front end showcases a ‘Black Panel’ unit, featuring headlamps connected by a luminous band, alongside a deep black radiator grille with a distinctive three-dimensional star pattern bearing the Mercedes-Benz signature. Notable are the small triangular daytime running lights, which impart a striking visual signature. The light modules feature a textured surface illuminated from behind, incorporating a three-dimensional hexagon pattern in conjunction with the daytime running lights, ensuring instant recognition. The EQS SUV comes standard with Digital Light featuring a light band.
The seamless design is prominently displayed in the front with the AMG Line Exterior, showcasing reduced joint patterns and a bonnet that appears to overlap. Power domes on the front bonnet further emphasise its dynamic character.
The SUV’s dynamic silhouette defines its side profile and conveys its aerodynamic efficiency. Starting from the rounded front, the sleek A-pillar and the roofline flow towards the rear spoiler. The roof spoiler, always in black, creates an illusion of lowered vehicle height when viewed from the side. The extended C-pillar, set far to the rear, emphasises the spacious interior. A three-dimensional chrome strip elegantly frames the side windows. The EQS SUV is equipped with 22-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, aerodynamically optimised, and finished in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish.
Aerodynamic considerations dictate the placement of the exterior mirrors on its shoulders. The black wheel arch claddings and side sill panels help minimise its visual volume. The EQS SUV is outfitted with aluminium-look illuminated running boards featuring rubber studs, which provide not only aesthetic appeal but also aerodynamic advantages that contribute positively to the electric range. Standard features include flush door handles and a panoramic sunroof, consisting of two modules creating an expansive glass surface, and ensuring ample transparency and light in the cabin.
The rear of the EQS SUV shines with meticulously designed LED lights, featuring elements in the shape of a curved 3D helix. This, combined with the light band, creates a unique lighting signature that characterises Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles.
The tailgate integrates seamlessly with the bumper, while the black wheel arch linings extend to the lower portion of the rear bumper. Below, a high-quality chrome element in diffuser style, combined with an aerodynamically optimised spoiler lip on the underbody, adds the finishing touch.
Built on the modular architecture for large electric vehicles, the EQS SUV optimises SUV-specific aerodynamic details, including turbulators and aerodynamically designed running boards, striking an ideal balance between spaciousness and aerodynamic performance. The underbody is designed with multiple aerodynamic elements playing a vital role in achieving a commendable drag coefficient of 0.26, despite its high load capacity and short rear overhang.
Taking inspiration from Formula 1 car underbodies, the running boards are turned downwards in the non-visible area underneath. This directs airflow behind the wheels, delivering measurable aerodynamic benefits.
The EQS SUV offers a variety of driving modes through Dynamic Select, allowing the driver to customise the SUV’s characteristics, including drive mode, electronic stability control (ESP), suspension, and steering. Above 80km/h, it automatically lowers itself to a standard level, while dropping below 50km/h triggers a rise to normal height. It features two versions of the offroad driving mode, one with ESP and one without. It is equipped with a transparent bonnet providing a virtual view of the area under the front of the vehicle, including the front wheels and their steering positions.
The SUV shares its long wheelbase of 3,210mm with the EQS sedan but is over 20 centimetres taller. The spacious interior dimensions are a testament to this generous SUV configuration, designed with electric mobility in mind. The standard offering includes a third row with two additional individual seats, ensuring an optimal experience for all passengers.
In terms of dimensions, the EQS SUV boasts generous space, with a length/width/height of 5,125/1,959/1,718 millimeters. Headroom measures 1,035 millimeters in the first-row seats with the sliding sunroof and 1,031 millimeters in the second row. The third row offers a comfortable 900 millimeters of headroom. The first and subsequent rows boast above-average shoulder room and elbow room.
The second-row seats can be electrically adjusted, offering a forward and backward adjustment range of up to 130 millimeters as standard. This design ensures knee room for the second row falls between 830 and 960 millimeters. These seats also recline electrically, with a range of 14 degrees forward and 4 degrees backward. The corresponding controls are conveniently located on the doors.
Incorporating the standard electric second-row seat adjustment, the luggage compartment can be continuously expanded from 645 liters (for maximum legroom) to 880 liters. Even with five occupants on board, the luggage compartment provides enough space to carry up to 24 crates of mineral water or four golf bags. With the second row folded down, the luggage compartment space increases to a generous 2,100 liters. In addition, when the third-row seats are deployed, a substantial 800 liters of boot space is available behind the second row, and 2,020 liters when folded down. With all seven seats in use, there is still a 195-liter storage space available behind the third-row seats.
The seat backrests are adjustable and can be folded down in a 40:20:40 ratio, with electrically adjustable backrest angles. In the cargo position, the backrests are set at a steeper angle, allowing for the transport of larger objects without folding them down. This cargo position can be activated via interior switches. The open tailgate provides ample headroom with a height of 1,978 millimeters, ensuring ease of loading.
The EQS SUV introduces a third row with two additional individual seats. These seats fold up from the load floor through a mechanical process. For greater ease of access to the rear, an Easy Entry function is a standard feature for the second-row seats. This function moves the backrest forward beyond the typical adjustment range by up to 290 millimetres.
One of the standout interior features is the MBUX Hyperscreen, a large, curved display unit spanning nearly from A-pillar to A-pillar. Three screens are housed under a single bonded glass cover and seamlessly meld into one expansive display. Alongside the visually impressive design, the MBUX Hyperscreen offers intuitive touch functionality, complete with haptic and force feedback. The scratch-resistant glass is coated for effortless cleaning.
The MBUX Hyperscreen unifies three displays, forming a single 141-centimeter-wide screen band. The driver’s display measures 12.3 inches diagonally, the central display is 17.7 inches, and the front passenger display is 12.3 inches. These displays are presented as one cohesive visual unit.
In the front section of the center console, the gap between the instrument panel and the center console bridges the open space, emblematic of the electric powertrain’s absence of a transmission tunnel. This design provides an expanded storage tray in the center of the footwell, enhancing the available space for accessories.
Leather surfaces with intricate seam patterns create ample storage space when combined with a large cover made of genuine wood, delivering an upscale and luxurious visual impression.
The door panel design is reminiscent of contemporary living spaces, with doors and their center panels emerging from behind the instrument panel, spanning the entire area. A surface-mounted modular body floats like a sideboard in front of the door panel, accommodating all essential door elements such as the armrest, door module, handle, and map pocket. The avant-garde look is completed with circular ambient lighting in low-light conditions.
The Electric Art equipment line offers luxury seats upholstered in black/space grey Nappa leather, accented with piping that accentuates the handcrafted touch.
Enhancing the audio experience, Apple Music’s Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos elevates the audio experience in the EQS SUV, offering studio-quality sound akin to the best concert halls. This feature ensures an immersive listening experience with multi-dimensional sound and unparalleled clarity.
The EQS SUV delivers power of up to 536hp, meeting the performance and luxury expectations of an SUV. The EQS SUV features an electric drive train (eATS) on both the rear and front axles, creating an all-wheel-drive system known as 4MATIC. The Torque Shift function optimally and continuously allocates torque between the front and rear electric motors.
The Torque Shift function seamlessly manages torque distribution between the two electric motors of the 4MATIC, adapting it on demand for optimum efficiency. This function regulates torque distribution based on different scenarios:
Energy Efficiency: For steady-speed driving, the system determines the most efficient all-wheel-drive distribution while considering that a permanent magnet synchronous machine can be completely switched off under certain conditions, reducing the baseline load.
Recuperation Power: To achieve the highest possible energy recovery rate during deceleration without compromising wheel grip and driving stability, an adapted torque distribution is utilized. Versions with all-wheel drive can offer recuperation power of up to 290 kW, enhancing the vehicle’s electric range.
Traction/Acceleration: Ideal torque distribution between both axles is established to ensure optimal and stable handling during sporty cornering.
Off-Road: In offroad driving mode, the all-wheel-drive distribution is optimised for unpaved roads, inclines, and challenging terrains.
The EQS SUV is equipped with a lithium-ion battery featuring 12 cell modules with pouch or hardcase cells. The 108.4 kWh capacity enables an impressive WLTP-rated range of up to 615km. The battery management software, developed in-house, supports over-the-air (OTA) updates, ensuring the energy management system remains current.
A state-of-the-art charging system is located above the rear axle, allowing the battery to be charged via single-phase or three-phase alternating current from the public grid, with a standard charging capacity of 22 kW. Direct current (DC) fast charging is also available, with a capacity of up to 200 kW for rapid charging. The advanced temperature and charging management of the vehicle allows for high charging currents over extended periods.
The actual charging duration depends on factors such as vehicle parameters, infrastructure availability, and specific vehicle equipment related to each country.
The Mercedes-Benz EQS 580 4MATIC SUV is available in a single variant with a price tag of RM 699,888, inclusive of the 10% Sales Tax (applicable to Peninsular Malaysia).
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has unveiled the formidable Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S 4MATIC+ Coupé, amplifying its position as a trendsetter in the compact performance segment with a range of innovative enhancements. This model is more than just a performance car; it’s a statement of power and style.
Exterior
It boasts a distinctive AMG-specific radiator grille adorned with vertical slats, emphasizing its brand affiliation. Its front apron has been reshaped, complemented by a round badge featuring the iconic AMG emblem. The inside of the headlights showcases the Multibeam LED technology, further enhancing its visual appeal.
For personalisation, the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 S offers exciting new paint colours including hyper blue and spectral blue. Additionally, options like Manufaktur Mountain grey MAGNO and Manufaktur Patagonia red metallic paint are available for those seeking a touch of individuality.
The car comes standard with 19” AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels in a striking matte black finish with high-sheen rim flange, accentuated by red painted brake calipers. Customers also have the option to choose 19” AMG cross-spoke forged wheels or 19” AMG 5-twin-spoke light alloy wheels.
Interior
Inside, the cabin is adorned with two 10.25-inch displays, creating a seamless high-tech experience. The AMG Performance steering wheel, crafted from nappa leather and Microcut microfiber, incorporates intuitive controls allowing the driver to manage critical functions without losing focus on the road. The head-up display keeps essential information in direct view, ensuring maximum attention on driving.
Seating comfort is elevated with the AMG Performance seats featuring Artico man-made leather and Microcut microfibre. Optional leather upholstery and Manufaktur seat belts in red accentuate the sporty theme. Aluminum AMG Design trim elements add a touch of elegance and excitement.
The Mercedes-AMG GLC Coupé, a new addition to the successful midsize series by Mercedes-AMG, exemplifies a blend of dynamic and characteristic AMG features. This model, like its SUV counterpart, is a powerful and sporty offering, appealing to customers seeking a sporty lifestyle coupled with impressive performance.
Design and Aesthetics
The GLC Coupé boasts a sporty silhouette characterized by a flowing transition towards the rear, accentuating its width and creating an impression of dynamic movement. The design elements, such as the AMG-specific radiator trim, front apron, and precise side edges, underline the sporty proportions of the vehicle. Additionally, the powerful wheel arches and the wheel options ranging from 19 to 21 inches add to the confident appearance.
The interior of it is carefully designed to provide a sporty and luxurious atmosphere. Features like AMG seats in Artico man-made leather / Microcut AMG microfibre, the AMG Performance steering wheel, and illuminated door sills with AMG lettering contribute to the overall sporty aesthetic.
Performance and Drivetrain
The heart of the GLC Coupé is the AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, known as M139l, incorporating innovative technologies and high performance while maintaining efficiency. One notable feature is the electric exhaust gas turbocharger powered by a 48-volt on-board electrical system. This setup ensures a highly responsive engine across the speed range, leading to a more dynamic driving experience and improved efficiency.
Mercedes-Benz is revolutionising the way their customers fuel up in Germany by introducing a seamless and secure payment system directly from their cars using their fingerprints. This innovation is facilitated through the native in-car payment service, Mercedes pay+. The biometric two-factor authentication is made possible by a fingerprint sensor integrated into the MBUX infotainment system.
When a driver arrives at a connected service station and turns off the engine, the Mercedes me Fuel & Pay service automatically initiates on the MBUX infotainment system. The driver can then select the desired gas pump. Even before refueling, the system calculates the maximum total amount based on the current fuel price and the estimated fuel required to fill the tank.
In this advanced system, drivers no longer need to authorize payments via their mobile devices. Instead, they complete transactions seamlessly through fingerprint authentication. After refueling, the MBUX display shows the amount of fuel added and the invoice amount. Payment is processed automatically, allowing the driver to leave the gas station without visiting the checkout area. The invoice is later sent to the customer via email.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has unveiled the locally-assembled GLC, building on the success of the earlier launch of the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 4MATIC. This locally assembled GLC is produced at the brand’s production facility in Pekan, Pahang.
The new GLC boasts the signature Mercedes-Benz SUV design, with the AMG Line variant adding a sporty touch to the exterior. Its body features a seamless surface with defined edges along the sides, emphasizing the proportions and muscular wheel arches while maintaining elegance and off-road capability.
Mercedes-Benz has introduced a novel approach to acquiring a new model, offering customers in Malaysia a comprehensive and integrated purchasing experience.
This innovative approach comes with a multitude of advantages, foremost among them being the gift of time – an invaluable luxury that allows customers to engage with the brand at their own pace and convenience. Through the agency model, whether customers choose to shop online, visit a physical store, or opt for a combination of both, they can expect not only the best prices but also a seamless and transparent process.
During the launch of the Concept CLA Class at the 2023 IAA Munich, Mercedes’ CEO, Ola Källenius, took the stage to make an even more noteworthy announcement. He confirmed the rumours that the famous G-Class was being scaled down. Källenius described this little off-roader while a boxy SUV design draw-up was shown in the backdrop. He made it clear that this “Little G” will run solely on electricity.
Mercedes-AMG G 63
The smaller G-Class hasn’t yet been given a release date, but given that all we have to go on right now is a design sketch, it’s safe to assume that it won’t be until at least a few years. Källenius emphasised that Mercedes is well aware of the responsibilities involved in this endeavour while acknowledging the difficulty of living up to the iconic G-Class tradition. He guaranteed that the “Little G” will be “instantly recognisable” and confirmed that it will provide a pleasurable driving experience both on and off-road.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class All-Terrain marks its debut as a versatile, high-riding, all-wheel-drive wagon. This model caters to customers seeking a model that can handle light off-roading adventures, such as traversing dirt or gravel paths, all while avoiding the bulkiness of an SUV.
The All-Terrain model distinguishes itself from the sedan with a unique front grille design, featuring two bars accented by an elegant Iridium Silver finish at the center. The lower fascia has also been revised to complement this distinctive look.
To enhance its rugged appeal, the wagon incorporates dark grey cladding on the wheel arches. While the standard configuration includes 18-inch wheels, customers have the option to upgrade to 19- or even 20-inch sizes to tailor the wagon’s appearance to their preferences.
