skip to main |
skip to sidebar
To coincide perfectly with its market launch on 19 November 2011, the new M-Class has received a very special award: the premium SUV has become the first vehicle in its class to obtain the much sought-after environmental certificate in accordance with ISO standard TR 14062. With this approval, the independent examiners of the German TÜV Süd are honouring the commitment which the corporation is making to comprehensive environmental protection, an aspect which is firmly embedded in the operating guidelines for the entire Daimler Group. As part of these processes, the automotive manufacturer takes into account the effect which a vehicle has on the environment throughout its entire life cycle – from development via the production process and operation right through to disposal. The environmental certificate is therefore based on an exhaustive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) for the M-Class.
Based on the ISO standard TR 14062, the certificate is valid for all models of the
M-Class. Using the Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC by way of example, factors such as energy requirements and emissions over a distance of 250,000 kilometres were calculated. As a result of this, the SUV took the leading position in its market segment as a champion of efficiency: it consumes only 6.0 litres of diesel per 100 kilometres (158 g CO2/km) and, thanks to innovative SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) exhaust gas technology with AdBlue injection, already undercuts the EU6 guidelines planned to be introduced in 2014.
Compared with the previous model, the ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC from 2011, over its entire life cycle the new M-Class achieves 25 percent (18 tons) less CO2 emissions, 38 percent less nitrogen oxide emissions and, thanks to the lower fuel consumption and the use of SCR technology, primary energy savings of 24 percent. Compared with the previous model at the time of market launch in 2005, namely the ML 280 CDI 4MATIC, the savings are even greater: in this case it has been possible to reduce CO2 emissions by 32 percent (25 tons), nitrogen oxide emissions by 62 percent, and primary energy by 31 percent. The primary energy savings of 31 percent equate to the energy content of around 9800 litres of diesel fuel.
In addition to the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, impressively high efficiency results were also achieved by the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, as well as the petrol model, the ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY: compared with the previous models, the entire model range consumes an average of 25 percent less fuel.
The outstanding fuel economy figures achieved by the efficiency champion come courtesy of new development tools, including the "energy-transparent vehicle", for example. Developed by Daimler and used exclusively in the automotive industry, this process enables development engineers to examine the entire flow of energy throughout the vehicle (tank to wheel). The knowledge gained in this way can be used to optimise every single assembly that has an impact on fuel consumption, right down to individual components, such as wheel bearings.
Stable loop: recycling and natural materials in the M-Class
No less than 37 high-quality recyclate components have been approved for use in the M-Class. These include wheel arch linings, cable ducts, and under body panels. Wherever possible, recyclate materials are derived from vehicle-related waste streams. The aforementioned front wheel arches are made from recovered vehicle components, for example starter battery casing, bumper covers or process waste from cockpit production. Overall, the weight of these recycling parts has increased by 29 percent compared with the predecessor. This concept also contributes to the M-Class already being able to comply with the recycling rate of 95 percent which is due to be introduced throughout Europe from 2015.Renewable materials are used in 15 components in the M-Class. The total weight of components manufactured using renewable materials is 13.1 kilograms, a figure which has increased by 153 percent compared with the previous model. Renewable materials are mainly used in the interior of the M-Class, but there are also some technical applications: olive coke is used for the activated charcoal filter, which adsorbs hydrocarbon emissions from the tank and is constantly regenerated during driving operation.
The environmental certificate and a detailed description of what it entails have been made available to the general public in the form of the "Life Cycle" documentation series, which can be found online at www.daimler.com and www.mercedes-benz.com .
Source: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
The first vehicles from the new B-Class and new M-Class ranges will be going out to customers from 19 November. It has been possible to order these models since July and September respectively. Even prior to the dealer launch, the customer response has been outstanding. "The introduction of the new B-Class and the new M-Class brings two important models to the market, each of which raises the bar in its segment that little bit further. We have every confidence that they will continue to build on the success of their predecessors and help generate further momentum in terms of sales", emphasised Dr Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars.
The new B-Class: premium is not a matter of size
Since 2005 more than 700,000 customers have taken delivery of a B-Class. With about a third of worldwide sales since the beginning of the year having been made in Germany, this represents its biggest market, followed by China, where the B-Class was introduced with great success in 2009.
The new M-Class: improved efficiency and an exceptional level of safety
With altogether more than 1.2 million units sold, the M-Class is the most successful SUV in its segment. Since its market launch in 2005, more than half a million customers have opted for the most recent model generation and, in spite of a model change being imminent, sales in October increased by 22.2% percent, making the M-Class leader in its market segment. The biggest sales market is the US, with a share of approx. 40 percent since the start of 2011, followed by China and Germany.
One of the most impressive features of this third generation of the Mercedes-Benz
M-Class is its outstanding energy efficiency. The fuel consumption of the new models lies, on average, 25 percent below that of their predecessors. The fuel-efficiency champion is the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, which gets by with an NEDC consumption of just 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km).
Further strengths of the premium SUV with permanent all-wheel drive include exceptional safety and well-balanced ride comfort as well as excellent driving dynamics both on and off the road. What is more, the ML features an array of new chassis developments and innovative dynamic handling control systems which further enhance both driving enjoyment and handling safety.
Source: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
No other automotive brand has had more success in the "Golden Steering Wheel" awards than Mercedes-Benz. This year's Europe-wide vote saw the M-Class and the SLK each win their respective category. These two first places put the Stuttgart-based premium-brand manufacturer at the very top of the "Golden Steering Wheel" all-time winners' list. Mercedes-Benz has won the award, one of the most important distinctions in the European automotive industry, a total of 21 times. The awards were presented to Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, and Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler AG Board of Management member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, in Berlin last night.
More than 260,000 readers of the German publications "Bild am Sonntag", "Auto Bild" and their European sister publications in 22 countries registered their votes in this year's "Golden Steering Wheel" awards. The winner of the SUV class was determined in a direct vote, so making the Mercedes-Benz M-Class the winner of the "Golden Steering Wheel" in this group. The SLK won its category after being shortlisted along with four of its competitors. In the unimpeachable judgement of a panel of experts, and after undergoing real-life testing, it too was awarded the "Golden Steering Wheel" in its category.
Readers from across Europe valued not only the M-Class's characteristic and distinctive design and its variable interior, with that all-important sense of wellbeing, but also the excellent energy efficiency and thus environmental acceptability of this premium SUV. The permanent all-wheel drive system of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class also proved a determining factor thanks to its well-balanced ride comfort along with excellent driving dynamics, both on and off road, along with the car's outstanding range and high level of safety.
What ultimately swayed the result in favour of the SLK Roadster in the "Golden Steering Wheel" competition was, above all, the way it manages to combine light-footed sportiness with stylish comfort, striking sports car design with absolute everyday practicality, and superb performance with exemplary ecological credentials. With the excellent performance it derives from its economical and yet powerful engines, along with technical innovations such as the unique panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL, which can be switched from light to dark at the touch of a button, the SLK takes driving pleasure and open air enjoyment to a whole new level.
This year's double win in the "Golden Steering Wheel" awards marks the continuation of a fine tradition: with a total of 21 victories to date, the brand with the three-pointed star now leads the field of the most successful car brands to win the competition for the "Golden Steering Wheel", a prize that has been awarded since 1976.
Source: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
We are delighted to announce the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class achieved the maximum 5-star rating at the latest session of EuroNCAP crash tests. The efforts carried out by engineers in order to create the best-in-class safety concept for the ML have payed off, as the midsized SUV managed to grab a safety score of 96% for adult occupants protection, 75% for child safety, 60% for pedestrian protection and an overall 86% for safety assistance.
Read further specific details on this subject and see more images/videos taken during the crash tests by heading over to EuroNCAP >> HERE.
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
A generation ahead: the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class: Refinement meets efficiency
The third generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class scores particularly highly on outstanding energy efficiency, and on average the new model range consumes 25 percent less fuel than the previous models. One true champion in terms of fuel consumption is the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, which boasts an NEDC consumption of just 6.0 l/100 km (158 g CO2/km) and has a range of up to 1500 kilometres on a full tank. Further strengths of the premium SUV with permanent all-wheel drive include exceptional safety and well-balanced ride comfort as well as excellent driving dynamics both on and off the road. What's more, the ML features an array of new chassis developments and innovative dynamic handling control systems which further enhance both driving enjoyment and handling safety. A characteristic body design and a variable interior with a high wellness factor add to the richness of the driving experience in the new M-Class.
Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, puts it in a nutshell: "With the M-Class, it's always been a case of combining the comfort and luxury of a saloon car with the off-road characteristics and the emotiveness of an SUV." The fact that the new M-Class is as fuel-efficient as the economical saloon cars displaying the Mercedes star makes the all-wheel-drive model even more desirable. A range of state-of-the-art engines, a class-leading cd figure (drag coefficient) of 0.32 and extensive BlueEFFICIENCY measures lay the foundations for outstanding energy efficiency.
Complete and attractively priced model range
Despite the substantially 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:
According to Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Board Member of Mercedes-Benz Cars, Sales & Marketing: "The M-Class is a story of success. With more than 1.2 million vehicles sold, it is the best-selling SUV in its segment and also enjoys the loyalest customer base. We will be continuing this success with the new M‑Class, which will make an important contribution to our sales growth over the coming years."
To mark the launch of the new M-Class, there will be a limited special-edition model available in the shape of the Edition 1. This exclusive model includes an AMG Exterior Sports package and features an impressive and particularly exclusive interior. Prices start at €55,700 (€66,283 incl. 19% VAT) for the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC Edition 1. Delivery of the M-Class to customers will commence in November this year.
A model of success: the M-Class sets new standards in the world of SUVs
BlueTEC diesel units and the new generation of BlueDIRECT petrol engines ensure excellent economy and an outstanding life cycle assessment of the new M-Class. As Dr. Schmidt explains further: "The new M-Class has the potential to set standards in the SUV world once again: one average it consumes one quarter less fuel than its predecessor and as such will be the most economical vehicle in its segment – whether fitted with or without a hybrid drive."
As far as the diesel engines are concerned, now available solely as BlueTEC units with SCR emissions technology, the focus is firmly on downsizing and on the new version of the V6 CDI engine:
- In the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, the 3.0-litre V6 of the previous ML 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY 4MATIC model is replaced by the thrifty four-cylinder unit already familiar from, for instance, the S-Class. The NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km is 28 percent lower than that of the previous model.
- The ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC features an extensively revamped 3.0 litre V6 which offers far better performance coupled with a substantial reduction in fuel consumption. This version boasts an NEDC figure of just 6.8 l/ 100 km, a 24-percent improvement compared to the previous ML 350 CDI 4MATIC model.
Thanks to AdBlue® emission control technology both diesel models comfortably meet the EU6 standard slated for introduction in 2014.
The ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY petrol-engine model, on the other hand, delivers a convincing performance thanks to the technical details of the new BlueDIRECT engine generation. The key here is the third-generation direct petrol injection system with spray-guided combustion and new piezo injectors that have an injection pressure of 200 bar, together with multi-spark ignition (MSI) and a new stratified combustion process. In this case, the NEDC consumption of 8.5 l/100 km is 25 percent lower than that of the previous ML 350 4MATIC model. The ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY meets the requirements of the EU5 standard, currently the strictest standard in force
for petrol models.
Long-distance champion: a high level of efficiency ensures a long range
The range calculated for a full tank of fuel is particularly impressive. With an NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km, the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC with the standard 70-litre tank can cover around 1170 kilometres before needing to stop for fuel. If the vehicle is fitted with the optional 93-litre tank, the car can even cover up to 1500 kilometres between refuelling stops.
Long-distance champion: a high level of efficiency ensures a long range
The range calculated for a full tank of fuel is particularly impressive. With an NEDC consumption of 6.0 l/100 km, the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC with the standard 70-litre tank can cover around 1170 kilometres before needing to stop for fuel. If the vehicle is fitted with the optional 93-litre tank, the car can even cover up to 1500 kilometres between refuelling stops.
The excellent fuel economy is underpinned by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures as well as by this state-of-the-art engineering. In addition to the ECO start/stop function that comes as standard, these measures include the new seven-speed 7G/TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission with a new fuel-economy converter, friction-optimised bearings and a transmission oil thermal management system. Low-friction axle drives, electric steering, the optimised belt drive with decoupler, the on-demand control of all ancillary components and pumps, and tyres with low rolling resistance also play their part in reducing fuel consumption. What's more, intelligent lightweight design has stopped the weight from spiralling upwards.
With a drag coefficient, or cd figure, of 0.32, the new M-Class (ML 250 BlueTEC) also sets a new best figure for this vehicle class. Intensive simulations undertaken with the digital prototype, along with final touches added in the wind tunnel, ensure a perfect flow of air around the vehicle. The key factor determining the low wind resistance is the aerodynamic efficiency of the basic body shell, including the optimised design of the front bumper, of the A-pillars and of the roof spoiler, plus numerous other detailed improvements.
The result: a high level of comfort and outstanding driving dynamics on and off the road
Even the standard version of the new M-Class offers a high level of comfort, dynamic on-road handling and outstanding off-road capabilities. For the first time, the M-Class chassis with steel suspension features selective damping. The driver is assisted by electric steering, which ensures the optimum level of steering assistance for the current driving situation. In addition to this, the SUV impresses with the smallest turning circle in its market segment.
For driving off the beaten track, the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and ML 350 4MATIC BlueEFFICIENCY models are equipped with extensive off-road features as standard, including 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, 4ETS electronic traction control and an off-road button which activates a special off‑road driving mode. Furthermore, the start-off assist system makes hill starts easier, while the Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) automatically keeps the M‑Class at the speed set using the cruise control stalk.
The optional ON&OFFROAD package for the new M-Class has six driving modes for optimising driving dynamics and handling safety, as the optimum drive system control is provided for an extremely wide range of on-road and off-road operating conditions. The driver can select from one automatic mode, two special off-road modes and three on-road modes using a rotary control in the centre console. In terms of "hardware", the ON&OFFROAD package comprises an underguard, a two-stage transfer case with reduction gear, an inter-axle differential lock and enhanced AIRMATIC functionality that allows a maximum ground clearance of 285 millimetres as well as a fording depth of 600 millimetres.
Active roll stabilisation in the form of the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM can be optionally combined with both the AIRMATIC air suspension with Adaptive Damping System (ADS) and the ON&OFFROAD package. This system uses active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles and compensates for the roll angle of the body through bends, increasing agility and driving pleasure in the process. The system has the additional effect of increasing handing stability and therefore safety, particularly at higher speeds. Further benefits of the ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM include superb ride comfort both when cornering and driving in a straight line, together with enhanced off-road abilities.
Gently does it: attention to detail ensures comfort
The new M-Class promises relaxed and, therefore, safe driving in all possible conditions. By paying close attention to detail every step of the way, the development engineers in the Mercedes Technology Center have significantly improved what they call the NVH comfort level (Noise, Vibration, Harshness). This is an important factor contributing to the general sense of wellbeing on board, whilst also playing its part in driver-fitness safety, especially on long journeys. The basis for the high level of NVH comfort is provided by the very rigid bodyshell of the M-Class. Further improvements have also been made to the drive system and chassis. This is all topped off by aero-acoustic refinements and the intelligent use of new-style insulation.
Well thought-out: safety at its best
In line with the Mercedes-Benz brand philosophy, the new M-Class represents the embodiment of the Mercedes-Benz holistic safety concept of Real Life Safety, which is derived primarily from what happens in a real accident situation. The extremely robust occupant compartment of the M-Class, together with the front and rear deformation zones, forms an effective basis for the occupant protection system. Up to nine airbags, activated on demand in accordance with the accident type and accident severity, can reduce the loads exerted on the occupants. In addition to active safety systems such as the standard-fit Brake Assist (BAS) or the optional BAS PLUS, which can help to prevent an accident or reduce the severity of an accident, the new M-Class features further enhanced passive-safety measures to help protect pedestrians, including an Active Bonnet as standard.
Both active safety and driver-fitness safety in the new M-Class are further improved by assistance systems that will already be familiar, primarily from the S- and E-Class. The standard equipment package includes the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the anticipatory safety system PRE‑SAFE® and a tyre pressure loss warning system, as well as adaptive brake lights and Brake Assist (BAS). Active assistance systems such as Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist are available as additional equipment options.
Impressive credentials: the design
The new generation is instantly recognisable as an M-Class by its characteristic body design with the hallmark C-pillar shape. It combines high levels of design, appeal and ease of use to create a powerful presence. The front of the vehicle is dominated by the powerfully self-confident design of the radiator grille with its centrally positioned Mercedes star, giving it that typical M-Class look. Seen from the side, the elongated lines give formal emphasis to the on-road credentials of this vehicle, whose compact proportions are defined by a large wheelbase and short overhangs. The C-pillar that is so characteristic of this model series takes its cue from earlier generations of the M-Class and differentiates it very clearly in stylistic terms from its competitors. At the same time, the way the roof line slopes down to the rear underlines the sporty appeal of the new M-Class. No pillar is visible in the transition from the rear side window through to the rear windscreen. This, together with the similarly wrap-around effect of the two-part rear light unit with LED fibre-optic technology, and the lowered roof with its large roof spoiler, add up to an overall harmonious design. The rear bumper, which features an integrated chrome-effect load sill guard in a new "wing design", defines the characteristic appearance of the SUV's rear end. The available wheels range from light and aerodynamically optimised 43.2 cm (17-inch) wheels through to 50.8 cm (20‑inch) wheels with an elegant, high-quality appeal. As an option, 53.3 cm (21‑inch) AMG wheels can be fitted to emphasise the sporty look of the new M‑Class.
Upgrade as standard: interior with a first-class ambience
The interior design concept clearly combines an authentic SUV experience with a sense of wellbeing that is usually the reserve of top-class Mercedes-Benz saloons. While an expressive dome shape embodies the power of an SUV, the gently sloping contours of the dashboard in the front passenger area afford an outstanding sense of space, thereby highlighting the vehicle's suitability for long journeys. The spacious, bright interior offers substantially more elbow room than its predecessor (an extra 34 millimetres in the front and an extra 25 millimetres in the rear), thus enhancing spaciousness. Eye-catching features on the dashboard include a large trim element that matches the trim used for the doors and therefore creates a harmonious wrap-around effect. The seats in the new M-Class have been designed to offer high long-distance comfort and optimum lateral support. All of the key settings can be adjusted electrically. New features include rear seat backrests adjustable for angle and the through-loading feature via the armrest for transporting skis. Folding both backrests as well as the seat cushions forward creates a level load compartment with a capacity of 2010 litres up to the roof lining – a record in this segment.
The new M-Class comes as standard with the Audio 20 CD system, which comprises a radio with twin-tuner, a 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. One of the particularly interesting features on offer is the Becker® MAP PILOT, a fully integrated navigation module with a 2-D/3-D map display for Europe. The device is housed in a cradle in the glove compartment and is operated using the central controller for the Audio 20 CD system. The COMAND Online multimedia system with a high-resolution 17.8 cm colour display provides internet access in the M-Class for the first time. Customers can either browse freely when the vehicle is at a standstill or use a Mercedes-Benz App with pages that load extremely quickly and are also easy to use when the vehicle is on the move. As an option, COMAND Online is available with a 6-disc DVD‑changer. This system's standard features include Speed Limit Assist, which recognises traffic signs and displays them in the instrument cluster.
Source: Daimler AG
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
