Tuesday, February 1, 2011

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT sports transmission increases efficiency: New design and enhanced technology for the C 63 AMG


OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Affalterbach, Germany, Feb 01, 2011 – The successful Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG is now more attractive than ever: the modified design of the top-of-the-range C-Class model is complemented by numerous enhancements to its technology which deliver even more driving enjoyment while reducing fuel consumption significantly. The introduction of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission with the "Controlled Efficiency" mode as standard along with a new power steering pump helps to reduce the combined NEDC fuel consumption by about ten percent to 12.0 l/100 km (Estate: 12.3 l/100 km). The output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine is unchanged at 336 kW (457 hp) and can be increased to a maximum of 358 kW (487 hp) with the optional AMG Performance package. Agility, grip and ride comfort have been enhanced as a result of numerous measures to optimise the AMG sports suspension. New assistance systems and a new generation of telematics with internet access increase both safety and comfort.



The latest 2011 generation of the C 63 AMG is now more dynamic and athletic than ever. Thanks to its new radiator grille with a large Mercedes star and a wing-type transverse louvre, as well as a new AMG front apron with a lower cross member painted in high-gloss black, special AMG daytime running lights and side air outlets, the front section recalls the look of the SL 63 AMG high-performance roadster. The new bonnet with its modified powerdomes is now made of aluminium. New clear-lens headlamps emphasise the car's distinctive, self-confident presence, especially when the optional Intelligent Light System (ILS) is also specified. The wide front wings with the "6.3 AMG" legend and the new 5 twin-spoke AMG light-alloy wheels which are painted in titanium grey and have a high-sheen finish dominate the side view. Good contact with the road is provided by the wide 235/40 R 18 and 255/35 R 18 tyres at front and rear respectively.1 February 2011
The rear view of the C 63 AMG also evokes the SL 63 AMG: the new AMG rear apron has a distinctive, black diffuser insert with three pronounced diffuser fins. The two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sports exhaust system are as pleasing to the ear as they are to the eye.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission from the SL 63 AMG

Under the skin, too, the top C-Class model boasts a wealth of new technology including the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission - another advanced feature adopted from the SL 63 AMG. Rather than using a torque converter, this innovative transmission has a wet start-off clutch which allows it to deliver a much more efficient, agile and direct response. Fuel consumption and emissions have been reduced significantly thanks to the "Controlled Efficiency" mode and a new power steering pump: at 12.0 litres per 100 km (Estate: 12.3 l/100 km) the combined NEDC fuel consumption of the C 63 AMG is 1.4 litres (Estate: 1.3 litres) lower than that of the predecessor model; this represents a reduction in fuel consumption of some ten percent. The CO2 emissions figure is now 280 (Estate: 288) grams per kilometre. Both power variants have identical fuel consumption and emission figures.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission impresses with its exceptional flexibility: with four driving modes as well as double-declutching and RACE START functions it is as compatible with a relaxed, fuel-saving driving style as it is with high-speed laps on a closed racing circuit and extremely dynamic overtaking manoeuvres. The Controlled Efficiency "C" mode is programmed to provide early, comfortable upshifts while maintaining the lowest possible engine speed to help the driver keep fuel consumption down. The "S", "S+" and "M" modes deliver increased agility through fast, responsive gear changes and higher revs. Gear changes in the "S+" and "M" modes take just 100 milliseconds.

The naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine with its large displacement of 6208 cc develops 336 kW (457 hp) at 6800 rpm and attains a peak torque of 600 newton metres at 5000 rpm. A look at the performance figures confirms that the new C 63 AMG retains its predecessor's position as the top performing model in its segment: acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h takes just 4.5 seconds (Estate: 4.6 s) while the top speed is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Performance package: technology transfer from the SLS AMG

Even more dynamic performance is available with the optional AMG Performance package: this offers 358 kW (487 hp) and allows a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 4.4 seconds (Estate: 4.5 s). The Mercedes-AMG engine experts have achieved this increase in output thanks to a technology transfer from the SLS AMG: the forged pistons, connecting rods and the lightweight crankshaft all come from the gullwing model's engine. The reduced mass inertia of the components – which are three
kilograms lighter than those of the standard version – allows the naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine to rev up with even greater ease and agility. Models equipped with the performance package can be identified by the variable intake manifold painted in titanium grey under the bonnet, the AMG high-performance braking system with composite front discs and red painted brake calipers all round, the carbon-fibre spoiler lip on the boot lid (Saloon) and the AMG performance steering wheel in nappa leather with an Alcantara® grip area.

Key data at a glance:

Optimised suspension, new steering system reduces fuel consumption

The AMG sports suspension with a special front axle, reinforced rear axle and wider track all round has undergone thorough modification; the driver benefits from this in two ways as the C 63 AMG now offers greater driving enjoyment and ride comfort at all times. The new, stiffer elastokinematics, the revised axle kinematics with more negative camber all round and the new rear-axle anti-roll bar with a larger cross-section result in higher agility and greater lateral acceleration. But driving dynamics is not the only area in which progress has been made: new spring and damper rates have optimised both the responsiveness of the suspension as well as the road roar and tyre vibration characteristics.

The AMG speed-sensitive sports steering with a direct ratio (13.5 : 1) has a newly developed power-steering pump which plays a decisive role in reducing the fuel consumption. This is because the power assistance for the steering only requires energy when the driver is actually making steering movements. Reliable deceleration at all times is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with internally ventilated and perforated discs all round.

Interior: high quality and perceived value

Even a quick glance at the interior of the C 63 AMG reveals the considerable progress which has been made: the completely new dashboard design with an integrated screen impresses with its particularly attractive appearance and the superior quality of the details which immediately bring the new CLS 63 AMG to mind. The quality look and feel meet the highest standards. The new, all-colour, three-dimensional TFT display in the middle of the redesigned speedometer welcomes the driver by showing the AMG logo. The new three-spoke AMG performance steering wheel - another feature adopted from the CLS 63 AMG – which is trimmed in nappa leather and features a metallic trim element has flattened top and bottom sections as well as grip areas which are specially shaped and trimmed in perforated leather for perfect steering control. Aluminium shift paddles allow manual gear selection.

Fine trim elements in brushed dark aluminium are to be found on the dashboard and doors. Situated in the centre console, which is enhanced with high-gloss black piano lacquer trim elements, is the new rotary control for selecting the transmission modes C, S, S+, M and RACE START. The special AMG sports seats with integral head restraints and adaptive backrests are available from launch with combined ARTICO/DINAMICA black upholstery. DINAMICA is a new type of breathable man-made fibre which is pleasant to the touch and is characterised by low emissions and a high degree of lightfastness. The side bolsters of the AMG sports seats are covered in ARTICO while the centre panels of the seat cushions are also upholstered with DINAMICA.

Available as an option, designo leather appointments give the interior of the C 63 AMG a particularly exclusive character: four single colours and three two-tone combinations are available. As a further option, these can be complemented with "extended black designo leather appointments" for the top section of the dashboard and the upper section of the door linings.
Other attractive optional appointments are also exclusively available for the C 63 AMG from the AMG Performance Studio:

- AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey with a high-gloss finish, with 235/40 R 18 (front) and 255/35 R 18 (rear) tyres
- AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in titanium grey with a high-gloss finish, with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres
- AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted in matt black with a high-gloss finish on the rim flange, with 235/35 R 19 (front) and 255/30 R 19 (rear) tyres
- AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package
- AMG rear axle differential lock
- AMG trim elements in carbon fibre/high-gloss black piano lacquer
- Illuminated AMG door sill panels
- AMG velour floor mats


Eleven new driving assistance systems already established in the S-Class and CLS

The C 63 AMG features eleven new driving assistance systems which are already established in the S-Class flagship range and the trend-setting CLS. These assistance systems use the latest radar, camera and sensor technology and are designed to combat common causes of accidents, such as insufficient distance to the vehicle ahead, drowsiness and darkness. They raise the safety standard of the C-Class to a new level by warning the driver of a hazard, or, if necessary, taking active corrective measures.

- Adaptive Highbeam Assist
- Active Lane Keeping Assist
- Active Blind Spot Assist
- ATTENTION ASSIST
- DISTRONIC PLUS
- Speed Limit Assist
- PARKTRONIC including parking guidance
- PRE-SAFE® Brake
- Reversing camera
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind Spot Assist


New generation of telematics is the first to feature internet access

The C-Class sees the debut of a new telematics generation which will also be gradually introduced in other model series. Major new features include greater operating convenience, larger displays, telephone directory transfer via Bluetooth®, wireless music reproduction and a USB interface in the centre console.

The top-of-the-range COMAND Online system now provides internet access for the first time. When the car is stationary the customer can browse freely or surf to a Mercedes-Benz Online service whose pages load particularly rapidly. The integrated services include weather information and a local search function as well as the option of downloading a route that has been previously configured on a PC using Google maps and sent to the car. The navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with virtual city views. Also new: routes covered can be recorded and repeated later, specific personal destinations can be entered and stored and three alternative routes can be displayed on the screen - one of them a particularly economical variant.

As a first in the C-Class, the Becker MAP PILOT makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the entry-level Audio 20 radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the COMAND Controller and the Audio 20 display.

C 63 AMG – fast-track to best-seller status

Launched in summer 2007, the Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG rapidly established itself as a real best-seller in the AMG model range. Customers all over the world appreciated this unique combination of a powerful and torquey naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine, a distinctive sound, an agile sports suspension and expressive design. Over the past three and a half years more than 17,000 AMG enthusiasts have chosen the C 63 AMG, 88 percent of them opting for the Saloon (Estate: 12 percent). The AMG Performance package, which has been available since autumn 2009, is proving particularly popular: over 30 percent of all the C 63 AMG models delivered in 2010 were specified with this attractive option.

The new C 63 AMG is available as a Saloon and as an Estate; the market launch starts in July 2011. All prices at a glance (incl. 19 % VAT):

- C 63 AMG Saloon:€ 71,340.50
- C 63 AMG Estate:€ 73,899.00
- AMG Performance package:€ 7166.20 / € 6471.70 Euro (Saloon / Estate)



































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

SPY - 2011 Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG Coupe


New spy shots depicting a camouflaged C 63 AMG Coupe prototype have recently surfaced on the internet. Hidden under the black tape, the future model sports a very aggressive and dynamic exterior design, in true Mercedes-AMG style. The list of visual appointments comprises an astonishing single-louvre radiator grille, an impressive front bumper with improved air intakes, LED for the headlights and tail lamps, slightly modified side skirts, quad exhausts, a discreet spoiler and a great rear diffuser to keep the car sitting safely on the road at high speed. Under the hood, the new C 63 AMG Coupe will premiere a naturally-aspirated version of the 5.5 liters V8 unit, which will be capable of delivering a peak output of 422 BHP. Power will be sent to the rear wheels thanks to the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT gearbox; also, expect a consistent array of electronic devices and systems to enhance the driving performance. The Affalterbach-based tuner is also secretly developing a Black Series variant for the future C 63 AMG Coupe, which will boast in excess of 500 BHP. Look for this mighty 2-door Merc model to debut around the spring of this year. Check out more spy pics after the jump!






Source of the photos >> Motor Authority

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

The World’s First Tuned Car to Meet the EURO VI Emission Standard: The Mercedes S 350 BlueTec with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S


OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Bottrop, Germany, Feb 01, 2011

The World’s First Tuned Car to Meet the EURO VI Emission Standard: The Mercedes S 350 BlueTec with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S Performance Kit for 313 hp / 230 kW and 690 Nm Peak Torque

The world’s first tuned car to meet the new EURO VI exhaust emission standard comes from BRABUS. Equipped with the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit the new Mercedes S 350 BlueTEC delivers an additional 55 hp (54 bhp) / 40.5 kW of power and a peak torque of 690 Nm (509 lb-ft). This tuning kit also makes BRABUS the first tuner to meet the strict limits of the EURO VI emission standard that won’t go into effect until 2014. In emission testing required for certification the S 350 BlueTEC with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S remained below the EURO VI limits by 30 percent. Special versions of the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit are also available for all four body styles of the Mercedes E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model and for the new CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY.



For more than three decades now engine tuning ‘made by BRABUS’ has stood for enormous performance combined with durability and suitability for daily use beyond reproach. Just as important for the engine specialists in the BRABUS engineering center in Bottrop has always been the perfect symbiosis of high performance and excellent eco-friendliness.

Already back in 1986 BRABUS presented the first tuned car that was equipped with a catalytic converter, the Mercedes 190 E with AB1 tuning kit. One year later the entire BRABUS engine range was converted to eco-friendly emission control by means of catalysts.

Sizeable investments into the development of high-performance metal catalysts culminated in 1999 in the presentation of the BRABUS 5.8 high-capacity engine based on the Mercedes 500.294 The V8 engine delivered 400 hp (394 bhp) / 294 kW and already undercut the Euro IV emission standard that didn’t go into effect until 2005. In emission testing required for homologation the engine bested the new standard’s permissible emissions by up to 56 percent. That qualified the Mercedes CL 500 equipped with this engine even in California as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV).

At the Frankfurt Motor Show IAA 2001 the BRABUS E V8 CDI, based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class of the time, celebrated its world premiere. At that time this sedan was the only diesel car in the world equipped with a diesel particulate filter and De-NOx catalysts. It was the first diesel engine to successfully pass Euro IV emission tests that didn’t become law until four years later. Incidentally, the E V8 CDI was also the most powerful diesel car available anywhere in the world at the time.

The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6 BLUE power kit for the Mercedes E 300 BLUETEC set another milestone on the path to increasingly cleaner high-performance automobiles in 2007. It made BRABUS the first tuner to meet strict EURO V exhaust emission limits, which go into effect in 2011. In emission tests BRABUS-tuned engines remained below permissible limits by up to 65 percent.

The Mercedes S 350 BlueTEC is one of the first diesel-powered cars on the market that meets the EURO VI emission standard. For a reputable tuner it also raises the bar to new unfamiliar heights. In contrast to almost all other tuners BRABUS has its own engine development department equipped with state-of-the-art test-bench technology and emission laboratory.

For the V6 turbodiesel engine with common-rail direct injection the engineers developed the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S module for the electronic engine management system of the S 350 BlueTEC. The auxiliary control unit can also be installed in the 4MATIC four-wheel- drive model. It is designed as a plug-and-play device and is integrated into the CAN data bus of the luxury sedan. The BRABUS mapping was adapted specifically to the eco-friendly BlueTEC concept that uses AdBlue® SCR technology.

The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S kit comes with a very special feature. The extent of the performance increase is dependent on the selected shift mode of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. In ‘Eco’ mode the maximum power output of the engine remains unchanged but peak torque jumps from standard 620 Nm to 690 Nm (457 to 509 lb-ft), on tap between 1,600 and 2,400 rpm. Upon switching to ‘Manual’ or ‘Sport’ mode the increase in torque is accompanied by an increase in maximum power output from 258 hp (255 bhp) / 190 kW to 313 hp (308 bhp) / 230 kW at a low 3,600 rpm.

In this configuration the tuned S 350 sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.5 seconds, half a second faster than the production car. Top speed is limited electronically to 250 km/h (155 mph).

The BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit is also available for all four body styles of the Mercedes E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and for the new CLS 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model. The engine parameters are identical. Maximum power output for these models also jumps to 313 hp (308 bhp) / 230 kW at a low 3,600 rpm and peak torque grows to 690 Nm (509 lb-ft).

On the road the 2.987-ccm (182.3 cubic inches) V6 with BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S tuning and the standard seven-speed automatic gearbox delivers excellent performance. But that’s not all: The increase in torque results in further improved pulling power, which benefits fuel economy. Depending on driving style, fuel economy of all models can be further improved over their production counterparts.

Like all BRABUS components the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit is backed by the BRABUS Tuning Warranty® of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers / 62,000 miles (see BRABUS warranty conditions, as of November 2006).

The perfect complement to the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit for all model series is the custom-tailored BRABUS sport exhaust system with four polished tailpipes. The fully stainless-steel exhaust systems lend the common-rail engine a more powerful exhaust note and further optimize power yield.






* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS *

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

Allianz teams up with MERCEDES GP PETRONAS


OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Stuttgart/Brackley, Germany/United Kingdom, Feb 01, 2011

On the day of the launch of the new Silver Arrow for the 2011 Formula One World Championship, the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One Team is pleased to confirm its partnership with world leading car insurer, Allianz.



The new partnership further underlines the ongoing commitment of Allianz to road safety, Formula One and the automotive industry with the two partners, MERCEDES GP PETRONAS and Allianz, planning to work together to promote safety within Formula One with a global road safety information programme.

From this week’s first pre-season test in Valencia, Allianz branding will feature on two of the sport’s main safety features; the HANS (Head & Neck Support) system worn by the team’s drivers Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher, and the seat belts of the team’s MGP W02 cars.

Allianz has been a partner of Formula One since 2000 and sponsors the Official Formula One Safety Car and Medical Car, both provided by Mercedes-Benz.

Joseph K. Gross, Global Head of Group Market Management at Allianz SE, said: “Allianz, much like the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One Team, are interested in all aspects of road safety and see the benefit in a reciprocal exchange between the racing team, car manufacturer Mercedes-Benz and car insurer Allianz. Heightened awareness means safer driving, which means fewer accidents and finally, less damages. 3,000 people die in traffic accidents worldwide every day and around 30,000 people are seriously injured. As a global insurer for over 50 million cars, Allianz has a vested interest in reducing the frequency and severity of accidents. With its Formula One engagement, Allianz can create links between the safety of Formula One drivers and the everyday safety of drivers worldwide.”

Ross Brawn, Team Principal of MERCEDES GP PETRONAS, commented: “We are delighted to welcome our new partner Allianz to the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formula One Team as we begin our pre-season testing programme. Allianz have been involved with Formula One for a number of years and have achieved excellent work in raising the profile of road safety through their marketing campaigns. Safety is absolutely fundamental in our sport and with every innovation that improves safety in Formula One, there is the possibility of increasing road safety for drivers everywhere.”

Norbert Haug, Vice-President of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, said: “We are really looking forward to welcoming Allianz as a new partner for our team. Since the invention of the automobile 125 years ago, Mercedes-Benz has been above all a pioneer in all aspects of safety in and around the car, and has been decisively pushing progress with regards to safety and will continue to do. This ambition is fitting with Allianz and we want to emphasise this jointly with our partnership in Formula One.”

Allianz

Together with its customers and sales partners, Allianz is one of the strongest financial communities in the world. In 2009, 153,000 employees in around 70 countries achieved total revenue of 97.4 billion euros and an operating profit of 7.2 billion euros. Payouts to our customers reached 82.9 billion euros. Around 75 million private and corporate customers rely on Allianz´s knowledge, global reach, capital strength and solidity to help them exploit financial opportunities and to avoid and safeguard themselves against risks. With over 50 million cars insured, Allianz is also the world´s leading car insurer and actively promotes accident prevention and road safety. Allianz´ business success in the fields of insurance, asset management and assistance services is based increasingly on customer demand for crisis-proof financial solutions for an ageing society and a world facing the challenge of climate change. Verifiable transparency and integrity are key components of sustainable corporate governance at Allianz SE.


www.allianz.com

Allianz Media Contact

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

PHOTO GALLERY: The F-CELL World Drive - From Reims to Paris


The Mercedes-Benz F-CELL World Drive teams have finally reached the bohemian city of Paris, thus completing the first stage of the trip. Check out more photos captured on the road to and in the French capital after the jump!








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

New Silver Arrow debuted at Valencia


OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

Valencia, Spain, Feb 01, 2011

The debut of the MGP W02, the new Silver Arrow for the 2011 Formula One World Championship, took place this morning at the Valencia Circuit in Spain with the new challenger unveiled in front of the MERCEDES GP PETRONAS team garage by Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher.



The result of twelve months intense design and development work, the MGP W02 is the second Silver Arrows car to be launched by MERCEDES GP PETRONAS since the team became the first Mercedes-Benz works outfit since 1955.

The car’s livery is an evolution from its predecessor with a striking high-gloss airbrush effect highlighting the shape of the car. The interaction between the Silver Arrows heritage and the green shading representing the team’s title partner PETRONAS evokes memories of the first Silver Arrow car of 1934 with a modern touch added by 3D partner logos.

The technical specification of the MGP W02 includes the KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery) system which returns to the sport after a one-year absence. The Mercedes KERS system was the first to win a Grand Prix during the 2009 season when KERS made its debut in Formula One. Also new on the car for this season is the adjustable rear wing, operated by the driver to aid overtaking, and Pirelli tyres as the Italian manufacturer becomes the sport’s official tyre supplier.

The team’s driver line-up remains unchanged with seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg, who achieved the team’s three podiums in 2010, forming one of the most exciting and talented pairings on the grid.

Michael Schumacher
“Finally the waiting is over and things get started. For us drivers, the break every year is hard to take because the gap between the last race and the first time out on track seems to be never-ending. Even if I have been involved and updated all winter on the developments, and even if I know the improvements are significant, it is still different to see the new car literally for the first time in front of you. You automatically build up this nice pre-start tension. I very much look forward to the new season. We have said it several times already but again, we are really to building up something big together. I am very confident that this season we will be standing on the podium much more regularly; ideally in the middle!”

Nico Rosberg
“It is always a very exciting time of year to drive the new car for the first time and feel how it performs out on track. This year we have the added challenge of not having an immediate reference due to the change in tyre manufacturer to the new Pirelli tyres, which felt good during our first try-out at the Abu Dhabi test last year. I am very much looking forward to having a much stronger season than last year and as always, our targets are aggressive. We want to be competing at the front and challenging for race wins. Everyone at our factories in Brackley and Brixworth has worked extremely hard on the new Silver Arrow and we are all looking forward to seeing how it performs.”

Ross Brawn, Team Principal
“It is always a thrill to see a new car ready to take the track for the first time and this year is no exception. After our first year as the Mercedes-Benz works team, we are now seeing the benefits of our chassis group and our engine group working well together. With a good technical structure and a strengthened race engineering organisation, both at the factory and the race track, I am confident that we have done and will continue to do a better job this year in all key areas.

“The concept development for the MGP W02 started early and we have set challenging targets for the design, combined with a robust plan to ensure that the pace of development can continue throughout the long 2011 season. We have two excellent drivers in Michael and Nico, both of whom capable of winning races in a good car, and we look forward to seeing them push each other and the development of the new Silver Arrow during the season. We want to be setting the standard right from the start but if we are not, we will respond very strongly to get ourselves into the game. Everyone is excitedly waiting to see what the new season will reveal.”

Norbert Haug, Vice-President - Mercedes-Benz Motorsport
“The new Silver Arrow for the 2011 season has little in common with its immediate predecessor. Our chassis engineers have taken a fairly ruthless approach and were determined to shave off every superfluous gram and millimetre. What emerged from this process is a compact and exquisitely shaped vehicle that introduces a host of sophisticated solutions and truly reflects the enormous dedication of its constructors. We have given it a brand new coat of paint, and we aim to see a smile on the faces of our hard-working drivers and team members that is as bright as our new silver livery.

“Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher are top drivers who can win races for us, provided we build them the right car. At the same time, our team, like all the other teams, has to deal with complex new tasks. The new generation of tyres from Pirelli, and the extent to which the cars and drivers adapt to them, will play a vital role in deciding wins and defeats.

“The rear wing flap, which can be adjusted under specified conditions, will boost top speed and facilitate overtaking which should open up a new and interesting chapter for Formula One. And there is the return of KERS following a one-year absence at the end of the 2009 season when our Mercedes system recorded a historic first race win. This will play a massive role amongst all of the performance-related components, both for the additional power and for the strategic options it makes available. As in 2009, it is our ambition that Mercedes-Benz builds and runs the best hybrid system and that all three teams which use it benefit significantly from this.

“After I have spoken at length here on the many new issues, our target can be described in one short sentence: The new Silver Arrow should not only look first class, but should also be developed to be at the top step-by-step.”


* Official photos and details courtesy of MERCEDES GP PETRONAS *

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