Land Rover has been on a watchful eye as the brand figures out what to do with its ancient, but thoroughly tried, tested, and true, Defender SUV that is essentially a modernized version of the first Land Rover ever, the Series I. Considering the Defender’s grandiose and historic achievement as being one of the ultimate go-anywhere SUVs from the factory, this needs little explanation.

That said, Land Rover has also been careful with how to proceed with the Defender replacement. In a developing report from AutoCarUK word is that Land Rover has decided to completely scrap the idea of a basic, super-rugged off-roader.

AutoCarUK apparently heard from Land Rover’s global brand director, John Edwards, who confirmed that the new Defender won’t reach the projected production launch date of 2015. Though the current Defender will still be axed due to the “impossibility of meeting future legislation.”

Rumors pointed at the use of Jaguar-Land Rover’s new PLA modular architecture. Though now, instead of offering a basic off-roader as the Defender successor, Land Rover is just planning a “premium Defender” replacement, which will ride alongside the future and expanded Discovery line.

Additionally, AutoCarUK learned that the reason why Land Rover has decided to reportedly axe the future concept of a basic Defender successor is due to the fact that Jaguar-Land Rover’s current parent, India-based Tata Motors, is being more conscientious about their future health as an automaker.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoCarUK

Porsche recently released a new video of their latest 911 GT3 super track monster that highlights some of the most marveling technical bits of the 2014 Porsche 911 GT3, such as the Active Engine Mounts.

As a refresher, the 2014 Porsche 911 GT3 is based on the current Type 991 generation 911 Carrera, except it’s been stripped down and upgraded to churn out some serious track figures and performance times.

That all comes partially thanks to Porsche’s standard 3.8L flat-six good for 475hp and 324 lb-ft through natural aspiration. It’s mated only (and controversially) to the brand’s patented PDK dual-clutch seven-speed auto. The result is a 0-62 time of 3.5 seconds for a top speed of 195mph.

A lap of the Nurburgring zooms by in just 7 minutes and 30 seconds.

For the video, check it out after the jump.


- By: Chris Chin

BMW and Toyota have been known to be collaborating on a new midsized sports car, which has much of the general enthusiast crowd pondering about, mostly with hopes of a potential Supra successor. To follow up on the development, MotorTrend reports on some new information surrounding the project.

“Toyota is strong in environment-friendly hybrids and fuel cells… I believe BMW’s strength is developing sports cars,” said Toyota’s head honcho, Akio Toyoda, told MotorTrend earlier this year. “I get so excited thinking about the cars that will result from this relationship.”

But more so, MotorTrend was apparently able to get the scoop on how everything played out in the past and how BMW and Toyota ended up together to be working on such a project.

“When BMW announced in December 2011 that it would supply a new clean diesel engine to Toyota, the jointly developed sports car project had already begun,” an insider told the outlet.

Additionally, word is that Tetsuya Tada, the chief engineer for the GT-86 and Scion FR-S, will be spearheading the project—which sounds like an amazing start already, considering what he was able to accomplish with the GT-86.

“I am hoping for a synergy effect with BMW that will result in a product that none of us could have imagined; something more than anyone expects. I would like that to be something like a sports car,” Tada told MotorTrend. “I would even go so far as to say that for the collaboration to work we have to bring a product which exceeds all these expectations.”

MotorTrend speculates that the future midsized coupe will utilize either a BMW or Toyota inline-four, instead of the GT-86’s boxer-four and details have pointed to the GT-86 platform as the starting point, while BMW uses their magic on the chassis. There’s a small chance also that BMW will use their own platform, but this is unlikely.

All options are being considered, from natural aspiration, to super- and turbocharging, with even a hybrid-setup being possible. As of now, Toyota is reportedly working on an all-wheel drive hybrid GT-86 with electric motors powering the front wheels, which may find its way into the BMW-Toyota sports car, according to MT.

No time frame has been given, though we could at least see a concept at this year’s Tokyo Motor Show.

- By: Chris Chin

Source: MotorTrend

In a move to offer in-car service and roadside assistance similar to that of General Motors’ OnStar, Hyundai has officially announced that they’ll be offering their own Blue Link-equipped models to come with three years of complimentary Assurance Connected Care service. The service was originally announced earlier this year at the 2013 New York International Auto Show in March.

“Assurance Connected Care gives us the opportunity to remind our customers that Hyundai ‘has your back,’” said Barry Ratzlaff, Hyundai Motor America’s director of Customer Connect. “This new suite of Assurance features allows drivers to feel safe and secure and enjoy a worry-free car ownership experience. With a simple press of a button in the vehicle, Blue Link agents are available 24/7/365 to help in emergencies or to schedule car care.”

In addition to launching the complimentary service, Hyundai also released some new television ad spots to promote the service, which you can check out after the jump.

HYUNDAI VEHICLES NOW INCLUDE THREE YEARS OF
COMPLIMENTARY ASSURANCE CONNECTED CARE SERVICE
Safety and Car Care Features Standard on All Blue Link-Equipped Models

COSTA MESA, Calif., May 16, 2013 – Starting today, all new Blue Link-equipped Hyundai vehicles will come standard with three years of complimentary Assurance Connected Care service. Announced at the 2013 New York International Auto Show in March, Assurance Connected Care is powered by the automaker’s Blue Link telematics platform, which now has enrolled over 400,000 subscribers. Assurance Connected Care makes Hyundai the only non-premium automaker to offer a complete package of complimentary safety and car care services to its owners.

Assurance Connected Care is a suite of safety and car care features providing Hyundai owners with free proactive services including automatic collision notification, SOS emergency assistance, enhanced roadside assistance, monthly vehicle diagnostics reports and maintenance alerts. Assurance Connected Care makes Hyundai the first manufacturer to include this degree of built-in safety and car care services standard for three years. The service is fully transferable to subsequent owners within three years of the vehicle’s date of first use.

“Assurance Connected Care gives us the opportunity to remind our customers that Hyundai ‘has your back,’” said Barry Ratzlaff, Director of Customer Connect, Hyundai Motor America. “This new suite of Assurance features allows drivers to feel safe and secure and enjoy a worry-free car ownership experience. With a simple press of a button in the vehicle, Blue Link agents are available 24/7/365 to help in emergencies or to schedule car care.”

Assurance Connected Care is currently starring in Hyundai’s newest promotional campaign, which features a brand new remix of Bob Marley’s iconic track, “Three Little Birds” created by Stephen Marley and producer/DJ Jason Bentley. The track is part of the Legend: Remixed project, a collection of remixed Bob Marley classics, created by renowned artists.

Updates to Blue Link packaging and pricing also will take effect with the introduction of Assurance Connected Care. Owners of Blue Link-equipped vehicles with active Assurance Connected Care service will have the option to upgrade at a reduced price, making features such as remotes start, stolen vehicle recovery and turn by turn navigation an even better value. Full pricing and packaging details will be posted on http://www.hyundaibluelink.com/.

- By: Chris Chin

BMW recently announced some new updates to the F10 5-Series as it enters the 2014 year. In addition to some exterior visual tweaks equating to a midlife refresh, the 2014 BMW 5-Series also receives a new diesel engine and some modified pricing.

The 2014 BMW 5-Series starts with the 2.0L TwinPower four-banger powered 528i sedan with rear wheel drive priced at $50,425 with the top-range 550i xDrive Gran Turismo demanding $71,125. There of course exists the usual range of BMW’s wondrous turbocharged inline-six along with their sexy V8 an ActiveHybrid choices. The ActiveHybrid 5 and gasoline inline-sixes carry over mainly unchanged, though the 550i’s TwinPower 4.4L V8 gets a nice power bump to 445hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, up from 400hp and 450 lb-ft of torque.

But for the first time in the current F10’s history in the United States—and since the first ever BMW 5-Series, the E28 524td from the 1980s—the US-bound 5-Series will get BMW’s 3.0L Advanced Diesel inline-six that we’ve all been drooling over. Starting at $57,525 with rear-wheel drive, the 535d sedan churns out 255hp and a whopping 413 lb-ft of torque.

For full details, check out the press release after the jump.

The New BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

Updated styling, a new BMW Advanced Diesel engine, Standard Navigation and BMW Apps increase the appeal of the BMW 5 Series family.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – May 18th 2013, 6:00pm Eastern Time . . . Athletic ability, efficiency, compulsive allure, and innovations designed to enhance the driving experience: the BMW 5 Series has always contained the signature ingredients of a best-selling BMW model. Consistently rising sales figures have fortified its position as a global leader in its class. Now, for the 2014 model year, another new chapter in this success story is poised to begin. Precise modifications to the design, the addition of a new inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine for the Sedan, and even more of available equipment all raise the appeal of the BMW 5 Series family a notch higher.

The enhanced, 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan and 5 Series Gran Turismo will go on sale at Authorized BMW Centers in the US in August, 2013.

MSRP for the 5 Series Sedan and 5 Series Gran Turismo:

528i Sedan – $50,425
528i xDrive Sedan – $52,725
535i Sedan – $56,025
535i xDrive Sedan – $58,325
535d Sedan – $57,525
535d xDrive Sedan – $59,825
550i Sedan – $64,825
550i xDrive Sedan – $67,125
535i Gran Turismo – $60,925
535i xDrive Gran Turismo – $63,225
550i Gran Turismo – $68,825
550i xDrive Gran Turismo – $71,125
ActiveHybrid 5 – $62,325

All prices include $925 Destination and Handling

Design: Developing the Five’s signature sporty character.
Fresh contour lines for the surround of the BMW kidney grille and redesigned lower air intakes reinforce the sporty appearance of the 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan. The accentuated width of the rear end is underlined by an extra crease in the apron, as well as slim, sharply contoured and therefore more striking rear lights.

The 2014 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo receives a modified front apron exuding presence and solidity. Its redesigned rear end creates a longer and lower visual impression. A three-dimensional surface design for the area around the license plate holder and a chrome strip in the rear apron add further depth to its dynamic character.

Xenon Adaptive headlights are fitted as standard on all 5 Series models, while Adaptive LED Headlights join the options list for 2014. Elsewhere, the side indicator lights are now integrated into the exterior mirrors. Also new in the BMW 5 Series are the Luxury Line and Modern Line, in addition to the popular M Sport choice, each containing select design and equipment features.

Functionality and desirability at new levels.
New details lend further refinement to the premium impression of the new BMW 5 Series’ interior and a new layer of functionality. The Central Display of the standard iDrive operating system is now bordered in the Sedan by chrome trim. The storage compartments and cup holders in the center console of these models now have increased capacity.

A revised rear section increases the luggage capacity of the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo by 2.1 cu-ft to 17.7 cu-ft (European figures, preliminary). New exterior paint colors, light-alloy wheels, upholstery colors and interior trim elements for all BMW 5 Series models enhance their appeal and increase the scope for individualization.

Engines: more power, now with the choice of BMW Advanced Diesel.
The introduction of the 2014 BMW 5 Series family also heralds an expansion of its engine range. The BMW 535d has been added as BMW’s latest diesel variant in North America. Its inline-6 BMW Advanced Diesel engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology makes 255 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 413 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 – 3,000 rpm (preliminary figures). Simultaneously, the new BMW 535d Sedan is expected to show substantial fuel efficiency gains over its gasoline-fueled counterpart. US EPA figures will be available closer to the on-sale date. BMW’s xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive system is also available on the new 535d Sedan.

The top-of-the-line engine of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan now features an updated V-8 with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and BMW’s Valvetronic throttle-less intake technology, developing a monstrous 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.

The 5 Series chassis technology – which includes a double-wishbone front axle, integral rear axle and Servotronic variable power steering function – has been honed to deliver an unrivalled balance between sporty performance and ride comfort. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo comes with standard air suspension, including automatic self-leveling rear suspension. The Driving Dynamics Control switch on the center console is standard on all models. Adaptive Drive and Integral Active Steering are systems unmatched by other players that can be specified as options.

Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start-Stop functionality, and ECO PRO mode, the suite of standard-fitted BMW EfficientDynamics technologies now also includes a coasting mode (which disengages the powertrain while coasting), and the ECO PRO Route function, which can be selected via the Navigation system. Additionally, updated aerodynamics is a key factor in the latest advances made by the engineers in the area of fuel efficiency.

More innovative than ever: BMW ConnectedDrive.
The galaxy of innovations on the options list borne by BMW ConnectedDrive technology allows the 2014 BMW 5 Series family to underline its leadership in the areas of connectivity, infotainment, convenience, and safety. For example, the function of the optional Comfort Access system, which allows the tailgate or trunk to be opened hands-free, has been extended to include a closing mechanism, which means that a movement of the foot under the rear apron can now be used to prompt the tailgate to close as well as open.

In addition, the 2014 BMW 5 Series offers customers a new rear-seat entertainment system with tablet-style displays, a Harman Kardon Surround Sound system and a new version of the ambient light option with a facility which allows the interior lighting to be alternated in tone between orange and white.

The range of BMW ConnectedDrive business solutions and driver assistance systems is more advanced and richer in variety than ever. The BMW 5 Series enables a scope of intelligent connectivity unique in the marketplace, allowing it to set the benchmark for in-car use of office applications.

Alongside the globally unrivalled Concierge Service for hotel reservations and a selection of other services, BMW ConnectedDrive also offers an unusually extensive suite of office functions, including internet-based services. The dictation function, for example, provides a convenient way of entering text for SMS messages and emails during a journey. The array of search, travel, office and social media services can be accessed via the car’s integrated SIM card or the customer’s smartphone.

iDrive4.2: Now with touchpad.
The newly-standard iDrive4.2 Navigation system makes use of an optimized menu display and allows access to Advanced Real Time Traffic Information. A new iDrive rotary controller with an integrated touchpad allows the input of characters for destinations, phone numbers, and other functions within the iDrive4.2 operating system.

BMW 5 Series: A success story.
A global bestseller, winner of a string of comparison tests and “Germany’s favorite car” – the BMW 5 Series represents a quite unique success story. Its sales figures, the verdicts of experts and the response of the public make a compelling narrative. And now the BMW 5 Series Sedan and BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo are preparing to build on their standout presence in the world’s car markets with the help of cutting-edge technological innovations and sensitively modified design features.

The introduction of the 2014 BMW 5 Series provides the latest highlight in the development of the company’s longest-serving model family; the BMW 5 Series has been a fixture in the BMW portfolio since 1972 – longer than any other current model. It didn’t take the 5 Series long to establish itself as a paragon of driving pleasure and aesthetic appeal in its segment. And today it can add efficiency and innovation to the list of disciplines in which it leads the way in the executive car market.

The BMW 5 Series Sedan currently rolling off the assembly line is the sixth-generation model. A harmonious balance between sporty flair and elegance has been a defining feature of the four-door variant since it first made the leap from the drawing board to the road and went on to become the most popular executive car in one market after the next. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, unveiled in 2009, has seen BMW introduce drivers to an all-new type of car. Its extravagant design represents the expression of sports performance, luxurious long-distance comfort and versatility.

Global market leader: BMW 5 Series defends leading position.
To date, over 6.6 million BMW 5 Series cars have left the factory. And the current BMW 5 Series is in excellent shape to surpass the record set by the highly successful last two generations, each of which sold in excess of 1.4 million units. A total of more than one million units of the current BMW 5 Series Sedan have been delivered to customers since the sales launch of the 5 Series in 2010. No other generation has bettered these sales figures over such a short period of time.

Acclaim: BMW 5 Series top ratings, design awards.
The quality and popularity of the BMW 5 Series are reflected in the host of prizes and distinctions awarded to the members of the model family around the world. In early 2013 the BMW 5 Series secured class victory – for the third year in succession – in the readers’ survey “The Best Cars” conducted by the German motoring magazine “auto, motor und sport”. This success came not long after the BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Edition with BMW BluePerformance technology had been voted “Car of the Future” and awarded the ADAC automobile association’s “Yellow Angel”. The BMW 5 Series as a whole had been named “Germany’s favorite car” in the same competition in 2011.

In addition to the red dot award, iF Product Design Award and Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany, the BMW 5 Series has also picked up a notable collection of international distinctions in recognition of its successful exterior design. Beyond these, the BMW 5 Series has been voted “Car of the Year”, “Best Car”, “Premium Car of the Year”, “Family Car of the Year” and “Executive Car of the Year” in various countries.

This broad spread of qualities has been recognized with a swathe of impressive ratings elsewhere as well. German car journal “Auto Bild” crowned the BMW 525d Touring “Value Champion 2012″ on account of its high value retention in the used car market. The title had been awarded to the BMW 520d Sedan the previous year. And the BMW 5 Series emerged from both the Euro NCAP and the US NCAP crash tests with the highest rating of five stars. It was also the first vehicle to achieve a 100 per cent score in the Safety Assist category of the Euro NCAP crash tests.

Design and body.
Instantly captivating and compelling, the aesthetic qualities of the BMW 5 Series models have secured sales success around the globe and a wealth of awards and distinctions. “We haven’t completely redesigned the BMW 5 Series, we’ve just given its character a slightly sharper sporty edge,” says exterior designer Won Kyu Kang, describing the modifications made to the BMW 5 Series Sedan.

Sporty elegance is the identity of the BMW 5 Series Sedan. Its design is defined by the hallmark BMW proportions created by a long hood, long wheelbase, short overhangs and set-back passenger compartment. At the front end, additional contour lines for the BMW kidney grille surround and the restructured lower air intake accentuate the car’s sporty appearance. All the variants of the new BMW 5 Series model family are fitted with xenon headlights as standard.

Joining the options list are Adaptive LED Headlights. Here, both the low and high beams are generated by LED units positioned on horizontal ribs in the center of the two light rings, which are leveled off at the bottom. Sweeping chrome inserts with engraved BMW lettering add the finishing touches to the distinctive and extremely high-class appearance of the Adaptive LED Headlights. The side indicators are now integrated into the exterior mirrors on all 2014 BMW 5 Series models. And the Sedan has newly structured rear lights with particularly thin and strikingly contoured LED light strips. These lights and an additional crease in the rear apron emphasize the wide track of the Sedan.

The 2014 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo combines signature BMW proportions with an innovative body concept. The elegantly stretched coupe roofline, four doors with frameless windows and a high-opening tailgate exude sporty intent, luxurious long-distance comfort and extensive variability. Carefully targeted modifications to the car’s design shine an even brighter spotlight on its unmistakable character, which meets the highest standards across an extremely wide spectrum.

A new air intake highlights the powerful presence of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo’s front. The tailgate, meanwhile, has been extended aft and gives the roofline’s transition into the rear an even more harmonious appearance. All of which allows the car as a whole to cut a lower-slung and dynamically stretched figure. These sharpened contours have also had a positive effect on the trunk capacity of the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, which has been increased by 2.1cu- ft to 17.7 cu-ft (preliminary).

Horizontally structured and three-dimensional surfaces play a defining role in the new look of the rear end. Vibrant light and shade effects around the license plate mount, a dynamically sweeping crease extending into the flanks and a chrome trim strip in the rear apron give the tail end a lighter and sportier feel. This impression is reinforced by the new outline of the two-section rear lights. Their horizontal layout is accentuated internally by a light design distilled into two LED light strips.

Interior.
New details inside the 2014 BMW 5 Series provide a refined impression and increased functionality. In all models the Central Display of the iDrive operating system is now bordered by high-quality chrome trim strips. The storage compartments and cup holders in the center console of the Sedan now have increased capacity.

Generous levels of space, exquisite materials and high-quality workmanship all contribute to the premium ambience characteristic of the BMW 5 Series model family, as do exclusive interior design details like the standard iDrive and the black-panel technology of the instrument cluster and automatic climate control system’s display.

The iDrive controller with the now standard Navigation system features a touchpad surface allowing character recognition. For example, a destination can be programmed into the Navigation system by spelling out the desired address using finger movements on the touchpad surface. The existing “rotary speller” in the Central Display may also still be used, and the driver can alternate freely between the two operating methods while entering a command. Voice Command may also be activated from the touchpad.

BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo.
The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo offers an unmatched blend of luxurious long-distance comfort and versatility, fusing the imposing elegance of a Sedan with the variable-usage interior of a Sports Wagon model and the versatility of a Sports Activity Vehicle. Its seating position – slightly raised to a height somewhere between that offered by a sedan and an SAV – allows particularly comfortable entry and exit. Rear passengers can enjoy legroom and headroom normally the preserve of luxury cars. The rear seats slide forward by (inches?) 73 millimeters and the angle of their backrests can be adjusted through 33 degrees. When released from its locked position, the partition behind the rear seats follows the longitudinal movements of the seats, allowing trunk capacity to grow from 17.7 cu-ft to 23 cu-ft. The partition and rear seat backrests can be split 40 : 20 : 40. Folding down all the elements and moving the rear seats all the way forward allows the Gran Turismo to reveal its maximum 62 cu-ft of load capacity. To load items into the trunk, one can either open the full, high-opening tailgate or a separate trunk lid below the rear window. Similarly to a sedan, this smaller opening allows access to the load area without disturbing rear seat passengers.

Automatic tailgate operation comes as standard on the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo and is also available as an option for the BMW 5 Series Sedan. The function of the optional Comfort Access system that allows the tailgate to be opened hands-free has been extended – for all members of the new BMW 5 Series model family – to include a closing mechanism, which means that a movement of the foot under the rear apron can now be used to prompt the tailgate to close as well as open. After unloading items from the luggage compartment, customers can also close the tailgate without having to put down the items they’re holding.

New to the BMW 5 Series: BMW Lines.
2014 BMW 5 Series customers can choose from a wide selection of exterior paint colors. New additions to the range – and available for all models – are Calisto Grey metallic, Jatoba metallic, Mineral White metallic and Glacier Silver metallic. New variants have also been added to the line-up of optional light-alloy wheels.

Exclusively composed BMW Lines are now available for the first time to all members of the new BMW 5 Series model family as an alternative to standard specification. Customers can choose between the Luxury Line , Modern Line, and M Sport, which shine the spotlight on selected facets of the car’s character to great effect. All Lines also include the option to upgrade to luxurious Nappa Leather upholstery at no additional charge.

The Luxury Line exudes a high level of elegance and exclusiveness thanks to a carefully assembled selection of high-class features for the exterior and interior. The chrome finish of the trim bars in the outer sections of the lower air intake, the fronts of the black kidney grille slats, the window recess finishers, the trim strip in the rear apron and the exhaust tips all add gleaming touches. Leather upholstery with exclusive stitching, a black sports leather steering wheel and interior trim strips in exquisite Fine-line anthracite wood create a particularly refined interior ambience.

The Modern Line displays a strikingly contemporary and dynamic edge. The air intake bars, kidney grille slats, rear trim strip and exhaust tips come in matt chrome, and the instrument panel and sports leather steering wheel can be specified as an option in the Oyster light color shade . Interior trim strips in dark Pearl and exclusive stitching for the leather upholstery ensure the interior creates an eye-catching impression.

All variants of the new BMW 5 Series can also be ordered M Sport Package, which now features a new M steering wheel, LED fog lights, and no-charge Nappa Leather upholstery to further increasing the scope for individualization.

Powertrain and Chassis.
The engine is the heart of every BMW. The new BMW Advanced Diesel 535d Sedan model, additional availability of xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, and an even more powerful and fuel efficient V-8 join the action for 2014. The line-up for the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is comprised of two gasoline engines.

The cutting-edge chassis technology underpinning the 2014 BMW 5 Series family delivers a balance of dynamic performance and ride comfort without peer. The BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is also fitted as standard with automatic self-leveling air suspension at the rear axle.

Among the options available for all members of the BMW 5 Series family are the Integral Active Steering and Adaptive Drive systems, which no other model in this segment offers. Enhancements of acoustic and suspension comfort in the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, meanwhile, lend even further emphasis to its role as a supreme long-distance specialist.

A new diesel engine for the Sedan.
BMW TwinPower Turbo technology ensures an exemplary balance of driving pleasure and fuel consumption across the engine range. In the new diesel engine, which powers the BMW 535d Sedan, this package of technology consists of a variable-geometry turbocharger and high precision direct fuel injection with solenoid valve injectors. The 3.0-liter engine develops a maximum output of 255 HP, generates peak torque of 413 lb-ft.

The new generation of the V-8 engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology for the BMW 5 Series model family takes to the stage armed with a 10 percent rise in output yet also significantly reduced fuel consumption. Found under the hood of the BMW 550i Sedan and BMW 550i Gran Turismo, it now also combines its two twin-scroll turbochargers and high precision direct fuel injection with BMW’s Valvetronic throttle-less intake valve control. The engine generates 445 horsepower and maximum torque of 480 lb-ft from its 4.4-liter displacement. The new BMW 550i Sedan, for example, roars from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

The 2014 BMW 535i Sedan and 535i Gran Turismo retain BMW’s multi-award-winning “N55″ 3.0-liter inline-6 engine with 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. An award winning BMW TwinPower turbo “N20″ four-cylinder gasoline engine is retained for the 2014 BMW 528i Sedan.

The BMW 535i Sedan can be fitted with a 6-speed manual transmission as a no cost option. All BMW 5 Series models receive the extremely fast and precise, not to mention extraordinarily efficient, 8-speed automatic transmission provided as standard equipment. The 8-speed automatic now comes with a coasting function and can also be ordered with Sport Automatic shift paddles on the steering wheel. The Sport Automatic option, standard for the 2014 BMW 550i Sedan models, stands out with impressive shift dynamics and now includes Launch Control.

Driving Dynamics Control.
The fine-tuning carried out on the chassis for the 2014 BMW 5 Series models makes for an even more assured conversion of engine power into dynamic performance and ride comfort. Both the double-wishbone front axle and the integral rear axle are made largely of aluminum. They allow the spring and damper systems to respond with great precision to inconsistencies in the road surface and ensure optimum road holding at all times. The overall result is a balance between sporty ability and ride comfort that no rival can better. What’s more, the car’s set-up can be adapted to suit individual needs or the driving situation at hand using the standard equipment Driving Dynamics Control switch on the center console. Pressing the button changes the driving mode, altering the responses of the accelerator and steering, as well as – if so equipped – the shift characteristics of the automatic transmission and the settings of the electronically controlled dampers.

The car’s driving characteristics are further enhanced by the Adaptive Drive system, which includes Active Roll Stabilization and Dynamic Damper Control. Electronically controlled anti-roll bars help to reduce the car’s body roll through quickly taken corners and in sudden changes of direction, for example.

In addition to controlling the amount of speed-dependent steering assistance generated and regulating the steering angle of the front wheels, Integral Active Steering also adjusts the steering angle of the rear wheels. This system imbues the car with impressive agility in dynamic driving situations, comfortable and assured reactions when changing lanes and through corners, and optimized maneuverability through tight bends and in city traffic.

The newly updated 2014 BMW 5 Series Sedan and Gran Turismo will arrive in US later this year in August 2013.

BMW Group In America
BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since 1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003. The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales, and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles, including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor Cars; DesignworksUSA, a strategic design consultancy in California; a technology office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW Group’s global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing plant for all X5 and X3 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through networks of 338 BMW passenger car and BMW Sports Activity Vehicle centers, 139 BMW motorcycle retailers, 117 MINI passenger car dealers, and 34 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group’s sales headquarters for North America, is located in Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the Internet at: www.bmwgroupna.com

- By: Chris Chin

Jaguar recently gifted 2013 Playboy Playmate of the Year, Raquel Pumplun an all-new and equally sexy and seductive F-Type roadster after the star was awarded the infamous title. Jaguar gifted her one for one year’s use simply for being named the 2013 Playmate of the Year.

And this should be no surprise since the Leaping Cat’s most famous icon, the original E-Type, was a smash hit among the major jet set during its time, and still is. That said, Jaguar has a long-time history of associating itself with being a luxurious brand for celebrities.

Otherwise, this needs no other explanation, especially since there’s a video (G-content, of course) provided.

Check it out after the jump along with a brief press release.

Hugh M. Hefner Names Raquel Pomplun Playboy Magazine’s 2013 Playmate Of The Year

Chula Vista, California Native is the First Mexican American to Receive the Magazine’s Iconic Title

LOS ANGELES, May 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ –Playboy Founder Hugh M. Hefner named Raquel Pomplun, 25, the magazine’s 2013 Playmate of the Year during an exclusive cocktail luncheon today on the garden grounds of the iconic Playboy Mansion. Raquel, a 25-year-old Latina beauty from Chula Vista, California, is Playboy’s first Mexican American Playmate of the Year.

Raquel is featured on the cover of Playboy’s June 2013 issue and inside the magazine in a stunning, 8-page pictorial by renowned fashion photographer Michael Bernard (issue on newsstands and on i.Playboy.com Friday, May 17, with additional photos available at www.playboy.com/pmoy2013 ). Along with her title, Raquel will receive $100,000 in prize money and a one-year lease on a 2014 Jaguar F-TYPE, the newest addition to the Jaguar line up. The all-new 2014 Jaguar F-TYPE convertible sports car is the first new two-seater sports car from the brand since the iconic E-Type was launched over 50 years ago, and is on sale this month in showrooms across the US.

“I can’t begin to describe how excited I am to receive this honor and be given the opportunity to represent Playboy as its first Mexican American Playmate of the Year,” said Raquel. “Playboy has taught me a side of myself I didn’t know before. It’s been a year of wonderful surprises!”

The Latina stunner first appeared on the cover of Playboy’s April 2012 Sex & Music issue alongside Grammy-award winning musician Bruno Mars, and was featured inside as the magazine’s April 2012 Playmate of the Month. Raquel studied biochemistry at Southwestern College, and is classically trained in ballet. She currently hosts Blackbelt TV’s Rockin’ Rounds, and is also the cohost of Playboy Radio’s Playmates Present.

Raquel is Playboy’s 54th Playmate of the Year. Playboy named its first Playmate of the Year, Ellen Stratton, in 1960.

- By: Chris Chin

To grab some of the press attention that Mercedes-Benz has been receiving for the revealing of their S-Class flagship, BMW recently announced some special edition 6-Series models for both the US and Canada.

The first is the BMW 6-Series M-Sport Edition, which is a package offered on all 2014 non-M BMW 6-Series models, including the coupe, convertible and Gran Coupe. The package offers bespoke 19-inch M-Sport double-spoke alloys, an M aerodynamic and visual package, LED fog lights, black brake cailpers, BMW Individual’s High-Gloss Shadow Line, dark-chrome exhaust tips, and adaptive LED headlights.

The trickery continues on the inside with an M steering wheel and door sills, and M Sport seats covered in Alcantara and Nappa leather. A heads-up display is standard, as well as a Nappa-covered dashboard, a unique 12-speaker sound system for the convertible, while the coupe and Gran Coupe get 16 speakers.

Alternatively, BMW of North America introduced a limited edition M6 GranCoupe, specifically just for Canada. It’s called the Launch Edition and was designed by BMW Candaa and BMW Individual. That said, the 2014 BMW M6 GranCoupe Launch Edition comes with a series of unique touches, such as a Pure Metal Silver pain, two-tone leather interior trimming and upholstery, Piano Black trim, and a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system.

For full details on both models, check out the press releases below.

M Sport Edition BMW 6 Series.

Elegant and athletic design provides a perfect setting for the added functionality and value of the M Sport Edition in the BMW 6 Series.

Woodcliff Lake, N.J. – May 16, 2013… Sumptuous flair and alluring athleticism come together in the BMW 6 Series models to invest these premium luxury-class vehicles with hallmark driving fun. The new M Sport edition offers a particularly exclusive opportunity to highlight the dynamic attributes of the BMW 6 Series Coupe, BMW 6 Series Convertible and BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. With their harmoniously coordinated design details and ultra-high-quality range of features, the BMW 6 Series models in M Sport Edition guise deliver a driving experience that assuages the most discerning requirements while also offering an attractive price advantage. 

The M Sport edition package can be combined with all the models and engine variants of the BMW 6 Series range and will be available from June 2013.

The M Sport edition models of the BMW 6 Series include the M Sport package, comprising among other features a model-specific M aerodynamics package, 19-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design, LED foglamps, the BMW Individual High-gloss Shadow Line, black-painted brake callipers and exhaust tail pipes in dark chrome. The exterior specifications are further complemented by Adaptive LED Headlights.

The characteristic interior design – likewise entirely geared to the active driving experience – features an M leather steering wheel, M door sill finishers and sports seats in Alcantara/leather nappa, coupled with other high-grade applications that add a further boost to driving pleasure and convenience, as well as enhancing the exclusive ambience of the BMW 6 Series. They include the BMW Head-Up Display, the multifunction instrument display, a dashboard covered in exclusive nappa leather, and the Professional Hi-Fi system with 12 speakers in the BMW 6 Series Convertible and 16 in the BMW 6 Series Coupe and BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. Included in the range of equipment is also the ConnectedDrive Navigation package comprising, among other features, a freestanding 10.2-inch Control Display, voice control, extended hands-free telephone system, BMW ConnectedDrive Services for the use of apps and BMW Online, BMW Concierge Services telephone information service, Remote Services and Real Time Traffic Information. In addition to this, the M Sport edition models of the BMW 6 Series come with Park Distance Control and a rear-view camera, as well as a ski bag for the through-loading facility from the luggage compartment to the rear of the cabin.

650i and 650 xi M Sport Edition models lnclude Active Driving Assistance / Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Side and Top View Cameras and Speed Limit Info.

All M Sport edition models of the BMW 6 Series also have the option of the Sakhir Orange metallic M paintwork. This colour was previously the preserve of the BMW M6 Coupe, BMW M6 Convertible and BMW M6 Gran Coupe. Another added option available exclusively to the BMW 6 Series M Sport edition models is interior upholstery in BMW Individual leather Merino fine grain Opal white with contrast seams in Sakhir Orange. This is offered in conjunction with the Comfort Seats and serves to accentuate not only the sporty attributes of the relevant model but also its luxurious character.

The 2014 BMW 640i Coupe M Sport Edition starts at $80,625 the 2014 BMW 640i Convertible M Sport Edition starts at $87,925 and the 2014 BMW 640i Gran Coupe M Sport Edition starts at $83,325.

The 2014 BMW 650i Coupe M Sport Edition starts at $91,925, the 2014 BMW 650i Convertible M Sport Edition starts at $99,225 and the 2014 BMW 650i Gran Coupe M Sport Edition starts at $94,625.

All prices include $925 Destination & Handling.

BMW Group Canada Offers An Exclusive M6 Gran Coupé Launch Edition.

Richmond Hill, ON. BMW Group Canada has offered a once in a lifetime opportunity to its customers thanks to a partnership between BMW Group Canada and BMW Individual. A select group of customers recently travelled to the BMW Welt International Delivery Centre to take delivery of their all-new 2014 BMW M6 Gran Coupé Individual Launch Edition vehicles. Finished in exclusive Pure Metal Silver paintwork, the special edition is also equipped with exclusive two-tone upholstery, with Merino Silverstone seat centres, lower dashboard panels and door inserts and black seat bolsters, centre console, upper dashboard and carpeting. Extensive Silverstone contrast stitching is applied to the black leather surfaces, including front and rear seats, dashboard and upper door parts. Interior trim is finished in the deep luster of BMW Individual Piano Black and the cabin experience further enhanced by a state-of-the-art Bang & Olufsen audio system.

After receiving their vehicles at the BMW Welt, the new M6 Gran Coupé owners are set to embark on a four day scenic drive event through Germany, Switzerland, Austria and Italy. This first-class drive adventure will take place over 1100km of breathtaking terrain perfectly suited to demonstrate the luxury and performance of the newest member of the BMW M family. Each participant on this exclusive experience will also have the opportunity to be a part of a VIP experience at the 24h race and M festival at Nürburgring from May 17-21. The trip includes first class accommodations, a drive from Munich to Nürburgring, participation in the M festival, a helicopter ride over the 24h race track during the race as well as a chance to visit the BMW test centre and meet the BMW racing team.

This special M6 Gran Coupé Launch Edition european tour represents the ultimate driving experience and a perfect showcase for the introduction of BMW’s latest M6.

- By: Chris Chin

Following the revealing of the production-ready 2015 Porsche 918 Spyder, Drive’s own Chris Harris attended one of the launch events for the much-anticipated supercar. That of course means, he was able to get some driver seat time as well.

Harris is no stranger to driving some of the fastest cars the world, and even history, has ever seen. So you could expect to get a decent idea of what the Porsche 918 Spyder has to offer. And before even driving it, Harris is thoroughly impressed with Porsche’s claimed accomplishments with their latest supercar.

But in a bit of honesty, he did share that he wishes Porsche got rid of the whole hybrid idea by instead making a 2,420-pound coupe with the 918’s 608hp V8, rather than a 3,608-pound hybrid coupe complete with a total output of 887hp.

Check out Chris Harris’s take after the jump.

- By: Chris Chin

AutoCarUK was recently able to get the scoop on some details surrounding one of Infiniti’s future models, the Infiniti Q30. The Q30 is said to be a cross between the Audi A3 and Audi Q3 and based on the Etherea Concept showcased at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show.

At the time, Infiniti described the car as a four-door coupe. But further down the line of time, Infiniti now says that it will basically be a crossover with an adjustable three-way ride height system, allowing the car to change from being a traditional four-door sedan, to a slightly raised crossover SUV. Nissan has reportedly enjoyed successful sales with its crossover offerings, the Qashqai and Juke, hence their decision to diversify the potential Q30.

These details come in after the outlet reportedly spoke with Infiniti’s brand chief, Andy Palmer, who also disclosed that Infiniti retired their plans to create a BMW 7-Series-like flagship saloon—one that would succeed Infiniti’s last flagship, the Q45.

“The 7-series market is declining, so we’re more likely to follow the trend to smaller vehicles,” Palmer added. “Before we can do that, however, we have to build our brand cachet in other areas.”

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoCarUK

Mercedes-Benz is preparing to unveil an all-new C-Class very soon as the current generation ages ever so gracefully into the pages of history. That said, WorldCarFans reports that the next-generation C-Class will be larger and yet, lighter than its outgoing predecessor.

The report came from Germany’s Autobild, who’ve apparently learned that the next generation C-Class will ride on Mercedes-Benz’s latest modular platform, allowing for a slight increase in size and a shape that will mimic that of the all-new CLA-Class.

The result will obviously be more interior room, specifically for the rear seating arrangements, as well as a larger boot.

Other details have yet to be confirmed, though both Autobild and WCF speculate that the usual range of diesel and gasoline engines will be offered in the new C-Class. WCF also says that we can expect a hybrid and plug-in hybrid variant, as well as the beloved AMG models that will done a new 4.0L V8 good for 462hp.

Sounds about right…

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoBild.de (if you know German) via WCF

While McLaren is still in the process of wowing the world with its all-new F1-successor known as the McLaren P1, the small supercar maker’s sales and marketing boss, Greg Levine, already confirmed with AutoCarUK that a P1 successor is on the way.

Click here for more news on the McLaren P1.

However, Levine said that the successor won’t happen for “at least 10 years,” additionally stating that “The only way a car like the P1 works is by being exclusive and having a short product cycle. After that, you have to step back from the market for a few years. These sort of launches can only happen every ten years or so.”

So far, AutoCarUK also learned that nearly ¾ of McLaren’s P1s that have already been put on order have been fully customized for the buyers who eagerly await their physical bragging rights.

“We’ve had 30 or so cars full specced by the customers so far, and the desire to make each car more individual has been noticeable,” said Paul MacKenzie, McLaren’s head of McLaren Special Operations. “Based on experience we expect that figure to come down, but what’s significant is that people want their cars to look different.”

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutoCarUK

Dodge recently released some new special edition packaging options for the new 2013 Dodge Dart to help appeal the car to a wider range of buyers, particularly in the Gen-Y segment. From the get-go, Chrysler designed the Dodge Dart to be highly customizable so that potential buyers could equip the car in ways relative to the buyers’ interests.

But if you wanted a simplified way of ticking your option boxes for your potential new Dart, Dodge unleashed Special and Limited Edition packages as well as a Rallye Appearance Group package for the Dart SXT and Limited trim levels.

Check out our Top 10 things you need to know about the Dodge Dart.

The “Special Edition” package standardizes a bespoke all-black grille, projector fog and headlights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth, LED taillights, dual-exhaust tips and more. The “Rallye Appearance Group” adds a little bit of visual flair by adding a Rallye badge, bespoke 17-inch Hyber Black wheels, and a unique front fascia, which can be paired with the Special Edition package.

But should you want to load up your Dart with all of the option boxes ticked, the top-dog Dodge Dart Limited Special Edition includes a power sunroof, heated front seats and steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Nappa leather seats, and Chrysler’s Garmin-based infotainment system as standard.

Prices for the Special Edition package begin at $595, while the Rallye Appearance package starts at $395. For the Dart Limited Special Edition packaging, buyers will have to ready $1,810.

For full details, check out the press release below.

Dodge Introduces New 2013 Dodge Dart Special Edition Packages – Bundling Popular Class-exclusive Features at a Tremendous Value

- New Dart SXT and Limited model “Special Edition” Packages and new Rallye Appearance Group make ordering popular class-exclusive Dart features a snap
- New Dart SXT Special Edition package includes a black cross-hair grille, projector fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, Bluetooth and class-exclusive features, including dark-tinted projector headlamps, LED racetrack tail lamps, integrated dual exhaust and front passenger seat in-seat storage for a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of just $595
- New Rallye Appearance Group lets buyers customize their Dart SXT Special Edition and includes a unique dark front fascia, Rallye badge and class-exclusive 17-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels for a U.S. MSRP of $395
- New Dart Limited Special Edition package adds a power sunroof, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, dual zone automatic temperature control, SiriusXM Satellite Radio and class-exclusive features, including LED racetrack tail lamps, premium Nappa leather seats and Garmin Navigation on the 8.4-inch touch screen for a U.S. MSRP of just $1,810
- Dart continues to build awareness – it has recorded five consecutive month-over-month sales records to date
- Dart attracts the youngest demographic in the compact car segment; 60 percent of buyers are new to the Chrysler Group
- Dodge Dart tops compact car segment in total quality, according to Strategic Vision Total Quality Index

May 15, 2013 , Auburn Hills, Mich. – Dodge today announced that two new 2013 Dodge Dart “Special Edition” packages and a new Rallye Appearance Group are available in Dodge dealerships across the United States. These new packages, available on SXT and Limited models, combine features and content both exclusive to the segment and most frequently ordered by Dart customers.

Loaded with innovative technology, class-leading safety features and clever functionality, the 2013 Dodge Dart sets a new standard in the compact-car segment by offering unmatched personalization, roominess, style, functionality and fun-to-drive dynamics. And with the addition of the new Special Edition packages, even more distinctive style and value is available for compact car customers who are looking for the roominess of a mid-size car.

“These new Dodge Dart Special Edition packages show how we’re listening to our customers,” said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “Since we launched the all-new Dart last June, we’ve been able to see how customers are ordering their Darts, and as a result, we have simplified our offerings to meet their requests – allowing us to offer them an even better value in the process.”

With a U.S. MSRP of just $595, the new 2013 Dodge Dart SXT Special Edition package combines stand-out styling and highly desirable features at one amazing price. For a starting U.S. MSRP of just $18,590 (all prices exclude $895 destination), the Dodge Dart SXT Special Edition features all the standard equipment on the SXT model, including a 2.0-liter 160 horsepower Tigershark 4-cylinder engine, power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, power mirrors, air conditioning, 60/40 split folding rear seat, four-wheel independent suspension, 17-inch aluminum wheels, unsurpassed 10 standard airbags and much more.

The Special Edition package adds a unique black crosshair grille, dark tinted projector headlamps, projector fog lamps, LED racetrack tail lamps, integrated dual exhaust, Uconnect Voice Command with Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, steering-wheel mounted audio controls, front-passenger seat in-seat storage, remote start (with automatic transmission), USB port, rearview auto-dimming mirror with microphone, overhead console with sunglass holder, 12-volt auxiliary power outlet, trip computer, vehicle information center, tire pressure monitoring display, active grille shutters and underbody aerodynamic treatment.

Along with the SXT Special Edition, Dodge Dart customers can also order the new SXT “Rallye Appearance Group,” which includes a unique black front fascia, Rallye badge and class-exclusive 17-inch Hyper Black aluminum wheels for a U.S. MSRP of just $395.

The already well-equipped Dodge Dart Limited features a starting U.S. MSRP of just $19,995. For an additional U.S. MSRP of $1,810, the Dart “Limited Special Edition” package bundles the most popular premium features for a U.S. MSRP of $21,805.

The 2013 Dodge Dart Limited is packed with a slew of standard features, including the standard equipment of the SXT model plus unique bright grille, bright door handles, projector fog lamps, power heated mirrors with supplemental signals and courtesy lamps, 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen, Floating Island Bezel, ParkView rear back-up camera, 7-inch full-color TFT (Thin Film Transistor) LED reconfigurable instrument cluster display, premium door trim panel with soft-touch upper surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio control and speed control, accent stitching on the instrument panel, power 10-way driver’s seat, including power lumbar support, driver and front passenger seatback pockets, overhead console with sunglass holder, front passenger in-seat storage, illuminated front cupholders, illuminated vanity mirrors, temperature and compass gauge, 12-volt auxiliary power outlet in console, speed sensitive power locks, power front windows with one-touch up/down, ambient LED interior lighting, automatic headlamps, active grille shutters, underbody aerodynamic treatment, tire pressure monitoring display and Limited badge.

The Dart Limited Special Edition package adds even more premium luxury features including: premium Nappa Leather seats, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power sunroof, racetrack LED taillamps, Sirius/XM Satellite radio, Sirius/XM Travel Link, Uconnect 8.4-inch touch screen with Garmin navigation, dual-zone automatic temperature control, remote start and universal garage door opener.

About Dodge Dart
The 2013 Dodge Dart redefines performance with an agile, fun-to-drive experience, compliments of its Alfa Romeo roots. It crafted with high-quality materials and loaded with state-of-the-art technology and class-leading safety features. The new Dart GT model builds on that foundation and offers attributes compact car buyers appreciate such as a 2.4L engine with 184 horsepower, a sport-tuned suspension, available hyper black 18-inch aluminum wheels, along with class-exclusive features like an 8.4-inch Uconnect Touchscreen media center and LED racetrack taillamps. The Dart provides drivers with the ultimate combination of power, efficiency, technology and style, all for a starting U.S. MSRP of just $15,995. The Dart is one of Kelley Blue Book KBB.com’s “10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000.”

About Dodge
For nearly 100 years, Dodge has defined passionate and innovative vehicles that stand apart in performance, style, emotion and technology. Building upon its rich heritage of muscle cars, racing technology and ingenious engineering, Dodge offers a full-line of cars, crossovers, minivans and SUVs built for top performance – from power off the line and handling in the corners, to high-quality vehicles that deliver unmatched versatility and excellent fuel efficiency. Only Dodge offers such innovative functionality combined with class-leading performance, exceptional value and distinctive athletic design. With the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart that achieves up to 41 miles per gallon, the all-new Dodge Charger four-door muscle car paired with the ZF eight-speed transmission that achieves a class-leading 31 miles per gallon, the new 2014 Durango and the significantly revamped Grand Caravan – inventor of the minivan – Journey, Avenger and iconic Challenger, Dodge now has one of the youngest dealer showrooms in the United States

Follow Dodge and Chrysler Group LLC news and video on:
Chrysler Connect blog: http://blog.chryslergroupllc.com
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/chrysler
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/pentastarvideo
Streetfire: http://members.streetfire.net/profile/ChryslerVideo.htm
Dodge: http://www.dodge.com

- By: Chris Chin

As Jaguar gears up to launch its all-new F-Type roadster, the Coventry-based auto maker released a new wave of TV ad spots to kick-off the F-Type’s new global advertising campaign.

“We have built on Jaguar’s sports car heritage which stretches over 75 years, and in the F-TYPE we have reignited the flame,” said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar’s global brand director. “The Jaguar F-TYPE sports car – not designed to be like anyone else’s sports car – is ultra-precise, powerful, sensual and most of all it feels alive. The campaign perfectly embodies all Jaguar’s values.”

Click here for more news on the 2014 Jaguar F-Type.

And while there are only these to TV ad spots of the Jaguar F-TYpe to share via the web, Jaguar announced that the F-Type will also be appearing on ESPN’s SportsCenter, ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel Live, and USA’s Covert Affairs, as long as various other mediums.

Check out the ads and the press release after the jump.

Jaguar Unveils Global Advertising Campaign to Launch the F-TYPE

- Jaguar F-TYPE arrives in U.S. retailers this month, starting at $69,000*
- Primary spots focus on F-TYPE’s visceral impact
- Jaguar North America launches social media campaign, #MyTurnToJag, engaging consumers with the opportunity to experience the all-new F-TYPE
- U.S. campaign extensions include driving features with San Francisco 49er Colin Kaepernick; ESPN’s Stuart Scott, and an initiative with ABC’s ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’

(MAHWAH, N.J.) – May 13, 2013 – Today, Jaguar announced the details of the global advertising and marketing campaign “Your Turn” to support the launch of its definitive sports car – the all-new F-TYPE. As Jaguar’s first new true sports car model in 50 years, the 2014 F-TYPE represents a return to the company’s heartland: a two-seater, convertible sports car focused on performance, agility and driver connection.

“We have built on Jaguar’s sports car heritage which stretches over 75 years, and in the F-TYPE we have reignited the flame,” said Adrian Hallmark, Global Brand Director of Jaguar. “The Jaguar F-TYPE sports car – not designed to be like anyone else’s sports car – is ultra-precise, powerful, sensual and most of all it feels alive. The campaign perfectly embodies all Jaguar’s values.”

The multi-channel global campaign will include integrated activity across TV, cinema, print, digital, mobile and tablet, as well as experiential and social media. Spark44, the lead strategic communications partner for Jaguar, was responsible for the creative positioning and strategy, experience architecture, website design, and all creative executions. Media planning and buying is managed by Mindshare.

The U.S. execution of the global campaign, will focus heavily on TV and digital with some integrated print executions, and leverage personalities that will appeal to a more youth-minded audience.

“The integrated campaign strives to engage customers with an emphasis on the F-TYPE vehicle’s performance, sound, look and feel,” said Joe Torpey, Communications Manager, Jaguar North America. “The media plan speaks to the cars’ personality via partners like ESPN and Playboy for example, and has live elements with integration of the vehicle in motion. This is the most exciting, and important marketing launch for Jaguar in many years driving us to create a highly engaging approach to market and bringing consumers into the experience.”

The first commercial, “Great Expectations” is the first of two TV spots, and aired last night during the season finale of ABC’s ‘Once Upon A Time’. At the end of the commercial, viewers were invited to use the hashtag #MyTurnToJag to experience the F-TYPE sports car on a test drive of a lifetime. MyTurnToJag is a social media contest where Jaguar enthusiasts and social media fans can submit a story explaining why it is their turn to drive the all-new F-TYPE. Four winners will be selected based on their submission, and Jaguar will curate an amazing drive for each winner in different regions of the country: New York, Los Angeles, Miami and Chicago. The drives will be filmed and shared across Jaguar USA’s social channels.

The F-TYPE is one of most highly anticipated vehicles to launch this year; over 50,000 people have already expressed interest. The “Your Turn” campaign targets the F-TYPE sports car’s target audience of 25-54 year olds, comprised of consumers with varied interests and lifestyles. Jaguar’s media agency, Mindshare, created a marketing program touching on a variety of outlets, including activations in broadcast; cinema; high-impact digital; and Connected TV platforms which will appeal to early adopters. Campaign highlights include:

- Exclusive ownership of an entire ESPN SportsCenter episode featuring notable athletes, such as San Francisco 49er Colin Kaepernick experiencing the F-TYPE, as well as exclusive commercial content with on-air commentator Stuart Scott
- An integrated partnership with Playboy, where Jaguar took part in the May 9 announcement of the ‘Playmate of the Year’, and will share the faux June cover with her. In addition, Jaguar will co-host a party during the Pebble Beach Automotive Weekend with Playboy
- Integration of the F-TYPE in a ‘Jimmy Kimmel Live’ commercial incorporating the playmate of the year, Raquel Pomplun
- Season-long partnership and integration with USA Network’s hit series, ‘Covert Affairs’ including a custom vignette highlighting the F-TYPE involvement in the show
- Presenting sponsor of Sundance Channel’s ‘Rectify’ featuring brand inclusion across all show promotion, with vignettes showcasing the F-TYPE and content from the show
- Performance-focused F-TYPE long-form content piece highlighted on Speed TV

The F-TYPE introduces a new sports car design language for Jaguar, incorporating bold, clean lines accented by the discreet use of technology, including a deployable rear spoiler and hidden door handles. This vehicle is the first official sports car that the brand has offered in over 50 years. With front-engine, lightweight aluminum architecture and rear-wheel drive, the F-TYPE is engineered to be a true high-performance sports car. The car will be available in three models: F-TYPE, F-TYPE S and the F-TYPE V8 S. The Jaguar F-TYPE sports car has a starting MSRP of $69,000* and will be in US showrooms this month.

* Price shown is MSRP. Does not include destination and delivery. Excludes, tax, title, license, retailer fees and optional equipment. Dealer price, terms and vehicles availability may vary. See your local authorized Jaguar Retailers for details.

# # #

About Jaguar
Jaguar is a premier manufacturer of luxury sedans and sports cars offering unparalleled design with tremendous performance. The company’s vision throughout its storied history has been simple: To produce beautiful, fast cars that are desired the world over. Jaguar strives to provide a world class ownership experience to every owner. Today’s Jaguar lineup consists of the XJ luxury sedan, XF sports sedan and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars. Jaguar designs, engineers and manufactures exclusively in the United Kingdom, at the Castle Bromwich manufacturing plant in the British Midlands. Jaguar is fully engaged with sustainability initiatives and social concerns with continuous involvement in environmental and community programs. For more information visit the official Jaguar website at http://www.jaguarusa.com.

About Jaguar Land Rover
• Jaguar Land Rover is the UK’s largest automotive manufacturing business built around two iconic British car brands with a rich heritage and powerful consumer appeal and loyalty. Additionally, Jaguar Land Rover is at the centre of the UK automotive industry’s drive to deliver technical innovation in all areas of vehicle development.
• As the UK’s largest automotive employer, JLR has a world class team of nearly 25,000 people.
• In the 2011/12 fiscal year, JLR achieved record profits of £1.5 billion, an increase of £392m when compared to the previous year.
• Jaguar Land Rover is the largest investor in automotive R&D and engineering in the UK.
• Jaguar Land Rover has two state of the art engineering and design facilities and three advanced manufacturing plants in the UK.
• Headquartered in Mahwah, New Jersey in the United States, Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC has offices across the USA and Canada and is represented by more than 330 retail outlets.

About Spark44 (www.spark44.com)
Spark44, a global communications company with offices in UK, USA, China and Germany, is a joint venture agency owned by Jaguar Land Rover and Spark44 management. Formed in June 2011, Spark44 is the lead strategic, global creative partner for Jaguar, responsible for creating specific demand through all media channels, including the new Jaguar website: http://www.jaguar.co.uk that is currently being rolled out world-wide. Spark44 is helping to re-launch one of the most iconic brands in automotive history, Jaguar.

- By: Chris Chin

While Mercedes-Benz has been has been soldiering on offering a two-door version of its S-Class flagship, which we’ve all come to know and love as the CL-Class, the rest of the competitive set kind of just let the CL-Class (and soon to be S-Class Coupe once again) be in its own segment.

Yes, you can argue that the BMW 6-Series and the Jaguar XK are competitors to the CL-Class. But in all honesty, they are only competitors because they are the closest damn thing that anyone has to match the gargantuan prestige of the big-bodied two-door Benzito. For illustrative purposes, the last generation BMW 6-Series undercut the current CL’s size by more than 10 inches in length and two inches in height.

Even to this day, with the current BMW 6-Series, which has certainly grown in size, the CL reigns to be larger and more luxurious. Throw in some history, and BMW’s only true and real competitor against the S-Class coupe was the original 8-Series coupe from 1989. But ever since the 8-Series was axed in 1999, a successor has yet to be seen.

But a lot of time has elapsed since then, giving BMW a chance to grow and perhaps consider even making a coupe larger and more luxurious than the famed 6-Series. And in this day and age of sales wars, with the Germans matching nearly every competitive move from each other, it wouldn’t be too far-fetched to consider the possibility of a new 8-Series.

And to give us an idea of what BMW could have in mind—and perhaps to test the waters of interest—BMW and Pininfarina collaborated to create the Gran Lusso Coupe Concept, which they teased over the Internet ahead of its debut at the Concroso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este auto show on the 24^th of this month.

The 2013 BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupe Concept wasn’t explicitly described to be a visionary 8-Series by name, but simply by its described nature does it sound like a potential tip in that direction. This is further substantiated by the description that the Gran Lusso Coupe houses a V12 under its long hood. And the last and only two-door production BMW to house a V12 under its hood was the 8-Series.

Though not much else was described. Either way, it will be interesting to see what the final product is.

For full details, check out the press release below.

BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé.

Consummate elegance.

Munich. At the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2013, two tradition-steeped car manufacturers – the BMW Group and Pininfarina – will be straddling the automotive past and future as they unveil the result of their debut cooperation to the global public on 24 May: the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé.

Together they have created the embodiment of sheer elegance. The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé is the sequel to a new approach introduced at last year’s Concorso in the shape of the BMW Zagato Coupé. Always in search of opportunities for further development, the BMW Group consciously pursues creative exchange with other design studios. It enables two design approaches to merge into a new and exciting initiative that encourages fresh creative impulses. Thus the close collaboration with the Pininfarina design team has led to a new automotive personality brimming with character and ready to join the high-end luxury class: typically BMW and bearing the refined imprint of Pininfarina. The BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé adds a new dimension to the BMW claim to elegance and exclusivity.

This elaborate creation is a one-off that captivates the observer at first glance with its Italian exclusivity and modern finesse. Generous surface design and taut contours highlight an elegant vehicle body, while hallmark BMW proportions – a long wheelbase, stretched bonnet, short overhangs and a set-back greenhouse with smoothly sloping roofline – imbue the BMW Pininfarina Gran Lusso Coupé with authoritative dynamics even before a wheel has been turned. Enhancing the powerful impact of the side profile are convex taperings that add a dynamic elegance. The exterior symbolises the modern harmony between power and elegance encapsulated by the V12 engine under the bonnet.

On the inside, the BMW Gran Lusso Coupé shows this consummate blend of contemporary elegance and luxury. Here the melding of exclusivity, comfort and sportiness makes for a unique interior experience. The fluid underlying geometry of the cabin and the classical BMW driver focus are lent a thoroughly new touch through the influence of Pininfarina.

- By: Chris Chin

While we already knew that General Motors would be having Cadillac stuff the all-new twin-turbocharged LF3 V6 that debuted in the CTS into the bay of the current XTS flagship, America’s top-brass officially announced the 2014 XTS’s reception of the insanely powerful V6. Yup, that’s the same 3.6L twin-turbocharged V6 that will debuted on the 2014 Cadillac CTS V-Sport.

Though the XTS’s version has been detuned slightly to 410hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, versus the CTS V-Sport’s 420hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. The 2014 XTS’s base naturally aspirated 3.6L V6 still carries over, good for 304hp and 264 lb-ft of torque. Both are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shift controls.

Otherwise the Cadillac XTS mainly carries over into the new 2014 model year with very little change. But if you were curious to know if a particular XTS is donning GM’s new beastly LF3 V6, all you have to do is look at the front grille for a different design, or just peer at the trunk badge on the rear, which should denote the use of the 3.6L Turbo.

For full details, check out the press release after the jump.

Cadillac XTS – 2014

New for 2014
- Cadillac Twin-Turbo V-6 with 410 hp (306 kW) – SAE certified
- Automatic Parking Assist (FWD models)
- Electric power steering (FWD models)
- Intellibeam headlamps
- Rear-seat entertainment system
- Front passenger seat memory feature
- Revised rear-seat armrest with wood trim, radio controls and sunshade control (if equipped)
- Opaque sunroof sunshade

2014 CADILLAC XTS OFFERS TWIN-TURBO V-6, AUTOMATIC PARKING ASSIST

The Cadillac XTS is one of the most technologically advanced production cars in the brand’s history, delivering the space, elegance and dramatic presence that are brand signatures in a unique package tuned for a new generation of luxury customers.

Cadillac’s all-new, power-dense Twin-Turbo V-6 engine highlights new features for 2014, along with technologies including available Automatic Parking Assist and Intellibeam, as well as electric power steering on all front-wheel-drive models. Additional new and revised features include:
- An available rear-seat entertainment system with twin DVD screens that fold out of the backs of the front seats
- Available front passenger seat memory feature
- Revised rear-seat armrest with wood trim, radio controls and sunshade control (if equipped)
- Opaque sunroof sunshade.

XTS is offered in a well-equipped standard model and three optional collections: Luxury, Premium and Platinum. The XTS Platinum represents the highest level of technology and luxury, including a unique front appearance, wheels and interior colors, materials and trim.

Highlights for all collections include:
- Standard direct-injected 3.6L V-6 with lightweight features, including integrated cylinder heads/exhaust manifolds
- Available advanced all-wheel-drive system with electronically controlled limited-slip differential
- Magnetic Ride Control, rear air springs, HiPer Strut front suspension and Brembo front brakes – all standard
- Standard 19-inch wheels and available 20-inch wheels
- Capless fuel tank filler for easier, cleaner refueling
- Folding rear-seat head restraints that enhance rear visibility
- Safety Alert Seat that pulses to alert the driver
- Intervening braking system that lessens or avoids potential collisions
- Short- and long-range radar systems that support adaptive cruise control, front/rear automatic brakes and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

XTS is the only luxury sedan with standard Magnetic Ride Control – the world’s fastest-reacting suspension – while the advanced all-wheel-drive system uses Haldex technology with an electronic limited-slip differential to transfer power front-to-back, and side-to-side, along the rear axle. It is available on all three collections.

The XTS is also the most spacious Cadillac sedan, tailored to provide roominess in a more efficiently sized package. It offers more interior space than midsize luxury cars and is comparable to full-size sedans, particularly in the rear seat area, where it has 40 inches (1,016 mm) of rear legroom. That’s about four more inches than the BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and about two more inches than the Audi A6.

And when it comes to trunk space, the XTS is in a league of its own, with 18 cubic feet (509 L), exceeding both midsize and full-size competitors – more than Audi A6 and A8L, BMW 5 and 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz E- and S-Class. For XTS customers, the cargo advantage means room for five or more suitcases.

XTS design and exterior features
XTS’s hardware and spatial dimensions are the foundational layers that support exceptional surface detail. Multidimensional elements, including the grille, headlamps and accent lighting, coalesce to give the XTS a presence and attention to detail unlike any Cadillac that has come before it.

The XTS’s surface details also convey a more nuanced design philosophy, bringing elegance with refined, graceful forms and surfaces working harmoniously with established Cadillac linear forms. Additional features include:
- Unique “Twin-Turbo” grille and deck lid identification on models equipped with the 3.6L twin-turbo engine
- Premium chrome/satin-chrome grille finish on Platinum Collection
- Intellibeam automatic headlamp control is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Illuminating door handles are standard on all Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Capless fuel-filling system is standard on all models
- High-intensity discharge headlamps with Twilight Sentinel are standard on all models
- Adaptive Forward Lighting is standard on Premium and Platinum collections
- LED center high-mounted rear stop lamp is standard on all models
- Heated outside mirrors with auto-dimming feature, turn-signal indicators and puddle lamps are standard on all models
- Rainsense automatic windshield wipers are standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum collections
- Nineteen-inch polished aluminum wheels are standard on Luxury and Premium Collections
- Twenty-inch aluminum wheels with polished finish and chrome inserts are standard on the Platinum Collection
- Eight exterior color choices: Radiant Silver Metallic, Black Raven, Crystal Red Tintcoat, White Diamond Tricoat, Graphite Metallic, Black Diamond Tricoat, Silver Coast Metallic and Sapphire Blue Metallic.

XTS interior features
Like the exterior, the XTS’s cabin extolls a multidimensional philosophy in a bold, elegant design that is also very efficient in the ways it encompasses passengers and cargo. It represents Cadillac’s new expression of luxury also in its use of authentic materials and unprecedented connectivity. Platinum Collection models feature a fully wrapped leather interior with microfiber sueded headliner, as well as premium wood trim on the steering wheel, console, center stack, instrument panel and door panels.

Seating trim is offered with Soleil Keisel surfaces or premium Opus full leather – both with perforated detailing. Heated and ventilated seats are also offered. Additional interior features include:
- Adaptive remote start is standard on all models
- Audio system with Bose premium eight-speaker sound is standard on the base model and Luxury Collection
- Bose Studio Surround Sound with 14-speaker system with energy-efficient amplifier is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections
- Rear-seat entertainment system is available on Premium and Platinum Collections
- SiriusXM Satellite Radio (with free trial period) and HD radio are standard on all models
- Tri-zone automatic climate control is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections Dual-zone automatic climate control is standard on the base model and Luxury Collection
- Leather-wrapped IP and door trim top pad, along with the center console, is standard on the Platinum Collection
- Color, reconfigurable 12.3-inch gauge cluster with driver information center is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections
- Head-Up Display with color readouts is standard on the Premium and Platinum Collections
- Illuminated entry and courtesy lighting is standard on all models
- Accent lighting, including LED spotlights with light pipes, is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Soleil Keisel leather seating surfaces with mini-perforated inserts are standard on the Standard model, Luxury and Premium Collections
- Opus full-leather seats with mini-perforated inserts are standard on the Platinum Collection
- Heated driver/front passenger and outboard rear passenger seats and vented driver/front passenger seats are standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Leather-accented steering wheel with wood accents and tap up/tap down transmission controls is standard
- Heated steering wheel is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections
- Power rear window shade and manual rear side window shades are available on the Premium Collection and standard on the Platinum Collection
- Real wood trim is incorporated on all models
- Six interior color/trim combinations: Jet Black, Shale with Cocoa accents, Medium Titanium with Jet Black accents, Caramel with Jet Black accents, Jet Black with Light Wheat accents and Very Light Platinum with Dark Urban and Cocoa accents.

CUE details
Cadillac CUE is standard on all models. Its heart is the standard eight-inch (203 mm) screen in the center stack, the faceplate below the screen and the steering wheel controls. Features include capacitive-touch control with proximity sensing, haptic feedback, gesture recognition and natural voice recognition.

A 12.3-inch (312 mm) reconfigurable instrument cluster is standard on Premium and Platinum Collections. It features vibrant graphic displays showcased among four driver-selectable themes, ranging from minimal to extensive information. And while it is the prominent element in the XTS’s technological character, CUE is part of a more comprehensive and layered approach to the car’s design, capabilities and performance.

XTS powertrains
The new Cadillac Twin-Turbo 3.6L V-6 is available in the XTS, delivering SAE-certified 410 horsepower (306 kW) and 369 lb.-ft. of torque (500 Nm), making it one of the most power-dense six-cylinder engines in the segment. A pair of smaller turbochargers and an efficient charge air cooler help provide more immediate power delivery, while peak torque is sustained over a broad range – 1,900 to 5,600 rpm – for a confident feeling of power in almost all driving conditions, such as accelerating or overtaking traffic on the highway.

The twin-turbo engine is a comprehensive upgrade on the 60-degree, 3.6L DOHC V-6 that is offered as the standard engine in the XTS. However, almost every component is unique. New features include:
- All-new cylinder block casting
- Strengthened connecting rods
- Machined, domed aluminum pistons with top steel ring carrier for greater strength
- 10.2:1 compression ratio
- Patented, integrated charge air cooler system with low-volume air ducts
- Two turbochargers produce more than 12 pounds of boost (80 kPa)
- Vacuum-actuated wastegates with electronic control valves
- All-new direct injection fuel system
- Tuned air inlet and outlet resonators, aluminum cam covers and other features that contribute to exceptional quietness and smoothness.

The cylinder heads are also unique to the Cadillac Twin-Turbo. They feature a high-tumble intake port design that enhances the motion of the air charge for a more-efficient burn when it is mixed with the direct-injected fuel and ignited in the combustion chamber.

The XTS’s standard 3.6L V-6 is rated at 304 horsepower (224 kW) and 264 lb.-ft. of torque (355 Nm). Lightweight features help reduce overall weight for greater efficiency and a more favorable front-to-rear weight balance. Examples include a composite intake manifold that saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake and an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design that saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine.

The engines are matched with six-speed automatic transmissions with tap-shift control.

XTS driving experience
A layered approach to the driving experience relies on new and established technologies – all rooted in a stiff structure. The body is infused with strategically placed, ultra-high-strength steel for strength and crash protection, and serves as the foundation for the advanced chassis system.

A smart all-wheel-drive system with Haldex technology – with an electronic limited-slip differential that splits torque between the rear wheels – complements an advanced HiPer Strut front suspension and standard Magnetic Ride Control real-time damping to give the XTS sure-footed, confident and comfortable ride and handling traits. A linked H-arm design with “air springs” comprises the rear suspension.

HiPer Strut is based on the MacPherson strut front suspension design and features dual-path top mountings that separate the transfer of spring and damper loads to the body structure. It improves ride-and-handling characteristics in four significant ways:
- Provides more linear and communicative steering through improved camber control
- Improves impact isolation on bumps and rough surfaces
- Reduces torque steer
- Improves vehicle sensitivity to tire irregularities and wheel imbalance.

Magnetic Ride Control delivers precise body motion control – “reading” the road every millisecond and changing damping in just five milliseconds. It replaces conventional mechanical-valve shocks with electronically controlled shocks filled with a magneto-rheological fluid containing minute iron particles. Under the presence of magnetic charge, the iron particles align to provide damping resistance almost instantly.

New for 2014, a premium electric, variable-assist power steering gear is employed with all front-wheel-drive models. It is designed to deliver excellent response and on-center characteristics, while enhancing efficiency by drawing energy only when the wheels are turned.

StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on all models, along with variable-effort steering and four-wheel disc brakes (front Brembo brakes) with four-channel antilock brakes – all features that add important layers of control to the driving experience. Like Magnetic Ride Control, XTS borrows the Brembo braking technology from Cadillac’s V-Series of high-performance models.

XTS safety
The XTS’s technology fundamentally supports a range of advanced safety features, based on a “control and alert” strategy that extends the vision around the vehicle. It helps drivers identify potential crash situations and even intervenes when a crash threat appears more imminent, employing visual, audible and tactile (vibration) alerts, depending on the feature.

The alerts are designed to identify obstacles with sufficient warning to give the driver time to react and make changes – including the Safety Alert Seat feature, which vibrates either the left or right side of the driver’s seat cushion, depending on the location of the impending concern. The intervening features, including Automatic Collision Preparation and front and rear automatic brakes, take over if the threat appears more immediate or the driver does not react to previous alerts.

The Driver Awareness Packageis standard on the Premium and Platinum Collections and available on the Luxury Collection. It includes:
- Lane Departure Warning
- Forward Collision Alert
- Safety Alert Seat
- Side Blind Zone Alert
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Reflected LED display.

The new Intellibeam feature automatically deploys high-beam headlamps when needed and instantly turns them down when oncoming traffic is detected.

The Driver Assist Package is standard on the Platinum and available on Premium Collections. It includes:
- The Driver Awareness Package
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Front Automatic Brake
- Rear Automatic Brake
- Automatic Collision Preparation.

Additional safety features include dual-stage frontal air bags, knee air bags, side-impact air bags, head-curtain air bags and seat side-impact air bags for outboard rear passengers. Also, a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines is standard on Luxury, Premium and Platinum Collections. Head-up display and full-speed adaptive cruise control are available.

The XTS also offers Automatic Parking Assist, which enables the car to parks itself in parallel spaces. It uses ultrasonic sensors to locate a suitable space and maneuver the car into the space. The driver is required to only engage reverse and apply the accelerator and brake pedals.

XTS and OnStar
One year of OnStar Directions and Connections service is standard on XTS. OnStar is the global leading provider of connected safety, security and mobility solutions and advanced information technology.

OnStar’s RemoteLink Mobile App allows smartphone users to control vehicle functions, access vehicle information and send directions directly to the vehicle. An opt-in service called FamilyLink allows subscribers to stay connected to loved ones by checking the location of their vehicle online or by signing up for vehicle location alerts.

More information about OnStar can be found at www.onstar.com.

Cadillac has been a leading luxury auto brand since 1902. In recent years, Cadillac has engineered a historic renaissance led by artful engineering and advanced technology. More information on Cadillac can be found at media.cadillac.com.

- By: Chris Chin

Porsche seized the moment to finally and officially unveil its much-anticipated 918 Spyder in production form over the Internet. Sure, Porsche’s supercar isn’t exactly news, nor is it really a mystery. But while we’ve received our fair share of teasers and trickling information and revealing over time, Porsche never really officially unveiled the car in production form, virtually ready to go…until now.

As we already know, the Porsche 918 will utilize a unique hybrid system that consists of a 4.6L V8 good for 608hp with two extra electric motors, mated to each of the front and rear axles. This was accomplished thanks to the use of a chassis made almost entirely of carbon fiber. That of course means a low curb weight.

Additionally, Porsche finally disclosed that the all-new 918 Spyder supercar will be sold as a 2015 model. Oh, and did we forget to mention that they also gave us a crap ton of photos?

Check out the press release after the jump.

INTRODUCING THE PORSCHE 918 SPYDER

Atlanta.The 918 Spyder embodies the essence of the Porsche idea: it combines pedigree motor racing technology with excellent everyday utility, and maximum performance with minimum consumption. The task faced by the development team was to create the super sports car for the next decade with a highly efficient and powerful hybrid drive. Developing the car from scratch, appropriately beginning with a sheet of white paper, allowed the team to come up with a no-compromise concept. The entire car was designed around the hybrid drive. The 918 Spyder therefore demonstrates the potential of the hybrid drive to a degree never seen before: the parallel improvement of both efficiency and performance without one being at the cost of the other. This is the idea that has made the Porsche 911 the most successful sports car in the world for 50 years. In short, the 918 Spyder will act as the gene pool for the Porsche sports cars of the future.

The 918 Spyder reveals its close links to motorsport in a variety of ways. It has been designed, developed and produced by Porsche engineers who build race cars, in cooperation with series production specialists. A great deal of insight gained from the development of Porsche race cars for the 24 hours race in Le Mans in 2014 is thus integrated into the 918 Spyder – and vice versa. The structural concept of the 918 Spyder with a rolling chassis as its basis – a basic vehicle that can be driven even without a body – is race car tradition at Porsche. The concept of the V8 engine originates from the LMP2 RS Spyder race car. The load-bearing structures, the monocoque and subframe, are made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer. Porsche has many years of experience with this high-strength, lightweight construction material and has again achieved top results with the development of the series production 918 Spyder. Many parts of the super sports car come from manufacturers who have a proven record as suppliers for motorsport vehicles.

Hybrid drive brings advantages in terms of driving dynamics

A key message of the 918 Spyder is that the hybrid drive from Porsche is a plus for no-compromise driving dynamics. Drivers can experience this thanks to the unique all-wheel drive concept with a combination of combustion engine and electric motor on the rear axle and the second electric motor on the front axle. It is based on knowledge gained by Porsche during motor races with the successful 911 GT3 R Hybrid. Due to the additional, individually controllable front drive, new driving strategies for extremely high, safe cornering speeds can be implemented, especially for bends. Furthermore, the advanced “boost” strategy manages the energy of the electric drive so intelligently that, for every sprint with maximum acceleration, the full power of the 918 Spyder can be tapped into by simply pressing the accelerator down fully. In short, the 918 Spyder allows even drivers without motorsport training to experience the potential of advanced longitudinal and transverse dynamics.

The Porsche 918 Spyder also has the potential to break many records. The current lap time for the North Loop of the Nürburgring is 7:14 minutes. This time was achieved in the presence of international journalists during test drives in September 2012 – more than a year before start of production. The 918 Spyder prototype was therefore approximately 20 seconds quicker than the Porsche Carrera GT. More test drives on the Nürburgring North Loop will follow. An even more important factor is that the 918 Spyder surpasses previous models and competitors by far in its efficiency as well. As a plug-in hybrid vehicle, it systematically combines the dynamic performance of a racing machine with low fuel consumption. To sum it up: maximum driving fun with minimal fuel consumption.

Carbon monocoque guarantees lightweight design with a low center of gravity

The 918 Spyder utilizes the best state-of-the-art technologies, taken straight from motor racing, to achieve its top performance. The entire load-bearing structure is made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) for extreme torsional rigidity. Additional crash elements at the front and rear absorb and reduce the energy of a collision. The car’s unladen weight of approximately 3,715 lbs. (3,616 lbs. with “Weissach” package), an excellent low weight for a hybrid vehicle of this performance class, is largely attributable to this concept.

The drivetrain components and all components weighing over 110 lbs. are located as low and as centrally as possible within the vehicle. This results in a slightly rear end biased axle load distribution of 57 percent on the rear axle and 43 percent on the front axle, combined with an extremely low center of gravity at approximately the height of the wheel hubs, which is ideal for driving dynamics. The central and low position of the traction battery directly behind the driver not only supports efforts to concentrate masses and lower the center of gravity; it also provides the best temperature conditions for optimum battery power capacity.

Chassis with race car genes and rear-axle steering

The multi-link chassis of the Porsche 918 Spyder is inspired by motorsport design, complemented by additional systems such as the PASM adaptive shock-absorber system and rear-axle steering. Basically, this incorporates an electro-mechanical adjustment system at each rear wheel. The adjustment is speed-sensitive and executes steering angles of up to three degrees in each direction. The rear axle can therefore be steered in the same direction as the front wheels or in opposition to them. At low speeds, the system steers the rear wheels in a direction opposite to that of the front wheels. This makes cornering even more direct, faster and more precise, and it reduces the turning circle. At higher speeds, the system steers the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels. This significantly improves the stability of the rear end when changing lanes quickly. The result is very secure and stable handling.

Porsche Active Aerodynamic (PAA) for different driving modes

Porsche Active Aerodynamic (PAA), a system of adjustable aerodynamic elements, ensures unique and variable aerodynamics; its layout is automatically varied over three modes ranging from optimal efficiency to maximum downforce and is tuned to the operating modes of the hybrid drive system. In “Race” mode, the retractable rear wing is set to a steep angle to generate high downforce at the rear axle. The spoiler positioned between the two wing supports near the trailing edge of the airflow also extends. In addition, two adjustable air flaps are opened in the underfloor in front of the front axle, and they direct a portion of the air into the diffuser channels of the underbody structure. This also produces a “ground effect” at the front axle.

In “Sport” mode, the aerodynamic control system reduces the attack angle of the rear wing somewhat, which enables a higher top speed. The spoiler remains extended. The aerodynamic flaps in the underfloor area close, which also reduces aerodynamic drag and increases attainable vehicle speeds. In “E” mode, the control is configured entirely for low aerodynamic drag; the rear wing and spoiler are retracted and the underfloor flaps are closed.

Adjustable air inlets under the main headlights round off the adaptive aerodynamic system. When the vehicle is stationary and in “Race” and “Sport” mode, they are opened for maximum cooling air intake. In “E-Power” and “Hybrid” modes, they close immediately after the car is driven off in order to keep aerodynamic drag to a minimum. They are not opened until the car reaches speeds of approximately 81 mph or when cooling requirements are higher.

From comfortable to race-ready: five modes for three motors

The core of the 918 Spyder concept is its distribution of propulsive power among the three power units; their cooperation is controlled by an intelligent management system. To best exploit these different approaches, the Porsche developers defined five operating modes that can be activated via a “map switch” on the steering wheel, just like in motorsport cars. On the basis of this pre-selection, the 918 Spyder applies the most suitable operating and boost strategy without driver intervention, thus allowing the driver to concentrate fully on the road.

Quiet and elegant: “E-Power”

When the vehicle is started up, the “E-Power” mode is the default operating mode as long as the battery is sufficiently charged. In ideal conditions, the 918 Spyder can cover approximately 18 miles on purely electric power. Even in pure electric mode, the 918 Spyder accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in seven seconds and can reach speeds of up to 93 mph. In this mode, the combustion engine is only used when needed. If the battery’s charge state drops below a set minimum value, the vehicle automatically switches to hybrid mode.

Efficient and comfortable: “Hybrid”

In “Hybrid” mode, the electric motors and combustion engine work alternately with a focus on maximum efficiency and minimum fuel consumption. The use of individual drive components is modified as a function of the current driving situation and the desired performance. The Hybrid mode is typically used for a fuel economy-oriented driving style.

Sporty and dynamic: “Sport Hybrid”

In more dynamic situations, the 918 Spyder selects the “Sport Hybrid” mode for its power sources. The combustion engine now operates continuously and provides the main propulsive force. In addition, the electric motors provide support in the form of electric boosting or when the operating point of the combustion engine can be optimized for greater efficiency. The focus of this mode is on performance and a sporty driving style at top speed.

For fast laps: “Race Hybrid”

“Race Hybrid” is the mode for maximum performance and an especially sporty driving style. The combustion engine is chiefly used under high load, and charges the battery when the driver is not utilizing its maximum output. Again, the electric motors provide additional support in the form of boosting. Furthermore, the gear-shifting program of the PDK is set up for even sportier driving. The electric motors are used up to the maximum power output limit to deliver the best possible performance for the race track. In this mode, the battery charge state is not kept constant, rather it fluctuates over the entire charge range. In contrast to Sport Hybrid mode, the electric motors run at their maximum power output limit for a short time for better boosting. This increased output is balanced by the combustion engine charging the battery more intensively. Electric power is thus available even with several very fast laps.

For pole position: “Hot Lap”

The “Hot Lap” button in the middle of the map switch releases the final reserves of the 918 Spyder and can only be activated in “Race Hybrid” mode. Similar to a qualification mode, this pushes the traction battery to its maximum power output limits for a few fast laps. This mode uses all of the available energy in the battery.

Main propulsion: the race car’s eight cylinder engine

The main source of propulsion is the 4.6-liter, eight cylinder engine that produces 608 hp of power. The engine is derived directly from the power unit of the successful RS Spyder, which explains why it can deliver engine speeds of up to 9,150 rpm. Like the race engine of the RS Spyder, the 918 Spyder power unit features dry-sump lubrication with a separate oil tank and oil extraction. To save weight, components such as the oil tank, the air filter box integrated into the subframe and the air induction are made of carbon fiber reinforced polymer. Further extensive lightweight design measures have resulted in such features as titanium connecting rods, thin-wall, low-pressure casting on the crank case and the cylinder heads, a high-strength, lightweight steel crankshaft with 180 degrees crankpin offset and the extremely thin-walled alloy steel/nickel exhaust system. Striking features of the V8 are that it no longer supports any auxiliary systems, there are no external belt drives and the engine is therefore particularly compact. Weight and performance optimizations achieve a power output per liter of approx. 133 hp/l – the highest power output per liter of a Porsche naturally aspirated engine – which is significantly higher than that of the Carrera GT (106 hp/l) and outstanding for a naturally aspirated engine.

Unique race car design heritage: top pipes

It isn’t just this engine’s performance but also the sound it makes that stokes the emotionality of the 918 Spyder. This is attributable first and foremost to the so-called top pipes: the tailpipes terminate in the upper part of the rear end immediately above the engine. No other production vehicle uses this solution. The top pipes’ greatest benefit is optimal heat removal, because the hot exhaust gases are released via the shortest possible route, and exhaust gas back pressure remains low. This design requires a new thermodynamic air channeling concept. With the HSI engine, the hot side is located inside the cylinder V, the intake channels are on the outside. There is another benefit as well: the engine compartment remains cooler. This is especially beneficial to the lithium-ion traction battery, as it provides optimum performance at temperatures between 68 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Consequently, less energy needs to be used for active cooling of the battery.

In parallel in the drivetrain: hybrid module

The V8 engine is coupled to the hybrid module, since the 918 Spyder is designed as a parallel hybrid like the current hybrid models from Porsche. Essentially, the hybrid module comprises a 115 kW electric motor and a decoupler that serves as the connection with the combustion engine. Because of its parallel hybrid configuration, the 918 Spyder can be powered at the rear axle either individually by the combustion engine or electric motor or via both drives jointly. As is typical for a Porsche super sports car, the power pack in the 918 Spyder has been placed in front of the rear axle, and does not have any direct mechanical connection to the front axle.

Upside-down for a low center of gravity: Doppelkupplung

A seven-speed Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission handles power transmission to the rear axle. The high-performance transmission is the sportiest version of the successful PDK; it has undergone a complete redesign for the 918 Spyder and has been further optimized for high performance. To ensure a low mounting position for a low center of gravity of the entire vehicle, the gear unit was turned “upside down” by rotating it 180 degrees about its longitudinal axis, in contrast to other Porsche series. If no power is required on the rear axle, the two motors can be decoupled by opening the decoupler and PDK clutches. This is the action behind the Porsche hybrid drive’s typical “coasting” with the combustion engine switched off.

Independent all-wheel drive: front axle with electric motor

On the front axle, there is another independent electric motor with an output of approximately 95 kW. The front electric drive unit drives the wheels at a fixed ratio. A decoupler decouples the electric motor at high speeds to prevent the motor from over-revving. Drive torque is independently controlled for each axle. This makes for very responsive all-wheel drive functionality that offers great potential in terms of traction and driving dynamics.

Lithium-ion battery with plug-in charging system

The electric energy for the electric motors is stored by a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery comprising 312 individual cells with an energy content of about seven kilowatt hours. The battery of the 918 Spyder has a performance-oriented design in terms of both power charging and output, so that it can fulfill the performance requirements of the electric motor. The power capacity and the operating life of the lithium-ion traction battery depend on several factors, including thermal conditions. That is why the battery of the 918 Spyder is liquid-cooled by a dedicated cooling circuit. The global warranty period for the traction battery is seven years.

To supply it with energy, Porsche developed a new system with a plug-in vehicle charge port and improved recuperation potential. This vehicle charge port in the B-pillar on the front passenger side lets users connect the storage battery to an electrical supply at home to charge it. The charge port is standardized for the country of purchase. The on-board charger is located close to the traction battery. It converts the alternating current of the household electric supply into direct current with a maximum charge output of 3.6 kW. Using the supplied Porsche Universal Charger (AC), the traction battery can be charged with a conventional wall plug in seven hours from a ten ampere rated, fused power socket a US 110 Volt household electrical supply, for example. Furthermore, the Porsche Universal Charger (AC) can be installed at home in the garage using the Charging Dock. It enables rapid and convenient charging within approximately two hours, irrespective of regional conditions. The Porsche Speed Charging Station (DC) is available as an optional extra. It can fully charge the high-voltage battery of the 918 Spyder in just 25 minutes.

Pioneering control concept: clear organization of the cockpit

The driver is the focus of all technology in the future Porsche super sports car. A cockpit was created for the driver that is typical of the brand and pioneering in its clarity. It is partitioned into two basic areas. First, there are the controls that are important for driving, which are grouped around the multifunction steering wheel, combined with driver information displayed on three large round instruments. Second, there is the infotainment block that is housed in the lifted center console, which was introduced in the Carrera GT. Control functions, e.g. for the automatic climate control system, wing adjustment, lighting and Porsche Communication Management (PCM), including a Burmester high-end sound system, can be intuitively operated by multitouch with a new type of black panel technology.

For even higher performance: the Weissach package

For very performance-oriented customers of the 918 Spyder, Porsche offers the “Weissach” package. These modified super sports cars can be recognized at first glance by special colors and designs that are based on legendary Porsche race cars. The roof, rear wings, rear-view mirrors and frames of the windscreen are made of visible carbon. Parts of the interior are upholstered with Alcantara instead of leather, and visible carbon replaces much of the aluminum. Sound insulation has been reduced. The emphasis on performance is not just visual: very lightweight magnesium wheels reduce unsprung masses; gross weight was reduced by about 77 lbs. The benefits are experienced in further improved dynamic performance. Other references from motorsport are six-point seatbelts for driver and front passenger, optional film-coating instead of body paint, as well as additional aerodynamic body parts in visible carbon.

Porsche redefined: a new super sports car for a new decade

The 918 Spyder continues a long tradition of super sports cars at Porsche; as technology platforms, as the driving force behind both car emotion and car evolution and as the ultimate sports cars of their decades: the Carrera GTS, the first Porsche Turbo, the 959, the 911 GT1, the Carrera GT. More than any of its predecessors, the 918 Spyder is providing key impetus for developing technologies for future vehicle concepts. It offers a complete package of components that reflect Porsche DNA – more concentrated than ever before.

Technical Specifications – Porsche 918 Spyder

Body: Two-seat Spyder; carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRP) monocoque interlocked with CFRP unit carrier; two-piece Targa roof; fixed roll-over protection system.

Drivetrain: Parallel full hybrid; 4.6-liter V8 mid-engine with dry-sump lubrication; hybrid module with electric motor and decoupler; electric motor with decoupler and gear unit on front axle; auto start/stop function; electrical system recuperation; four cooling circuits for motors, transmission and battery; thermal management.

Engine power: 608 hp at 8,600/min (V8 engine)

154 hp (hybrid module on rear axle)

127 hp (electric motor on front axle)

887 hp (combined)

Max. torque: 390 lb.-ft. at 6,600/min (V8 engine)

940 lb.-ft. (equivalent torque calculated on the crankshaft, complete system in 7th gear)

787 lb.-ft. (complete system, 3rd gear)

> 590 lb.-ft. (800/min – 5,000/min)

Maximum Revs: 9,150 rpm

Power output per l: 133 hp/l (V8 engine)

Power transmission: Combustion engine with hybrid module and transmission bolted together to form a single drive unit; seven-speed Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK); rear-wheel drive; front electric motor with gearbox for driving the front wheels (decoupled from 146 mph); five pre-selectable operating modes for optimum coordination of all drive units.

Gear ratios PDK

1st gear 3.91

2nd gear 2.29

3rd gear 1.58

4th gear 1.19

5th gear 0.97

6th gear 0.83

7th gear 0.67

R gear 3.55

Final drive ratio 3.09

Clutch diameter 8.7 in. / 6.5 in.

Chassis and Suspension: Double-wishbone front axle; optional electro-pneumatic lift system on front axle; electro-mechanical power steering; multilink rear axle with adaptive electro-mechanical system for individual rear wheel steering; electronically controlled twin-tube gas-pressure dampers in the front and rear with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM).

Brake system: High-performance hybrid brake system with adaptive recuperation; internally ventilated and perforated front ceramic brake discs (PCCB), 16 in. in diameter and 1.4 in. thick; rear discs 15.4 in diameter and 1.3 in. thick.

Wheels and tires: 918 Spyder wheels

(Weissach package: 918 Spyder magnesium wheels)

front 9.5 J x 20 with 265/35 ZR 20

rear 12.5 J x 21 with 325/30 ZR 21

Weights: Curb weight 3,715 lbs.

3,616 lbs. (Weissach package)

Dimensions: Length 182.8 in.

Width 76.4 in.

Height 45.9 in.

Wheelbase 107.5 in.

Track width front 65.5 in.

rear 63.5 in.

Luggage compartment capacity, VDA ~ 110 l

Fuel tank capacity 18.5 gal

Energy supply: Lithium-ion battery with 6.8 kWh capacity (BOL nominal), 220 kW maximum power and mains-compatible plug-in charger.

Performance: Top speed > 211 mph

purely electric 93 mph

Acceleration:

0-62 mph 2.8 s

0-60 mph less than 2.8 s

0-62 mph (in electric mode) 7.0 s

0-124 mph (0-200 km/h) 7.9 s

0-186 mph (0-300 km/h) 23.0 s

Range: Purely electric approx. 18 mi.

Warranty: Vehicle (Battery) 4 years (7 years)

Charging times:

AC charging on a household socket (110 V, 10 A): less than 7 hours

AC charging on an industrial socket (240 V, 30 A): less than 2 hours

DC charging on an industrial socket (400 V, 32 A): less than 0.5 hours.

###

About Porsche Cars North America

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga. is the exclusive U.S. importer of Porsche sports cars, the Cayenne SUV and Panamera sports sedan. Established in 1984, it is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Porsche AG, which is headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany, and employs approximately 220 people who provide parts, service, marketing and training for 190 dealers. They, in turn, work to provide Porsche customers with a best-in-class experience that is in keeping with the brand’s 63-year history and leadership in the advancement of vehicle performance, safety and efficiency.

At the core of this success is Porsche’s proud racing heritage that boasts some 30,000 motorsport wins to date.

- By: Chris Chin

Following a couple teasers that seemed to have popped up out of nowhere, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. officially announced that the sixth installment to the Playstation-based Gran Turismo racing simulator is on its way and will be here by this year’s holiday season.

The game will be offered for PlayStation 3, despite the fact that some rumors have been circulating suggesting that Playstation 4 is just around the corner in a few years. Either way, Gran Turismo 6 hopes to up the ante in the console-based racing simulator wars against the likes of Microsoft XBox360’s Forza franchise.

While most of the cars available in Gran Turismo 5 will carry over, Sony Computer Entertainment added a new series of road and race cars, bringing the total tally up 1,200 drivable autos from throughout history. Additionally, Sony claims that they increased the customizability of cars within the game through several thousand aerodynamic parts, complete with custom wheels for better personalization.

“It is amazing to think that it is 15 years since we first released Gran Turismo,” explained Kazunori Yamauchi, during the press conference at Silverstone Circuit. “Things have changed a lot since then and now Gran Turismo 6 is a further evolution of my dream. We’re pleased to deliver GT6 to PlayStation 3 as we have a very loyal community on that platform.”

For full details, check out the video teaser and press release below.

Gran Turismo®6 is coming!

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. today announced Gran Turismo®6 (GT6™), the latest version of PlayStation®’s best-selling franchise, will be released in Holiday, 2013. The news was revealed today by legendary Gran Turismo creator Kazunori Yamauchi at an event held to celebrate 15 years of the 70-million-selling series.

GT6 for PlayStation®3 will bring new levels of authenticity to ‘the Real Driving Simulator’ as well as introducing stunning new tracks and cars and a revised user interface. A new compact game engine will improve operation and increase the flexibility to expand it with downloadable content. Meanwhile, the game is also set for expanded connectivity with other devices such as smart phones and tablets and increased social and community functions.

All of the cars and tracks from Gran Turismo®5, which has sold over 10m copies since launching in 2010, will be retained in GT6. But notable new additions to the already impressive line-up of historic cars, road cars and the latest race cars, brings the total car list to 1200 at launch, with new cars set to be continually added online. Several thousand aerodynamic parts and custom wheels will be available for almost all cars, and players can personalize their own custom cars in game to the greatest ever level possible.

The UK’s famous Silverstone Circuit will be just one of seven new locations in Gran Turismo 6, taking the total to 33, with 71 different layouts available, 19 of them brand new. There will also be regular additions of new tracks set to be made available online. The improved course maker function will provide gorgeous scenery spanning several tens of square kilometers including the magnificent backdrop of Andalucía.

The theme of Gran Turismo’s innovative collaborations with partner companies will increase with the inception of GT6. A number of exciting new projects that blur the line between the virtual and real will be announced in the run up to the game’s launch. Not least of these is GT Academy, a collaboration with Nissan to unearth real racing driver talent that first ran in 2008. It was announced during the event that the competition returns for its biggest ever year in 2013, with the entry mechanic set to take place on an exclusive GT6 demo in July.

Other notable partnerships in the development of GT6 have been with tire manufacturer Yokohama Rubber and suspension company KW Automotive. Both companies are active in the commercial car industry and in racing, and they have acted as technical development partners for the game’s new physics engine, for its tire and suspension kinematic modeling, creating an even more realistic experience for GT fans.

“It is amazing to think that it is 15 years since we first released Gran Turismo,” explained Kazunori Yamauchi, during the announcement at Silverstone Circuit. “Things have changed a lot since then and now Gran Turismo 6 is a further evolution of my dream. We’re pleased to deliver GT6 to PlayStation 3 as we have a very loyal community on that platform. However, we have refactored the game to make it very flexible and expandable, with a view to making many future developments. I am very pleased with everything about the new game and the new additions, but the launch will be only the beginning for GT6. The game will continue to develop throughout its life. I already have many ideas for things I want to achieve in the next 15 years of Gran Turismo!”

The celebration of 15 years of Gran Turismo event at Silverstone included a demo of GT6 featuring the famous circuit. Guests were able to play the game in the familiar circular Gran Turismo race pods before having a chance to take to the real track in cars provided by Audi, Ford, Jaguar, KTM, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan and Toyota.

Further news about Gran Turismo 6 will be revealed at the forthcoming E3 and Gamescom events.

Cars featured on the GT6 Silverstone demo (* denotes new to Gran Turismo):
Acura NSX ’91
*Alfa Romeo TZ3 Stradale ’11
*Alpine A110 1600S ’68
*Audi Sport quattro S1 Rally Car ’86
Ferrari 458 Italia ’09
*Ferrari Dino 246 GT ’71
Ford GT ’06
*KTM X-BOW R ’12
Lamborghini Countach LP400 ’74
*Light Car Company Rocket ’07
McLaren MP4-12C ’10
*Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT3 ’11
Nissan 370Z (Z34) (GT Academy Version) ’08
Nissan 370Z Tuned Car (GT Academy Version) ’08
Nissan GT-R Black edition (GT Academy Version) ’12
*Nissan GT-R Nismo GT3 N24 Schulze Motorsport
Nissan Leaf G (GT Academy Version)
*Tesla Motors Model S Signature Performance ’12
Toyota 86 GT ’12

Summary of new Gran Turismo 6 features announced by Kazunori Yamauchi:
New Game Engine
• Refactoring
• Compact, nimble operation
• Flexible expandability
• A new rendering engine that pushes the limits of the PS3

New Physics Engine
• New suspension and kinematics model
• New tire model
• New aerodynamics model
• Technical partnership with Yokohama Rubber and KW Automotive

1200 Cars, abundant custom parts, and on-going DLC
• From historic cars to the latest racing cars, the game contains a total of 1200 cars.
• Multiple aerodynamic parts and custom wheels will be available for almost all cars.
• Players can create their own personalized custom car in the game.
• Cars will be continually added online

33 locations, 71 layouts
• 33 Locations and 71 layouts will be provided from day1 (7 more locations and 19 more layouts than GT5)
• More new tracks will continue to be provided online

New Course Maker
• Massive scenery spanning several tens of square kilometers
• A new course generation algorithm

Community/Club/Race Organizer
• Players can form their own communities
• Various community levels from local and domestic to global
• Players themselves can create and manage their own online events

New User Interface
• Balancing directional key operation and touch operation
• Quick response
• Shortening of loading times

Multi Device Compatibility
• PlayStation®
• Smart Phone
• Tablet
• PC

At the same time as the PS3 version of GT6 the “Real Driving Simulator” launches, a mobile version and web application version of GT6, will be created to enjoy Gran Turismo’s massive community space.

Real/Virtual “Edge Effect” Activity
A variety of “Edge Effects”, the chemical reactions between the real world and the virtual world for which the Gran Turismo series is famous, are also planned for GT6. Exciting collaborations between various automotive manufacturers and collaborations with brands crossing different industries will be revealed gradually across the next six months.

- By: Chris Chin

Acura recently released a press statement confirming that production of the all-new much-anticipated Acura NSX sports car will take place at the brand’s major Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio. Roughly $70 million will go into the project, which transforms 184,000 square feet of Honda’s former North American Logistics facility into the NSX’s production location.

Check out more news on the Acura NSX.

“Thirty years ago, building cars in America was a big dream. Working together, here in Ohio and across North America we turned this dream into reality,” said Hidenobu Iwata, Honda of America’s CEO. “The location of this facility is in the midst of one of the greatest collections of engineering and production talent in the world. So it makes sense that we will renew the dream and build this high-tech, supercar in Marysville, Ohio.”

This also marks the first and only time the Acura NSX production in North America as the original NSX was built at Honda’s Takanezawa Plant in Japan beginning in 1990. Plant then moved to Honda’s Suzuka Plant in 2004 until production was ceased in 2005.

For full details, check out the press release after the jump.

 Acura NSX Production Site Selected in Ohio

Located Near Honda’s R&D Center, Facility to Employ 100 Highly Skilled Associates

MARYSVILLE, Ohio, May 14, 2013 – Acura today announced that the all-new NSX supercar will be produced at a new Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, a $70 million advanced production facility encompassing 184,000 square feet to be housed inside Honda’s former North American Logistics facility and located in the midst of Honda’s existing R&D and production engineering operations.

The site for the new production facility, which will be Honda’s third auto plant in Ohio, is only a few miles from the Honda R&D Americas, Inc. Ohio Center that is engineering the supercar for production and adjacent to Honda of America Mfg.’s Marysville Auto Plant. The Performance Manufacturing Center also is close to Honda Engineering North America, Inc., center for the development of new production technologies.

A part of Honda of America, the Performance Manufacturing Center will be a unique manufacturing operation that will employ approximately 100 highly skilled manufacturing associates drawn from within Honda’s existing operations in Ohio. In addition, associates at Honda’s engine plant in Anna, Ohio, will assemble the NSX powertrain.

“Thirty years ago, building cars in America was a big dream. Working together, here in Ohio and across North America we turned this dream into reality,” said Hidenobu Iwata, president & CEO of Honda of America and the head of Honda’s manufacturing operations in North America. “The location of this facility is in the midst of one of the greatest collections of engineering and production talent in the world. So it makes sense that we will renew the dream and build this high-tech, supercar in Marysville, Ohio.”

In addition to the plant location, Honda announced that Honda R&D Americas chief engineer Ted Klaus is leading the global team developing the new NSX, and Clement D’ Souza, associate chief engineer at Honda of America, is leading the team that will bring NSX to mass production in 2015.

“This new plant will be as unique as the vehicle we will build here,” said D’Souza. “In creating the plan for this plant, we looked closely at each process and determined the perfect blend of associate craftsmanship and technology to adopt a new approach to manufacturing.”

The Acura NSX Concept was on display at the event, attended by local community and government leaders, including Ohio Governor John Kasich, showcasing the NSX’s low and wide stance that will help fulfill the Acura brand product direction centered on the synergy between man and machine.

The new NSX is being developed by a global R&D team led by designers and engineers at Honda R&D Americas, Inc. located in Los Angeles, Calif., and Raymond, Ohio. The NSX will feature a unique powertrain and body structure to provide an incredible driving experience. It will be powered by a mid-mounted V-6 engine mated to Acura’s innovative new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system.

“We have a very clear understanding of the high customer expectations luxury buyers around the world have for a supercar, and our challenge is to exceed them and create new value for the customer,” said Klaus. “This new Performance Manufacturing Center will be key to this challenge.”

Once selected, the team of production associates at the Performance Manufacturing Center will begin training and establishing manufacturing processes that will be used to build the all-new NSX. The next generation NSX will be built exclusively at the all-new Performance Manufacturing Center. In addition to being sold in North America, the NSX will be exported to customers throughout the world.

The original Acura NSX was built at the Takanezawa Plant in Japan from 1990 until production moved to the Suzuka Plant in early 2004, where it was produced until 2005. Part of the Tochigi Factory, the Takanezawa Plant was the first manufacturing facility in the world to mass-produce an all-aluminum body and balance advanced production equipment with hands-on “craftsman” processes.

- By: Chris Chin

While news has been circulating of a rumored Infiniti hybrid halo sports car that will slot above the anticipated Q70 flagship sedan, AutomotiveNews also reports that Infiniti will be expanding their crossover offerings to expand the lineup and to improve sales.

The outlet heard from Infiniti’s president, Johan de Nysschen: “We will also in the future, introduce models above where the Q70 stops today, the Q70 being the former M,” de Nysschen said today during the line off ceremony for the new Q50 sedan at Infiniti’s Tochigi assembly plant. “In our crossover range, we can imagine significant additions to that lineup as well.”

It’s obvious that de Nysschen has his work cut out for him as Nissan’s CEO Carlos Ghosn elected the former head of Audi of America to lead the way for Infiniti luxury sports car maker. Ghosn wants de Nysschen to transform Infiniti so that they brand will produce up to 500,000 sales by 2016, an increase of 170,000 from last year.

“I would imagine that by the end of this decade,” de Nysschen added, “we would not only breach the 500,000 mark but the 600,000 mark.”

- By: Chris Chin

Source: AutomotiveNews

Mercedes-Benz celebrated a major moment by unveiling the all-new 2014 S-Class flagship at the Airbus A380 Delivery Center in Hamburg, Germany a couple days ago. Coming in a variety of forms and jam-packed with the latest technology that money can buy in a mainstream luxury automobile, the new 2014 W222 Mercedes-Benz S-Class promises to raise the standards once again for the automobile industry as it carries on the mission to be “the best automobile in the world.”

It’s already well-established that automobile makers are specifically catering to the Asian markets, where most of the potential buying power for the automobile industry exists as China continues to be the largest growing market for automobiles in the world. But then, there are the frivolous lot who like to be chauffeured and driven around, which is highly demanded throughout China.

That said, the long-wheelbase S-Class is the car in the spotlight for this debut, which dons a new internal chassis naming scheme by being designated the V222, while the short-wheelbase model retains the traditional W222 designation. Despite being slightly larger than the outgoing W221 S-Class, Mercedes-Benz says the new long-wheelbase model doesn’t weigh that much more allowing for performance and fuel economy to be maintained.

But let’s not beat around the bush as there are a lot of expectations for the all-new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class. That’s due to the fact that if anyone wanted a solid pointer of what kind of neat innovation to expect in your basic bread and butter automobiles, the go-to trendsetter has been the big Benzito. And this should go without explanation.

Mercedes-Benz promises a lot of firsts once again with this new generation S-Class, such as being the first car ever to utilize LED lighting only all-around without a single traditional incandescent light bulb. It is also the first car ever to have an active suspension system that “reads the road” ahead and adjusts and prepares the suspension accordingly, which is called Magic Body Control. It also has one of the lowest drag coefficients in its class with a figure of just 0.24. And this is just to briefly name a few.

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class will be launched in the United States starting with the S550 model later this September, while an all-wheel drive variant will come later in the year in November. Otherwise, not many other details have been released surrounding powertrains and what not. But that’s ok, since Mercedes-Benz gave us more than enough in the massive press release below to tell us what the new 2014 Mercedes-Benz S-Class is all about.

Check it out.

*Preliminary European product information.
Please refer to U.S. press materials for U.S. model information.

The descriptions and information in this press kit apply to the international Mercedes-Benz
model range and may vary from country to country.

The aspiration: the best automobile in the world Stuttgart/Hamburg. 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, the 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 almost halved fuel consumption in the 150 kW output category to 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres, for example, while the drag coefficient of the new S-Class (cd=0.24) clearly undercuts the previous model’s figure and sets a new benchmark in this segment. Furthermore, the new model is the world’s 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 brand’s 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, 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 car’s sporty coupé-style intentions.

A character line descending discreetly from front to rear – the brand’s 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 car’s 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 car’s 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 lighting’s 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, for example. 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.

Suspension: the world’s first suspension with “eyes”
The new S-Class is the world’s 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 interior’s 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.

(Length/width/height short-wheelbase version: 5116/1899/1483, wheelbase 3035 mm
Length/width/height long-wheelbase version: 5246/1899/1483, wheelbase 3165 mm)

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 twelve 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 further 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 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 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 less 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 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 50 km/h.
• PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognise an imminent rear-end collision and 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 vehicle’s 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 system 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 cushionbag under 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 doesn’t 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 driver’s 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 driver’s 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 management team on the S-Class
The best or nothing, in every respect
“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.”
Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars

“A few years ago, the progress made in efficiency would have sounded like a utopian dream: within ten years, Mercedes-Benz has almost halved fuel consumption in the 150 kW output category. Intelligent Drive is likewise leading the way by networking the sensors to enhance comfort and safety.”
Prof Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development

“The S-Class is not just the spearhead for Mercedes-Benz but for automotive development as a whole. And it has been for decades. That’s why the S-Class is also the world’s best-selling luxury car.”
Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales and Marketing

“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.”
Gorden Wagener, Vice President Design, Daimler AG

Exterior design
Modern sense of status, sensual shapes and stylish sportiness
People all over the world can recognise a Mercedes-Benz straight away. The classic Mercedes face runs like a golden thread through the brand’s history. The features of the style-defining front design are both simple and complex, especially on the S-Class: it is strong in character and unmistakable and, instead of following fads, it exudes confidence and status. An alpha leader, dynamic yet not aggressive, sophisticated yet not fancy.

To underline the effortless superiority of the new S-Class, and its ambition to lead, the radiator grille is now larger, upright and distinctly three-dimensional in design. The four louvres taper outwards and do not touch the chrome frame.

Instead of diamond-shaped perforations, the lower air intake now features tiny louvres in high-gloss black, which follow the shape of the grille. The front-end design is completed by a chrome strip on the lower part of the bumper.

The headlamps have clearly defined contours. In the case of the dynamic LED High Performance headlamps with Intelligent Light System (optional), the indicators, side lights and daytime running lamps are arranged behind the lens so that the brand’s hallmark “torch” is immediately recognisable both day and night. The Mercedes-Benz lettering in the headlamp is illuminated.

The greater need for passive and active pedestrian protection has likewise been taken into account in the front design. The additionally required crash gaps have been ideally configured to lend the front end greater presence and a more dominant feel.

The side: powerful, elongated body
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 new S-Class appears prestigious, and the powerful roof line is also in keeping with the car’s sporty coupé-style intentions.

A character line descending discreetly from front to rear – the brand’s 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 car’s athletic character.

Every detail and each of the detachable body parts have been stylistically optimised. The exterior mirrors, for instance, have a new, more dynamic form, while the precisely shaped exterior handles emphasise the body’s distinctive lines.
The overall composition is accentuated by elegantly designed chrome trim strips, notably the trim strip on the rear door frame, which widens rearwards in one piece. The likewise three-dimensional trim strip at the bottom sits deeper and establishes a visual link with the doors’ functional gap. Consequently the sheet metal remains untouched, and an eye-catching design feature is created. The chrome strip has a plastic support element at the bottom to protect against stone chipping.

Rear end: horizontal lines and eye-catching light design
The extravagantly sculpted 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 car’s 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 to give it a coupé-like character. The three-dimensional chrome insert on the boot lid adds a new dimension in high-quality design.

The real highlights are the new-style tail lights which are completely encased by the car body and, thanks to this solitarily integrated styling, complete the design right down to the last detail. Their meticulously crafted inner workings reflect the current state of the art. Featuring three horizontally arranged fibre-optic cables, the design echoes the hallmark Mercedes meander and so ties in seamlessly with the long line of predecessor models. The combination of attention to detail with exacting technical requirements is apparent in both the night and the day design. The rear fog lamp is housed in the centre of the bumper, while the reflectors are elegantly integrated on the left and right sides.

Interior design
Visual breadth and calm solidity
With its clear architecture, the interior design of the S-Class embodies a classic, superior, cutting-edge saloon. The interior’s 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 radically redesigned display extends behind the two-spoke steering wheel – reminiscent of the S-Class heritage – as a key element of the horizontal alignment. It replaces the traditional instrument cluster and combines numerous other functions in a visually and ergonomically highly sophisticated manner (see “New display concept” section). The entire display unit appears to be freefloating, an impression reinforced by ambience backlighting.

The high-quality unit formed by the centre air vents and the analogue clock is precisely set into three-dimensional wood trim. For the first time this classic wood trim feature is positioned very low. This creates a second level of decorative trim whose luxurious stitched leather lies in the primary field of vision. Both levels extend elegantly across the entire width of the dashboard and doors. With this layout the designers have created an association with the wingbeat of a bird. The result is an extraordinary impression of width combined with a pleasant, calm ambience.

The visually prominent dashboard is characterised by the striking double-S curve. This already made the preceding model unmistakable, and imparts a feeling of spaciousness, safety and security.

The perfectly coordinated use of materials and colours produces an elegant 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.

Innovative lighting systems in the form of a continuous light band under the wood trim strips and the central display – a completely new dimension in ambience lighting – and elegant lighting units with stylish details in the headlining enhance the comfortable atmosphere. The number and size of the stowage facilities in the interior have been greatly increased compared to the preceding model.

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. If a luxury or reclining seat (Executive seat) is specified for the rear, the backrest inclines backwards into the parcel shelf, which means that legroom is not restricted even in the resting position. As an additional individualization 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.). The side finishers of the front seats are formally integrated and feature useful stowage compartments (see “Seats” section for details).

In combination with the first-class quality of materials and outstandingly high perceived value, the decidedly varied range of available appointments emphatically confirms the premium positioning of Mercedes-Benz. The innovative architecture of the interior design, which is based on both additive and integrating features, allows a choice of different and very individual styling in terms of colours and materials.

The standard appointments already meet high expectations. They include leather seat upholstery (long wheelbase), elegantly finished wood trim and surfaces with decorative topstitching. Various leather versions are available as optional extras, differing in their surface finish (e.g. patterned perforations and a hand-quilted look and feel), and also in terms of the relative leather and trim surfaces. The customer also has a choice of five interior colour arrangements combined with
five different types of exotic wood trim.

The interior design of the new S-Class was also influenced by the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Interior Design Studio in Como, whose primary task was also to explore how the highest possible perceived quality can be created.

Using the so-called “appreciation model”, the designers were able to give free rein to their imagination and look for ways of translating these ideals into series production features. This led to a harmonious and luxurious interior whose design, character and perceived value are unrivalled.

Aerodynamics
Sleek, silent type
For almost three decades, the aerodynamic specialists at Mercedes-Benz have been breaking one record after another. At present the brand’s models occupy the top position for aerodynamics in practically every vehicle segment. The new S-Class is likewise at the top of its segment in terms of aerodynamics and aeroacoustics.

The drag coefficient of the new S-Class (cd=0.24) undercuts the previous model’s figure by two hundredths and sets a new benchmark in this segment.

A number of features and details have been aerodynamically optimised to achieve this result:
• Aerodynamically optimised front and rear apron with perfectly matched rear spoiler
• All-new aerodynamically and aeroacoustically optimised exterior mirrors
• Complete sealing of the front end with sealing of the headlamp section, improved sealing of the radiator section and airflow guidance to make efficient use of the available cooling air
• Use of a cooling air metering system (adjustable louvre)
• Water drain channels with optimum flow
• Lowering of the vehicle by up to 20 mm when the speed exceeds 120 km/h
• Spoiler lip on the tail lights
• Aerodynamically optimised underbody with extensive engine compartment and underbody panelling up to a point below the tank to also further minimise the penetration of road noise
• Aerodynamically shaped multi-purpose recess cover
• Special wheel spoilers ahead of the front wheels
• Aerodynamically optimised wheels and tyres
• Large area of cladding on the rear axle

Barely perceivable noise level in the interior
The aeroacoustic specialists took specific measures to counter wind noises during their aerodynamic development work. To reduce high-frequency wind noise, the sealing systems around the windows and door handles were above all improved considerably. The newly designed exterior mirror and the correspondingly shaped A-pillar with a minimised shoulder height ensure the efficient drainage of water and spray hitting the windscreen, prevent the airflow from breaking off at this point and therefore avoid noises that might enter the interior via the windscreen and side windows. The roof structure and the automatic tilting/sliding roof module were subjected to further aeroacoustic development to improve noise comfort in this area as well. In the case of the panoramic sliding sunroof, numerous air deflection measures, covers and seals with the appropriate geometry ensure the same high level of noise comfort as in the preceding model, despite the larger opening aperture. The combined effect of these measures allows the new S-Class to achieve the desired aim of being the quietest vehicle in its segment.

A subdued, scarcely perceptible level of noise in the interior of the S-Class was the objective when configuring and coordinating the sound insulation measures.

Particular attention was paid to transmitted engine noise and road roar. During the acoustic optimisation work, the focus was both on lowering the sound pressure level and on achieving the well-balanced and comfortable overall sound perception that is a hallmark of the S-Class.

To ensure that engine noise is perceived as refined and unobtrusive in the interior, the firewall insulation was extended into the side areas of the A-pillars. Additional sealing levels were also added in the form of high-quality injection-moulded components.

A major contribution to the reduction in transmitted engine noise was made by improved insulation in the transmission tunnel area, as well as a modular engine partition made of plastic. The different noise characteristics of the engines are taken into account by the use of different weights per unit area.

The electrically adjustable rear seats available as an optional extra are free-standing. High-frequency tyre noise was reduced by a large area of insulation extending from the seat surface to the rear panel and parcel shelf.

Breakthroughs are kept to a minimum. An intelligent air ducting system inside the parcel shelf allows the necessary ventilation while reducing noise transmission via the parcel shelf. The textile underbody and wheel arch cladding has an insulating and absorptive effect which reduces high-frequency tyre noise in the interior.

The model range
The assignment: perfection
The best automobile in the world – every new generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class has earned this accolade anew for itself. The logical goal in the book of specifications for the coming model was therefore: perfection to the last detail. New ideas and their painstaking realization underpin the high standards that the engineers have set for the Mercedes-Benz flagship model – and for themselves.

For the first time in the history of the S-Class, the development focus was on the long-wheelbase Saloon. Unlike before, the standard-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 S-Class owners are frequently behind the wheel themselves, the flagship model in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car portfolio is very much a chauffeur-driven vehicle in Asia.

There are two body lengths to choose from: 5248 and 5116 millimetres – 42 and 40 millimetres longer than the predecessor model respectively.

Whereas the wheelbase has stayed the same at 3165 and 3035 millimetres, the track width has increased by 24 and 31 millimetres to 1624 (front) and 1637 millimetres (rear) respectively.

The occupants of the new S-Class benefit from the moderate increase in vehicle size by an improvement in all the interior dimensions: there are 12 millimetres more maximum 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.
*Please note: U.S. will get 100% Long Wheelbase.

Over 3.5 million customers and numerous awards
The Mercedes-Benz flagship model, which has now been known as the S-Class for over 40 years, has not only proven immensely popular with customers for many years. It also has a string of awards to its name, underlining its class. In 2011, for example, the S-Class received the award for best car in the luxury segment from the German magazine “auto motor und sport” and the accolade “Prestige Car of the Year” from “Motoring Television” in North America. In addition to this, the S-Class won the J. D. Power APEAL Award for the best vehicle in the segment in terms of efficiency, technology and design for the fourth time in succession in 2010. Furthermore, the S-Class underlined its pioneering role in the field of green technology in the premium segment by winning the “World Green Car of the Year 2012″ award.

Even in the year leading up to the model change, the S-Class continued to be very popular with customers. A total of 65,128 S-Class Saloon models were handed over to their new owners. The Mercedes-Benz brand’s flagship model thus remained the world’s best-selling luxury saloon.

Over 500,000 models from the last S-Class model series have been delivered to customers around the world since its launch in September 2005, meaning that this S-Class sold even better than the previous generation.

Since the launch of the 220 model that laid the foundations for the S-Class model series, Mercedes-Benz has delivered more than 3.5 million of these vehicles to customers all around the world.

Lights
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 to do without a single light bulb as standard. The lighting’s 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. Meanwhile, visibility is enhanced by two assistance systems that have undergone some key improvements – Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and Night View Assist Plus.

Mercedes-Benz is further underlining its pioneering role in the field of lighting technology: the new S-Class does not have a single light bulb on board. Almost 500 LEDs assume the task of illuminating the road, vehicle, interior and luggage compartment. Depending on equipment, these are:
• 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

“With its long life and a colour temperature resembling daylight, LED technology already had a great deal in its favour,” remarks Prof. Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Development, Mercedes-Benz Cars. “Now, though, our engineers have made great advances where energy efficiency is concerned too, reducing power
consumption to a quarter of that of conventional headlamps.”

The new energy-saving LED low-beam headlamps, for instance, require 34 watts to produce the same light output, making them notably more efficient than halogen (120 watts) and xenon light sources (84 watts, all figures per vehicle). This translates into a saving of 0.05 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres or 2.1 grams of CO2 per kilometre compared to a vehicle fitted with halogen low-beam headlamps. Efficiency is given a further crucial boost by new, high performance single-chip LED diodes and a newly developed projector module in the headlamp unit, in which deflected beams of light are reflected back again.

Even the entry-level model in the new luxury saloon range will come with all-LED lighting. The supplementary functions of the Intelligent Light System as well as Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus can be added as options.

Permanent high beam with no dazzling: Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus
For the first time, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus allows the high-beam headlamps to be kept on permanently while driving by masking out any other road user detected in the beams’ cone of light. If the camera-based system registers either oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead, it will adapt the light
distribution according to the specific situation when the high beam is switched on. Consequently, the driver can simply leave the high-beam headlamps on at all times and use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users. There is no need to switch them on and off manually, resulting in a significant increase in the overall driving time with high beam.

The Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus likewise makes use of the new stereo camera also employed by other assistance systems. If its image recognition algorithm picks up a vehicle that is oncoming or driving ahead, it actuates a mechanism in the headlamp module. This then masks the portion of the LED headlamp’s main-beam cone of light where there are other vehicles to prevent their drivers being dazzled. If road users are detected outside the area that can be masked – for instance when cornering with multiple vehicles in the headlamps’ beams – the system will switch to the familiar system of headlamp range control using the low-beam headlamps.

Possible backglare caused by increased use of the high beam and highly reflective signs at the side of the road is also detected and eliminated by dimming the headlamps accordingly.

Considerate to others: tail lights with automatic intensity control
The new S-Class shows itself to be highly considerate of its fellow road users – in another way, too: Mercedes-Benz has achieved yet another world first by developing tail lights with multi-level functionality, meaning that the brake lights and indicators are operated at varying intensities depending on the current driving state and the brightness of the environment (day/night).

If the Mercedes driver presses the brake pedal while stopped at traffic lights at night, for instance, the brightness of the brake lights will be automatically dimmed to avoid dazzling anyone behind. The light distribution is broadened to ensure the lights do not become too dark and continue to fulfil all legal requirements.

Detects pedestrians and animals: the advanced Night View Assist Plus
For the first time, the new Night View Assist Plus is capable of detecting not just pedestrians in potentially hazardous positions in front of the vehicle, but animals too. This third-generation night vision system automatically switches the instrument cluster display from the speedometer to a crystal-sharp night view image to alert the driver in particularly relevant situations (darkness, unlit roads at speeds over 60 km/h). Any pedestrians or animals detected ahead are highlighted in colour in this image.

In such situations the spotlight function is additionally used to repeatedly flash pedestrians in the warning zone by means of a special module in the front headlamps. This attracts the driver’s attention to the source of the danger at the same time as warning the person on the side of the road. Animals are purposely not flashed since their reaction to light is unpredictable. Manual cut-in of the grey-scale image is possible at any time; pedestrian and animal detection and the corresponding highlighting now also are available in urban areas during darkness (illuminated roads, speed less than 60 km/h) if the greyscale image is activated permanently.

An additional (long-range) infrared sensor in the radiator grille supplements the proven Mercedes-Benz night vision technology. It is able to detect pedestrians at a distance of up to 160 metres, and animals such as deer, horses and cattle at up to 100 metres. Two separate light sources in the headlamp assemblies light up the area in front of the vehicle with invisible infrared light. This enables the (short-range) infrared camera positioned behind the windscreen next to the rearview mirror to produce a sharp greyscale image in the instrument cluster display. This image can also be shown in the display permanently if desired at the press of a single button.

Good vision also is ensured by MAGIC VISION CONTROL. The system cleans the windscreen without the splash of water that usually briefly disrupts the driver’s field of view in the case of conventional windscreen washing systems. With MAGIC VISION CONTROL, the fluid is supplied to the windscreen by means of water guides integrated on both sides along the wiper blade and minute
spraying holes. This Mercedes-Benz innovation had its world premiere last year in the Mercedes-Benz SL and has been augmented by speed-sensitive control for the S-Class.

Control and display concept
Elegant new control 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. Ergonomics, operating convenience and safety along with attractiveness and aesthetics were the main considerations for the newly designed control and display concept.

For the S-Class, the constantly increasing need to integrate additional functions into the vehicle led to a further development of the entire operating logic. 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 make Mercedes-Benz something very special.

The well-proven Mercedes-Benz operating philosophy with a multifunction steering wheel, DIRECT SELECT transmission selector lever and COMAND Controller in the centre console has been retained. The engineers have, however, taken a new approach with the large high-resolution display depicting the instrument cluster, a display area showing the driving assistance systems next to the rotary light switch and a new position for the cruise control stalk, on the left below the combination switch for the wipers and indicators.

With Mercedes-Benz COMAND Online the customer is now able to adapt the contents of the central display to personal requirements. With the exception of the navigation map (which always fills the complete display area), the central display is divided into a main area (2/3 on the right of the screen) and an additional area (1/3 on the left side of the screen). In standard configuration the additional area shows supplementary information about the selected main application, e.g. if the radio function is active, the artist and song title are shown, or the current channel in the case of TV. If required, it is also possible to permanently display a preferred content item in the additional area, for example a small navigate on map, fuel consumption display, data connection display or entertainment information. High-quality visualisation and animations make for easy control: changes to the settings for the climate control or seats, for instance, are immediately visible and therefore easy to follow.

The two screen displays have a “Corona” for effect, making the display appear to be floating in space. This lighting can be individualised in seven colours as an option. Like the switch and controls illumination, the brightness can be adjusted using a rotary control between the instrument cluster and central display.

Optionally, individual brightness levels can be set for the different lighting zones in the vehicle interior using the vehicle functions of the COMAND Online system.

The new instrument cluster: important information at a glance
The architecture of the instrument cluster in the S-Class signals a new departure for Mercedes-Benz. For the first time a large TFT colour display with a screen diagonal of 30.7 cm (12.3 inches) in 8:3 format is used to display driver information. The large screen provides much more scope with respect to the presentation of contents, animation of displays and vehicle-related information, especially where the onboard assistance functions are concerned. The design of the two large dial instruments showing the vehicle speed (left) and rpm (right) follows the classic style. The menu for “Journey”, “Navigation” and “Media” and the relevant sub-menus accessible between the two dial instruments are also familiar in principle, and are operated using the steering wheel function keys as before.
The central area between the dial instruments shows the driving assistance systems. When they intervene, the actions of systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS, Stop&Go Pilot, Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist are notified to the driver by visualisation. The image from Night View Assist Plus is now also shown between the two instruments, where it is easily visible. In the process the circular scales of the two displays are reduced to three-quarter circles with revised scaling to provide the largest possible area for the camera image. In the central area of the display the driver also receives visual support when searching for a parking space. Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC shows recognised parking spaces (left/right, parallel or end-on parking) and guides the driver through the parking procedure. The graphics in this display resemble actual perspective views rather than two-dimensional images from above. Recognised speed limits and any supplementary signs are now shown in the speedometer for easy visibility.

Mercedes customers will find the classic displays and warning lamps easy to recognise. The distance information for the front PARKTRONIC sensors (left/right) is shown at the top, between the two dial instruments. Above this are the control lamps for the indicators/hazard warning system, lighting functions (parking lights, high beam, fog lamps, low beam) and the distance warning. The outside temperature is shown in the centre at the top. The fuel gauge showing the volume in percent is located in the speedometer (6 o’clock position), and the speedometer also accommodates the control lamps for the ESP® functions, ABS, the warning lamps for the airbags (SRS – Supplemental Restraint System), the seat belts and the tyre pressure monitoring system. The coolant temperature appears in the 6 o’clock position in the rev counter, which also shows the current transmission mode, automatic transmission gear and the function displays for the electric parking brake, brake lining wear indicator and engine diagnosis.

Support for the driver: the ECO display
If required, three bar charts in the instrument cluster give the driver feedback about the economy of their driving style. The ECO display responds positively if the driver accelerates moderately, drives smoothly in an anticipatory manner and avoids unnecessary braking. The three bar readings stand at 100% if driving is particularly economical according to these criteria. When starting off all the values are at 50 percent, and a particularly unfavourable driving style causes them to decline. The aim is to arouse a competitive desire in the driver to achieve 100 percent if possible.

Central display: the control centre for infotainment and comfort
An all-new COMAND Online generation has its world premiere in the new S-Class. It excels with intuitive operation and the immediacy of its functions, thanks to animated menus and images on a large display (12.3 inches) in 8:3 format with a resolution of 1440 x 540 pixels. For video and TV reproduction a part of the screen corresponding to the 16:9 format is used.

The large display is used for animations and 3D effects. An additional area on the display simplifies operation with a context-related representation of the current application or permanent display of the navigation map.

The animated high-resolution display concept is particularly impressive where the Digital Owner’s Manual for COMAND Online is concerned. Depending on the level of appointments, there is a context-sensitive display of the contents for the individual vehicle, and even retrofits are taken into account.

Operation: touch-sensitive telephone keypad, extended voice control, two different remote controls
The new control features include a touch-sensitive telephone keypad and an extended favourites function with twelve 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.

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. Polish and Finnish are newly available languages, and Arabic is now fully supported.

The new COMAND Online also comes with two remote control variants:
- basic remote control (high-quality unit with chrome)
- iPhone®/Android app with remote control function via WLAN

Apart from showing and operating the COMAND Online functions (internet browsing, reading and writing SMS and email, internet radio, Mercedes-Benz services), the telephony functions, navigation, radio and TV plus the sound systems (see “Multimedia features” section), the central display shows and operates the many comfort functions, some of which are new. They include:
• Multifunction seats (contour and ENERGIZING massage function with programmes), settings
• Seat heating Plus
• Air conditioning, perfume atomisation, ionisation, panel heating
• Vehicle functions (ambient lighting in seven colours, locator lighting)

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.

Intelligent lightweight construction was the watchword during development of the seats. At less than 20 kilograms, the structure of a front seat weighs around 20 percent less than conventional designs. This is in large measure due to the sandwich construction of the side sections on the seat frame, which consist of a two-piece, high-strength steel shell with integrated plastic inserts. This enables the forces from the backrest attachments to be symmetrically introduced into the seat base. There is a further advantage for the seat belt system: unlike with other seat structures, the belt buckle and anchor fitting not only move with any fore-aft adjustment, but also with seat height adjustment. Whatever the size of the seat occupant, this always ensures the best possible belt fit and maximum safety.

The front seats of the new S-Class are electrically adjustable for length, height, inclination and seat cushion depth. The 4-way Power lumbar support and head restraint height can be equally conveniently adjusted at the touch of a button. If the Memory package is specified for the driver and front passenger, the front passenger seat can also be adjusted by the driver if required.

Thanks to wide-ranging adjustments, occupants of very different sizes are seated very comfortably in the new S-Class. The figures:
• Fore-and-aft adjustment: 290 millimetres
• Seat height: 65 millimetres
• Seat cushion depth: 65 millimetres
• Head restraint height: 60 millimetres
• Cushion angle: +/- 2.5 degrees
• Backrest angle: 27 degrees forward

The sophisticated upholstery structure of the front seat backrests includes Pullmaflex springing and a natural fibre/rubberised hair insert lined with cut foam. In the seat cushion, the flat spring core of the cushion base has a contoured foam insert lined with cut foam. In each case the seat cover has a fleece lining.

The front head restraints are adjustable both vertically and horizontally.

Optionally available electric horizontal adjustment (EASY ADJUST luxury head restraint) is new in the S-Class, and optimises the distance between the occupant’s head and the head restraint to lower the risk of whiplash injuries in an accident.

Numerous innovative features enhance both seating and climatic comfort – an overview of the most important new developments:

The “Seat Comfort package for driver and front passenger” includes a world first in the form of the ENERGIZING massage function on the hot-stone principle.

In collaboration with physiotherapists and psychologists, the seating experts at Mercedes-Benz have developed a unique massage system with 14 separately actuated air chambers in the backrest and an integrated warming function. There is a choice of six massage programmes, two of which are heat-assisted. In addition the package includes active multicontour seats with further improved dynamic functions, which have been awarded a seal of approval by AGR, an organisation promoting spinal health.

The climatised seats mark yet another debut: for the first time, so-called reversing fans are used in the active seat ventilation system. Here the rotational direction of the fan, and therefore the airflow within the seat structure, can be reversed. When the ventilation function first begins, cooler surrounding air is 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 and therefore ensure sustained comfort. Together with the perforated leather, four fans in the seat cushion and two fans in the backrest ensure a uniform relative air humidity where the occupant’s body meets the seat. The intensity can be adjusted in three stages according to individual requirements.

In combination with seat heating, each occupant is able to find the ideal climatic seating comfort. Using the head unit, the customer is able to set an optimal heating output for seat cushion and backrest and activate the quick-response seat heating. In the main seat area this provides a heating output of up to 2000 watts per square metre.

The “EASY ADJUST luxury head restraint” adjusts itself automatically when the backrest position of the driver or front passenger seat is changed. This keeps the distance between the head and the restraint constant. On the front passenger side the head restraint can be folded down or removed, allowing the rear passenger an unobstructed view to the front.

If the S-Class is ordered with the “Chauffeur package”, the rear seat occupant on the front passenger side has 77 millimetres more maximum kneeroom. This is because the front passenger seat can be moved 40 millimetres further forward, and a further 37 millimetres of space can be obtained thanks to a 4-link system. In addition to this “chauffeur position” the front passenger seat can be folded forwards or placed in an extended-recline position (for details see next section “The rear seats”). The EASY ADJUST luxury head restraint is standard equipment with the “Chauffeur package”, as is a heel support for the rear passenger which extends from under the front passenger seat if the long-wheelbase version is ordered.

Luxury and reclining seat on request: the rear seats
Whereas in Europe and North America S-Class owners 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 particular attention devoted to the rear by the seat
developers. The rear seats are therefore right in the forefront when it comes to seating/climatic comfort and passive safety.

Two rear seat variants (static bench seat or individual seats with 37-degree adjustment) are available for the short-wheelbase S-Class, and no less than five for the long-wheelbase version – see table on the next page. 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) on the front passenger side is increased from 37 to 43.5 degrees, giving it the largest backrest inclination in the luxury segment. The reclining seat behind the front passenger seat features a calf support which is freely adjustable for length and angle. In combination with the heel rest on the folding chauffeur seat (see section “Front seats”) and an additional comfort cushion, this allows a reclined position that sets new standards in the automobile sector with respect to sleeping and resting comfort.

The individual seat functions in the rear, and those of the chauffeur seat, are operated via the typical Mercedes control panels in the rear doors. The “resting position” key is pressed to bring the front passenger seat and rear seat into the reclining position.

The most upright backrest position of 19 degrees in the luxury and reclining seat variants allows relaxed working in the rear.

The “First-Class rear suite” (centre console in the rear) is a visual continuation of the front console on the transmission tunnel. It is equipped with innovative thermo-cupholders 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 of light alloy, combining great stability with a high quality look. The table surfaces have leather inserts to provide a comfortable writing surface.

The optional “Rear Seat Comfort package” also makes the innovative ENERGIZING massage function on the hot-stone principle available for the rear seats. The package also includes active multicontour seats in the rear (without dynamic control function).

Setting the standard for safety in the rear: new features in the S-Class
Mercedes-Benz has extended the safety system 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 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 seat belt buckle emerges from the upholstery when the rear doors are opened and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot. Making the belt-fastening procedure easier may lead to increased use of rear seat belts.

The beltbag is an inflatable seat belt strap which can lower the risk of injury to rear passengers during a frontal impact by reducing the loads acting on the ribcage. Should the crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact, the airbag control unit will trigger deployment and inflation of the beltbag. A gas generator then inflates the multi-layered belt strap with Velcro 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, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

The reclining seat is equipped with a cushionbag as standard. 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.

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 same position on the seat shell, and therefore relative to the pelvis position of the occupant. In an accident, with the occupant in a reclined position on a flat seat cushion, there would otherwise be a danger of the pelvic area sliding beneath the seat belt (so-called 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 because of the seat cushion angle.

Climate control
A wealth of new features for a pleasant atmosphere
During the systematic further 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 a completely new feature.

The newly developed climate control unit of the THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control included as standard has a mass flow regulating concept, whose automatic operating principle meets individual comfort requirements for every occupant. New features include completely autonomous adjustment options for the driver and front passenger sides with respect to temperature level, air distribution and air volume, for the front footwell temperature with a warmer or cooler tendency and also for the individual automatic modes with their climatic settings of “FOCUS”, “MEDIUM” and “DIFFUSE”. The profiles, which differ in air volume and air distribution, can be conveniently set via the COMAND Online system.

The AIR-BALANCE package: perfuming, ionisation and improved filtration
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 perfuming system has various operating modes:
• On/Off
• Intensity control “low – medium – high”
• Perfume selection by exchanging the flask in the fragrance generator

A high-quality fragrance introduced into an already luxurious interior like a perfume enhances the sensual impression of the Mercedes-Benz interior by appealing to the sense of smell. In all advanced cultures, high-quality fragrances are part of the repertoire of sensual pleasure and individuality. Perfuming individualises the smell of the interior. The interior smell is not changed permanently, nor are the perfume molecules deposited on fabric surfaces or clothing. The fragrance is discreet and mild, and dissipates rapidly. Four interior fragrances (FREESIDE MOOD, NIGHTLIFE MOOD, DOWNTOWN MOOD, SPORTS MOOD) are available in attractive perfume flasks. The fragrances were developed in collaboration with the perfume specialist Marc vom Ende.

The perfuming system consists of two parts: a glass flask with an atomiser head and the fragrance generator in the glove compartment. The system uses the effect whereby there is a constant exchange of matter on the surface of a solution. In the process, molecules enter the gaseous phase (volatilisation) while other molecules are returned to the liquid. If a partial airflow is passed over the surface of the liquid, the air can be enriched with the molecules of the chosen fragrance. The perfumed air is then passed directly into the vehicle interior via a separate aperture. A bypass system allows the flow rate per unit of time to be variably adjusted. This active perfuming system is a further development of the fragrance ball familiar from the MAYBACH ZEPPELIN.

Air filtering: fresh air for a fresh interior
Another component of the AIR-BALANCE package is filtering of the outside air fed into the vehicle interior by the climate control system, and of the air recirculating in the interior in air recirculation mode. The filter system is now even more efficient, and is able to reduce the peak levels of certain gaseous emissions while lowering their concentration below the perception threshold.

The filter system consists of two combined fine dust/activated charcoal filters between the intake and air distribution system of the air conditioner.

Activated charcoal is used as the filter material for the interior by virtue of its good ability to absorb gaseous pollutants and odours. It is produced from coconut shells. The sophisticated pollen filter technology in the fine dust filter component is particularly useful for allergy sufferers. At Mercedes-Benz these filters are examined for effectiveness in both new and used condition, to ensure that their filtering efficiency is maintained at least until the next vehicle service.

Ionisation is another component of the AIR-BALANCE package, the air from the climate control unit being conducted into the interior via an ioniser. In a combined operating mode this eliminates certain viruses, bacteria and spores (cleaning effect). At the same time the air can be freshened by an increased concentration of negatively charged oxygen ions (relaxing effect).

Warmth Comfort package: heated armrests and seats
The new S-Class Saloon is available with the optional Warmth Comfort package for all engine variants. This includes
• heated front armrests (door and centre armrests)
• fast seat heating for the driver and front passenger
• heated steering wheel
• heated rear armrests (door and centre armrests)
• heated rear seats

The innovation in this package is the armrests, whose surfaces can be heated by heating elements on the same principle as seat heating. Originally conceived for the energy-efficient heating of electric cars, this panel heating in the S-Class makes for a particularly cosy environment. The armrest heating is switched on and off using the seat heating switch in the door panel, and can be deactivated via COMAND Online. The heating output of the seat heating system can reach up to 2000 watts per square metre, and can already be felt in the sensitive lumbar area after ten seconds.

Climate control: multiple adjustments, high efficiency
The new climate control system in the new S-Class combines energy efficiency with comfortable temperatures on every seat, and sets new standards in terms of the adaptability of automatic operation to the individual wishes of the occupants.

The new automatic climate control is operated via:
• the newly developed control panel below the centre vent
• the climate menu in COMAND Online
• the rear control panel in the rear centre console (if the optional rear climate control is specified).

To improve climatic comfort in the rear even further, a newly developed, waterflow controlled two-zone THERMOTRONIC rear automatic climate control system installed in the centre console is available as an optional extra. The air is taken into the interior of the centre console. The cooled air flows through a water-flow controlled heat exchanger, and is distributed to the separate left/right centre vents, the rear footwells and the vents in the B-pillars. Air distribution to both sides is automatically controlled by four step motors.

The basic functions of the air conditioning, i.e. automatic operation, temperature adjustment, air volume, residual mode, recirculation, defrost and heated rear window can be directly controlled by buttons in the front control panel. Further climate control functions such as auxiliary heater, perfuming, ionisation and footwell temperature can be accessed via the climate status display in the head unit, where basic functions such as air distribution and ventilation modes are also accessible.
The air volume and distribution control have been developed further and improved in comparison to the climate control system in the preceding series.

This means:
• Automatic modes “MEDIUM” (comparable to the same mode in the previous model), “DIFFUSE” (for the lowest possible airflow, and not aimed directly at the occupants; most of the air flows into the interior from the defrosting and footwell vents) and “FOCUS” (a higher volume of air mainly from the ventilation vents)
• Separately adjustable fans for the driver and front passenger
• Front footwell temperature can be individually and separately made warmer or cooler in five stages for the driver and front passenger.

The heat exchanger in the heating circuit has an output of 9.7 kW at an air volume of 8 kg/min. The refrigerant compressor is variably externally controlled, and incorporated into the belt drive system via a magnetic coupling.

A large number of sensors are used to regulate the automatic climate control, e.g. venting and evaporation sensors, potentiometers in the vent selector wheels, multifunction sensor with moisture measuring cell and a ventilated interior sensor for the interior temperature in the area of the overhead control panel. Solar radiation is registered with the help of two separate solar sensors on the left/right of the interior, a sensor in the cockpit and a sensor on the parcel shelf.

GPS navigation data are used to determine the direction of the sun and the altitude above sea level (elevation). In case GPS navigation data are not available, a fallback calculation of the sun’s direction is made on the basis of the vehicleencoded country of delivery, the time of day and the date. The air conditioning control system is therefore able to react to the increase in heat caused by direct sunlight even if the solar sensors register no change in the interior, for example if they are fully or partly obscured by the A/B/C-pillars or by the roof.

Energy-efficient climate control: economical heating and cooling
Various measures have been incorporated to make the climate control system as energy-efficient as possible:
• Energy-efficient control with variable evaporation temperature and misting sensor system
• PWM (pulse width modulated) blower control unit
• Internal heat exchanger with efficient cooling circuit
• Externally controlled refrigerant compressor with magnetic coupling and internal oil separator
• Electronically controlled refrigerant compressor which can be operated within the most efficient range, whatever the engine speed
• Green-tinted thermal insulation glass all-round as standard
• Optional extra: thermally and noise-insulated, infrared-reflecting laminated safety glass all-round
• Optional extra: efficient surface heating as part of the Warmth Comfort package
• Thermal insulation of the interior in combination with NVH-measures.

As an optional extra, an auxiliary heater with radio remote control is available as part of the climate control system. In this way the interior of the parked vehicle can be heated or ventilated with fresh air, with activation as follows:
• Control panel in the vehicle
• Preset function using COMAND ONLINE and the central control panel. The activation time is calculated automatically as a function of the vehicle’s external and internal temperature
• Radio remote control with acknowledgement of successful transmission, also display of the remaining heating or ventilating time.

The driving assistance systems
Helpers in the background
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 with numerous new assistance systems and greatly enhanced functions.
Comfort and safety are enhanced at the same time, and new possibilities are opened up for motorists and car developers. 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.

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 driver’s reactions. Some systems are even able to take corrective action in an emergency, such as autonomous applications 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 developed 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.
• 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.

Sensors: intelligent networking of eyes and ears
Mercedes-Benz is making a major leap forward with the introduction of the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera (SMPC), or stereo camera for short. Just like the Multi-Purpose Camera (MPC) fitted previously, it is positioned behind the windscreen in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror. It has an aperture angle of 45° and is capable of detecting the position and movement of objects, especially vehicles and pedestrians, in three dimensions in each case. The “6D-Vision” technology nominated last year for the German Research Prize is used for this purpose for the first time. The camera’s two “eyes” provide it with a three-dimensional view of the area up to around 50 metres in front of the vehicle, and it is able to monitor the overall situation ahead for a range of up to 500 metres. In this way, the new camera is able to provide data for processing by various systems.

Intelligent algorithms evaluate this information in order to detect and carry out spatial classification of vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs and road markings within a large field of vision.

Whereas the stereo camera’s lenses act as the car’s eyes, the radar sensors are its ears, so to speak, and provide additional data about the distance from objects.

The system of radar sensors comprises two short-range radar sensors in the front bumper and in the side of the rear bumper with a range of 30 m and a beam angle of 80°, which are complemented by a long-range radar (200 m, 18°) including medium-range detection (60 m, 60°). In addition, the multi-mode radar (80 m, 16° and 30 m, 80°) fitted at the front of the standard vehicle with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST is installed in the middle of the rear bumper.

The data from the camera and radars is amalgamated in a control unit in order to provide the system-specific data for the various functions.

Comfort-enhancing assistance with lateral lane guidance: DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot
The DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control is a driver aid designed to keep the vehicle at the desired distance from another vehicle in front that is travelling slower than the selected cruising speed. This basic radar-based function has now been enhanced by the addition of a Steering Assist with Stop&Go Pilot, which helps drivers to stay centred in their lane by generating the appropriate steering torque when travelling on a straight road and even in gentle bends.

The stereo camera recognises lane markings as well as vehicles driving ahead together with their spatial positioning, and relays this information to the electric steering assistance system. When driving at slow speeds, e.g. in congested traffic, the Stop&Go Pilot can use the vehicle ahead as a means of orientation, enabling partially autonomous tailback tracking up to a speed of 30 km/h, even when there are no clear lane markings visible. The system amalgamates the data recorded by the stereo camera and the radar sensors, calculates required responses and, based on demand, controls the engine output, transmission and brake for the cruise control as well as the electric steering for the lateral control.

As a result, the system is able to further boost driving comfort and substantially ease the driver’s workload in many traffic situations.

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist can be activated as before with a selector lever on the steering wheel in a speed range from 0-200 km/h, now also with the vehicle standing still and no vehicle moving ahead of it. Any speed between 30 km/h and 200 km/h can be selected as the desired cruising speed. The driver starts off in this case by pulling the DISTRONIC PLUS lever or tapping the accelerator.

A green steering wheel symbol appears in the instrument cluster to indicate when the Stop&Go Pilot is operating while DISTRONIC PLUS is activated.

Meanwhile, linear controlling actions (cruise control function) continue to be visualised in the speed display by means of circular segments and the speedometer needle.

The system’s design is so refined that the sensors can detect whether the driver’s hands are actually on the steering wheel. If the system recognises that the driver has taken their hands off the steering wheel while the car is moving, depending on the situation, the detected surroundings and the speed, a visual warning is issued in the instrument cluster first; then a warning signal sounds and the Steering Assist is deactivated. This is additionally indicated by changing the steering wheel symbol from green to white. The linear control action remains unaffected by this and continues to be available. That means the system has an intelligent hands-off detection feature that brings the driver’s hands back to the wheel when necessary. The use of DISTRONIC PLUS requires no change in driver behaviour – those who previously drove hands-free in a tailback can continue to do so (much more safely). Thus, Mercedes-Benz offers relaxed driving mainly over long distances and on motorways, especially during otherwise tiring and annoying (slow) tailback tracking.

The performance capabilities of the basic DISTRONIC PLUS function have been increased once again. Now, the system is able to brake at a rate of up to 5 m/s² without any intervention from the driver. If the “S” drive mode button is pressed, the rate of acceleration increases, too. Vehicle acceleration is also far more dynamic if the driver signals a wish to overtake by switching on the indicators, assuming the adjacent lane is clear.

By combining the radar and camera data, DISTRONIC PLUS is now also able to detect both vehicles cutting in and vehicles ahead, and vehicles ahead of them, in one’s own lane and in adjacent lanes, and take any necessary action promptly.

This can prevent, for example, illegal overtaking on the inside lane on motorways and similar multi-lane highways by adapting the speed to that of vehicles in the outside lanes (at speeds above 85 km/h), especially when a tailback begins to dissolve and in streams of traffic. At lower speeds, permissible overtaking on the inside lane with a maximum speed differential of 20 km/h is
possible.

It goes without saying that the driver always can override DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist. For instance if they signal with their indicators that they wish to change lanes, the lateral assistance remains passive as long as it takes to change lanes.

Braking assistance for cross traffic too: BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist
City centre junctions are a major accident blackspot. The collisions here can mostly be put down to driver distraction or misjudgement. Whereas humans often react too slowly, assistance systems are immune to that brief moment of shock.

Apart from material damage, accidents at junctions often result in serious personal injuries, too. The new Brake Assist BAS PLUS from Mercedes-Benz is therefore capable of more than just helping the driver to avoid collisions with vehicles ahead or lessen their consequences in a purely linear direction: the new Cross-Traffic Assist function can also come to the driver’s aid in critical situations with cross traffic at junctions.

If this anticipatory system detects a hazardous situation of this type, it prompts the driver to start emergency braking by activating visual and acoustic warnings.

If the driver presses the brake pedal too tentatively, BAS PLUS will step in by automatically boosting brake pressure for effective emergency braking, even applying the brakes at full power if necessary. Applying just the right amount of braking power for the situation at hand maximises the available braking distance for traffic behind.

The Cross-Traffic Assist function is operative at speeds up to approx. 72 km/h, while BAS PLUS is able to aid the driver in linear situations at any speed.

Brake Assist BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist is potentially able to either prevent or lessen the severity of around 27 percent of all accidents at road junctions resulting in injury. This equates to some 20,000 accidents a year in Germany alone (source: investigations carried out by the GIDAS – German In-Depth Accident Study – and Mercedes-Benz Accident Research).

Detects broken lines too: Active Lane Keeping Assist
The new improved version of Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also able to intervene should the driver inadvertently cross a broken line when the neighbouring lane is not clear, meaning that a lane change could result in the risk of a collision. The system can determine if this is the case using the information from the stereo camera and the radar system. The latter has been supplemented by a sensor at the rear, which works in unison with the other sensors in the front and rear bumpers.
Active Lane Keeping Assist is not only capable of recognising critical situations such as overtaking vehicles, vehicles to be overtaken and parallel traffic, it can also respond effectively to oncoming traffic. If the system detects the vehicle crossing the lane markings when the adjacent lane is not clear, not only does it cause the steering wheel to vibrate in pulses as a tactile warning for the driver, it guides the vehicle back into lane by applying a corrective braking force on one side via the ESP®, now also when the vehicles crosses broken lines. It thereby complements the Active Blind Spot Assist, and for the first time also enables the often fatal collisions with oncoming traffic to be avoided.

Active Lane Keeping Assist is active at speeds between 60 and 200 km/h.

If driver activity in the form of active steering, braking or acceleration is detected, for example, or when the indicators are switched on, both the warning and the corrective brake actuation are suppressed. Using the instrument cluster the system can be set for two levels – Standard or Adaptive.

Now recognises no-overtaking zones and access restrictions, too: Traffic Sign Assist with wrong-way driver warning function
A new Traffic Sign Assist which builds on the capabilities of the previous Speed Limit Assist represents yet another contribution to accident prevention from Mercedes-Benz. The system is now also able to recognise no-overtaking zones and alert drivers to no-entry restrictions.

The camera on the inside of the windscreen continues to pick up speed limit signs, including those on overhead gantries and in roadworks, for example. The camera’s data is cross-referenced against the information in the navigation system and can be displayed in both the instrument cluster and the map view. If the camera fails to spot any road signs showing a speed limit or a speed limit is lifted, the legal speed limits based on the navigation data are shown instead, such as a maximum speed of 100 km/h on country roads in Germany or 50 km/h in built-up areas. Supplemental signs are also recognised and displayed according to situation (e.g. “in the wet”).

No-overtaking zones and the signs signalling their end are also registered and displayed, while in the case of signs imposing access restrictions, through the wrong-way driver warning function an acoustic warning is emitted together with a visual warning in the instrument cluster – making an effective contribution towards helping to prevent serious accidents caused by wrong-way drivers.

Visualising drowsiness: ATTENTION ASSIST
A quarter of all motorway accidents in Germany are put down to drowsiness, making it one of the most frequent causes of accidents, most of which are of a serious nature. In 2009, Mercedes-Benz presented ATTENTION ASSIST, which is able to detect telltale signs of inattentiveness and increasing drowsiness based on changes in steering behaviour and a host of other factors.

The system has been subject to ongoing development, and the latest version has the ability to detect drowsiness and inattentiveness across a far greater speed range from 60 – 200 km/h. Furthermore, the system’s sensitivity can be adjusted, e.g. for drivers who already feel tired when they get behind the wheel.

A new menu in the instrument cluster display also makes the system more tangible and transparent for the driver by visualising the current ATTENTION ASSIST level and the driving time since the last break. What’s more, it is also possible to see whether the system is active in the current driving situation. If the usual ATTENTION ASSIST warning recommending the driver to take a break is emitted, nearby service areas can be indicated in the navigation system.

The system can be deactivated by making the appropriate selection in the instrument cluster menu. However, it will always be automatically reactivated with the sensitivity setting last selected the next time the vehicle is started.

Automatic manoeuvring into and out of parallel and end-on parking spaces: Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC
Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC enables automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces. It is an advanced version of the PARKTRONIC system with Parking Guidance offered previously.

What’s more, the system is now also able to manoeuvre out of parallel parking spaces again all by itself with automatic steering and brake control, assuming the vehicle was parked there automatically previously.

When travelling at speeds below 30 km/h, ultrasonic sensors with an extended range in the bumpers’ side sections survey the nearside of the road for suitable parallel and end-on parking spaces. The same procedure is carried out for the far side of the road if the driver indicates accordingly. A symbol in the instrument cluster shows that the system is in the process of measuring. If a suitable parking spot is identified, an arrow appears alongside the symbol indicating that the system is ready for automatic parking. All the driver now has to do to activate the system is engage reverse gear and confirm by pressing the OK button on the steering wheel.

Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC steers and brakes the vehicle automatically as well as indicating the required driver actions in the display each time, such as the gear to be selected. The driver moves the vehicle by lightly pressing the accelerator or releasing the brake.

Extended PRE-SAFE® protection
Prevention is better than cure
Ten years ago, Mercedes-Benz unveiled a groundbreaking safety concept 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 now also can detect pedestrians and initiate
autonomous braking to avoid a collision at speeds up to 50 km/h.
• PRE-SAFE® PLUS can recognise an imminent rear-end collision and 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 vehicle’s 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.

Including pedestrian detection and City Brake function: BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist and PRE-SAFE® Brake
Pedestrian detection has been added to the BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist and PRE-SAFE® Brake functions, while autonomous braking for vehicles in front has undergone a major enhancement too.

Thanks to the combination of stereo camera and radar sensors, it is now possible to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle. Visual and acoustic warnings are triggered when a hazard is spotted. If the driver then reacts by braking, the braking power will be boosted by BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist as the situation requires, right up to a full brake application. Should the driver fail to react, the PRE-SAFE® Brake triggers autonomous vehicle braking. The PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection is active up to approx. 72 km/h, and is able to prevent collisions with pedestrians autonomously up to an initial speed of 50 km/h.

Evaluations of GIDAS accident data by Mercedes-Benz indicate that this new technology could avoid six percent of pedestrian accidents and reduce the severity of a further 41 percent. The operating range of the autonomous braking function for stationary vehicles has been optimised so that rear-end collisions can likewise be avoided at speeds of up to 50 km/h.

BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist and the PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection rely on the same sensors employed for the adaptive cruise control DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist: the new stereo camera plus the multistage radar sensor system.

Safety measures in response to an imminent rear impact: PRE-SAFE® PLUS
PRE-SAFE® PLUS offers an extension of the familiar occupant protection measures in situations where traffic behind poses a danger. A radar sensor in the rear bumper monitors the traffic behind the vehicle. If the risk of an impact from the rear is detected, the rear hazard warning lights are activated with a high frequency (5 Hz) to alert the driver of the vehicle behind (not on vehicles with USA/Canada coding). If the vehicle is stationary and the driver wishes it to remain so (e.g. by applying the brakes, activating the HOLD function or engaging “P” using the selector lever), if the danger of a collision persists PRE-SAFE® PLUS comes to the driver’s aid by increasing the brake pressure in order to keep the vehicle firmly braked. In addition, immediately before impact the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures, especially the reversible belt tensioners, are deployed.

Keeping the vehicle firmly braked when another vehicle hits it from behind greatly reduces the strain placed on the occupants, such as the risk of whiplash injuries. At the same time, it serves to protect other road users too by restricting uncontrolled vehicle movements after the initial impact that could lead to secondary collisions, such as running into a vehicle in front or colliding with pedestrians or other road users at junctions.

Intelligent countermovement: PRE-SAFE® Impulse
Mercedes-Benz is extending the front seat belt’s protective function with the introduction of PRE-SAFE® Impulse: at an early phase of the crash, before the resulting deceleration sets in, the front occupants are pulled away from the direction of impact and deeper into their seats by their seat belts. By the time the accident enters the phase when loads peak, the extra distance they are retracted by can be used while dissipating energy in a controlled fashion thanks to additional force limiting in the belt buckle. Pre-acceleration and force limitation allow the occupants to be temporarily isolated from the effects of the crash, significantly reducing the risk and severity of injuries in a frontal collision.

With PRE-SAFE® Impulse, the seat belt strap can be retracted by pyrotechnic means at all three belt anchorage points, both in the pelvis and chest area, and released again with controlled force at the buckle and in the shoulder area. The fundamental difference compared to conventional belt tensioners is that the force for retracting the belt strap is maintained more consistently for a much longer time. The deployment logic fires the seat belt system’s belt tensioners progressively depending on the seriousness of the accident. In this way, the tensioning force can be adapted as required. The PRE-SAFE® Impulse system is integrated in the seat’s structure and supplements the pyrotechnic reel tensioner with a pyrotechnic buckle and anchor fitting tensioner including central gas generator.

Extended protection in the rear
Top safety level in the rear
Mercedes-Benz is further reinforcing the safety system for passengers in the rear with the seat belt buckle extender, the beltbag and the cushionbag. In contrast to many other manufacturers, the seat belts in the rear already include belt tensioners and belt force limiters today.

Both systems were furthermore developed with a particular view toward new markets in Asia. There, the occupancy rate in the rear is as much as 30 percent, making it much higher than in Europe.

Reducing the belt slack: the seat belt buckle extender
With the seat belt buckle extender, an electric motor extends and retracts the belt buckle automatically. In this way, buckling up can be made more convenient, and any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax can be reduced even when belting up so that passengers are secured more firmly in both the sideways and the lengthways direction. The seat belt buckle extender fits in with Mercedes-Benz’s integral safety concept. In keeping with an all-embracing approach to safety, this concept covers all phases of automotive safety: from safety while driving through safety in hazardous situations and protection in the event of an accident to minimisation of the consequences of accidents.

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 in the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory safety system. This means that whenever PRE-SAFE® becomes active in critical driving situations or when the system detects the vehicle approaching other objects at a critical speed, reversible belt tensioning is also performed in the rear via the seat belt buckle extender function. The restraint system and the passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident situation. In this way, the seat belt buckle extender complements the pyrotechnic 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 millimetres and retracted by up to 40 millimetres. The belt buckle is attached via a cable to a nut which runs on a spindle, translating the electric motor’s rotary movement into a linear movement.

The following functions are carried out by means of this movement:
• Seat belt reminder/fastening aid: the seat belt buckle extender is provided with an illuminated insertion slot, attracting the occupants’ attention to the buckle. Particularly in the dark, this makes it easier to find the belt buckle and connect it with the seat belt tongue. In addition, the belt buckle is extended by up to 50 millimetres when occupants enter the rear of the vehicle, to facilitate fastening of the seat belt. When extended, the belt buckle is more readily accessible and it is easier to insert the belt tongue. Both functions are activated when the doors are opened by passengers entering the rear of the vehicle.
• Minimised belt slack: after the belt tongue has been inserted, the belt buckle returns to its original position. This reduces any belt slack in the area of the pelvis and thorax, and ensures that the belt fits correctly in the pelvis area.
• PRE-SAFE® function for rear occupants: the seat belt buckle extender is fully integrated in the vehicle’s PRE-SAFE® system. Whenever PRE-SAFE® becomes active in critical driving situations or when the system detects the vehicle approaching other objects at a critical speed, reversible belt tensioning is now also performed in the rear via the seat belt buckle extender function. The restraint system and the passengers are thus better prepared for a possible accident system. In contrast to its extended position to facilitate fastening of the seat belt, the belt buckle is retracted by approx. 40 millimetres instead. This reversible function tightens the belt on the occupant by up to 80 millimetres. In addition, the belt buckle branches off at a lower point at the occupant’s hip. This reduces the risk of the pelvis submarining under the belt. Securing the occupants more effectively in this way can reduce the strain to which they are exposed in the event of an accident. The seat belt buckle extender complements the pyrotechnic belt tensioning which has featured as standard in Mercedes-Benz vehicles for many years now and is triggered in the event of an actual impact.
• POST-SAFE functionality: to facilitate the rescue of occupants and to assist rescue personnel or the occupants themselves in unbuckling the seat belts, the belt buckle is extended once again as soon as the doors are opened by rescue personnel or the occupants themselves after the system has detected a crash and the vehicle has come to a standstill, provided that the on-board electrical system is intact. The raised belt buckle position allows better access from inside the vehicle, while illumination of the buckle draws attention to the opening mechanism.

An airbag for seat belts: the beltbag
The beltbag is an inflatable seat-belt strap that reduces the load on the ribcage in a head-on collision 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 intensely with virtual human models too, as such computer-generated models make it possible to obtain detailed findings on the biomechanical strain during a collision.

Should the crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact, the airbag control unit will trigger deployment and inflation of the beltbag. A gas generator then inflates the multi-layered belt strap with Velcro 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, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

The beltbag is used in exactly the same way as a conventional seat belt. The belt strap’s 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.

An airbag for the seat: cushionbag
If the S-Class is equipped with the Executive seat (reclining seat), the seat includes the innovative cushionbag as standard. 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 measurers there would be a danger of the pelvic area sliding beneath the seat belt (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.

Bodyshell and passive safety
Maximum stability and high-quality lightweight design
A high level of crash safety, lightweight design, 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. Application of the 3D Body Engineering approach has given it a thirdgeneration 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.

The bodyshell is the vehicle’s functional backbone. All statutory, rating-relevant and internal crash load requirements are met, and even future requirements are already taken into account. To further improve suspension comfort, the shear forces acting at the force application points in the bodyshell had to be increased.

These requirements were also met thanks to appropriate component design and special joining technology in the bodyshell. The lightweight index has been improved by 50 percent compared to the predecessor model. This index defines the torsional stiffness in relation to the vehicle’s size (footprint) and weight. To this end, all the relevant node areas were optimised and systematically
reinforced with respect to the force distribution.

The aim of the NVH measures for the bodyshell was to better the already very good preceding model with respect to vibration and noise comfort, but without dispensing with intelligent lightweight construction methods. The bodyshell structure of the new S-Class reaches new heights in dynamic rigidity thanks to new structural concepts and specific NVH measures in the bodyshell.

These include:
• Integral NVH front section concept consisting of extruded aluminium side members, cast aluminium elements at the transition between the front section and passenger cell, also at the damper domes, and integral carrier as vibration-damping structural component
• Increased use of bracing struts for specific increases in rigidity
• Rear panel and cockpit cross-member of hybrid metal/plastic construction
• Use of foam sections in the A/B/C-pillars to increase bodyshell rigidity

No weight increase in 20 years – despite stricter requirements
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 the complete range of semi-finished products (cast, extruded and sheet aluminium). The safety passenger cell makes intensive use of high-strength steels.

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.

Focus on driving dynamics: lightweight-construction measures
The front section is one of the preferred lightweight-construction zones for achieving balanced weight distribution of the entire vehicle. The decision to use aluminium as a lightweight material in this area was therefore made at an early stage. As well as being lighter than its steel counterpart, the aluminium front section also greatly enhances crash and NVH performance. Cast aluminium and
extruded aluminium sections are used in addition to sheet aluminium. Die-cast aluminium was chosen for the shock absorber strut bracket because of its good integration properties. In this way it was possible to connect the front module without additional holders, for example. As well as reducing the number of components, die casting also enables the component to be designed to withstand specific loads and stresses. Morphological analyses were conducted to configure the wall thicknesses and geometry of the component so as to meet the strict functional requirements accurately.

In addition to local optimisation of the introduction rigidity at the shock absorber strut bracket and at the integral carrier, a cross-functional load path was conceived to further improve the system as a whole. The aluminium struts running in X-direction from the shock absorber strut bracket to the cowl provide support in the event of a crash. Supplemented by a multipiece framework, these struts also help to suppress the Y-movement of the side members. This design allowed the new load path to be incorporated into the limited package installation space in the front section. The forces are applied to the bodyshell structure in the three-piece cowl, which has been configured as a cast aluminium component in the centre section. In this case too, the casting allows a functionally perfect connection with distinct advantages in terms of weight and installation space.

The side members have been designed as combined aluminium extruded sections/castings to optimise crash performance, rigidity and component integration. The protrusions of the extruded aluminium sections of the side members required for package reasons have been designed to also have a positive effect on folding behaviour in the event of a crash. The cavity closed by a foam piece is also used as a resonance volume for the Frontbass system. The side members are connected to the steel passenger cell by means of cast aluminium components that allow a very rigid connection and integration of the integral carrier connection.

Clever combination: sophisticated steel and aluminium joining technology
The firewall area is a sheet steel construction. As well as meeting the functional requirements perfectly, this design also allowed integration of the complex hybrid joint between the aluminium front section and the steel cell. Here one of the major challenges was the mechanical joining technology used for the sophisticated high-strength steels.

In addition to the front section, the integral carriers are also made of aluminium and boast the lowest weight in their class. As well as acting as a component carrier for numerous components, the integral carrier is a central component of the front-end structure when it comes to performing crash and NVH functions.

Compared to the previous model series, the complete cooling module is fastened to the integral carrier in addition to the engine, steering, torsion bar and front axle. The integral carrier’s side members also form the third crash load path in the front section. In order to meet these multiple requirements yet still maintain a lightweight design, a complex aluminium mix comprising die castings/permanent mould castings, extruded sections and sheet metal parts was also required here.

The roof is another key area for lightweight design as reducing weight here has a positive effect on the vehicle’s centre of gravity and on NVH characteristics. The new S-Class features an aluminium roof – a first at Mercedes-Benz. A major challenge here was integrating the roof into a steel structure. This was achieved by implementing an efficient and simple assembly solution in the bodyshop, which involves the roof being fixed to the bodyshell structure using shackles with defined spacing for the purpose of production in the factory. The resulting gap between the bodyshell structure and the roof ensures that the components are coated completely during the cathodic dip priming process.

One particular lightweight-construction measure involves the use of structural foam pieces in functionally critical node areas to ensure high NVH performance.

Preliminary investigations have shown that comparable performance could only have been achieved by means of solid reinforcements, some of which would have required one-sided joining processes. Such reinforcements would have resulted in a double-figure increase in the bodyshell weight. Due to the way the foam pieces work, it is possible to position them precisely in the functionally critical node areas, since there is no need to take account of production-specific requirements such as joining technology limitations or component joining sequences. Furthermore, it is even possible to achieve frictional connections between cross-sections with several chambers.

Safety first: passenger cell made using high-strength steels
The safety passenger cell consists primarily of steel. Thanks to the use of higher steel grades, the weight has been kept the same as for the predecessor model although far more stringent crash requirements (angled mast) and stricter NVH requirements are met. All relevant components have been increased by one class in terms of material quality, one example being in the area of the B-pillar, roof frame and tunnel reinforcement, where thermoformed ultra-high-strength steels that have been weight-optimised as tailored products with different sheet thicknesses are used. In the lower side member area, an ultra-high-strength steel (CP 1000) is used as a roll-profiled component for the first time. This steel-based lightweight design by material optimisation is also backed by lightweight design by geometrical optimisation, including the formation of a frictional connection between the C-pillar and the rear centrepiece, which allows efficient support of the rear section’s side members when the vehicle flexes.

In the case of detachable body parts such as the wings, bonnet and boot lid, the use of aluminium adopted for the previous model series was continued. The aim was to outperform internal and external competitors in terms of weight and to effectively implement the design in production whilst meeting strict requirements in terms of joins and seams. Proof that sophisticated design, lightweight construction and production-friendly product design can actually go hand in hand.

The aluminium hybrid design results in the use of additional mechanical joining technologies. The technical limits of the processes for these joining technologies were determined in collaboration with the supplier, the planning department and production. Consequently it was possible to combine high-strength sheet metal with aluminium for the first time and to reduce the sheet thickness of the components primarily from a functional standpoint. Only thanks to the interaction of lightweight-construction measures and lightweight-construction processes was it possible to make use of the 50 kg lightweight design potential.

Conversely it was then possible to invest in a massive way in performance – in safety, comfort and customer benefit. Result: the bodyshell of the new S-Class is not only lighter, but also clearly tops in performance.

Restraint systems: meticulous design of every detail
Alongside the deformation potential of the body and major components, as well as the stability of the passenger cell, it is the quality of the restraint systems that largely determines the risk of injury to the occupants in the event of an accident.

The crash sensors, including appropriate software adaptation to detect the accident type and the collision severity, have been further refined compared to the predecessor model series. New components and features:
• STAR2 electronic control unit
• Pressure sensors for detecting collisions with pedestrians
• Use of sitting position information for adaptive control of the restraint systems

As standard, the driver and front passenger each have a three-point seat belt with triple pyrotechnic retractor tensioning. Retractor tensioning and belt force limiting as well as an electrically reversible inertia reel tensioner are effective via the shoulder belt. The upper belt guide point is anchored to the B-pillar and height-adjustable. The PRE-SAFE® Impulse tensioning system is a world first in the new S-Class (see “Extended PRE-SAFE® protection” section). The rear passengers in the two outer seats have three-point seat belts with inertia-reel tensioner and self-adaptive force limiter, while the centre seat features a standard three-point seat belt system. As optional extras, the seat belt buckle extender, beltbag and cushionbag elevate rear safety to a new level (see Page 70 Extended rear protection” section).

Driver and front passenger airbags: adaptive filling
The driver’s airbag (volume approx. 64 litres) is equipped with a two-stage gas generator. Two stages can be activated, depending on the detected vehicle deceleration values, with a delay between triggering of the two stages. In addition to the two-stage gas generator, the front passenger’s airbag (volume approx. 112 litres) has a special feature in the form of a pyrotechnically activated adaptive stage. The cushioning of the occupant when plunging into the airbag is made harder or softer depending on the sitting position and gas filling, according to requirements.

The thorax/pelvis sidebags for the driver and front passenger with a volume of 17 litres are integrated in the front seat backrests whilst the rear sidebags with a volume of 12 litres are integrated in the rear side panelling where they are firmly attached to the bodyshell. In the event of a crash, the windowbag cushion (volume approx. 40 litres) is filled by a hybrid gas generator that is located in the roof area behind the B-pillar. The use of a new weaving technology (X-Tether technology) makes the windowbag cushion more stable, meaning that it is easier to ensure effective inflation over a prolonged period of time.

Triggering of the side protection systems is controlled by the Star2 electronic triggering device, which can detect and assess a side collision with the help of a central acceleration sensor, additional satellite sensors in vehicle lateral direction and pressure sensors in the doors. Furthermore, the belt tensioners are triggered together with sidebags and windowbags if a side collision is detected and together with the windowbags if roll-over is detected.

Pedestrian protection: active bonnet and more deformation space
To supplement the active safety measures which help to prevent accidents or reduce the severity of accidents, the measures aimed at mitigating the consequences of accidents in the event of collisions with pedestrians have been further developed for the new S-Class. In order to reduce the loads exerted on a pedestrian if their head hits the bonnet of the vehicle, the deformation space between the bonnet and the components beneath it has been optimised. This is achieved in part by appropriate positioning of components such as control units or fluid reservoirs in the engine compartment.

The S-Class also features an active bonnet. In the event of a collision with a pedestrian, sophisticated sensors combined with intelligent algorithms trigger pyrotechnic actuators in the area of the bonnet hinges. These raise the bonnet by around 80 millimetres. The deformation characteristics of the bonnet have been developed specifically to meet these requirements. Further reductions in the impact loads can be achieved by using aluminium and by homogenously reinforcing the inside face of the bonnet. Furthermore, the hardness of the foam in the front bumper has been optimised to reduce the load exerted on the pedestrian’s legs in the event of an impact.

Suspension
The world’s first suspension system with “eyes”
The new S-Class is the world’s first car to be able to detect bumps on the road ahead. If the ROAD SURFACE SCAN detects such unevenness by means of the stereo camera, MAGIC BODY CONTROL sets up the suspension in advance to deal with the situation. This innovative suspension system is available as an option for the eight-cylinder models. Standard equipment for the new S-Class includes an enhanced version of the full air suspension system AIRMATIC with continuously adaptive damping control.

The front axle features four-link suspension. Its key characteristics include two individual links (torque strut and spring link) in the lower link plane. The transversely situated forged-aluminium spring link carries the spring strut. The anti-roll bar is connected directly on the steering knuckle, while the forwardsloping torque strut is made of forged aluminium.

A wishbone located high above the lower link plane performs further wheel location functions. This link is also made of forged aluminium, as is the steering knuckle which connects the upper and lower link planes. The fourth link is the track rod which forms part of the rack-and-pinion steering system. The transversely situated steering gear is located in front of the wheel’s centre.

The arrangement and design of the wheel location components offer favourable characteristics for the axle kinematics: the kingpin inclination is close to the wheel centre. This provides for large longitudinal force leverage, thus minimising sensitivity to tyre imbalances and fluctuations in braking force. The lower front axle components, the steering gear and the engine mounts are linked with an assembly carrier. This integral carrier, made from high-strength sheet aluminium, is directly bolted to the body.

Due to the unsurpassed wheel location qualities, the S-Class features multi-link rear suspension attached to a subframe. Consistent lightweight construction minimises the weight of the unsprung masses. Four of the five wheel-locating links are made of forged aluminium, as is the hub carrier. The spring link that carries the spring strut is made of single-ply sheet aluminium. In the standard configuration, the rear axle with air suspension features a torsion-bar stabilizer which is directly connected to the rear axle carrier.

AIRMATIC: enhanced comfort and driving dynamics
The standard-fit full air suspension system AIRMATIC with continuously adaptive damping control allows the spring travel to be maintained whatever the vehicle load by means of continuous level adjustment. The vehicle level is controlled automatically depending on the vehicle speed. It is lowered by up to 20 millimetres when the speed exceeds 120 km/h. Consequently, aerodynamic drag is lowered and, thanks to the low vehicle centre of gravity, directional stability is enhanced.

The AIRMATIC system with continuously adaptive damping control that featured on the predecessor model has been modified in many respects: new air suspension bellows with reduced breakaway torque make for even better ride comfort as they do not stiffen as much at low amplitudes and larger frequencies.

The spring travel on the rear axle has been increased, thus improving absorption capacity if excitation is high. To further reduce tyre noise, the air suspension struts on the rear axle are decoupled from the body.

The lower control panel on the centre console allows the driver to raise the vehicle level by 30 millimetres on poor road surfaces or when confronted by a tricky garage entrance, for example.

Further improvements have likewise been made to the adaptive damping system.

This fully automatic, electronically controlled system adjusts the shock absorbers on each wheel as required. As before, the single-tube shock absorbers are equipped with a valve each for the compression and rebound stage, while there is a new feature in the shape of continuous damping adjustment. This means that the optimum operating point can be selected every time based on various data such as acceleration, vehicle level or vehicle speed. A button on the centre console allows the driver to select a sportier setting as an alternative to the comfort-oriented default setting.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL: the world’s first suspension system with “eyes”
The new S-Class is the world’s first car to be able to detect bumps on the road ahead. The MAGIC BODY CONTROL suspension system available as an option for the eight-cylinder models includes ACTIVE BODY CONTROL (ABC) and the new and innovative ROAD SURFACE SCAN function.

The “eyes” for the ROAD SURFACE SCAN function are provided by a stereo camera fitted behind the windscreen, which scans the road up to 15 metres ahead of the vehicle and delivers a precise image of the road contours. Based on the camera pictures and driving status information, the control unit constantly calculates the best control strategy for overcoming unevenness such as prolonged bumps.

The vehicle can therefore adjust the damping of each individual wheel to a tauter or softer setting in advance and increase or reduce the load on the wheel by means of an active hydraulic system. The suspension is adapted to a given situation within fractions of a second, and body movement can be reduced considerably. This results in a hitherto unprecedented level of ride comfort.

Because ROAD SURFACE SCAN is camera-based, it can work throughout the day if visibility is good, the road structure is suitable and even at speeds of up to 130 km/h.

In the Active Body Control system from Mercedes-Benz, the four spring struts are equipped with hydraulic cylinders (plungers) to adjust the force in each spring strut individually. This means that the system can almost completely compensate for lifting, rolling and pitching of the body. The control unit receives information on the current driving situation from various acceleration sensors and then compares these data with those from the pressure sensors in the spring struts and the level sensors on the control arms. The system then computes the control signals for the servo-hydraulic valves at the front and rear axle to ensure precisely metered oil flows.

Once oil flows into the plunger cylinders, this modifies the tracing point of the steel springs integrated into the spring struts, generating the necessary force to counteract the body movements. Thanks to a constantly available hydraulic pressure of up to 200 bar, ABC is able to stabilise the body within fractions of a second.

The ABC has undergone major modifications for the new S-Class: the wheel damping is now continuously adjustable, the spring strut response has been improved and the pump efficiency has been further enhanced. A digital interface connects the control unit and the sensors, while the fast FlexRay bus connects the control unit and the vehicle electronics. Processing power is more than double that of the previous system.

Steering: electro-mechanical Direct-Steer system and steering assistance
The new S-Class comes with an electro-mechanical Direct-Steer system as standard. As well as a more precise and also more comfortable steering experience, the steering system has a major impact on overall efficiency, since it only requires energy when the vehicle is actually being steered.
In the new steering system, the steering gear and the supporting servo-motor form a single compact unit and are mounted on an extremely rigid and lowweight integral support frame made of aluminium which is positioned in front of the wheel’s centre line. The steering gear is designed as a Direct-Steer system, which means that the steering ratio becomes noticeably more direct over the steering angle. This enhances the vehicle’s handling and agility substantially.

The steering assistance function can help to stabilise the vehicle. An assistance steering wheel torque is determined depending on the driving conditions, and this is set accordingly by the electric steering assistance.

The function never overrules the driver but, instead, indicates the direction in which to steer to stabilise the vehicle. In the event of oversteer, the steering assistance system prompts the driver to countersteer via the steering wheel until the vehicle has stabilised again.

If the vehicle is braked on a road surface with different friction (μ-split) on the left and right, there is a yaw impulse which turns the vehicle in the direction of the high friction. The steering assistance system prompts the driver to turn the steering wheel in the appropriate direction to compensate for the yaw caused by the different friction.

Brakes: large discs, a wealth of assistance functions
Large brake discs at the front and rear provide the technological basis for safe and reliable deceleration using the ADAPTIVE BRAKE electronic brake control system. Depending on the engine installed, the disc diameters are up to 370 millimetres at the front and up to 360 millimetres at the rear. The S-Class features an electric parking brake as standard. A combined floating calliper with electric parking brake function is used on the rear axle.

With the ADAPTIVE BRAKE, the S-Class offers a wealth of assistance functions.

One example of this is the practical HOLD function: after braking to a standstill, briefly pressing the brake pedal a little further is all that is required to activate this function. The car is then held by the brakes, even if the driver’s foot comes off the brake pedal. The HOLD function is deactivated automatically when the car moves off.

If the driver’s foot moves abruptly from the accelerator to the brake pedal before an emergency stop, the brake system increases the pressure in the brake lines and brings the pads into contact with the brake discs so that maximum braking power is available as soon as the driver hits the brake pedal. This priming of the brakes allows the system to assist the standard-fit Brake Assist system.

ADAPTIVE BRAKE also has safety benefits in the wet: the system briefly applies the brakes at regular intervals to wipe the film of water from the brake discs and ensure that the brakes are able to perform at their peak. The finely metered brake pulses are imperceptible to the driver. This automatic brake drying function is always activated when the windscreen wipers have been operating for a certain length of time.

Finally, ADAPTIVE BRAKE assists the driver when starting on an uphill slope.

When the sensors detect that the Saloon has stopped on an uphill slope, Hill Start Assist is activated automatically, briefly holding the brake pressure at a constant level so as to prevent the car from rolling backwards.

The ESP® Dynamic Cornering Assist offers improved safety in critical cornering conditions. If the ESP® sensors detect an understeering tendency, the ESP® performs specific braking intervention on the side of the vehicle which is on the inside of the bend. This gives rise to gentle rotary movement of the vehicle around the vertical axis.

Crosswind Assist: strong gusts no longer a scare
Crosswind Assist helps the driver as it can substantially reduce the effect strong crosswinds have on the vehicle’s straight-line stability.

In vehicles without ABC, the negative effect of the crosswind is compensated for by braking on one side of the vehicle activated by ESP® in the ADAPTIVE BRAKE, which is already being used by the Active Lane Keeping Assist/Blind Spot Assist. In vehicles with ABC suspension, crosswind stabilisation is achieved by means of targeted wheel load changes by adjusting the ABC dampers.

Multimedia features
Communication centre and concert hall
A completely new multimedia generation with intuitive operation and particularly tangible functions thanks to visualisation and animations celebrates its debut in the new 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 new S-Class is also the first saloon car to be equipped with the unique Frontbass system as standard. With this system, the interior space in the bodyshell’s cross-members and side members is used as a resonance chamber for the woofers. A 3D surround sound system is available on request.

Several hundred developers worldwide contributed to the new Mercedes-Benz multimedia generation, compiling more than 30 million lines of programming.

The centrepiece of the new COMAND Online system is the Intel Atom, a processor whose performance fully equals that of components in the latest laptops.

As a completely new feature, the developers have made the individual functions of the communication systems more tangible with on-screen visualisation and animations (see “Control and display concept” section). The user is also able to adapt what is shown in the central display to their own requirements. With the exception of the navigation map (which always fills the complete display area), the central display is divided into a main area (2/3 on the right of the screen) and an additional area (1/3 on the left side of the screen). In standard configuration the additional area shows supplementary information about the selected main application, e.g. if the radio function is active, the artist and song title are shown, or the current channel in the case of TV.

It is also possible to permanently show preferred contents in the additional area (except when the full navigation map is active). One can select a small navigation map, fuel consumption display, data connection display or entertainment information, for example.

In addition to this improvement in operating convenience, numerous new functions extend the multimedia options available, and transform the S-Class into a communication centre or a concert hall as required.

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). Thanks to real-time traffic information, the navigation system is also better informed about the situation on the roads. Traffic data are now provided by the “Live Traffic Information” service. Unlike the previous data sources TMC and TMCpro, whose data are received by radio, “Live Traffic Information” uses a fast internet connection and is therefore particularly up-to-date.

As another new feature, a key word search can be used to enter destinations: only a few letters need to be entered, and the system will automatically display a choice of appropriate town/street combinations and possible points of interest.

The letter combinations or key words can even contain spelling mistakes.

Example: if the driver enters STUT and BAD, the system will suggest ‘Stuttgarter Strasse’ in Bad Friedrichshall, ‘Badstrasse’ in Stuttgart and the ‘Freibad Möhringen’ swimming pool in Stuttgart. The entered key words are visually highlighted in the display of search results.

In the radio function the favourite stations can now be saved to an individually organised preset list for all wavebands (DAB, FM, AM) rather than to a general autostore function. Individual stations can then be called up using the favourites function. The “Song tagging” function is likewise useful: songs just played in the vehicle can be flagged and then downloaded to a mobile device via iTunes and the internet connection.

The player is now able to recognise mixed tracks, i.e. video and audio files.

Videos are shown as a preview in a small, animated area, and can be enlarged to full-screen format. The function “Play similar titles” suggests songs similar to the one currently playing, accessing the CD, Music Register or a connected source.

Also new are the Coverflow display, the album cover search and the Picture Viewer as a slideshow.

“Telephone module with Bluetooth®” is standard equipment with the COMAND Online system. This supports the connection of the mobile phone to the vehicle via a standardised Bluetooth® interface. In addition “Convenience telephony” can be ordered as an optional extra by way of a pre-installation using a universal phone interface, whereby the mobile phone can be connected via a cradle in the centre console. Suitable cradles for various mobile phones are obtainable from Mercedes-Benz Accessories.

“Business telephony in the rear” with a hands-free function is optionally available for passengers in the rear. Connection of the mobile phone to the rear unit is likewise via Bluetooth®. Pre-installation with a universal phone interface is also possible for the rear. The telephony via the COMAND Online system is networked with the “Business telephony in the rear”. Calls can therefore be conveniently transferred between the driver and the rear, and functions such as call waiting or conference are also available. Business telephony is operated via a Bluetooth® handset integrated into the rear and featuring a convenient touch display. This allows functions such as seat adjustment to be operated intuitively.

The most important new functions at a glance: 
System Functions
COMAND Online
• WLAN HotSpot integrated into the head unit as standard
• Unrestricted internet browsing
• SMS/email read/write function
• Mercedes-Benz services (e.g. Google search, weather, Facebook, news)
• Internet radio
Navigation • Navitainment (DriveShow, Google Maps, StreetView)
• Map showing the entire globe possible
• Travelguide and personal POIs
• Display of satellite images
• Optimised 3D navigation with topographical model, photorealistic buildings and map rotation
• Optimised search engine and destination input
• Compilation of four alternative routes
• Download of predefined destinations and routes
• Live Traffic Information
Radio • Song tagging – flagging of played songs and download via iTunes
• Convenient editing/sorting of the station list
• Station search by station name
Player • Coverflow display and search by album cover
• Two USB connectors
• Optional Media Interface integrated into the head unit to support mobile devices
• Bluetooth® Audio – wireless music from mobile devices
• Optimised media search engine
• “Play similar titles”
• Reproduction of further audio/video formats
• Display of title information from an internal database and via the internet (Gracenote)
• PictureViewer via SD card/USB
Phone • Simple Pairing Assist for easy telephone connection via Bluetooth®
• Display of photos stored in the address book possible when a call comes in
• Facility for simultaneous connection of two telephones via Bluetooth® (1st telephone to COMAND Online, 2nd to rear unit)
• Telephone operation by COMAND Online and in the rear if only one phone in the car is connected
• Display of images matching callers, separately stored via COMAND Online
• Placing of telephone calls from other applications (e.g. web browser)
• Control of several telephone calls by call waiting and conference function
• Convenient Bluetooth® handset with touch operation and remote control if rear telephony is specified
• Operation of the system via smartphone/WLAN

Equal rights for every occupant: the entertainment features
The new S-Class is the first vehicle worldwide to offer a genuine multi-user system with Individual Entertainment System in the rear. This means that there is independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any of the four seats – i.e. radio, TV, internet, navigation, DVD player and USB-connected devices.

The driver control function for all the seats is another new feature. The driver is able to route any audio or video source to the display and headset of any passenger. At the touch of a button the driver is also able to have one of the audio sources in use played via the onboard loudspeakers.

The multi-user system was technically realised by connecting the COMAND Online system with Individual Entertainment System in the rear via a fibre-optic cable, a so-called MOST bus system (Media Oriented Systems Transport). Access to the sources from any seat is possible via the MOST ring, which works with a transfer rate of up to 150 Mbit per second. For the COMAND remote control function, digital radio technology is used for the first time instead of infrared technology. This makes operation throughout the vehicle possible from any position.

The well-proven SPLITVIEW system for the driver and front passenger has been retained. The COMAND Online system forms a mixed image from two separate display images (e.g. TV and navigation). This is then separated in the highresolution central display by means of prisms, enabling different screen content to be shown for the driver and front passenger depending on the viewing angle.

The driver and front passenger therefore see different images – the passenger can watch television, for example, while the driver is following the navigation instructions.

Together with the DVD changer, headset and Comand Online remote control, SPLITVIEW is part of the “Individual Entertainment” system. The “Individual Entertainment System in the rear” meanwhile comprises a second DVD player (in the centre console for the five-seater, in the parcel shelf for the four-seater), two high-resolution 10.2-inch displays, radio remote control and two wireless headsets.

With Frontbass and up to 24 loudspeakers: the sound systems
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 crossmember and side member as a resonance chamber. Since woofers no longer have to be fitted in the doors, the acoustically disturbing vibrations typical of this configuration are eliminated. The mid-range speakers in the doors are relocate 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: Burmester® Surround Sound system and Burmester® High-End 3D-Surround Sound system.

The systematic use of analogue diplexers in the medium and high frequency ranges ensures an extraordinarily expressive and natural sound. Bass, mid-range, treble, volume, balance and fader can be individually adjusted. The listening experience can be enhanced even further with the Surround function or sound optimisation for the front and rear seats.

Three-dimensional in-car sound: Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound system
The optional Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound system offers a unique visual and acoustic experience. The tweeters in the mirror triangles of the front doors are a particular visual highlight. They rotate through 360° 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. This system is also visually distinguishable from the Burmester® Surround Sound system by three overhead speakers and special door speaker covers.

The Burmester® High-End 3D Surround Sound system makes for an outstanding listening experience, with the best possible sound settings for every seat and, for the first time, three-dimensional sound as standard in a luxury saloon car. This 3D surround sound is created with the help of special Burmester algorithms and three speakers integrated into the headlining. This combination of analogue and digital technologies produces an extraordinarily expressive and natural sound – the Burmester “feel-good sound”.

If the ambience lighting is switched on, the two tweeters are illuminated in one of the seven available colours. The same applies to the overhead console, which is also elegantly emphasised by the ambience lighting and accommodates two of the three overhead speakers.

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. At the same time an intelligent combination of analogue and digital amplifier technologies leads to a particularly fine and natural sound together with high performance reserves. While sophisticated analogue filter settings allow the best possible fine reproduction in the mid-range and treble frequencies, the digital amplifier – despite its compact dimensions – masters the highest dynamic peaks. The result is outstanding sound resolution and fine acoustic detail, combined with impressive impulse reproduction. This provides a rounded, warm and substantial sound experience founded on an impressive bass range.

The new, three-dimensional listening experience provided by the 3D Surround Sound system and created by the Burmester speakers integrated into the vehicle roof is unique. In addition to the two speakers in the overhead console, another speaker is accommodated in the overhead control panel. A 3D algorithm was developed specifically for the new S-Class-to create the unique listening experience made possible by these overhead speakers. The aim of the developers was to add a subtle spatial effect to the outstanding listening experience.

Apart from 3D Surround, four other preset sound modes can be selected to suit every taste and audio source:
• Pure: audiophile sound reproduction with no additional effects, for unadulterated musical enjoyment
• Live: appealing, dynamic sound background akin to live music
• Easy Listening: milder sound background for relaxed listening over longer periods
• Surround: virtual surround sound
• 3D-Surround: three-dimensional listening experience provided by the overhead loudspeakers

Using the so-called VIP setting, the sound quality can be optimised for any of the four seating positions. This function has been carefully configured for each of the sound modes shown above.

The sophisticated sound compensation (VNC) has also been developed further.

This ensures that the best possible sound impression is maintained despite changes in driving noise. VNC guarantees maximum listening pleasure at all times – whether on the motorway or in town.

Heritage
S-Class technology milestones
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class and its predecessors have always stood for innovative automotive engineering. Over the years, they have continually brought new features to the market which have then found widespread acceptance. Here is a brief overview of the special features in each model series.

Mercedes-Simplex 60 PS (1903 to 1905)
• State-of-the-art high-performance engine: large-displacement four-cylinder unit with overhead intake valves
• Highly efficient honeycomb radiator
• Long wheelbase and low centre of gravity

Mercedes-Benz Nürburg, W 08 (1928 to 1933)
• First series production Mercedes-Benz car with an eight-cylinder engine
• Luxurious and spacious Pullman body
• Overdrive transmission as an option (from 1931, in conjunction with increased displacement)

Mercedes-Benz 770 “Grand Mercedes”, W 07 and W 150 (1930 to 1943)
• First series production Mercedes-Benz car with an eight-cylinder supercharged engine
• Dual ignition system with two spark plugs per cylinder (high-voltage magneto ignition and battery ignition)
• Overdrive transmission (five-speed manual transmission from 1938)
• Oval tubular box frame (from 1938)
• De Dion rear axle (from 1938)

Mercedes-Benz 320, W 142 (1937 to 1942) Page 88
• Smooth-running six-cylinder engine
• All-synchromesh four-speed transmission, with remote action gear from 1939
• Wide range of bodies: saloon, Pullman saloon (with exterior case from 1939), streamlined saloon, several cabriolets

Mercedes-Benz 300, W 186 and W 189 (1951 to 1962)
• Sophisticated six-cylinder engine with overhead camshaft
• Manually-controlled intake manifold fuel injection (from 1957)
• Patented safety conical-pin locks prevent doors from springing open in an accident
• Electrically-operated torsion bar suspension to compensate the height of the rear wheels under heavy loads
• Heating with blower(s) as standard
• Air conditioning as an option (from 1958)
• Power-assisted steering as an option (from 1958)

Mercedes-Benz 220, W 187 (1951 to 1954)
• Sophisticated six-cylinder engine with overhead camshaft
• Patented safety conical-pin locks prevent doors from springing open in an accident
• Heater with blower as optional equipment

Mercedes-Benz 220 a/220 S/220 SE, W 180/W 128 (1954 to 1959)
• Integral body construction
• Improved spaciousness and comfort thanks to modern unitary structure
• Front suspension subframe
• Single-joint swing axle with low centre of rotation
• Brake drums with “turbocooling”
• Separately adjustable heater and blower as standard for driver and front passenger
• “Hydrak” automatic hydraulic clutch as an option (from 1957) Page 89
• Manually-controlled intake manifold fuel injection (220 SE, from 1958)

Mercedes-Benz 220 b to 300 SE/300 SE long, W 111/W 112 (1959 to 1965)
• Safety passenger compartment with crumple zones (front and rear)
• Padded steering wheel and interior appointments designed so as to reduce injury hazards in accidents
• Conical-pin door lock with two safety catches
• Disc brakes (300 SE, from 1961)
• Dual-circuit braking system (from 1963)
• Four-speed automatic transmission (from 1961)
• Air suspension (300 SE, from 1961)
• Long-wheelbase version available (300 SE, from 1963)
• Central locking system as an option (300 SE long-wheelbase)

Mercedes-Benz 600, W 100 (1963 to 1981)
• Powerful, large-displacement V8 engine
• Four-speed automatic transmission
• Dual-circuit braking system with disc brakes
• Air suspension
• Power steering
• Central hydraulic system for seat adjustment, opening and closing doors, windows and luggage compartment
• Electronically-controlled heating and ventilation system

Mercedes-Benz 250 S to 300 SEL 6.3, W 108/W 109 (1965 to 1972)
• Safety steering system (from 1967)
• Hydropneumatic compensator spring at the rear axle
• Air suspension (300 SEL, 300 SEL 6.3, 300 SEL 3.5)
• Top-of-the-range 300 SEL 6.3 model with an output of 250 hp (184 kW), powerful V8 engine and sports-car performance (from 1968)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 116 (1972 to 1980) Page 90
• Officially known as the “S-Class” for the first time
• Integral safety concept
o Four-spoke safety steering wheel
o Tank above rear axle to protect it from collisions
o Safety door handles
o Generously sized headlamps and turn signal lamps
o Tail lights with anti-soiling design
o Side windows with anti-soiling measures
• ABS (anti-lock braking system) as an option (from 1978)
• Cruise control as an option (from 1975)
• Double wishbone front axle with zero scrub radius
• Coupled-link axle with anti-squat control (450 SE, 450 SEL, 450 SEL 6.9)
• Automatic transmission with torque converter as an option (standard for 450 SE, 450 SEL, 450 SEL 6.9)
• Hydropneumatic suspension with level control (450 SEL 6.9, from 1975)
• First luxury class saloon with a diesel engine, first series production passenger car with a turbo-diesel engine (300 SD, from 1978)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 126 (1979 to 1991)
• Bodyshell with fork-arm structure, the world’s first series-production car to fulfil the criterion of the asymmetric head-on collision (offset crash)
• Low drag coefficient cd = 0.37
• New V8 engines with light-alloy block
• Closed-loop catalytic converter as an option (from 1985) or as standard (from 1986)
• Electrically adjustable steering column as an option (from 1985)
• Driver airbag and belt tensioner for front passenger as an option (from 1981)
• Front passenger airbag (from 1988)
• Automatic locking differential as an option for the six-cylinder models (from 1985)
• ASR (acceleration skid control) as an option for V8 models (from 1985)
• The most successful high-end, luxury Mercedes-Benz saloon

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 140 (1991 to 1998)
• Petrol engines with four valves per cylinder and variably adjustable intake camshafts
• First Mercedes-Benz series production car with a twelve-cylinder engine, the brand’s most powerful passenger car engine up to that point (600 SE, 600 SEL)
• Premium-class diesel 300 SD available for the first time on the world markets
• Systematically designed for a high level of recyclability
• Total avoidance of chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)
• Electronically controlled five-speed automatic transmission (standard for V8 and V12 models, from 1995)
• Speed-sensitive power steering
• Double-glazed side windows for maximum noise comfort
• Automatic climate control with activated charcoal filter and CO/NOX-sensitive sensors as standard (S 600) or as an option
• Electrically folding exterior mirrors
• Power closing for doors and boot lid as an option
• Headlamps with variable-focus reflectors
• Electronics linking via CAN-bus
• Seat belts with automatic height adjustment
• Sidebags for driver and front passenger (from 1996)
• Adaptive Damping System ADS as an option
• Electronic Stability Program ESP® as standard (S 600, from 1995) or as an option (S 420, S 500, from 1995)
• Brake Assist BAS (from 1996)
• PARKTRONIC electronic parking aid as standard (S 600, from 1995) or as an option (from 1995)
• Auto-Pilot-System APS navigation system as an option (from 1995)
• TELE-AID emergency call system as an option (from 1997)
• LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system as an option (from 1996)
• Xenon headlamps with dynamic headlamp range control as an option (from 1996)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 220 (1998 to 2005)
• Lightweight body with weight-reducing materials mix (high-tensile steel, light alloy, plastic)
• Aluminium crash boxes in the front end and rear structure
• Drag coefficient cd = 0.27
• Automatic cylinder cut-out system as standard (S 600) or as an option (S 500)
• 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with electronic control (S 430, S 500, from 2004)
• AIRMATIC air suspension with electronically controlled Adaptive Damping System
• Active Body Control suspension as an option (standard for S 600)
• Additional turn signal lamps integrated into the exterior mirrors
• Automatic headlamp mode
• COMAND control and display system with dynamic navigation as an option
• Windowbags
• Rear sidebags
• Passenger-side airbag with two-stage gas generator
• Belt tensioners and belt force limiters in the rear
• Laminated glass side windows
• Multi-zone automatic climate control with individual control at each seat depending on the sun’s position
• Luxury seats with ventilation and dynamic multicontour backrest as an option
• DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control as an option
• KEYLESS-GO access and drive authorisation system-as an option
• Bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic headlamp range control as an option (from 2002, standard on the S 600)
• PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection-system (from 2002)
• V8 diesel engine with light-alloy block (S 400 CDI)
• 4MATIC all-wheel drive as an option (S 430, S 500, from 2002)

Mercedes-Benz S-Class model series 221 (2005 to 2013)
• Drag coefficient cd = 0.26
• First car with an Environmental Certificate
• 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with electronic control and DIRECT SELECT steering wheel gearshift
• Active Body Control with crosswind stabilisation as an option (standard for S 600)
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE system
• Adaptive brake lights
• Brake Assist Plus as an option
• Further development of DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control (with braking to standstill) as an option
• PRE-SAFE® Brake with autonomous partial braking (from 2006) or autonomous emergency braking (from 2009) as an option
• Advanced COMAND system with Controller on the central tunnel
• SPLITVIEW display as an option (from 2009)
• Parking Assist as an option
• Panoramic tilting/sliding sunroof as an option
• Active Night View Assist as an option
• Blind Spot Assist as an option (from 2007, Active Blind Spot Assist from 2010)
• Lane Keeping Assist as an option (from 2009, Active Lane Keeping Assist from 2010)
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist as an option (from 2009)
• Speed Limit Assist as an option (from 2009)
• First luxury class vehicle with hybrid drive and lithium-ion battery (S 400 HYBRID, from 2009)
• First S-Class with a four-cylinder engine (S 250 CDI, from 2010)

Glossary
Terms and innovations from A to Z

ACTIVE BODY CONTROL (ABC): subfunction of the suspension system
MAGIC BODY CONTROL. The Mercedes-Benz ABC suspension has four suspension struts with hydraulic cylinders to set the force individually in each suspension strut, thus all but completely eliminating the lifting, rolling and pitching motion of the vehicle body. Various acceleration sensors send information about the current driving situation to the control unit which, in turn, compares this information with the data received from the pressure sensors in the suspension struts and the level sensors on the axle links. Based on the results of this comparison, the system calculates control signals which are then converted into precisely measured oil flows by servohydraulic values at the front and rear axle.

Active Blind Spot Assist: this radar-based system alerts the driver if it detects another vehicle in the blind spot when changing lanes. If the driver ignores the system’s warnings and comes dangerously close to the vehicle in the adjacent lane, Active Blind Spot Assist intervenes by applying the brakes at the wheels on the opposite side of the vehicle so as to create a yawing movement that can avert a collision.

Active Lane Keeping Assist: intervention to correct unintentional lane changes even with a broken line. The new improved version of the Active Lane Keeping Assist is now also able to intervene should the driver inadvertently cross a broken line when there is a risk of a collision. The system uses the information from the radar system to detect when the adjacent lane is not clear. The radar system has been supplemented by a sensor at the rear, which works in unison with the other sensors in the front and rear bumpers. The Active Lane Keeping Assist is not only capable of recognising critical situations such as overtaking vehicles, parallel traffic and parking vehicles, it can also respond effectively to oncoming traffic. If the system detects the risk of a collision, not only does it cause the steering wheel to vibrate in pulses as a tactile warning for the driver, it intervenes with a lane-correcting brake application on one side via the ESP®. It thereby forms the ideal complement to the Active Blind Spot Assist.

Active multicontour seats: these multicontour seats with a dynamic function continuously adapt to the driving situation. Depending on the steering angle, lateral acceleration and road speed, the air cushions in the side bolsters are pneumatically inflated to ensure maximum lateral support even when the style of driving is extremely dynamic.

Active Parking Assist: automatic manoeuvring into and out of parallel and end-on parking spaces. The Active Parking Assist is designed for automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces. The driver moves the vehicle by manually pressing the accelerator or releasing the brake. What’s more, the system is now also able to manoeuvre out of parallel parking spaces again all by itself with automatic steering and brake control, assuming the vehicle was parked there automatically previously.

Adaptive Damping System Plus (ADS PLUS): fully automatic, electronically controlled system that adjusts the damping at each wheel to meet current requirements. Fitted as standard.

Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus: if the camera-based Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus picks up oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead, it adapts the light distribution according to the specific situation when the main beam is on. A mechanism in the headlamp module masks the portion of the LED headlamps’ cone of light where there are other vehicles to prevent their drivers being dazzled. Possible backglare caused by increased use of the main beam and highly reflective signs at the side of the road is also detected and eliminated by dimming the headlamps accordingly. Consequently, the driver can simply leave the main-beam headlamps on at all times and use their full range without irritating or even endangering other road users. The system is active at speeds above 30 km/h when travelling on roads without street lighting in the dark.

AIR-BALANCE PACKAGE: with improved filtration, perfume atomisation and ionisation, this optional extra fulfils three functions at once. With the help of a fine-particle activated charcoal filter integrated into the air conditioner housing, the air is filtered even more efficiently than in the standard model. The customer is able to perfume and individualise the interior with a high-quality fragrance. An ioniser is used to ionise the air for a cleaner, fresher atmosphere.

AIRMATIC: full air suspension system specified as standard for the S-Class. Continuous adjustment of the level allows the spring travel to be maintained whatever the vehicle load. The vehicle level is also controlled automatically depending on the vehicle speed. It is lowered by up to 20 millimetres when the speed exceeds 120 km/h, thus reducing aerodynamic drag and improving driving stability thanks to the vehicle’s low centre of gravity.

BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist: for the first time, the Brake Assist system BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist can help to avoid not just rear-end collisions with vehicles directly in front, but also imminent crashes with cross traffic at junctions. If the anticipatory system detects a hazardous situation of this type based on the amalgamated data from the brand new stereo camera and the radar sensor system, it prompts the driver to start emergency braking by activating visual and acoustic warnings. If the driver presses the brake pedal too tentatively, as is often the case, BAS PLUS will step in by automatically boosting brake pressure for effective emergency braking, even applying the brakes at full power if necessary. The system is active at speeds up to 72 km/h.

BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake: the BAS PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Brake functions have been supplemented by pedestrian detection. In addition to this, autonomous braking as a result of vehicles in front has undergone a major enhancement. By “fusing together” the data from the stereo camera and radar sensors, it is now possible to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle. Visual and acoustic warnings are given when a hazard is spotted. If the driver then reacts by braking, the braking power will be boosted by BAS PLUS as the situation requires, right up to full brake application. Should the driver fail to react, the PRE-SAFE® Brake will trigger autonomous vehicle braking. The PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection is active up to 72 km/h, and is able to prevent accidents with pedestrians at speeds up to 50 km/h. The operating range of the autonomous braking function for stationary vehicles has been optimised so that rear-end collisions can likewise now be avoided at speeds of up to 50 km/h.

Beltbag: This inflatable seat belt strap can lower the risk of injury to rear passengers during a frontal impact by reducing the loads acting on the ribcage. Should the crash sensors detect a severe frontal impact, the airbag control unit will trigger deployment and inflation of the beltbag. A gas generator then inflates the multi-layered belt strap with Velcro 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, thereby reducing the risk of injury.

Climatised seats: together with the perforated leather, four fans in the seat cushion and two fans in the backrest ensure uniform relative air humidity where the occupant’s body meets the seat. For the first time, so-called reversing fans are used in the climatised seats. Here the rotational direction of the fan, and therefore the airflow within the seat structure, can be reversed. This enables the surface temperature of a heated-up seat to be reduced much faster.

COMAND Online: this brings the internet into the car. The following functions are supported: WLAN HotSpot integrated into the head unit as standard, unrestricted browsing on the internet, read/write SMS/email, Mercedes-Benz services. Internet radio, Live Traffic Information

Crosswind Assist: helps the driver as it can substantially reduce the effect strong crosswinds have on the vehicle’s straight-line stability.

Cushionbag: this airbag is located under the seat cushion upholstery, but on top of the plastic seat shell. When the seat is reclined, it prevents the occupant from sliding beneath the seat belt (so-called submarining) in an accident, as it raises the front section of the seat cushion upholstery.

Data fusion: highly sophisticated sensors and the necessary networked algorithms provide the foundation for innovative new functions. Data fusion enables the algorithms for the varying systems to amalgamate the visual information from the stereo camera with the readings from the radar sensors. Many of the assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz work in this way, fusing multiple or complementary data sources to ensure more reliable operation.

DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot: the DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control is a driver aid designed to keep the vehicle at the desired distance from another vehicle in front, even in stop & go traffic. This basic radar-based function has now been enhanced by the addition of Stop&Go Pilot, which helps drivers to stay centred in their lane by generating the appropriate steering torque when travelling on a straight road and even in gentle bends. The stereo camera recognises lane markings as well as a vehicle driving ahead, and relays this information to the electric steering assistance system. When driving at slow speeds, e.g. in congested traffic, the Stop&Go Pilot can use the vehicle ahead as a means of orientation, even when there are no clear lane markings visible.

The system’s design is so refined that the sensors can detect whether the driver’s hands are actually on the steering wheel. If they are not, a visual warning is issued first. Should the driver fail to react, a warning signal sounds and lateral lane guidance is deactivated.

The system can be activated at speeds up to 200 km/h. A green steering wheel symbol appears in the instrument cluster to indicate when the Stop&Go Pilot is operating while DISTRONIC PLUS is activated.

Double cupholder: the use of Peltier technology enables drinks to be warmed or cooled over a longer period. The thermo-cupholders are integrated into the Business centre console in the rear.

Electromechanical Direct-Steer system: this combines speed-sensitive power assistance with a variable ratio across the steering angle range. The power steering assistance provided by the rack and pinion steering gear is controlled on-demand and therefore contributes towards efficiency.

ENERGIZING massage function: Working together with physiotherapists and psychologists, the seat specialists at Mercedes-Benz have developed a unique massage function on the hot-stone principle. This is based on 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.

Energy-transparent vehicle: method developed by Mercedes-Benz to detect the possibilities for efficiency optimisation in even the most minute component. An exact and meticulous examination of the flow of energy throughout the vehicle (tank to wheel) helps the development engineers to optimise every single assembly that has an impact on fuel consumption, right down to individual wheel bearings.

Executive seat: electrically adjustable rear seat with a backrest angle of 19 to 43.5 degrees on the front passenger side, available as an optional extra for the long-wheelbase version. Even in the reclined position, the cushionbag prevents the occupant from sliding under the seat belt in an accident.

FLEXRAY data bus: serial communication technology in the car with extremely high data transfer rate, used with ROAD SURFACE SCAN.

Frontbass system: this is the first time that Mercedes-Benz has used this system in a saloon car. The woofers are installed in the firewall, and use the almost 40-litre space in the cross-members and side members as a resonance chamber.

Hot-stone principle: a massage technique traditionally widespread throughout the world which has been developed further in recent years to enhance relaxation and the sense of wellbeing. The spine is covered with stones heated to up to 55 degrees C and massaged.

Individual Entertainment System in the rear: the new S-Class is the first vehicle worldwide to offer a genuine multi-user system for entertainment functions. This means that there is independent access to the media sources of the entertainment system from any of the four seats – i.e. radio, TV, internet, navigation, DVD player and USB-connected devices. Realised with the help of a MOST bus system.

Infrared headlamps: two separate light sources in the headlamp assemblies light up the road ahead with invisible infrared light. Used for the Night View Assist Plus.

Lightweight index: this index defines the torsional stiffness in relation to the vehicle’s size (footprint) and weight. To this end, all the relevant node areas have been optimised and systematically reinforced with respect to force distribution.

Live Traffic Information: internet-based traffic information in real time.

Long-range infrared camera: detects relevant objects (pedestrians and animals such as deer, horses, cattle) at a distance of up to 160 m as a thermal image, enabling it to control the warning function. Used for the Night View Assist Plus.

Luxury seats: electrically adjustable rear seats with a backrest angle of 19 to 37 degrees, available as an optional extra.

MAGIC BODY CONTROL: innovative suspension system available as an option for the eight-cylinder models, featuring the ACTIVE BODY CONTROL and ROAD SURFACE SCAN subfunctions.

MAGIC VISION CONTROL: although not visible as a spray jet, this adaptive screen washing system uses conventional washer fluid to ensure a clear view. The innovation lies in the way the fluid is conducted to the windscreen in order to clean it. This is done by means of water guides integrated on both sides along the wiper blade – one on the left and one on the right – with minute laser-cut
spraying holes. Via these channels, the innovative system always supplies washing fluid to the windscreen discreetly, precisely where it is needed: just in front of the wiper blade lip, according to the direction of movement of the wiper.

Mercedes-Benz emergency call system: in combination with COMAND Online the new S-Class features the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system. When COMAND Online is connected to a mobile phone and an accident occurs, the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system automatically alerts an emergency call centre within minutes. After airbag or belt tensioner activation, the precise GPS position of the vehicle and its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) are sent to a special emergency call centre by SMS, the location data being sent in parallel using the DTMF (dual tone multifrequency) process.

MOST bus system: the Individual Entertainment System in the rear is connected via a fibre-optic cable, a so-called MOST bus system (Media Oriented Systems Transport). Access to the sources from any seat is possible via the MOST ring, which operates at a transfer rate of up to 150 Mbit per second.

Multicontour seats: these relieve strain on the spine and can be precisely adjusted to suit the ergonomics of the driver and passengers. To this end the pressure of the variable air chambers in the backrest side bolsters and for the backrest contour in the lumbar area can be predefined.

Multi-level functionality: dazzle protection for following traffic. The brake lights and indicators are operated at varying intensities depending on the current driving state and ambient brightness levels (day/night).

Night View Assist Plus: alerting to pedestrians and animals. The new Night View Assist Plus system is capable of detecting pedestrians and animals in potentially hazardous positions in front of the vehicle. In particularly relevant situations (in darkness, in unlit surroundings at speeds over 60 km/h) it automatically switches the instrument cluster display from the speedometer to a crystal-sharp night view image to alert the driver. Any pedestrians or animals detected ahead are clearly highlighted in colour in this image. The spotlight function is additionally used to repeatedly flash pedestrians in the warning zone in these situations by means of a special module in the front headlamps. This attracts the driver’s attention to the source of the danger at the same time as warning the person on the side of the road. Animals purposely are not flashed since their reaction to light is unpredictable. These functions are now available in urban areas, too. Infrared headlamps, a long-range infrared camera, a short-range infrared camera and a spotlight function are used to provide the various functions.

PRE-SAFE® Impulse: at an early phase of the crash, before the resulting deceleration starts to increase, the front occupants are pulled against the direction of impact and pulled deeper into their seats by their seat belts. By the time the accident enters the phase when loads peak, the extra distance they are retracted by can be used while dissipating energy in a controlled fashion.

Preacceleration and force limitation allow the occupants to be temporarily isolated from the effects of the crash, significantly reducing the risk and severity of injuries in a frontal collision. With PRE-SAFE® Impulse, the seat belt can be retracted by pyrotechnic means at all three belt anchorage points, and released again with controlled force. The fundamental difference compared with conventional belt tensioners is that the force for retracting the belt strap is maintained for a much longer time. The deployment logic fires the seat belt system’s belt tensioners progressively depending on the seriousness of the accident. In this way, the tensioning force can be adapted as required.

PRE-SAFE® PLUS: occupant protection for an imminent impact from the rear. PRE-SAFE® PLUS offers an extension of the familiar occupant protection measures in situations where traffic behind poses a danger. A radar sensor in the rear bumper monitors the traffic behind the vehicle and can detect the risk of a rear-end collision. The system warns the driver of the vehicle behind by activating the rear hazard warning lights at a higher frequency than normal. If the vehicle is stationary, if the danger of a collision persists PRE-SAFE® PLUS will keep it firmly braked. Minimising the forward jolt in this way can greatly reduce the strain placed on the occupants, such as the risk of whiplash injuries.

Firmly applying the vehicle’s brakes can help to prevent secondary accidents too, such as running into a vehicle in front, for example, or colliding with pedestrians or other road users at junctions. Immediately before impact, the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection measures, including the reversible belt tensioners, are deployed.

PRE-SAFE® Rear package: activates occupant protection measures in hazardous situations. These include tensioning the seat belts and raising the luxury and Executive seats to the upright position, as well as closing the windows and sliding sunroof. In conjunction with PRE-SAFE® PLUS, also activation of occupant protection when a rear-end collision threatens.

Radar: sensor technology for picking up relevant obstacles. New improved versions of the short-range and long-range radars combine with a new multimode radar to detect relevant obstacles such as vehicles or people in defined areas in front of, next to and, now, behind the vehicle, too. The system employs 2 x short-range radars at the front (range 30 m, detection angle 80°), 1 x longrange radar at the front (200 m, 18°) with medium-range detection (60 m, 60°), 2 x short-range radars on the sides at the rear (30 m, 80°) and 1 x multi-mode radar at the rear (30 m, 80° and 80 m, 16°). The algorithms for the varying systems amalgamate (data fusion) the radar readings with the visual information from the stereo camera. Many of the assistance systems from Mercedes-Benz work in this way, fusing multiple data sources to ensure more reliable operation.

Rear seat safety: Mercedes-Benz sets new standards with special safety measures for passengers in the rear. This includes seat belt buckle extender, beltbag and cushionbag. See also PRE-SAFE® rear package.

ROAD SURFACE SCAN: subfunction of the suspension system MAGIC BODY CONTROL making the S-Class the world’s first car able to detect bumps on the road ahead. The “eyes” for the ROAD SURFACE SCAN function are provided by a stereo camera fitted behind the windscreen, which scans the road up to 15 metres ahead of the vehicle and delivers a precise image of the road contours.

Based on the camera pictures and driving status information, the control unitconstantly calculates the best control strategy for overcoming unevenness such as prolonged bumps.

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 sideways and lengthways direction. Fastening seat belts in the rear has also been made simpler: the seat belt buckle emerges when the rear doors are opened, and is provided with an illuminated insertion slot.

Short-range infrared camera: shows in conjunction with the infrared headlamps a sharp greyscale image of the area in front of the vehicle in the instrument cluster display. Used for the Night View Assist Plus.

SPLITVIEW: the driver and front passenger are able to see different content on the central display at the same time. The Comand Online system forms a mixed image from two separate display images (e.g. TV and navigation). This is then separated in the high-resolution central display by means of prisms, enabling different screen content to be shown for the driver and front passenger depending on the viewing angle.

Spotlight function in the front headlamps: in particularly relevant situations (darkness, unlit road, speed over 60 km/h) flashes any pedestrians detected with the help of the controllable light module. Used for Night View Assist Plus.

Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera (SMPC or stereo camera for short): just like the Multi-Purpose Camera (MPC) fitted previously, the stereo camera is positioned behind the windscreen in the vicinity of the rear-view mirror.

However, the camera features two “eyes” that produce a 3D view of the area up to around 50 metres in front of the vehicle while monitoring the overall situation ahead for a range of up to 500 metres. In this way, the camera is able to provide data for processing by various systems. Intelligent algorithms perform a visual evaluation of this three-dimensional information in “6D-Vision” (detection of position and movement of relevant objects in three dimensions in each case) in order to detect and carry out spatial classification of both vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing, as well as pedestrians and a variety of traffic signs and road markings within a large field of vision. Used for example for BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist and DISTRONIC PLUS with Stop&Go Pilot.

Stop&Go Pilot: supports the driver in stop-and-go traffic with steering intervention. Subfunction of DISTRONIC PLUS.

Traffic Sign Assist with wrong-way driver warning function: a new Traffic Sign Assist, which builds on the capabilities of the previous Speed Limit Assist, represents yet another contribution to accident prevention from Mercedes-Benz.

The system is now also able to recognise many supplemental signs, but also noovertakingzones and the lifting of these zones, and can even alert drivers to access restrictions.

The camera on the inside of the windscreen continues to pick up speed limit signs, including those on overhead gantries and in roadworks, for example. The camera’s data is cross-referenced against the information in the navigation system and can be displayed in both the instrument cluster and the map view. If the camera fails to spot any road signs showing a speed limit or a speed limit is lifted, the legal speed limits based on the navigation data are shown instead, such as a maximum speed of 100 km/h on country roads in Germany or 50 km/h in built-up areas. Supplemental signs are also recognised and displayed according to situation (e.g. “in the wet”).

No-overtaking zones and the signs signalling their end are also registered and displayed, while in the case of signs imposing access restrictions, through the wrong-way driver warning function an acoustic warning is additionally emitted together with a visual warning in the instrument cluster.

- By: Chris Chin