Showing posts with label class. Show all posts
Showing posts with label class. Show all posts
Sunday, February 22, 2015
2016 Mercedes Maybach S Class
At the world première in Guangzhou and the presentation in Los Angeles, the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is being unveiled almost simultaneously in its two key markets of the USA and China. The vehicle makes its début at Auto Guangzhou and the Los Angeles Auto Show just hours apart. At 5453 mm long and with a wheelbase of 3365 mm, the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz model range is 20 cm larger in both dimensions than the S-Class Saloon with long wheelbase. Rear passengers benefit from this increased size as well as from standard equipment that includes executive seats on both left and right and other exclusive details such as innovative voice amplification. In the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is also the worlds quietest production saloon car.
"The history of prestige vehicles made by Daimler extends back to the earliest days of the motor car. We have now commenced a new chapter with the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class," points out Ola Källenius, member of the Divisional Board of Mercedes-Benz Cars responsible for sales. "As an addition to the portfolio of S-Class saloons, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sets new standards in the luxury segment. The vehicle satisfies the very highest requirements in terms of exclusivity appointments and comfort."
"Perfection down to the last detail and a new dimension in seating and resting comfort for the rear passengers are the hallmarks of the new Mercedes-Maybach", says Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "Our exceptionally successful new S-Class already defines the pinnacle of automotive engineering in a host of technical disciplines such as safety, efficiency, climate control and noise characteristics. The Mercedes-Maybach now sets the benchmark in the luxury segment even higher."
Mercedes-Maybach: a new sub-brand offering peerless exclusivity
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class melds the perfection of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. Mercedes-Maybach motor cars epitomise peerless exclusivity. Some of the features that distinguish these vehicles from production models include extra spaciousness with lavishly designed, prestigious interiors offering extensive scope for individualisation. As a result, the cars fulfil the requirements of even the most discerning customers worldwide.
Mercedes-Maybach is not an equipment line – it is a sub-brand that in future will provide Mercedes-Benz vehicles in an even more exclusive form. Alongside Mercedes-AMG, Mercedes-Maybach is thus the second sub-brand in the Mercedes-Benz brand world. Providing both prestige and exclusivity, it is aimed at customers for whom status is important.
The market launch of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is scheduled for February 2015. The top-of-the-range model is the Mercedes-Maybach S 600. Its V12 biturbo engine has an output of 390 kW (530 hp). With a displacement of 5980 cc, the maximum torque of 830 Nm is available from 1900 rpm. The V8 biturbo engine in the Mercedes-Maybach S 500 generates an output of 335 kW (455 hp) from a displacement of 4663 cc. Its peak torque is 700 Nm. NEDC combined fuel consumption for the saloon is just 8.9 litres/100 km (premium petrol). CO2 emissions are 207 g/km. The Mercedes-Maybach S 500 4MATIC will also be available from June 2015.
Inside the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the level of wind noise is impressively low and in the rear, despite the large windows, betters even the quietest car in the world – the S-Class Coupé. For passengers in the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the worlds quietest production saloon car.
In its exterior design, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class combines stylish, effortless superiority with trend-setting exclusivity. The vehicle makes modern luxury come alive in an exceptional way. Along with the extended wheelbase, emphatic lines suggest power and dynamism. Due to the sidewalls special design, characteristic design elements for the S-Class are retained such as the sweeping, dome-shaped roofline.
The key distinguishing feature is the new side line: by comparison with the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class, the striking rear door has been shortened by 66 mm and therefore appears to meld seamlessly into the overall composition. The door has no triangular window because this has been relocated into the C-pillar. As a result, the rear seats are situated beyond the door cutout, which creates a feeling of exceptional privacy and exclusivity. The elegant Maybach Manufaktur logo – a double M inside an arched triangle – adorns the C-pillars on both sides.
In the interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, passengers are enveloped in lounge-style, modern luxury. With its clear architecture, refined materials and stylish controls, the vehicle embodies a sensuous elegance. For an exclusive look, the front centre armrests with nappa leather or exclusive nappa leather upholstery feature embossed Maybach crests. Another special feature in the dashboard is the analogue clock with an IWC design.
The high quality standards of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are impressively evident from the doors, which even have handstitched door trim as part of the standard equipment. This extravagance is part of the interiors luxurious, hand-finished "Manufaktur" character. Exclusive features used in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are trim parts in wood/chrome and leather at shoulder height in the door panels, chrome-plated tweeter grilles and fibre-optic cables for the ambience lighting to the side on the armrest. Together they create a unique atmosphere conveying a sense of capacious style.
As the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz model range, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class satisfies the very highest requirements in terms of luxury appointments and comfort. In addition to all the amenities of the conventional S-Class, a number of exclusive interior touches underscore the Mercedes-Maybach S-Classs ambition to lead. These include the exclusive Maybach perfume AGARWOOD for fragrancing as part of the AIR-BALANCE package and two silver-plated, handcrafted champagne flutes (both optional extras). Voice amplification is a novel function emphasising the Mercedes-Maybach S-Classs positioning as a chauffeur-driven vehicle, which makes it much easier for occupants in the front to communicate with the rear passengers. The Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system offers a unique optical and acoustic experience. As a visual highlight, the tweeters in the rear doors of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are particularly sophisticated and can also be moved towards the passengers in a spiral motion.
A sense of spaciousness: setting new benchmarks for sleeping and resting comfort in the rear
The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is specifically designed to be chauffeur-driven. For the driver and any front passenger, there have been no compromises compared with a "normal" S-Class. Here, however, the real sense of spaciousness is to be found in the rear. The benefits of extending the wheelbase by 200 mm are felt entirely in the back of the vehicle where the specification has been refined even more. Due to the roofline, it was also possible to further raise the head clearance.
Here is a comparison of two important dimensions relating to comfort:
V 222 | X 222 | |
Effective headroom in rear* (mm) | 951 | 963 |
Kneeroom in rear* (mm) | 166 | 325 |
* With executive seat and sliding sunroof
A clear indication that the owner of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class will typically be found in the second row are the standard-fit executive seats on the left and right. These rear seats offer a unique level of comfort thanks to a special adjustment kinematics system. In contrast to the norm, the backrest is adjusted separately while the footwell and seat reference point remain unchanged. The cushion can be adjusted separately, with inclination and horizontal adjustment combined.
For the executive seats, the maximum backrest angle is 43.5 degrees. The most upright backrest position of 19 degrees allows relaxed working in the rear. The reclining seats feature a calf support, which is freely adjustable for length and angle. As standard, the luxury head restraints come with an extra cushion.
The Chauffeur package is also part of the standard equipment. A "chauffeur position" for the front passenger seat is one of the key components: due to changes to the kinematics system, the rear seat occupant on the front-passenger side has 77 mm more footroom compared with a normal front passenger seat in the furthest forward seat position. In addition to this "chauffeur position", the front passenger seat can be folded forward and the rear seat placed in an extended recline position for breaks. EASY ADJUST luxury head restraints come as standard for the driver and passenger, and the one on the front-passenger side is folding. For the rear passenger, the Chauffeur package also includes a heel support, which extends from under the front passenger seat. This allows a reclined position that sets new standards in the automotive sector with respect to sleeping and resting comfort.
Individual seat functions in the rear, and those of the chauffeur seat, are of course electrically operated via the typical Mercedes control panels in the rear doors. The rear armrest has a double cup holder, stowage space and wood trim.
As an option, it is possible to boost comfort for rear passengers even further. The Rear Seat Comfort package includes individually adjustable multicontour seats, for example, and an ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle.
The First-Class rear suite (centre console in the rear) is a visual continuation of the front console on the centre tunnel. It is equipped with innovative thermo cup holders, which use Peltier technology to cool or warm drinks over a longer period of time.
Like an aircraft seat, the centre console is available with two tables which can be easily folded in or out using one hand. Two articulated joints on the stem and underside of the table enable it to be adjusted to almost any position. The table supports and surface are made of a light alloy, combining great stability with a high-quality look. The table surfaces have leather inserts to provide a comfortable writing surface.
To deliver maximum climatic control in the rear compartment, there is a second, standard-fitted THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control system in the rear with two additional climate zones for the rear seats. A control panel on the back of the centre console allows the temperature and air distribution to be set individually for the left and right sides. For targeted climate control, there are two nozzles in the centre console and also on the B-pillars and in the rear footwell. Using COMAND Online, the driver can conveniently adjust the automatic climate control system for the back of the vehicle too.
As exclusive optional equipment (standard in the Mercedes-Maybach S 600), there is the AIR-BALANCE package including ionisation, enhanced air filtration and fragrancing with AGARWOOD, the exclusive Maybach perfume (see section on appointments).
Aeroacoustics: in the back of the worlds quietest production saloon
Inside the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the level of wind noise is impressively low and, despite the large windows, betters even the quietest car in the world – the S-Class Coupé. For passengers in the rear, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is the worlds quietest production saloon car. Extensive measurements were also taken in experimental vehicles considering the fully reclined position in the rear. That is because positioning the passenger away from the side windows and towards the rear window and triangular windows creates a new acoustic situation.
Special seals optimise the noise insulation, thereby ensuring excellent aeroacoustic performance in the rear. These include seals over the C joints in the rear doors, which have a hose profile rather than the usual lip seal, as well as bonded triangular windows with a special seal.
Other measures in the rear compartment are a generous area of insulation around the single seats extending from the seat cushion over the rear panel to the parcel shelf. Intelligent air ducting around the parcel shelf reduces the intrusion of noise, and sealed inertia reels on the seat belts prevent possible disturbing sounds. The textile underbody and wheel arch lining have an insulating and absorptive effect, which reduces high-frequency tyre noise in the interior.
A new aeroacoustic wind tunnel at the Mercedes-Benz Technology Centre in Sindelfingen became operational in September 2013 and played a crucial part in achieving excellent, quiet running. For example, the conveyor belt/balance system there is integrated into a turntable with a diameter of twelve metres. This means that test vehicles can also to be subjected to an angled flow of air in order to simulate crosswinds.
As a result, experts in aeroacoustics were able to study the perfect design for the door structure of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class under wind load. The door seal must fit closely even when subjected to a constant or gusty sidewind such as would be encountered when passing a truck, on bridges, in wooded areas or when driving on a coastal road. Despite negative pressure on the side away from wind, the door must never be pulled more than a few millimetres away from the seal. Large doors are particularly susceptible to this phenomenon because strength is a product of (negative) pressure and area.
Aerodynamics: many details with optimum flow
- With a Cd value of 0.26, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class maintains the brands leading position in the area of aerodynamics.
- A whole raft of aerodynamic optimisations has been implemented:
- Wheel spoilers with aerodynamically optimised contour ahead of the front wheels
- Large area of cladding on the rear axle
- Aerodynamically efficient design of the front and rear aprons and the rear spoiler
- Optimised exterior mirror design with mirror base
- Sealed headlamp surrounds
- Improved sealing of the radiator section and flow properties to make efficient use of the available cooling air
- Streamlined water drainage channels
- Speed-dependent lowering of the vehicle by up to 20 mm
- Spoiler lip on each tail light
- Aerodynamically optimised underbody with extensive engine compartment and underbody panelling
Exterior design: elegant and exclusive
In its exterior design, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class combines stylish, effortless superiority with trend-setting exclusivity. The vehicle makes modern luxury (in the truest sense of the word) come alive in an exceptional way. Along with the extended wheelbase, emphatic lines suggest power and dynamism. Due to the sidewalls special design, characteristic design elements for the S-Class are retained such as the sweeping, dome-shaped roofline. The key distinguishing feature is the new side line: by comparison with the long-wheelbase version of the S-Class, the striking rear door has been shortened by 66 mm and therefore appears to seamlessly meld into the overall composition. The door has no triangular window. This has been relocated into the C-pillar. As a result, the rear seats are situated beyond the door cutout, which creates a feeling of exceptional privacy and exclusivity. The triangular windows and other glass areas alike have chrome surrounds. The B-pillar is also covered in chrome. The elegant Maybach Manufaktur logo – a double M inside an arched triangle – adorns the C-pillars on both sides. What is more, exclusive 20-inch (50.8 cm) forged, light-alloy wheels are available for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. Instead of delicate spokes, their design features large surfaces to underline the flagship models high-quality look. Overall the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is 207 mm longer than the S-Class with long wheelbase. 200 mm of this is the result of the extension between the B and C-pillar. All this additional space is used to boost comfort for rear passengers.
Subtle yet noticeable changes in both the front and rear area differentiate the longest S-Class from its smaller siblings. Three double louvres in chrome within the radiator trim have a formative influence on the Mercedes-Maybach S-Classs elegant look. Additional vertical chrome trim discreetly but deeply underlines the special appeal of this extraordinary vehicle. This theme is taken up once again in the design at the tail end.
The key features of the front end design:
- Dominant radiator trim with large radiator opening and three double louvres in chrome
- Subtle vertical chrome trim
- Double trim in the air intakes on the right and left
- Double trim in the bottom end piece of the bumpers
The emphatic design for the sides draws to an effective conclusion at the rear. The chrome double louvres deployed at the front are continued in the rear area, emphasising high quality and elegance.
Key features of the rear end design:
- Horizontal lines emphasise the vehicles width
- Two tailpipe trim elements in chrome integrated into the bumper with vertical partition
- Chrome double louvres in the bottom section of the bumper covering add the perfect finishing touch to the vehicle
- Maybach lettering on the boot lid (mounted on the left in direction of travel)
Interior design: the essence of modern luxury
"To create only the very best from the very best – a car that fulfils every last wish and stands out for its supremely refined elegance and power" is the aim according to a Maybach brochure dating from 1930. This continues to be the case today. In the interior of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, passengers are enveloped in lounge-style, modern luxury. With its clear architecture, refined materials and stylish controls, the vehicle embodies a sensuous elegance.
The Exclusive trim package, which is fitted as standard, increases the sense of perceived value still further, particularly in the rear of the vehicle. Sensuously curved, fine-wood trim with a handcrafted feel surrounds the entire rear seating system. The seat-back lining, doors and nozzle coverings are resplendent in fine wood.
For an exclusive look, the front centre armrests with nappa leather or exclusive nappa leather upholstery feature embossed Maybach crests (and also the armrests in the rear in conjunction with the First-Class rear suite). Another special feature in the dashboard is the analogue clock with an IWC design. The numbers are individually milled and applied, underlining the analogue clocks exclusive design. Both the numbers and indicators are made of fine metal. The high quality standards of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are evident from the doors, which even have handstitched door trim as part of the standard equipment (in nappa leather with exclusive leather as an optional extra). This extravagance is part of the interiors luxurious, hand-finished "Manufaktur" character. Exclusive features used in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class are trim parts in wood/chrome and leather at shoulder height in the door panels, chrome-plated tweeter grilles and fibre-optic cables for the ambience lighting to the side on the armrest. Together they create a unique atmosphere conveying a sense of capacious style.
The models: with V12 and V8 engines plus 4MATIC
The top-of-the-range model is the Mercedes-Maybach S 600. Its V12 biturbo engine has an output of 390 kW (530 hp). With a displacement of 5980 cc, the maximum torque of 830 Nm is available from 1900 rpm. The Mercedes-Maybach S 600 completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds, while the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited). The most important features of the V12 engine are the all-aluminium crankcase, one-piece chain drive, forged crankshaft in high-grade quenched and tempered steel, forged pistons, dedicated ignition coil with multispark ignition, hollow-stem outlet valves filled with sodium and a low-temperature coolant circuit with separate expansion reservoir.
The V8 biturbo engine in the Mercedes-Maybach S 500 generates an output of 335 kW (455 hp) from a displacement of 4663 cc. Its peak torque is 700 Nm. NEDC combined fuel consumption for the saloon is just 8.9 litres/100 km (premium petrol). CO2 emissions are 207 g/km. The Mercedes-Maybach S 500 4MATIC will also be available from June 2015. Permanent all-wheel drive improves traction and driving stability, particularly when road conditions are difficult in winter, for example. The Mercedes-Maybach S 500 is equipped as standard with new 9G-TRONIC, the worlds first nine-speed automatic transmission in the premium segment. Its broad ratio spread (9.15) for gears one to nine allows an overall reduction in engine speed a key factor behind the high level of energy efficiency and ride comfort. Shortened shift and reaction times ensure optimum spontaneity combined with outstanding ease of shifting. The Mercedes-Maybach S 600 comes with the latest evolution of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission.
All models at a glance:
Mercedes-Maybach | S 500 | S 600 |
Number of cylinders/arrangement | 8/V | 12/V |
Displacement (cc) | 4663 | 5980 |
Rated output (kW/hp at rpm) | 335/455 at 5250-5500 | 390/530 at 4900-5300 |
Rated torque (Nm at rpm) | 700 at 1800-3500 | 830 at 1900-4000 |
Combined fuel consumption from (l/100 km) | 8.9 S | 11.7 SP |
Combined CO2 emissions from (g/km) | 207 | 274 |
Efficiency class | C | F |
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s) | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Top speed (km/h) | 250 | 250 |
Bodyshell: exemplary stability
From the outset, the bodyshell for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class was developed alongside the two shorter S-Class models and thus benefits from the innovative solutions deployed there. The new S-Class has already won the worlds most prestigious award in car body construction: at the annual EuroCarBody Conference in Bad Nauheim in October 2013, it beat off the competition to achieve first place. Decisive factors included the highly innovative aluminium hybrid construction of the S-Class vehicle body featuring various materials such as cast aluminium and high-strength steels, along with the efficient use of appropriate joining technology such as aluminium MIG welding, self-piercing riveting and the first use of RobScan welding on aluminium in large-scale production.
Based on this exemplary substructure the Mercedes-Maybach bodyshell, which has the largest side panel made in series production in a single piece, was optimised further. Repeated reinforcements at the base of the B-pillar – the engineers talk vividly of the shoe-shaped reinforcements on the S-Class with long wheelbase turning into "boots" here on the Mercedes-Maybach – and at the transition from the almost square door cutout to the wheel arch provide additional rigidity. Despite the much longer length, NVH conduct is trend-setting for its class. Among other factors, the attachments for the reclining seats in the rear have been enlarged to avoid subtle vibrations – a modification that likewise benefits the S-Class with long wheelbase.
Safety: intelligent assistance systems and innovations for the rear
Like the S-Class, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is available with numerous new assistance systems that make driving even more comfortable and safer. Intelligent Drive systems include PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection, DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, Brake Assist BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and Night View Assist Plus.
In the shape of the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag (both part of the PRE-SAFE® rear package) and seat cushion airbag, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class possesses further innovative safety features that are not even available as options from other brands.
Executive seats in the rear as standard come with the innovative seat cushion airbag. The airbag is located under the seat cushion upholstery, but on top of the plastic seat shell, which is moved by the seat mechanisms. This means that the airbag is always in the right position relative to the occupant.
In an accident, with the occupant in a reclined position on a flat seat cushion, without additional measures there would be a danger of the pelvic area sliding beneath the belt strap (submarining). This can be prevented by the cushionbag, as it raises the front section of the seat cushion upholstery. The airbag is only activated if the seat is in the reclined position during a crash. It is not activated in the upright position, as there is then no danger of submarining.
Reducing belt slack: the seat belt buckle extender
In the seat belt buckle extender, an electric motor automatically raises and lowers the buckle. This makes for easier seat belt attachment and reduces any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax. Passengers are also secured more firmly in both the sideways and lengthways direction. The seat belt buckle extender follows the integral Mercedes-Benz safety concept. By systematically implementing safety as a priority, this concept covers all phases of automobile safety: from safety while driving to safety in hazardous situations, and from protection in an accident to minimisation of the consequences.
The innovation is classic Mercedes-Benz, improving safety and comfort in one. This is because fastening seat belts in the rear is also made much simpler: the seat belt buckle emerges from the upholstery when the rear doors are opened and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot. Simplifying use of the seat belt in this manner may increase the percentage of rear passengers who buckle up. It also makes it easier to assist children or people who require help in fastening their seat belts.
The seat belt buckle extender is furthermore integrated into the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system. This means that in cases where PRE-SAFE® is activated in critical driving situations, there is also reversible belt tensioning in the rear via the seat belt buckle extender. The restraint system and passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident situation. In this way, the seat belt buckle extender complements the pyrotechnical belt tensioning which has featured as standard on all outer rear seats in Mercedes-Benz vehicles for many years now, and is triggered in the event of an impact exceeding a certain severity.
The seat belt buckle extender is a motorised belt buckle which can be extended upwards by up to 50 mm and retracted by up to 40 mm. The belt buckle is attached via a cable to a nut which runs on a spindle, translating the electric motors rotary movement into a linear movement.
An airbag for seat belts: the beltbag
The beltbag is an inflatable seat-belt strap that reduces the load on the ribcage in a front impact and is thus able to reduce the risk of injury to passengers in the rear. Because dummy measurement technology is not capable of quantifying the benefits resulting from a wider belt strap, such as the lower force exerted on occupants in the rib area in particular, the safety experts at Mercedes have been working extensively with virtual human models too. Such computer-generated models make it possible to obtain detailed findings on the biomechanical strain during an accident.
Should the crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact, the airbag control unit triggers deployment and inflation of the beltbag. A gas generator then inflates the multi-layered belt strap with tear seams to nearly three times its normal width. The resulting larger surface area is able to better distribute the force acting on the seat occupant. This lowers the risk of injury.
The beltbag is used in exactly the same way as a conventional seat belt. The belt straps design is different from that of the standard belt though, and received top marks in practical trials for being extremely comfortable to wear and for its extra-soft belt strap edge.
Other protective measures: windowbag and thorax-sidebag
If the central electronic control unit detects a side crash, the windowbag and thorax-sidebag are deployed on the side of the vehicle on which the impact occurs. To ascertain the lateral acceleration, the central crash sensor has support from exterior satellite sensors located at the base of the B-pillars. Pressure sensors in all four doors also help to estimate the severity of the impact.
Equipment and appointments: an exclusive perfume and handcrafted champagne flutes
As the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz model range, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class satisfies the very highest requirements in terms of luxury appointments and comfort. In addition to all the amenities of the conventional S-Class, a number of exclusive interior touches underscore the ambition to lead of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. Here is an overview of the most important exclusive highlights:
- Of course, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class comes with the option of selecting the AIR-BALANCE package which includes fragrancing, ionisation and even more efficient filtration compared with the basic vehicle. A premium room fragrance has been designed exclusively for this model and the AGARWOOD bottle itself is adorned with Maybach lettering. Agarwood speaks of the centuries-old tradition of perfume. Oud derived from the wood of the Agar tree has long been one of the most precious ingredients – more valuable even than gold – and lends this fragrance its inimitable presence. The luminous golden warmth of resin marries with a striking woodiness, richly contrasted with smokiness. With its refined and elegant character, agarwood makes a statement.
- Any journey in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class can be celebrated in style with two high-quality, handcrafted champagne flutes (optional extra). These silver-plated flutes have been made for the on-board bar by Robbe & Berking, silversmiths in Flensburg, Germany. The prestigious company has a long tradition and well over half of the 200 largest yachts in the world carry silver from Robbe & Berking. Fine restaurants around the globe with several hundred Michelin stars between them are also customers of this luxury brand.
- As standard the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is fitted with a panoramic sliding sunroof. This roof system and its large glass areas make for an especially bright and friendly ambience in the interior. It consists of a fixed panoramic glass roof in the rear section and a top-sliding power sunroof so that the interior can be ventilated as desired. For the first time, the sliding sunroof is available with optional MAGIC SKY CONTROL technology from Mercedes-Benz: the glass can be switched to light or dark at the touch of a button (optional extra for the Mercedes-Maybach S 600).
- Small roller sunblinds for the triangular windows in the C-pillar reflect the great attention to detail. Together with the electric roller sunblinds in the rear doors, they protect passengers in the rear from prying eyes and direct sunlight if desired. When not in use, the roller sunblinds for the triangular windows are concealed out of sight in the side panels. In conjunction with the electric roller sunblind for the rear window, the roller sunblinds for the triangular windows and the rear doors form part of the standard-fit Sun Protection package. The continuous business console, part of the optional First-Class rear suite, is longer than in the normal S-Class and offers extra stowage space.
- A range of exclusive paintwork is available as an option for the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. These paint finishes are produced as part of a "Manufaktur" process (hand-finishing section) at the plant in Sindelfingen. After the first clear coat is applied, the surface of all vehicles is roughened (intermediate sanding) and then a second and final clear coat is painted on. This adds extra depth to the paint finish.
- In addition to the leather options for the S-Class, a designo roof liner in nappa leather is available exclusively for the Mercedes-Maybach. The leather trim extends to sunblinds, roof grab handle, pillar trim, both vanity mirrors in the rear with diamond quilting pattern, and the frames of the Burmester 3D loudspeakers. Elaborate topstitching on the three interior colours of nappa leather available (black, porcelain and crystal grey) attest to the high level of craftsmanship involved in each vehicles fabrication.
"Piano lacquer flowing lines" trim will be available from mid-2015. Derived from piano lacquer trim, 0.8 mm wide lines are milled into the wood veneer to accentuate the form using a special "Manufaktur" (hand-finishing) process. Lighter stripes appear from the plastic layer below and create an extremely high-quality sense of visual depth. Once worked in this particular complex way, the trim is then painted with a high-gloss finish and polished. The result is discernible differentiation from standard.
Voice amplification: convenient communication from front to rear
Voice amplification is a new function underscoring the Mercedes-Maybach S-Classs positioning as a chauffeur-driven vehicle. This innovative function makes it easier to communicate with the rear passengers from the front. The two microphones in the interior mirror are also used to pick up speech for the handsfree telephone function. These signals are then discreetly amplified depending on the amount of driving noise, and continuously adjusted for the speakers volume and the ambient noise level.
The rear loudspeakers in the doors and in the parcel shelf are used for playback. Key considerations for the developers at Mercedes-Benz were ensuring very clear speech along with natural spatial sound and exactly the same ambience.
Voice amplification comes as standard in conjunction with the Burmester® surround sound system and the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system. The function is activated and deactivated under "Vehicle settings" in the COMAND menu. Voice amplification is paused during a telephone call or when using LINGUATRONIC. If the volume of a media source in the background exceeds a certain threshold, voice amplification stops. The threshold is set for relaxed conversation with background music. To prevent disturbing sounds, voice amplification only works when the doors, side windows and panoramic sliding sunroof are closed.
When developing and fine-tuning the voice amplification function, the engineers paid special attention to avoiding what is known as the Lombard effect. This is a speakers tendency to increase their pitch as well as their volume when there is background noise.
Wideband speech: HD-quality telephone calls
When making calls using a mobile phone via Bluetooth®, wideband speech technology (also known as HD Voice) provides better, more natural voice quality. This standard transmits voice over a wider frequency range. In good conditions this will be in a range from 50 to 7000 Hertz rather than 200 to 3400 Hertz previously. Telephone calls become considerably easier to understand, especially in environments like a vehicle where background noise is prevalent.
Burmester® sound systems: specially tuned and also set up for the rear of the vehicle
As alternatives to the standard sound system with ten loudspeakers including the innovative Frontbass system, two very high-quality audio systems are available which were developed together with high-end audio specialist Burmester: the Burmester® surround sound system and the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system. Both are, of course, tuned specifically to the sound situation inside the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.
The Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system offers a unique optical and acoustic experience. As a visual highlight, the tweeters in the mirror triangle of the drivers door and their counterparts in the rear doors are particularly sophisticated in the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. They rotate through 360 degrees when the head unit is turned on, moving ten millimetres towards the passengers in a spiral motion. This movement aligns the tweeters to give the optimum sound impression. If the ambience lighting is switched on, the tweeters are illuminated in one of the seven available colours.
The Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system provides its unrivalled listening experience by virtue of 24 high-performance speakers and 24 separate amplifier channels with a total output of 1540 watts. Its intelligent combination of analogue and digital amplifier technologies leads to an unparalleled mix of fine, natural sounds and high power reserves.
Popular with buyers and the media: the S-Classs success
Just a short time after the model change, the new S-Class has already taken the top sales position in its segment worldwide. Since then it has consistently remained on the path of success: one year after the market launch in all core markets, Mercedes-Benz has delivered more than 100,000 S-Class vehicles to customers. The car has also attracted numerous accolades from the media. For example, international motoring journalists this year chose the S-Class as "World Luxury Car". When selecting the best cars of 2014, the readers of trade journal "auto, motor und sport" declared the saloon the winner in its segment. Specialist American magazine "Ward’s Auto World" has honoured the Mercedes-Benz S-Class for its outstanding interior design. In 2013 the S-Class received the coveted title of "Car Of The Year" in China, an important sales market. That same year, 320,000 readers of AUTO BILD and COMPUTER BILD chose the S-Class as the best networked car and gave it the "Connected Car of the Year" award.
The concept: the ultimate in prestige and stylish travel
As an addition to the portfolio of S-Class saloons, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sets new benchmarks in the luxury segment. The Mercedes-Maybach S-Class melds the perfection of the S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. Impressive spaciousness, elegant design and high-quality materials create an ambience of the highest standard, particularly in the rear of the vehicle. Aspects such as premium craftsmanship, extrovert luxury, Maybach excellence, uniqueness and individualisation establish a connection between Mercedes-Maybach and the S-Class. The target group consists of successful businesspeople that will mainly use the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class in a professional context with a chauffeur. For working in the car, technical functions are therefore very important in the back. The majority of customers are from China, Russia and the USA, where high importance is attached to status symbols.
Strictly speaking, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class has no direct competitors because it is positioned above the existing S-Class segment but below the segment for ultra-luxury vehicles.
The Grand Mercedes: prestigious, high-end motor cars
Size and style combined with technological advances and sublime comfort – these are the shared attributes of prestigious vehicles made by Daimler. Their history dates back to the earliest days of the automobile. As well as conveying passengers in maximum comfort, these luxurious high-end vehicles play an important part in helping their owners to make a dignified impression as befits their status. In terms of style they also always reflect their time. The tradition of prestige vehicles from Mercedes-Benz and the original brands has its roots in the early 20th century and initially went on to 1981 when the final Mercedes-Benz 600 left the factory buildings in Sindelfingen. In 1991 the 600 SEL, the top-of-the-range model in the S-Class 140 model series and at the same time the first Mercedes-Benz production car with a V12 engine, brought the tradition back to life in more than name alone. By 2002, luxury saloons from the Maybach brand were maintaining the connection with power in the high-end segment. In turn the new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class sets another new standard.
1903: the start of a unique tradition
At the beginning of the 20th century, the Mercedes and Benz brands were already shaping the luxury automotive segment and offering customers top-of-the-range models to meet their requirements of comfort and prestige. One early example is the luxurious Mercedes-Simplex 60 hp touring coach from 1904 that Emil Jellinek, father of the brands namesake Mercédès Jellinek, drove on the French Riviera and caused a sensation. The Mercedes-Benz 630 continued this tradition in the 1920s followed by the 770 model known as the Grand Mercedes from 1931. Its era came to a temporary end in 1939. After the second world war the stakes had changed in Germany and Western Europe. People were suffering greater hardship, their needs were existential, their standards more modest. However, Chairman of the Management Board Wilhelm Haspel declared back in December 1947 that: "... what is missing is a vehicle that gold-plates the name Mercedes-Benz again."
1951 comeback: Mercedes-Benz 300 "Adenauer"
The gap was closed in 1951 with the Mercedes-Benz 300. Although nowhere near as ostentatious as the Grand Mercedes of the 1930s, this was the most spacious, comfortable and fastest German saloon of its time and the first prestige vehicle of the post-war period. Facelifted several times, the 300 remained part of the range until 1962 and was the highly prized official car of the German Chancellor. Even today it is referred to as the "Adenauer".
By 1963 the economic miracle was in full swing. Germany was back and this also extended to automotive engineering. The headline of a press release issued by Daimler-Benz AG leaves no doubt: "The Super Mercedes model 600 – the exclusive vehicle for grand luxury." It went on to say that "Mercedes-Benz is creating a link with the companys pre-war tradition of being present in the worlds small group of outstanding prestige vehicles – in the form of a luxuriously appointed car which offers the highest degree of handling safety." The 600 was the first Mercedes-Benz production passenger car with a V8 engine. It set standards in ride comfort and safety worldwide. With a production period of 18 years between 1963 and 1981, the model 600, alongside the SL of the 107 model series, is one of the cars that was made for the longest amount of uninterrupted time at Mercedes-Benz.
Until 2002 the top-of-the-range versions of the S-Class assumed the leading position in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio of cars. The Grand Mercedes then found its natural successor in every respect: luxury vehicles made by the Maybach brand over the next ten years. The first prototype was presented in 1997 at the Tokyo Motor Show under the name "Mercedes-Benz Maybach". It would take 17 years for this combination of names to become a reality, though, in the guise of the 2014 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. With new highlights from 2014, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is steering the unique tradition of prestige vehicles into the future.
(Mercedes-Benz Press Release)
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
2014 Mercedes Benz S Class UK Version
With the three engineering priorities "Intelligent Drive", "Efficient Technology" and "Essence of Luxury", the new S-Class extends the boundaries of technology on many levels. The S-Class is not just a technological spearhead for Mercedes-Benz but for automotive development as a whole.
As with every generation before it, customers expect the new S-Class to set standards across the board to retain its accolade as "the best automobile in the world". Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "Rather than being about safety or aesthetics, power or efficiency, comfort or dynamism, our aspirations were the best or nothing in every respect. No other car stands for the Mercedes-Benz brand promise more than the S-Class."
Perfection to the last detail results in "The Essence of Luxury". This pursuit of the best is particularly noticeable in the interior: whether it is the seats or the air conditioning, the controls or the design, the infotainment or the comfort and safety in the rear – new ideas, their painstaking realisation, and highest perceived quality underpin the high standards that the engineers have set for the Mercedes-Benz flagship model – and for themselves.
The same applies to safety. What started with PRE-SAFE® ten years ago and continued with DISTRONIC PLUS has now resulted in a new dimension of motoring: comfort and safety are merged into one. Mercedes-Benz refers to this as "Intelligent Drive". A whole host of new systems makes the new S-Class even more comfortable and even safer.
The S-Class is so efficient that it almost sounds utopian: within ten years Mercedes-Benz, by realising "Efficient Technology", has improved fuel consumption in the 150 kW output category to 64.2 mpg, for example, while the drag coefficient of the new S-Class (cd=0.24) clearly undercuts the previous models figure and sets a new benchmark in this segment. The S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is set to go even lower still with a cd figure of 0.23 thanks to additional aerodynamic optimisation measures. Furthermore, the new model is the worlds first car to dispense entirely with light bulbs in favour of LEDs, pointing the way ahead once again.
Design: a modern sense of status and sensual shapes
People all over the world can recognise a Mercedes-Benz straight away. The classic Mercedes face runs like a golden thread through the brands history. "The sophisticated design of the S-Class has always been an expression of luxury and automotive grandeur of its era. And our new S-Class continues this tradition. With its classic architecture and flowing silhouette, it is a modern embodiment of sensual clarity. The design draws a line from the sophisticated, progressive design idiom to the classic elegance of our 1930s cars – intelligence that speaks to the emotions. Stylish sportiness and sensual forms in synthesis with timeless clarity and effortless superiority make the S-Class a true design icon," says design chief Gorden Wagener.
To underline the effortless superiority of the new S-Class, and its ambition to lead, the radiator grille is now larger, more upright and distinctly three-dimensional in design. With its long bonnet, the flowing, domed roof line and the gently slanting rear end, the new S-Class has classic saloon proportions. The size and space have been fashioned in such a way that the S-Class appears prestigious, and the powerful roof line is also in keeping with the cars sporty coupé-style intentions.
A character line descending discreetly from front to rear – the brands hallmark "Dropping Line" – elegantly structures the side wall and generates additional dynamism even when the car is at a standstill. The subtly created convex-concave effect of the entire flank gives rise to an extremely powerful and elongated car body that demonstrates both excitement and calm. The pronounced shoulder above the rear wheel adds further emphasis to the cars athletic character.
The positively exaggerated surfaces and lines of the side wall on the new S-Class generate excitement as they flow into the rear end. As well as being elegant, the slightly slanting form has aerodynamic advantages. Horizontal lines running from the boot lid to the bumper emphasise the cars width when viewed from the rear. The hallmark signature of the Mercedes-Benz designers can also be seen in the rear windscreen, which cuts into the C-pillars. The upper area of the glass is rounded, lending it a coupé-like character. The real highlights are the new-style tail lights which are completely encased by the car body and, thanks to this solitarily integrated styling and meticulously crafted inner workings, complete the design right down to the last detail.
LED technology: the first ever car without a single light bulb
100 years or so after the introduction of electric lighting in motor vehicles, Mercedes-Benz is now making a complete switch to LED technology – the new S-Class is the first vehicle in the world whose interior and exterior do without a single light bulb, and sees Mercedes-Benz building on its pioneering role in the lighting sector. The lightings multi-level functionality is another world first: out of consideration for any road users behind, the intensity of the brake lights is reduced at night or while waiting at traffic lights. Almost 500 LEDs illuminate the road, the vehicle, the interior and the boot. Depending on equipment, these include:
- Headlamps: each with up to 56 LEDs
- Tail lights: each with up to 35 LEDs (plus 4 for the rear fog lamp)
- Interior (including ambient lighting): approx. 300 LEDs
Visibility is enhanced by two assistance systems that have undergone some key improvements – Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and Night View Assist Plus. Thanks to a new stereo camera and multistage radar sensors, the S-Class has 360-degree all-round vision and detects potential dangers on the road better.
Drive system: class-leading efficiency in every output category
In its first year the new S-Class line-up features two hybrid versions, a petrol model and a diesel variant: S 400 HYBRID, S 500, S 350 BlueTEC and S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID. All models boast class-leading efficiency and up to 20 percent lower fuel consumption than the outgoing model series. All the engines already meet the requirements of the Euro-6 emissions standard. In addition to this, the S 400 HYBRID and S 350 BlueTEC meet the strict criteria of efficiency class A, while the S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID even has an A+ rating.
"The new S-Class achieves consumption and emissions figures that only a few years ago seemed utopian, even for executive cars," says Prof. Thomas Weber, member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "And this is just the start of our Green Leadership initiative: soon to be followed by the S 500 Plug-In HYBRID – the first S-Class with a fuel consumption lower than four litres per 100 kilometres." The S-Class line-up therefore includes the full range from petrol and diesel models to petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrids for the first time.
Suspension: the worlds first suspension with "eyes"
The new S-Class is the worlds first car to be able to detect bumps on the road ahead. If ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects such unevenness by means of the stereo camera, MAGIC BODY CONTROL instantaneously sets up the suspension to deal with the new situation. This innovative suspension system is available as an option for the eight-cylinder models. Standard equipment for the new S-Class includes the continuously operating Adaptive Damping System ADS PLUS and an enhanced version of the full air suspension system AIRMATIC.
Interior: visual breadth and calm solidity
With its clear architecture, the interior design of the S-Class embodies a classic, superior, cutting-edge saloon. The interiors expressive character derives from a uniquely fluid, sensuously elegant style. Horizontal elements and lines create a setting characterised by visual breadth and calm solidity. High quality and elegance harmonise with clarity and functionality: the interior design of the S-Class combines ride comfort, spaciousness and user-friendliness to the very highest standard.
The perfectly coordinated use of materials and colours produces an exclusive interior seemingly cast from a single mould. There is generous use of wood trim, especially in the dashboard and centre console. Metallised switch surfaces with pearl-effect paint finishes in three colour shades to suit the interior colour particularly highlight the outstanding quality.
Passengers in the rear are also seated in first-class – the design and exclusivity of the seats, door panels and all controls are to the same, high standard as the front. As an additional individualisation feature, the "First Class Rear" incorporates a Business centre console combining personal comfort with practical convenience (integration of a telephone handset, additional stowage compartments, folding table, etc.).
Concept: the best for both worlds
For the first time in the history of the S-Class, the development focus was on the long-wheelbase Saloon. Unlike before, the short-wheelbase version was derived from this. This is because the S-Class is not only firmly positioned as a prestige saloon in the large overseas markets such as the USA, China or Japan. Whereas in Europe and North America owners of an S-Class are frequently behind the wheel themselves, the flagship model in the Mercedes-Benz passenger-car portfolio is very definitely a chauffeur-driven vehicle in Asia. The logical consequence is the number of new features specifically related to comfort and safety in the rear – in the S-Class, there is no doubt that passengers in the rear are also seated in first class.
The occupants of the new S-Class benefit from the moderate increase in vehicle size1 by an improvement in all the interior dimensions: there are 12 millimetres of extra headroom for the driver, as well as 14 millimetres more shoulder room and 10 millimetres more elbow room in the front. Thanks to the 14-millimetre increase in rear kneeroom, travel becomes even more comfortable for passengers in the rear. Shoulder room in the rear has been improved by up to nine millimetres.
Control and display concept: elegant new command centre
Two high-resolution TFT colour displays in 8:3 format with a screen diagonal of 30.7 cm (12.3 inches) form the new information centre in the S-Class. The left-hand display performs the functions of the previous instrument cluster, providing the driver with all relevant information. The right-hand display allows the convenient control of infotainment and comfort functions. For the new S-Class, the constantly increasing need to integrate additional functions into the vehicle led to a further development of the entire operating logic. Here ergonomics, operating convenience and safety along with attractiveness and aesthetics were the main considerations.
The aim in designing the control and display features was to group controls and display functions together in a coherent manner in terms of both design and functionality. Apart from the new displays, the metallised switch surfaces and solid aluminium controls are visual highlights of particularly high quality. Thanks to the fine structuring on the metal surfaces, each individual control has the sound, feel and attention to detail that makes a Mercedes-Benz so special.
The new control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and an extended favourites function with 12 freely selectable memory places. The principal control element is the rotary pushbutton, with the usual direct access keys in the centre console for the most important functions and a toolbar for the driving assistance systems.
Voice entry using LINGUATRONIC via the Speech Dialog System allows complete addresses to be spoken in one go, for example (one-shot input). The telephone and audio systems can also be voice-controlled. The option of having text messages (SMS) or emails read out is a new feature.
Climate control: a wealth of new features for a pleasant atmosphere
During the systematic development of the entire climate control system, a particular focus was placed on the development goals of performance, air quality, precise regulation, noise level and efficiency.
As a new feature, the AIR-BALANCE package comprises perfume atomisation, ionisation and even more efficient filtration compared with the standard model. The THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control in the rear has two additional zones to improve thermal comfort. Electric heating of the armrests is also a completely new feature.
As a world first, the new S-Class Saloon has an "active perfuming system" as part of the AIR-BALANCE package. Active means that the perfuming system is switched on and off manually, with manual adjustment of the intensity. The perfume atomisation system individualises the smell of the vehicle interior. It neither changes the interior smell permanently, nor are perfume molecules deposited on fabric surfaces or clothing. The fragrance is discreet and mild, and dissipates rapidly.
Seats: mobile office and centre of wellbeing
With numerous world firsts such as the ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle or active seat ventilation with reversing fans, Mercedes-Benz has raised seating and climatic comfort in the S-Class to a new level. The seat developers have paid particular attention to the rear seats. There is a choice of five different rear seat variants including an Executive seat with a backrest angle adjustable by up to 43.5 degrees, allowing occupants in the rear to concentrate on work or relax in comfort.
The ENERGIZING massage function based on the hot-stone principle is a world first. The seat specialists at Mercedes-Benz have developed a unique massage function with 14 separately actuated air cushions in the backrest, as well as an integrated warming function. There is a choice of six massage programmes, two of them using the warming function. The function is also available for the rear seats.
For the first time, so-called reversing fans are used in the active seat ventilation system. When the ventilation function starts, cooler surrounding air is first drawn onto the seat surface. This enables the surface temperature of a heated-up seat to be reduced much faster than with the previous active cooling systems. After four minutes the fans are automatically switched to blower mode to reduce draughts.
Two rear seat variants (static bench seat or individual seats with 37-degree adjustment) are available for the standard-wheelbase S-Class, and no fewer than five for the long-wheelbase version. The adjustment kinematics have been changed in the luxury and reclining seat variants. Unlike the conventional trailing backrest design, the backrest is adjusted separately so that the legroom and seat reference point remain unchanged. The cushion can be separately adjusted for angle and horizontal position.
The maximum backrest angle of the Executive seat (reclining seat) behind the front passenger seat is increased from 37 to 43.5 degrees, giving it the largest backrest inclination in the luxury segment. The reclining seat features a calf support which is freely adjustable for length and angle. In combination with the heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat at the front and an additional comfort cushion, this allows a reclined position that sets new standards in the automotive sector with respect to sleeping and resting in comfort.
If the "First Class Rear" is specified (with rear centre console), the front console on the transmission tunnel is visually continued to the rear. It is equipped with innovative thermo-cup holders which use Peltier technology to cool or warm drinks over a longer period of time. Like an aircraft seat, the centre console is available with two tables which can be easily folded in or out using one hand.
Multimedia features: mobile concert hall
A completely new multimedia generation with intuitive operation and particularly tangible functions thanks to visualisation and animations celebrates its debut in the S-Class. Other innovations include the multi-user system, which allows independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any seat.
The innovative Frontbass system developed by Mercedes-Benz-and used for the first time in a saloon car is a feature common to all the audio systems: the woofers are housed in the firewall, and use the almost 40-litre space in the cross-member and side member as a resonance chamber. Conventional woofers in the doors are therefore unnecessary. The mid-range speakers in the doors are relocated upwards. This improves the soundscape and allows additional stowage space in the doors.
As alternatives to the standard sound system with ten loudspeakers, two very high-quality audio systems are available which were developed together with the high-end audio specialist Burmester: the Burmester® Surround Sound system and the Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system.
The interactive presentation of content is a prominent new feature of the navigation function. The new navitainment functions include an animated compass, the "Driveshow" for passenger information as in an aircraft, and the display of Google Maps on the head unit and in the rear. Information on the traffic situation is shown with hatched lines (rather than with vehicle silhouettes as before). With the new Live Traffic Information service, traffic data is transmitted in real time. As a result, the navigation system is better informed about the situation on the roads.
Body: maximum stability and high-quality lightweight design
A high level of crash safety, outstanding rigidity for excellent handling with extremely low levels of noise and vibration. These were the aims when developing the bodyshell for the new S-Class – a third-generation aluminium hybrid bodyshell. The lightweight index – the torsional stiffness in relation to weight and vehicle size – has been improved by 50 percent compared to the predecessor model.
Since the 220 model series was developed in the 1990s, with an optimally coordinated materials mix the hybrid lightweight construction has been further developed into an aluminium hybrid bodyshell. During this period the share of aluminium has increased to more than 50 percent. It has therefore been possible to maintain practically the same body weight for 20 years and even slightly reduce it, despite far more stringent comfort and safety requirements and additional functions. In addition to this, structural foams are used at specific points in node areas in the new model series. The entire outer skin of the S-Class, including the roof and the front section of the body, consists of aluminium. The high percentage of aluminium is possible thanks to the use of a complete range of semi-finished products (casting, extrusion, sheet metal). The safety passenger cell is made using an extremely high percentage of high-strength steel.
This lightweight design by material and geometrical optimisation coupled with highly complex joining technology allows the new S-Class to further raise the bar in the demanding luxury saloon segment – without adding weight. With a torsional stiffness of 40.5 kN/degree (predecessor: 27.5 kN/degree), the S-Class achieves a new record in its segment.
Extended PRE-SAFE® protection: prevention is better than cure
Ten years ago, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a groundbreaking safety concept in the S-Class in the form of the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system, which has been undergoing continuous refinement ever since. Now, the safety pioneer is increasing protection levels once again.
The new PRE-SAFE® functions can help to prevent collisions with pedestrians and vehicles in front in city traffic, defuse dangerous situations caused by traffic behind and enhance the protection offered by the seat belts.
- The PRE-SAFE® Brake can also detect pedestrians and initiate autonomous braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 30 mph.
- PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognise an imminent rear-end collisionand warn the following traffic by activating the rear hazard warning lights at a high frequency. If the danger of a collision persists, the system can also firmly apply the stationary vehicles brakes and thus minimise the risk of whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by the impact. This additionally can reduce the risk of secondary accidents. Immediately before impact, the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures, especially the reversible belt tensioners, are deployed.
- With PRE-SAFE® Impulse, the driver and front passenger are pulled away from the direction of impact by their seat belts at an early phase of the crash before the resulting occupant deceleration sets in. This can substantially reduce the risk and severity of injuries in a frontal collision.
Setting the standard for safety in the rear: new features in the S-Class
Mercedes-Benz has extended the safety systems for rear seat passengers further with the seat belt buckle extender, the beltbag and the cushionbag. The first two of these developments are included in the "PRE-SAFE® rear package". With the illuminated seat belt buckle extender, an electric motor extends and retracts the belt buckle automatically. In this way, any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax can be reduced so that passengers are secured more firmly in both the sideways and the lengthways direction.
The beltbag is an inflatable seat-belt strap that is able to reduce the risk of injury to passengers in the rear in a head-on collision by lessening the strain placed on the ribcage. The reclining seat is equipped with a cushionbagunder the seat cushion upholstery as standard. When the seat is reclined, it prevents the occupant from sliding beneath the seat belt (so-called submarining) in an accident. This has enabled Mercedes-Benz to design a comfortable reclining seat which provides a higher level of accident safety than a seat with a trailing backrest.
Intelligent Drive: networked with all senses
Avoid accidents and mitigate their consequences – this is the integrated approach adopted by Mercedes-Benz Accident Research under the heading "Real Life Safety". Mercedes-Benz is systematically pursuing this strategy in the S-Class with numerous new assistance systems and greatly enhanced functions. Comfort and safety are enhanced at the same time. Mercedes-Benz calls this "Intelligent Drive". The new functions all rely on the same sensor system, comprising a new stereo camera together with multistage radar sensors.
"Intelligent assistance systems analyse complex situations and better recognise potential dangers out on the road with the aid of improved environment sensor systems," explains Prof. Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. "Figuratively speaking, the new S-Class doesnt just have eyes at the front, it has 360-degree all-round vision." A key factor is the networking of all systems, which safety experts call "sensor fusion". The aim is to ensure comprehensive protection, not just for the occupants of a Mercedes-Benz, but for all other road users, too.
The support functions range from relieving the burden on the driver and therefore increasing comfort, to issuing visual, acoustic and/or tactile warning signals, to boosting the drivers reactions. Some systems are even able to take corrective action in an emergency, such as autonomous application of the brakes to prevent an accident or lessen its severity. Here is a summary of the new assistance systems and those with notably enhanced functionality:
- DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot takes the burden off the driver when it comes to lane guidance and is also able to follow vehicles in traffic jams automatically.
- For the first time, thanks to the stereo camera the Brake Assist System BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist is able to detect crossing traffic and pedestrians too, and to boost the braking power applied by the driver accordingly.
- If the lane markings are broken lines, Active Lane Keeping Assist can detect when the adjacent lane is occupied, especially by oncoming traffic, and reduce the risk of the vehicle leaving its lane unintentionally by applying the brakes on one side.
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently without dazzling traffic by masking out other vehicles in the beams cone of light.
- Night View Assist Plus was further improved and supplemented by a thermal imaging camera. Night View Assist Plus can alert the driver to the potential danger posed by pedestrians or animals in unlit areas in front of the vehicle by automatically switching from the speedometer to a crystal-sharp night view image and highlighting the sources of danger. A spotlight function is furthermore able to flash any pedestrians detected ahead. This attracts the drivers attention to the source of the danger at the same time as warning the person on the side of the road.
- ATTENTION ASSIST can warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness in an extended speed range and notify the driver of their current state of fatigue and the driving time since the last break, offers an adjustable sensitivity setting and, if a warning is emitted, indicates nearby service areas in the COMAND navigation system.
(Mercedes-Benz UK Press Release)
Mercedes Hinting New Technology For S Class
Mercedes Hinting New Technology For S-Class
Mercedes Hinting New Technology For S-Class - It isnt much of a mystery that the Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a wonder of building and engineering that constantly sets the benchmark for the autos without bounds to go for. From the initially turbocharged diesel motor, the first airbag, and the first auto to be accessible with non-freezing stopping devices, the distance up to the new "Enchantment Body Control" framework, the S-Class dependably has the most recent and most prominent apparatus accessible. With another S-Class due in under three years, the enormous inquiry is the thing that changes are coming to keep this mind blowing machine in the spotlight.
As of late Auto Express sat down with Jan Kaul, the head of inner part outline at Mercedes to examine the approaching S-Class. The measure of data they assembled is really amazing considering the general level of mystery that encompasses another model like the S-Class. From the likelihood of utilizing 3d printing for inner part structures to the utilization of motions to control inside capacities there is a great deal of cool engineering going to the following Technology For S-Class.
What Is Coming
The momentum huge developments that are currently being tried are motion controls, 3d printing for trim, one-piece seats and one-piece air vents. Signal control is one of the huge things that Kaul is investigating, yet gratefully he comprehends that signals shouldnt be utilized for all capacity. He expressed, "… on the off chance that you are inputting an end to the route, this is simpler with voice distinguishment or a menu than signals. Anyway it is something we are keeping on dealing with, and you will see it soon". In the event that the motions framework utilizes Polaroids, we might soon have the capacity to initiate capacities like window operation with simply the wave of our hands.
Different points of interest like the single-piece seats and air vents are constantly inquired about to help cut weight and many-sided quality in the inside. The main true obstruction preventing the seats from arriving at the creation stage is the sturdiness of a portion of the materials in their creation. Kaul expressed, "these are impending soon. The [one piece] seats are troublesome on the grounds that we must make the sewing and cowhide keep going the life of the auto, however our architects are working hard. Not with standing being so thin, Kaul guaranteed Auto Express that the numerous extravagance capacities like warming, ventilation, power alteration and back rub will in any case be held.
In terms of the thought of utilizing 3d printing for things like the single-piece air vents, Kaul says everything descends to edges. Can they make these parts with 3d printing rapidly enough with legitimate Mercedes quality without costing a fortune?
While not these innovations might really make it into the following S-Class, it is energizing to see that Mercedes is earnestly taking a gander at new and fascinating approaches to push the envelope of extravagance and outline.
Mercedes S Class
The S-Class is the biggest and most lavish vehicle that is right now created by Mercedes-Benz. It is currently into its sixth era, with each and every era offering both standard and limosine style long-wheelbase rendition. The current S-Class is accessible in the US in four model trims with drive going from 449 pull in the base-level S550 up to 621 torque in the top-trim S65 AMG. -
Saturday, February 14, 2015
2014 Mercedes Benz E Class Cabriolet UK Version
Ahead of the great British summer, Mercedes-Benz has revealed the pricing and specification of the new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet. The Coupé starts from £35,095 OTR, while drop-top driving in the form of the Cabriolet starts from £38,465 OTR.
As part of the new-look E-Class range, the Coupé and Cabriolet feature significantly enhanced standard specification and a stylish new look as part of the most extensive model revision ever undertaken by Mercedes-Benz.
Backing up the added style, the Coupé and Cabriolet are up to 21 per cent more efficient and feature the most advanced technology ever created for the Mercedes-Benz range of vehicles, including the introduction of the new Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera, which features two ‘eyes’ to produce a 3D view of up to 50-metres in front to aid many of the new or upgraded safety systems.
The new E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet are now available in two model lines – the SE, for the E 220 CDI engine only, and AMG Sport, which is offered on three diesel engines (E 220 CDI, E 250 CDI and E 350 BlueTEC) and one petrol – the E 200.
Both model lines of the Coupé and Cabriolet have a completely revised front end appearance with new partial LED headlamps comprising a single headlamp lens, and the single Lamella Sport grille. There is a new front bumper with a more pronounced V-shape and large air intakes and at the rear, new tail lamps and wide-effect rear bumper with wing design and chrome-look trim.
In addition, the SE benefits from 17-inch five twin-spoke alloy wheels, a new front apron with single lamella Sport grille, leather upholstery with heated front seats and dark aluminium trim.
The AMG Sport models are enhanced by 18-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, upgraded front brakes featuring branded calipers and perforated discs, new AMG bodystyling, visible twin-pipe exhaust, leather upholstery with multi-contour heated front seats, an AMG steering wheel in nappa leather with flattened bottom section and AMG floor mats.
Both model lines of the Coupé and Cabriolet have a completely revised front end appearance with new bi-xenon headlamps comprising a single headlamp lens, and the single lamella Sport grille. There is a new front bumper with a more pronounced V-shape and large air intakes and, at the rear, new tail lamps and wide-effect rear bumper with ‘wing design’ and chrome-look trim.
On the Cabriolet, the Aircap wind deflector now automatically engages at speeds above 25 mph and automatically closes at speeds below 10 mph, while the sound-insulating acoustic roof can be opened or closed in 20 seconds while driving at speeds of up to 25 mph.
For new AMG Sport models, there is the option of upgrading to the AMG Sport Plus package (available from October 2013, priced at £1,795), consisting of 19-inch AMG bi-colour alloy wheels, an AMG boot spoiler in body colour, red seat belts, AMG Sports seats in Artico/Dinamica with red stitching, AMG steering wheel with red stitching, AMG floor mats with red edging and red stitching on the door panels, centre console and armrest.
Additional optional equipment includes the new full LED Intelligent Light System (£1,280), new Aragonite Silver metallic paint (from October 2013, priced at £645) and new leather upholstery colours in Espresso Brown, Deep Sea Blue and Bengal Red.
The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupé is priced from £35,095 OTR and the Cabriolet from £38,465 OTR.
(Mercedes-Benz UK Press Release)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)