Showing posts with label level. Show all posts
Showing posts with label level. Show all posts

Friday, September 9, 2011

The new Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Model range, prices, equipment and appointments - At premium level


There are two diesel versions and one petrol version of the new M-Class available at market launch: ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY. All of the models impress with their extensive range of standard equipment and attractive, optional equipment packages. There is also a limited-edition model 'Edition 1' with exclusive equipment and appointments.


With fuel consumption according to NEDC of 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km), the extremely fuel-efficient ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC delivers an output of 150 kW (204 hp) along with 500 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from a standing start to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds, while its top speed is 210 km/h. Even faster on the move is the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, although with a fuel consumption that is almost as frugal, at 6.8 l/100 km. With a maximum output of 190 kW (258 hp) and torque of 620 Nm, the V6 diesel can accelerate to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 224 km/h. With 225 kW (306 hp), the petrol-engined ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY has an average consumption, according to NEDC, of just 8.5 l/100 km and achieves a top speed of 235 km/h.

Variety is the spice of life: the colours and materials

M-Class customers can choose from two standard, non-metallic paint finishes – calcite white or black – or pay extra for one of the following metallic paint finishes: iridium silver, obsidian black, palladium silver, pearl beige, tanzanite blue, tenorite grey, citrine brown or diamond white BRIGHT. The standard interior of the SUV features upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather in combination with black fabric and an aluminium trim with light longitudinal grain. Optional extras include the following colours and materials: ARTICO man-made leather in alpaca grey, almond beige or black; leather in alpaca grey, almond beige or black; or leather in black/alpaca grey, black/almond beige or black/tobacco brown/marron. As for the trim, there is a choice of brown open-pore ash wood or high-gloss wood in brown eucalyptus, dark graphite poplar or brown burr walnut. Furthermore, the upper and lower sections of the dashboard as well as the door beltlines can be enhanced with an ARTICO man‑made-leather trim with topstitching.

THERMATIC: prime clime as standard

A balanced interior climate is assured thanks to the standard-fit THERMATIC automatic climate control with 2 climate zones, a combination activated charcoal filter to reduce dust and odours, a solar sensor, rear air vents and a demisting sensor. For even more sophisticated climate control, the THERMOTRONIC system is available as a cost option. This system also includes 4-zone temperature control for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers as well as three individually adjustable climate modes – DIFFUSE, MEDIUM, FOCUS – a dew point sensor, additional B-pillar vents, a booster blower in the centre console for the rear compartment with separate controls, convenient air recirculation with an outside air quality sensor and residual engine heat utilisation.

For the eyes and the ears: good entertainment and the best information

The new M-Class comes as standard with the Audio 20 CD system, which comprises a radio with twin-tuner, TFT colour display with a 14.7 cm screen diagonal, an MP3/WMA/AAC-compatible CD player, a USB interface with CD Cover Art display (if saved on the storage medium), an AUX-IN socket in the centre armrest and a telephone keypad. The Bluetooth interface also allows hands‑free telephony and Audio Streaming for the transfer of music.

The Audio 20 CD system can be optionally upgraded with the addition of a 6-disc CD changer, Media Interface, the "Logic7" Surround Sound system from audio specialists Harman/Kardon®, digital radio (DAB) or comfort telephony in the armrest. Then there is the Becker® MAP PILOT, a fully integrated navigation module with 2D/3D map displays for Europe. This system, which is offered as a genuine accessory, can be docked into a cradle in the glove compartment and controlled through the central control unit of the Audio 20 CD system. The navigation route is shown in both the central display and the instrument cluster, while route recommendations are issued acoustically through the vehicle loudspeakers. Also included: automatic tailback avoidance (TMC Pro) and voice-controlled address entry. Updates to map data, application software and other features are possible via the internet on a home computer, since the module can be taken out.

The COMAND Online system, with a high-resolution 17.8 cm TFT colour display, offers internet access in the M-Class for the first time. Customers can either surf freely while the vehicle is stationary, or call up a Mercedes-Benz app, the pages of which build particularly quickly and are easy to use even while the vehicle is on the move. The integrated apps include Google™ Local Search, Facebook access (from 11/2011) and weather, as well as the ability to download and adopt into the navigation system a route that has been previously configured in Google Maps and sent to the car, or specific destinations. Further Mercedes-Benz apps will be successively introduced and will then be available for use by all customers. Telephones that are compatible with the COMAND Online apps are listed on the website www.mercedes-benz.com/connect . COMAND Online is available as an option with a 6-disc DVD‑changer.

The system includes Speed Limit Assist as standard, which recognises traffic signs and displays the applicable speed limit in the instrument cluster.

Stable prices: ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC costs little more than its predecessor

Customers can order the new M-Class from 11 July of this year, with deliveries commencing in November 2011. Despite the upgraded equipment and appointments, prices for the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC remain practically the same as for its predecessor (an increase of just 50 euros).

The prices at a glance:

Exclusive model to mark the launch: Edition 1

They have already become something of a tradition and are valued by our customers: the limited-number Edition 1 vehicles that mark the beginning of any new model series. In the case of the new M-Class, the offer includes an AMG Exterior Sports package with a specific front apron, rear apron and side sill panels in vehicle colour, as well as 50.8 cm (9J x 20) high-sheen AMG light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke design and 265/45 R 20 tyres. The sporty, dynamic look of the car is rounded off by sports brakes with perforated brake discs and special brake calliper covers, and metallic paintwork.

The interior is similarly impressive, featuring designo leather upholstery in either marron or porcelain with contrasting decorative stitching in a diamond-shaped pattern. The instrument panel, door centre panels, interior beltlines and centre console are also upholstered in leather. The wood/leather steering wheel in nappa leather with DIRECT SELECT shift paddles, wood trim in open-pore brown ash or high-gloss anthracite poplar and the black designo roof lining round off this luxurious package of appointments. The footwells have black velour floor mats with metal 'designo' badges. Functional enhancements to the interior include a Memory package, seat heating for the driver's and front passenger seats, sidebags in the rear and the automatic child seat recognition system. The M-Class Edition 1 may be combined with any diesel or petrol engine.
The M-Class Edition 1 can likewise be ordered from 11 July, with prices starting at €55,700 (€66,283 incl. 19% VAT for the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC Edition 1).

Complete: the standard equipment

Adaptive flashing brake lights
Airbags for driver and front passenger
4MATIC all-wheel drive
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
Acceleration skid control (ASR)
ATTENTION ASSIST can detect typical signs of drowsiness or increasing inattention based on the driver's steering and then warn the driver in advance if microsleep is imminent
Audio 20 CD
Heated left and right exterior mirrors, electrically adjustable from inside, painted in the vehicle colour, with aspherically curved mirror glass and integral indicators
7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission
Brake Assist (BAS) with automatic detection of emergency-stop situations and braking assistance
Spectacles compartment in overhead control panel, illuminated
2 cup holders at the front
Chrome-look roof rails
Diesel particulate filter (diesel models only)
DIRECT SELECT gearshift with DIRECT SELECT steering-wheel shift paddles and DIRECT SELECT selector lever on the steering column
Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR)
ECO start/stop function
Chrome-effect electronic key
Electronic Stability Program (ESP®)
Electronic Traction System (4ETS)
4 power windows with convenience control and automatic reversing function
Transmission mode switch for Economy, Sport and Manual modes (E/S/M) for ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC
Electric parking brake with convenience release function (released automatically when starting off)
Folding rear-seat backrests with 1/3 : 2/3 split, adjustable inclination and cargo position
Pedestrian protection with Active Bonnet
Heated rear window with timer control
Rear window wiper with intermittent wiper control, activated automatically when reversing
ISOFIX child seat anchorage points in the rear and TopTether securing points at the top of the rear backrest
Mechanical childproof locks in the rear doors and electrical childproof locks on the rear power windows
Kneebag for the driver
Instrument cluster in 2-tube design with 11.4 cm (4.5-inch) multifunction display
LED rear lights including tail lights, brake lights, indicators and third brake light
LED daytime driving lights
43.2 cm (17-inch) 10-spoke light-alloy wheels with 235/65 R17 on 7.5 J x 17 (ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC/ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC)
· 45.7 cm (18-inch) 10-spoke light-alloy wheels with 255/55 R17 on 8 J x 18 (ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY)
Steering column manually adjustable for height and reach
4-spoke multifunction steering wheel in nappa leather with steering-wheel shift paddles and 12 function buttons
Off-road mode with off-road button, optimises the modes for anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), Electronic Traction System (4ETS) and electric steering (ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC/ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY) when driving off-road
Electric steering with variable steering assistance and variable steering ratio
PRE-SAFE® system with reversible belt tensioners for front seats, closing function for power windows
Tyre pressure loss warning system
Windscreen wipers with rain sensor
Clear-lens headlamps with H7 projector-beam technology
Side impact protection
Sidebags for driver and front passenger
Sun visors with illuminated vanity mirrors which can be pivoted to the side
Socket under rear seat bench on the right and in the load compartment
Cruise control with SPEEDTRONIC variable speed limiter
TIREFIT with electric pump
Door brake with locking system
Up-front and roll-over sensor system, supplies information to the central control unit to ensure fast activation of the restraint systems such as airbags and belt tensioners in line with the current situation if a frontal impact is detected or if the vehicle rolls over
Fully electrically adjustable front seats
Heat-insulating green tinted glass all round, incl. rear window made from single-layer safety glass
Warning buzzer and warning indicator in the instrument cluster if occupants are not all wearing their seat belts
Windowbag
Central locking with interior switch, automatic locking (deactivatable) and crash sensor with emergency opening


Designed to give customers what they want: attractive equipment and appointments packages

AMG Exterior Sports package:
AMG bodystyling, front apron, rear apron and side skirts in body colour
48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish, with 255/50 R 19 on 8.5 J x 19
Sports brakes with 45.7 cm/48.3 cm (18-inch/ 19-inch) perforated brake discs with brake calliper cover


designo Exclusive package:
Upholstery in single-tone designo leather
designo roof lining in DINAMICA black
Extended appointments in designo leather, including dashboard, beltlines, door
centre panels and armrests
designo floor mats with "designo" badge and edging in designo black leather


Anti-Theft Protection package including anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection and interior monitoring system
Driving assistance package Plus including DISTRONIC PLUS, PRE-SAFE® Brake, Brake Assist (BAS PLUS), automatic child seat recognition, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist
Load compartment management: EASY-PACK load-securing kit including EASY-PACK load-securing rails, fastening elements, telescopic bar and inertia reel
Light package incl. Intelligent Light System with bi-xenon headlamps, active light function, automatic headlamp beam control, cornering light function, LED indicators, headlamp cleaning system and Adaptive Highbeam Assist
Memory package including electrically adjustable front seats, front head restraints, steering column and exterior mirrors with Memory function as well as exterior mirrors with parking position, 4-way lumbar support for front seats, controls on the doors and positioning of the front passenger seat in PRE-SAFE® situations
ON&OFFROAD package including transmission mode switch and animation on the COMAND display, manual mode for 7G-TRONIC, 100% centre differential lock, adapted 4ETS, off-road reduction ratio (low range), underguard under engine, underride guard and special off-road algorithms for ABS, ETS, ESP and air suspension
Smoker package incl. ashtrays in place of front/rear stowage compartment and cigarette lighter in the front
Interior Sports package
Upholstery in DINAMICA microfibre/ARTICO man-made leather in black or upholstery in nappa leather/leather in black
Sports seats with reinforced lateral support in the 1st seat row and unique seat
design with contrasting stitching in the front/rear
Unique door centre panel
Luxury 4-spoke sports steering wheel
Sports pedals in brushed stainless steel with rubber studs
Floor mats in cord with Mercedes-Benz badge
Mirror package: automatically dimming interior mirror and exterior mirror on driver's side as well as electrically folding exterior mirrors left and right
Lane Tracking package including Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist
Winter package including auxiliary heater, remote control, heated windscreen washer system and heated front seats


The best in information and entertainment: optional infotainment systems

In addition to the Becker® MAP PILOT and COMAND Online systems described, further features available include the following:

Digital radio (DAB) for the DAB, DMB and DAB+ standards
Rear Seat Entertainment System including two 20.3 cm displays integrated in the front head restraints, DVD player, two sets of headphones and remote control
Harman Kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system including 12-channel SP amplifier and 2-channel booster with a total output of 830 watts in conjunction with 14 high-performance loudspeakers Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS listening experience possible if Audio 20 APS or COMAND APS is specified
Convenience Telephony in the armrest with universal interface for various cradles, extended telephone functions, charging function and external aerial for optimum reception
Media Interface: universal interface in the glove compartment for various mobile audio devices including consumer cable set (e.g. iPod, USB stick)
TV tuner for analogue and digital reception (only in conjunction with COMAND)
Desirable: the key individual features available as cost options
ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM, dynamic handling control system with dynamic anti-roll function (only in conjunction with AIRMATIC ADS)
AIRMATIC with Adaptive Damping System (ADS) and all-round self-levelling
Active Parking Assist including PARKTRONIC
Ambient lighting for trim in 3 colours, lighting for two cup holders, rear footwell, air vent thumbwheels and front door sills as well as warning/exit lighting in the rear
Trailer coupling with electric unlocking
Cup holders with warm/cold temperature control and pelletier element
designo appointments: wood/leather steering wheel, black fabric roof lining, black piano lacquer wood trim
·Wood/leather steering wheel in nappa leather with DIRECT SELECT shift paddles
KEYLESS-GO access and drive authorisation system including door handles with chrome insert


Light-alloy wheels:
43.2 cm (17-inch) 5-spoke with 235/65 R 17 on 7.5 J x 17
45.7 cm (18-inch) 10-spoke with 255/55 R 17 on 8 J x 18
48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-twin-spoke with 255/50 R 19 on 8 J x 19
48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-spoke with 255/50 R 19 on 8.5 J x 19
48.3 cm (19-inch) 7-spoke with 255/50 R 19 on 8.5 J x 19
50.8 cm (20-inch) 5-twin-spoke with 265/45 R 20 on 9 J x 20


AMG bodystyling light-alloy wheels:
48.3 cm (19-inch) 5-spoke AMG with a high-sheen finish, with 255/50 R 19
on 8.5 J x 19
50.8 cm (20-inch) 5-spoke AMG with a high-sheen finish, with 265/45 R 20 on 8.5 9J x 20
53.3 cm (21-inch) 5-twin-spoke AMG with a high-sheen finish, with 265/40
R 21 on 9J x 21
53.3 cm (21-inch) 5-twin-spoke AMG in titanium grey with a high-sheen finish, with 295/35 R 21 on 10 J x 21


Heated multifunction steering wheel
Night View Assist Plus with automatic person recognition
Electric panoramic glass sunroof with convenience closing feature and automatic rain-sensor closing function (tilt position), electric roller sun blind and automatic reversing function
Reversing camera with guide lines on the display
Rear sidebags left and right
Heated rear seats
Climatised (heated and ventilated) front seats, perforated leather
Heat insulating dark tinted glass for rear side windows and rear window










Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.

Friday, July 1, 2011

The new Mercedes-Benz Actros: Chassis and safety - Driving dynamics, comfort and safety systems at the highest level


A tough truck wouldn't be complete without brilliant underpinnings. The new Actros is equipped with a dynamic chassis based on a torsionally stiff frame with wide track. It integrates an intelligent concept which improves ride comfort and helps for a sensitive and firm steering for added fuel economy. The assistance systems provide extra safety and relieve stress when the truck is stuck in traffic. In the future, the range will be extended as the chassis was developed to properly fit new and additional wheelbase lengths.


Criteria such as handling and safety are becoming increasingly important in long-distance transport. The new Mercedes-Benz Actros takes account of this, ushering in a new era of driving dynamics for heavy-duty trucks. No other premium-category truck feels as poised, assured or safe on the road, largely thanks to a new frame and an extensively modified chassis. The new truck's exemplary ride comfort is at the same high level. A Mercedes-Benz is always extremely well prepared should the worst come to the worst: the already outstanding safety level has been further enhanced by extended functions. Last but not least, a perfected modular system means that the new Actros is available with a wide choice of wheelbase and frame variants. Plus it offers exceptional body-mounting ability.

Complete chassis and ride-comfort concept

Major plus points of the new Actros include its driving dynamics, handling and comfort, largely thanks to a complete chassis and ride-comfort concept, from the frame and the chassis through to the cab suspension and the driver's seat. A wealth of innovations in this field means that the new Actros conveys a safer driving feel than any other truck in its class.

Torsionally stiff frame with wide track

A new frame, uncompromisingly designed for on-road vehicles, forms the backbone of the new Actros. It is exceptionally torsionally stiff and has a wide track of 834 mm (previously 744 mm). Both factors together form the basis for excellent handling stability – the Actros hugs the road with an assured feel.

Tried-and-tested axles and a dynamic, new chassis

The core design of the tried-and-tested axles is the same as for the predecessor model; however, the developers have completely redesigned the control and the suspension to enhance driving safety and ride comfort.

New features include the location system for the Mercedes-Benz HL6 hypoid rear axle, based on optimised rear-axle location with new geometry and lines of action that now intersect behind the axle. Four-bellows air suspension, which responds precisely to road unevenness, is now responsible for the ride comfort. This is a symmetrical air suspension system (i.e. the bellows are of the same size). The spring track is wider than previously. Another advantage is the fact that four bellows operate faster and can lift higher loads than two bellows.

The tried-and-tested offset front axles are available with either steel or air suspension and with a choice of tonnages. The number of spring layers varies depending on the permissible axle load. The weight of the steel springs has been reduced thanks to an aluminium front spring bracket. New features include weight-optimised suspension with single-leaf parabolic springs on the front axle.

The chassis for the new Actros impresses with its high levels of directional stability, outstanding understeer/oversteer characteristics and high precision. Ride comfort has also been further enhanced.

Three cab mounting variants

The cab mounting is a major component in the driving-dynamics concept. There is a choice of three variants for the new Actros: Standard cab mounting, Comfort cab mounting (standard for cabs with a flat floor) and the exceptionally comfortable air suspension.

Sensitive and firm steering even saves fuel

One of the key factors behind the new Actros' excellent handling is the steering system, which impresses on account of its precision, thanks to a re-tuned steering gear, and conveys excellent road feel. The ratio is more direct whilst the kinematics have been improved and the controlled power steering pump saves fuel.

Powerful new engine brake and highly effective retarder

In 1996, the forerunner to the new Actros revolutionised the truck world on account of its four-disc brake system with a high-pressure system and electronic control. The new Actros takes this exceptional brake system a stage further. A new, optionally available high-performance engine brake sets new standards once again. The three-stage engine brake achieves an immense braking power of up to 400 kW (544 hp) on Euro VI models. Another new feature is the optionally available water secondary retarder with a braking torque of up to 3500 Nm or up to 750 kW. As well as being more powerful, the new retarder is lighter, weighing in at just 65 kg instead of 100 kg as previously.

Assistance systems to enhance comfort and relieve stress when stuck in traffic

The previous model series also set milestones with its safety and assistance systems. Whether it be adaptive cruise control, Lane Keeping Assist, Stability Control Assist or the revolutionary Active Brake Assist with autonomous emergency braking when stationary obstacles or moving obstacles ahead are detected, the Actros has always led the way for others to follow.

The new Actros builds on this lead. Stability Control Assist is now fitted as standard on both the semitrailer tractor and the chassis version, while the unique Proximity Control Assist system with stop-and-go function now even controls moving off and stopping in traffic automatically – making the driver's job much easier when driving through cities or in stop-and-go traffic. What's more, the Proximity Control Assist is no longer automatically linked to the retarder. The sensed fifth wheel coupling informs the driver of its lock status via a display in the cab. The exterior mirror with manoeuvring function on the co-driver's side extends the range of vision when manoeuvring by automatically adjusting outwards by ten degrees when reverse gear is engaged.

Standard equipment for all Actros models includes automatic activation of the hazard warning lights following an emergency stop so as to warn following traffic and help prevent rear-end collisions. The optional rain and light sensor activates the windscreen wipers and dipped beam when required, while the likewise optionally available tyre pressure monitoring system for the tractor and trailer is primarily aimed at enhancing safety: burst tyres as a result of insufficient inflation pressure are just as much of a safety risk as flat tyres. Furthermore, insufficient tyre inflation pressure increases the tyre's flex and, therefore, fuel consumption as well as reducing service life – a key factor when it comes to economy.

Attractively priced safety packages

Ready-made safety packages available at attractive prices encourage the inclusion of safety technology. The “Basic Safety Pack” comprises Proximity Control Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and a driver's airbag, while the Classic Safety Pack includes all of these as well as Active Brake Assist and roll control for dropsiders. Meanwhile, the Top Safety Pack features all of the above plus a retarder.

Range extended to include new and additional wheelbase lengths

The new Actros is a bespoke premium truck with an even larger range of models available than its predecessor. It can be ordered as a two- or three-axle version with trailing or leading axle and with a choice of three frame heights: standard, low and lowliner. Mercedes‑Benz has also further extended the range of wheelbase lengths by narrowing the gap between each version. Hence the two-axle semitrailer tractor is now available with a choice of four wheelbase lengths – 3550, 3700, 3850 or 4000 mm – while the two-axle chassis with cab gives customers a whopping eleven wheelbase lengths to choose from, ranging from 3600 to 6600 mm in steps of 300 mm.

Low-frame and lowliner models now have a slightly lower coupling point height, while the dropsider frame is also noticeably lower, making it easier to mount bodies.

Good body-mounting ability prioritised

The new Actros chassis already offers exceptionally good body-mounting ability as it is. The 50 mm hole pattern throughout in the frame side members, including the area of the axles, gives bodybuilders a great deal of freedom, as does the absence of rivets aft of the rear axle. Frame overhangs can be selected in steps of 300 mm, while the end crossmember can be relocated in 50 mm steps.

Although the exhaust system takes up more space on the frame due to the Euro VI requirements, optimised exhaust outlets make the bodybuilder's job easier. If required, space can be left within the frame – for demountable-platform vehicles, for example. In this case, there is no need to relocate the tank subsequently. Standardised fastenings, brackets and fixing bolts facilitate body mounting. All of which saves costs and shortens delivery times.

New chassis with new tanks

The wider frame, the in-line engines and the more complex exhaust gas aftertreatment system for Euro VI require a modified chassis design. The developers have taken this opportunity to introduce a new fuel tank concept among other things. Four tank cross-sections give a fuel supply volume of 290 to 1300 litres. The tanks are flexibly inter-combinable for individual solutions, and there are no conversion costs. Even the AdBlue tanks are available in a choice of sizes: 60 or 75 litres.

The main fuel tank and the AdBlue tank are mounted on the left-hand side of the vehicle. There is space for an additional tank on the right-hand side. The full vehicle width of 2.55 metres can be used to optimise the tank volume. There is also a combination tank with two chambers for diesel fuel and AdBlue available for semitrailer tractors.

Source: Daimler AG

Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.