Mercedes-Benz Enlists Gareth Pugh, Nick Knight on New Ads

As, perhaps, the most fashion-conscious car company out there, Mercedes-Benz has taken the next step, tapping designer Gareth Pugh to design and style ads for their new sports coupe, the SLS AMG, shot by photographer Nick Knight.

The edgy pair seem to be a good choice for creating a scorching hot campaign for a cooler-than-thou car, and what we've seen proves as much. A model clad in Pugh patent leather armor leggings, corset and shoulder piece sprawls cosmically atop the hood of the whip, whose lines mirror the pristine severity of the outfit.

Look for the pics to drop during New York Fashion Week, then in subsequent issues of Vogue, here and worldwide.

Mercedes to confirm Schumacher return

Michael Schumacher's return to Formula 1 is set to be confirmed later today in a press conference hosted by Mercedes-Benz.

Speculation has been mounting for days that Schumacher has agreed a deal to join Mercedes GP, with reports suggesting that he flew to Britain earlier this week to sign a contract.

Mercedes GP has now confirmed that the identity of its second driver will be announced later this morning - with the team having confirmed several weeks ago that Nico Rosberg will be racing for it in 2010.

Schumacher's F1 return comes after three years on the sidelines, having originally decided to retire from grand prix racing at the end of 2006.

However, last season he came close to a sensational mid-season comeback when he was asked to fill-in for the injured Felipe Massa at Ferrari.

Those plans had to be aborted, however, with Schumacher still suffering from a neck injury that he had picked up in a motorcycle crash earlier in the year.

Schumacher was deeply disappointed at the time, and it may have been the excitement he felt about returning to F1 then that helped motivate him to conclude the deal with Mercedes GP.

Brabus Mercedes Benz GLK V12 (2009)

With a top speed of 322.3 km/h (200.3 mph) the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 has set a new speed record for street-legal SUVs on the Italian high-speed test track on October 19th, 2009. The exclusive special model, powered by a twelve-cylinder twin turbo engine with 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW, celebrates its world debut at the Dubai International Motor Show. Brabus builds this high-performance automobile based on the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class. The Brabus GLK V12 starts at 397,000 Euros MSRP.

The new Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 750 engine was implanted in the small engine bay of the GLK with meticulous precision. The engineers and technicians drew upon their experience and know-how gathered from the development and production of the special model Brabus Bullit, based on the latest Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

The displacement engine, lubricated exclusively with ARAL Synthetic motor oil, delivers 750 hp (740 bhp) / 552 kW at 5,500 rpm and produces a peak torque of 1,350 Nm (995 lb-ft) at 2,100 rpm, limited in the car electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

To achieve this kind of performance, the engine - based on the latest Mercedes 600 twelve-cylinder engine - was completely re-engineered in the Brabus engine department. Displacement is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters with the help of a special crankshaft, larger cylinder bore, special pistons and piston rods. In addition the three-valve heads are precision-machined and fitted with special camshafts.

For maximum power yield the Brabus engineers have developed a special twin turbo system with two larger turbochargers and more efficient intercoolers. Free-flow metal catalysts and a fully stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system custom-tailored to the GLK body let the Brabus SV12 R 750 Biturbo engine breathe more freely.

Custom-programmed engine electronics ensure an optimal symbiosis of power yield, running smoothness and especially eco-friendly exhaust emissions. Special mapping and OnBoard Diagnostics II result in clean emissions that meet the strict requirements of the Euro IV standard. The Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 is also equipped with the latest driving dynamics systems such as ABS, ASR and ESP.

The enormous power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission and a Brabus limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent.

Together these measures make the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 the fastest street-legal SUV in the world. But it is not just the incredible top speed of 322.3 km/h (211 mph) that are the basis for its fascination. With an acceleration time from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) of just 4.2 seconds and 12.8 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) the five-door sets new standards for its kind.

Brabus manages this extraordinary SUV performance with custom modifications to aerodynamics, suspension and brakes.

The front apron of the Brabus WideStar version was developed in the wind tunnel. Its large air dams provide radiators and front brakes with ample cooling air. In combination with a carbon-fiber spoiler lip the front apron also minimizes aerodynamic lift on the front axle - a prerequisite for directional stability beyond 300 km/h (186 mph).

Favorable aerodynamic properties were also a top priority for the design of the Brabus WideStar fender flares on front and rear axle. They add five centimeters (two inches) to the width of the GLK. Custom-tailored rocker panels create a smooth transition between front and rear flares. The rocker panels feature LED lights in their undersides that are activated via the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle. These lights illuminate the ground next to the SUV for safe entering and exiting the vehicle in the dark.

In the rear the Brabus roof spoiler reduces aerodynamic lift and thus makes an important contribution to the excellent directional stability of the world's fastest SUV. The rear appearance of the Brabus GLK V12 is further characterized by the Brabus rear apron with its centrally located reflector. Custom-tailored cutouts on the right and left side provide the perfect backdrop for the four characteristically shaped tailpipes of the Brabus stainless-steel sport exhaust system.

The larger wheel houses of the record car provide space for Brabus Monoblock wheels up to king-size wheels with a diameter of 22 inches. The size 10Jx22 wheels come in five different designs: GLK V12 customers can choose from the new Brabus Monoblock G five-spoke forged wheels, three-piece Monoblock VI alloy wheels and one-piece Monoblock E, Q and S wheels. High-performance tires from Brabus technology partners Pirelli and Yokohama can be mounted up to size 285/25 ZR 22.

The Brabus coilover sport suspension was developed specifically for the twelve-cylinder SUV. It is height-adjustable on front and rear axle and features ten selectable settings each for bound and rebound.

To handle the extreme performance the brakes were upgraded as well and trimmed for maximum stopping power and endurance. The Brabus high-performance brakes system features 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved steel discs measuring 380 x 37 millimeters (15 x 1.5 inches) on the front axle. The rear axle stops on six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and vented and grooved 360 x 28 millimeter (14.2 x 1.1 inches) discs.

The interior of the Brabus Mercedes-Benz GLK V12 was also refined to reflect the exclusive character of this unique SUV: The GLK V12 comes with a Brabus fully leather interior that can be further refined with Alcantara elements if desired. The interior appointments are rounded out with an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, a speedometer with 330-km/h (205-mph) scale and stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated Brabus WideStar logo.

Further exclusive interior highlights are wood trim sets or carbon-fiber trim panels for dashboard, doors and center console in any color imaginable. Custom-tailored consoles for the backs of the GLK front seats provide the perfect multimedia experience. They each feature an integrated seven-inch LCD screen and a DVD player.

2010 Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG - First Drive Review

Over at Mercedes-Benz, they take their flagship S-class very seriously. As the halo car for a brand represented by a star, the S had better shine pretty bright in its segment—a segment full of customers who are as diverse as they are discriminating. Thus, the S-class has to be all things to lots of very rich people, which explains why there are no fewer than six S-class models, two of which are warmed over by the wild bunch at the company’s AMG tuning division, which tends to turn everything it touches into a big fat pot of fast.

Case in point: the E63 AMG, an E-class sedan (or wagon, if you ask really nicely) blessed with a snap-to suspension and stuffed with a 518-hp version of AMG’s pride and joy, a mellifluous 6.2-liter V-8 with a truly satanic exhaust note. But whereas the E63 is as raucous as a rabid wolverine, the larger, costlier S63 AMG behaves more like a mildly irritated lioness chasing pesky hyenas off her territory. Of course, with the S63’s 518 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque shooting though fat 20-inch rear wheels, those hyenas don’t stand much of a chance. During our most recent test of the S63 AMG—which is virtually identical under the hood to the 2010 model—the big saloon pegged 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, hit the quarter-mile in 13 flat at 110 mph, and stopped from 70 mph in 159 feet, which is pretty awesome for a 4900-pound cruiser.

Hyper-Composed, not Hyperactive

All is done, however, in the utmost of style, thanks to new LED head- and taillamps, which comprise the most major among the year-to-year upgrades for all 2010 S-class models. The high performance is also delivered in extreme composure, thanks to the Active Body Control suspension, which Mercedes has been honing for years and seems to have gotten just right in the 2010 S63. Some credit must be given to the new variable-ratio steering system that feels both natural and beautifully weighted. Over the road, only the occasional rough impact will remind you that AMG has indeed had a hand in the suspension tuning. But in the corners, the confidence level rises somewhat higher than one would expect given the car’s size.

The S63‘s interior remains as decadent as Hearst Castle, and as with every 2010 S-class, it gets new ambient lighting color choices between “solar” (amber), “neutral” (white), and “polar” (ice blue). The seats are snug, with active bolsters and massage functions that keep the driver and front passenger firmly in place when gettin’ jiggy in the twisties. The enhanced night-vision system now recognizes and highlights people in view (à la the system in the latest BMW 7-series), though our daytime drive allowed us no opportunity to chase down pedestrians to see how they look in infrared.

Also for all 2010 S-classes, Mercedes has further developed its assistance devices, including adaptive high beams, lane-keep assist, collision mitigation, and a crosswind stabilization program, as well as adding a drowsiness detector. During our two-hour, fair-weather California drive in the S63, there didn’t seem to be any crosswinds . . . at least not that we noticed, anyway. So maybe that means it worked? We’ll never know.
Specifications

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan

BASE PRICE: $134,425

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 32-valve V-8, aluminum block and heads, port fuel injection

Displacement: 379 cu in, 6208cc
Power (SAE net): 518 bhp @ 6800 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 465 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm

TRANSMISSION: 7-speed automatic with manumatic shifting

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 124.6 in Length: 206.5 in
Width: 73.7 in Height: 58.0 in
Curb weight (C/D est): 4900 lb

PERFORMANCE (C/D EST):
Zero to 60 mph: 4.5 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 13.0 sec
Top speed (governor limited): 155 mph

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 11/18 mpg

You Want Crazy? Look Elsewhere

Of course, pretty much all of what we just highlighted also applies to the competent and handsome S550, which takes about a second longer to reach 60 mph but, with its optional AMG sport package, looks virtually identical. Indeed, without much separating the S63 AMG from the S550—performance-wise or character-wise—this begs the question: is the S63 worth the $134,425 price of entry when the S550 starts some 40 grand less?

That is the same question that we grappled with when we first tried the S63 AMG out two years ago, and one that we still answer with a “not really.” With six versions of virtually the same car, ranging in price from the S400 hybrid’s $88,825 to $202,025 for the top-dog, 604-hp S65 AMG, Mercedes might have let the S63 AMG stand out with some of that “You want crazy? I got your crazy!” demeanor that makes the C63 and E63 so wildly addictive. But, while the S63 and all those other “63”-powered AMG cars share more or less the same heart, that heart certainly doesn’t beat the same way in the S; the S63 AMG remains an S-class first, and an AMG second.

Mercedes-Benz to Build 'SSK' Mini-SLS?

Could a baby SLS be in Mercedes-Benz’s future? According to Autocar, the answer is yes.

The British publication claims a senior official at Mercedes-Benz says the company is developing a second sports car, sharing the SLS’ image but on a smaller scale.

“The second model will project a similarly exclusive image,” the source said, “but will be more accessible in terms of its pricing.”

Mercedes-Benz design chief Gordon Wagener told the magazine the new car -- possibly named SSK -- will look much more modern than the current SLS, and will likely come in both coupe and soft-top roadster forms. Sadly, don’t look for the gullwing doors on the hardtop model. To save costs, the car may use conventional hinged doors.

Autocar also claims the SSK could use a new 5.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 that is currently being developed for the next-generation CLS55 AMG. The new engine is rumored to produce close to 500 hp, and will likely be mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle lifted from the SLS.

If the car green is approved for production, expect the SSK to reach dealerships in 2013, slotting in just above the SLK55 AMG. Pricing should be comparable to a Porsche 911, and slightly below that of the Audi R8.

Audi's performance S4 drops its V-8 for 2010

You don't see this very often: a car company dropping a V-8 engine from a performance car and replacing it with a V-6. But German automaker Audi does it in its 2010 S4 compact sedan.

The move not only creates a more fuel-efficient vehicle during these times of concern for the environment and oil supplies. It keeps performance because the 3-liter, double overhead cam V-6 is supercharged, has direct injection and 333 horsepower. This is just seven horses shy of the 340 horses in the V-8-powered predecessor S4.

The change for 2010 also allows a lower S4 retail price — all the way to $46,725, including manufacturer's suggested retail price and destination charge. At that price point, buyers get a base model with six-speed manual transmission, standard all-wheel drive, sport suspension, sunroof, leather seats, three-zone climate control and Xenon headlights.

The price is an attractive midway point for buyers of compact, luxury sedans who want a sporty edge.

A BMW 335i sedan with twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine had a starting retail price of $41,125 for the 2009 model year and produced 300 horsepower. A 2010 BMW M3 with 414-horsepower V-8 starts at $56,975.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 with 268-horsepower V-6 starts at $40,625, while a 451-horsepower 2010 Mercedes C36 AMG starts at $58,225.

The latest S4 is the performance version of Audi's best-selling sedan, the A4, and it also serves as an entry sporty sedan for the brand. So it's best that it's not too far out of reach, financially, for upwardly mobile buyers.

Company officials have said that the old S4 — offered as a convertible as well as sedan in the past — accounted for just 5 percent to 6 percent of U.S. sales of the A4 line. They're hoping for more like 15 percent for the lower-priced S4, which is available in 2010 as a sedan only.

If the test vehicle, in bright red paint and mostly black interior, was any indication, buyers will get a car that has personality galore. It was spirited, right out of the garage and down the driveway. A little nudge of the accelerator while I was in first gear pushed my head back into the head restraint.

Yes, that's healthy torque that peaks at 325 foot-pounds at 2,900 rpm.

With six-speed manual transmission, I roared past other cars on the highway and moved around double-parked cars in the city without effort. In fact, Audi said its tests show the V-6 S4 goes from standstill to 62 miles an hour in 5.1 seconds, which is 0.1 second faster than the heavier S4 with V-8.

Yet, when I wanted a more leisurely ride, I upshifted and let the S4 move at a sedate pace without fuss.

Fuel economy is up some 25 percent in the new sedan, thanks to an engine with two fewer cylinders than the V-8.

The tester, for example, was rated at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. I was lucky to get 20 mpg in the test drive because it was so easy to tap that low-end power.

The ride was firm, to be sure, and I felt vibrations of road bumps nearly all the time.

But there wasn't harshness, save for the time I went a bit too fast over a speed bump. Then I sort of shook in the seat as I noticed just how tightly the suspension managed the car's mass.

A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that can be operated like an automatic also is available. But I liked the control and feel of the S4's manual gearshifter. It wasn't too notchy and it was easy to find the gear I was looking for.

Road noise was noticeable, thanks in part to the 18-inch high performance tires. But the same tires had great grip in the curves and during turns. Even at decent speeds, the S4 clung to the pavement and maintained its traction and poise.

Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system helped, too. In normal driving, the system maintains a slightly rear-drive bias by sending 60 percent of the engine power to the rear wheels. Then, as road conditions and driver inputs change, the system can adjust the power between the front and rear wheels to help maintain traction.

The S4 is a tidy package, weighing less than 3,900 pounds with the manual transmission.

As a compact sedan, it doesn't have the roomiest of back seats. I found the back seat legroom of 35.2 inches to be adequate, but not great, and three adults would sit closely.

But the optional black Napa leather on the seats in the test car had an upscale feel and tasteful red accents here and there.

The optional Bang & olufsen audio system was awesome in producing clear tunes. At the end of one work day, I sat in the car in the garage just so I'd hear a song all the way to the end.

Impressively, the S4 earns across-the-board five stars from the federal government in frontal and side crash testing, and there's a long list of standard safety equipment. This includes curtain air bags, traction control, electronic stability control and enhanced brakes to help stop this powerful car.

As for the loss of the V-8, company officials note an eight-cylinder engine is available in the larger Audi S5 for 2010, so V-8 aficionados can move over to that model.

Audi's performance S4 drops its V-8 for 2010

You don't see this very often: a car company dropping a V-8 engine from a performance car and replacing it with a V-6. But German automaker Audi does it in its 2010 S4 compact sedan.

The move not only creates a more fuel-efficient vehicle during these times of concern for the environment and oil supplies. It keeps performance because the 3-liter, double overhead cam V-6 is supercharged, has direct injection and 333 horsepower. This is just seven horses shy of the 340 horses in the V-8-powered predecessor S4.

The change for 2010 also allows a lower S4 retail price — all the way to $46,725, including manufacturer's suggested retail price and destination charge. At that price point, buyers get a base model with six-speed manual transmission, standard all-wheel drive, sport suspension, sunroof, leather seats, three-zone climate control and Xenon headlights.

The price is an attractive midway point for buyers of compact, luxury sedans who want a sporty edge.

A BMW 335i sedan with twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine had a starting retail price of $41,125 for the 2009 model year and produced 300 horsepower. A 2010 BMW M3 with 414-horsepower V-8 starts at $56,975.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz C350 with 268-horsepower V-6 starts at $40,625, while a 451-horsepower 2010 Mercedes C36 AMG starts at $58,225.

The latest S4 is the performance version of Audi's best-selling sedan, the A4, and it also serves as an entry sporty sedan for the brand. So it's best that it's not too far out of reach, financially, for upwardly mobile buyers.

Company officials have said that the old S4 — offered as a convertible as well as sedan in the past — accounted for just 5 percent to 6 percent of U.S. sales of the A4 line. They're hoping for more like 15 percent for the lower-priced S4, which is available in 2010 as a sedan only.

If the test vehicle, in bright red paint and mostly black interior, was any indication, buyers will get a car that has personality galore. It was spirited, right out of the garage and down the driveway. A little nudge of the accelerator while I was in first gear pushed my head back into the head restraint.

Yes, that's healthy torque that peaks at 325 foot-pounds at 2,900 rpm.

With six-speed manual transmission, I roared past other cars on the highway and moved around double-parked cars in the city without effort. In fact, Audi said its tests show the V-6 S4 goes from standstill to 62 miles an hour in 5.1 seconds, which is 0.1 second faster than the heavier S4 with V-8.

Yet, when I wanted a more leisurely ride, I upshifted and let the S4 move at a sedate pace without fuss.

Fuel economy is up some 25 percent in the new sedan, thanks to an engine with two fewer cylinders than the V-8.

The tester, for example, was rated at 18 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. I was lucky to get 20 mpg in the test drive because it was so easy to tap that low-end power.

The ride was firm, to be sure, and I felt vibrations of road bumps nearly all the time.

But there wasn't harshness, save for the time I went a bit too fast over a speed bump. Then I sort of shook in the seat as I noticed just how tightly the suspension managed the car's mass.

A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission that can be operated like an automatic also is available. But I liked the control and feel of the S4's manual gearshifter. It wasn't too notchy and it was easy to find the gear I was looking for.

Road noise was noticeable, thanks in part to the 18-inch high performance tires. But the same tires had great grip in the curves and during turns. Even at decent speeds, the S4 clung to the pavement and maintained its traction and poise.

Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system helped, too. In normal driving, the system maintains a slightly rear-drive bias by sending 60 percent of the engine power to the rear wheels. Then, as road conditions and driver inputs change, the system can adjust the power between the front and rear wheels to help maintain traction.

The S4 is a tidy package, weighing less than 3,900 pounds with the manual transmission.

As a compact sedan, it doesn't have the roomiest of back seats. I found the back seat legroom of 35.2 inches to be adequate, but not great, and three adults would sit closely.

But the optional black Napa leather on the seats in the test car had an upscale feel and tasteful red accents here and there.

The optional Bang & olufsen audio system was awesome in producing clear tunes. At the end of one work day, I sat in the car in the garage just so I'd hear a song all the way to the end.

Impressively, the S4 earns across-the-board five stars from the federal government in frontal and side crash testing, and there's a long list of standard safety equipment. This includes curtain air bags, traction control, electronic stability control and enhanced brakes to help stop this powerful car.

As for the loss of the V-8, company officials note an eight-cylinder engine is available in the larger Audi S5 for 2010, so V-8 aficionados can move over to that model.

McLaren Mercedes ‘722 Edition’ SLR Revealed

The new Mercedes-Benz SLR “722 Edition” has all the attributes of a thoroughbred racing car. Refined in numerous respects, this super sports car has more output, a tailor-made suspension configuration and a decidedly sporty interior.




A continuing tradition: the new model variant SLR “722 Edition” is a homage by Mercedes-Benz to the unforgettable victory won by the British racing legend Stirling Moss and his co-driver Denis Jenkinson in a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR with the starting number 722 (indicating a start time of 7.22 a.m.) at the Mille Miglia in 1955. With an output of 478 kW/650 hp and a corresponding performance, the new super sports car, which goes on sale on July 11, will not only make the hearts of car enthusiasts beat faster.

The supercharged 5.5-litre V8 engine in the “722 Edition”, which is hand-built in the AMG engine shop in Affalterbach, generates 478 kW/650 hp. The particular strengths of this high-performance engine are immediate response to movements of the accelerator, highly emphatic torque build-up and an unmistakable V8 sound. The performance figures are outstanding even for a high-end sports car: the “722 Edition” accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in only 3.6 seconds, and 200 km/h is reached in just 10.2 seconds. The maximum speed (337 km/h) is above the 334 km/h previously achieved by the SLR.

Handling characteristics worthy of the racetrack are also provided by the sophisticated suspension, with 19-inch light-alloy wheels, a stiffer damper configuration and a ten-millimetre-lower body. Larger brake discs with a diameter of 390 mm ensure excellent braking performance.

Discreet visual modifications mark the SLR “722 Edition” out as special, in line with the wishes of the enthusiastic gentleman drivers and wealthy sports car collectors who make up the core target group.

The modified front spoiler with an air splitter, as well as the rear diffuser, improve both the aerodynamics and contact pressure at high speeds, and reflect the transfer of cutting-edge technology from motor racing. At the same time, the use of clear-lacquered carbon as an extremely strong yet lightweight material symbolises the practicality of these technical features. Bucket-type sports seats upholstered in leather/Alcantara provide outstanding lateral support, while the grippier racing steering wheel with a hunting-leather lining, gearshift paddles and black carbon highlights lend a thoroughbred racing touch to the interior.

Exclusive “SLR. Club” for SLR owners

Before the sales release date, customers and selected guests will have the advance opportunity to appraise the new SLR “722 Edition”. This is to mark the foundation of the worldwide “SLR Club” at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, southern France. As an ultra-exclusive community of which SLR customers automatically become members, the “SLR Club” provides an attractive platform for outstanding events related to the SLR, as well as numerous other benefits. Another exciting feature is the club’s SLR Safety & Speed Academy, which offers special driver training courses and seminars. David Coulthard, Jochen Mass, Klaus Ludwig, Chris Goodwin and Christina Surer are among the highly skilled and well-known instructors.






We wonder what the competition would have thought, if Stirling Moss had rolled up in one, all those years ago.

VW Said to Discuss Buying Insolvent Carmaker Karmann

Oct. 27 (Bloomberg) -- Volkswagen AG, Europe’s biggest automaker, is discussing a proposed takeover of insolvent car manufacturer Wilhelm Karmann GmbH at an executive board meeting today, two people familiar with the situation said.

A transaction would have to be approved by Volkswagen’s supervisory board, which meets Nov. 11, said the people, who declined to be identified because the negotiations are confidential. VW, whose executive board is meeting today at its headquarters in Wolfsburg, Germany, may pay 50 million euros ($74 million) to 75 million euros, one of the people said.

Karmann, based in Osnabrueck in the state of Lower Saxony, employs 1,600 workers in Germany and about half of them will be fired on Nov. 1 as insolvency dealings proceed, the people said. The manufacturer makes roof systems for some models from Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz unit and Bayerische Motoren Werke AG.

“There’s not much economic reasoning from Volkswagen’s perspective,” said Ferdinand Dudenhoeffer, director of the Center for Automotive Research at the University of Duisburg- Essen. VW may have wanted to rescue Karmann to return a favor to Lower Saxony, which as VW’s second-largest shareholder prevented a takeover of the carmaker by Porsche SE this year, he said.

Lower Saxony Premier Christian Wulff, who sits on VW’s supervisory board, thwarted former Porsche Chief Executive Officer Wendelin Wiedeking’s plan to topple power structures at VW by upholding the so-called Volkswagen law which gives the state and workers a blocking minority.

Lower Saxony

Karman’s hometown Osnabrueck, about 170 kilometers (106 miles) west of Volkswagen’s Wolfsburg headquarters, is Wulff’s constituency. Local elections in Lower Saxony are scheduled to take place in 2011.

Christoph Adomat, a Volkswagen spokesman, and Karmann’s Christian Eick declined to comment when reached by Bloomberg.

Karmann traces its origins to 1901. Its best-known model was the Karmann Ghia sports car, built on a VW Beetle chassis from 1955 to 1974. Other orders included building convertible versions of the Mercedes-Benz CLK model and the A4 sedan made by Volkswagen’s Audi luxury division. Revenue last year dropped 16 percent to 1.3 billion euros from 2007.

Karmann, which filed for bankruptcy protection in April, employs another 1,150 workers at units in the U.S., Japan, Mexico, Portugal and Poland. Those divisions aren’t part of the insolvency proceedings.

The bankruptcy filing also includes the Automotive Global Service GmbH, Karmann-Engineering-Services GmbH, Karmann-Rheine GmbH & Co. KG and Karmann Rheine-Verwaltungs GmbH divisions. Ottmar Hermann, a Frankfurt-based lawyer, is acting as insolvency administrator and has estimated that liquidity at Karmann could last until Nov. 11, the day VW’s board is due to discuss a possible takeover, one of the people said.

Fair for Millionaires Flops

What if they held a millionaire fair and no one came?
That is pretty much what happened to the seventh annual Millionaire Fair in Moscow over the weekend.

A report from AFP says the annual celebration of all things Blingshevik was sparsely attended, except for the occasional luxury purveyors praying for a miracle. (The fair didn’t fare well last year either, leading me to put it into the Wealth Report’s official “bad timing department.”)

The AFP article said organizers hoped to mask the small turn-out by hosting it in the 18th-century Manege center, a small space compared to the Crocus-expo center outside Moscow where the event was held in previous years.

To lure prospective oligarchs, the organizers posted a 44-foot-long limo out front along with some bear-skin-covered arm chairs and some thoroughbred horses.

“Everyone has been affected by the crisis, including the rich,” said Mark Tuck, who sells villas in Bali and who says business was down 40%.

Of course, some preferred to take the more optimistic, glass-half-full approach. “Up until now things have been fine, let’s see things in a positive light,” said Nasser Al-Hai, the head of the Dubai business Ultimate Motors.

Added one smiling salesgirl selling $20,000 skis: “I don’t speak about the crisis, I think positive!”

If you are selling $20,000 skis in this economy, perhaps that really is the best approach.

Making the Jaguar XJ greener

My system has alerted me that the Jaguar XJ 2.7 TDVi (204bhp) Executive Saloon 4dr 2720cc Diesel Automatic has changed today so I update my website and post here for the benefit of customers. No one else bothers with this stuff. I treat you like adult, not idiot.

Jaguar XJYour car belongs to the finance company on whose documents you agreed to the contract. Many different wear and tear agreements are issued, but it is safe to say that they all are similar to the industry standard issued by the BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association). I have condensed the advice into an easy to read PDF file. If you have things to fix, I recommend 1st call to people like Dent Devils, mobile Glass Repair, etc. Cheap and often works. They usually come to you, in van. Easy. Treat this car like your own car and you will not go far wrong. If you sold a 2-year-old car privately, you would fix exact same problems. Common sense helps!

EnvironmentMercedes-Benz told me "Mercedes-Benz dealerships have a limited amount of space available in which to advertise. However, all of the dealership’s websites do include a link to the main site Mercedes-Benz.com where anyone in the world with an interest in obtaining specific environmental information about any Mercedes-Benz vehicle can easily find it. Environmental information is also available in brochures that can be obtained at any dealership." Well, perhaps Head Office at Mercedes-Benz restricts the amount of web space available to each dealer? It’s amazing that they use "space" as an argument for not displaying this info online on each dealer’s site. Web-space is virtually unlimited! A customer should not need to go to World Headquaters to find it (and even then it is not comparative)!

Hybrid vehicles combine an internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery. There are various ways in which hybrid vehicles can operate. For example the electric motor can be used to provide additional power during acceleration and high load conditions. The battery can then be recharged by the internal combustion engine or from energy absorbed during braking, or, in some cases, from an external electrical supply. Hybrid vehicles offer reduced fuel consumption and CO2 with potentially some reduction in emissions of local pollutants.

Enviroment LabelWorking it out from the tables, the CO2 is just 209g/km for the Jaguar XJ Diesel Automatic. There are a few cars in this range, so different specs will give slightly different CO2 values. Click on the “fridge label” to get a enviroment label to print for this car. The combined cycle economy for this Jaguar XJ is now 35mpg

The Jaguar XJ falls into the K K band overall.

My Jaguar XJ 2.7 TDVi (204bhp) Executive Saloon 4dr 2720cc Diesel Automatic gearbox is only £631.35 inc VAT per month with 3 months initial payment, followed by 35 payments on direct debit. Business customers, make sure you deduct the VAT, when making decisions. As I can’t tell what type of customer you are (business or private), I can’t display the price any other way but to show VAT seperately (sorry!).

JaguarThis price on my Jaguar XJ includes full road tax for the length of the contract, on all of my cars and vans! Free delivery to your home or work and free collection from you at the end! £631.35 inc VAT per month is based on you driving 10,000 miles per annum, but higher mileages are usually available at a small extra cost. If you go over the allocated miles, you can pay a small excess mileage charge, usually between 3p and 15p per mile.

Jaguar XJSir Nicholas Stern, Head of the Government Economics Service, produced the UK Government Environmental Report on the Economics of Climate Change. I was so pleased to win an Environmental Award in 2008, myself. I am determined that LINGsCARS.com will go further than anyone else in this industry to exceed the legal minimum information disclosure. It is probably the case that my customers have the smallest environmental footprints of any new car customers in the UK!

Here’s a patronising tip from the government: “EnvironmentalSlow down – driving at high speeds significantly increases fuel consumption.”

Look at this comment. It is not just me who is a mentalist. “Ling, I found your site because you are a Googlewhack!!! If you enter the words "antidisestablishmentarianism multipla" you are the only site that is found!! I am, however, glad I found you because it is a mad site!!! I think you should get in touch with Dave Gorman to tell him you are a Googlewhack!

Mercedes Benz C63 AMG gets the Performance Package Plus Treatment

The Mercedes Benz C63 AMG super Sedan from Daimler got hotter for the coming season courtesy of the performance package plus treatment. The tuning kit for the C63 AMG borrows a few essential traits from the SLS AMG supercar pushing the power to 487hp (30hp more than the standard version). The treatment ensured that the 6.3L V8 beast got new forged alloy pistons, a new set of crank rods and a lightweight crankshaft all from the SLS territory. To top it all, a titanium-colored intake manifold and recalibrated computer module were mated to complete the package that now helps the car pelt from 0 to 62mph in 4.4 seconds. The braking ought to improve with a package such as this and therefore the brake package was upgraded with composite rotors. On the outside, the sedan version gets a carbon fiber spoiler. The upgraded Mercedes Benz C63 should be available in Europe later this year. Sleek, eh? [via Autoblog]



Tags: AMG, C63 AMG, kit, mercedes-benz, Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, performance package plus, tuning kit

Rendered: 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake

The Mercedes-Benz CLS ignited the four-door coupe market when it was first introduced back in 2004, and since then we’ve seen several other luxury rivals attempt to emulate the design with cars like the 2010 Porsche Panamera, recently revealed 2010 Aston Martin Rapide and upcoming Audi A7.

For the second-generation CLS, expected to arrive in late 2010 as a 2011 model, Mercedes is set to popularize a niche segment once again, this time reinvigorating the ‘Shooting Brake’ bodystyle.

The Shooting Brake is essentially a two-door wagon, and Mercedes designers hinted at the possibility of a modern version with the unveiling of the ConceptFASCINATION study at the Paris Motor

2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

The world’s most successful luxury car (W 221- series S-Class) which has sold 270,000 units in four years of production is now being replaced. Since the Model 220 came about in 1951 and started the lineage of the S-Class, German powerhouse Mercedes-Benz has sold around 3.3 million S-Class units.



Focusing on design and comfort with leading innovations Mercedes-Benz is now releasing the 2009 S-Class.



The Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a huge range of engines available including one V6 turbo diesel and five petrol engines, including six, eight and twelve cylinders. These engines produce the same high output as the previous model while consuming up to seven percent less fuel.



Low rolling resistant tyres, steering and fuel pump modifications combined with the 7G-TRONIC automatic gearbox can reduce fuel consumption to 7.7 litres per 100kms in the S 350 CDI Blue Efficiency with 173kw.



Complementing the usual high safety standards expected from the S-Class is a range of new camera and radar driver assisted devices. These include ATTENTION ASSIST that detects driver drowsiness as well as Adaptive Highbeam Assist.


Night View Assist Plus can detect pedestrians, highlighting them on the display to make the noticeable.

Direct-Steer and modified Active Body Control with cross wind stabilisation for the eight and twelve cylinder models offer more agility and driving enjoyment.


Available in Mercedes-Benz showrooms and authorised dealerships from October 2009.

Australian Prices for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class.
Model

Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP)


On Sale
S 350

$214,900


Now
S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (BE)

$214,900


Now
S 350 L

$232,900


Now
S 500

$289,900


Now
S 500 L

$307,900


Now
S 63 AMG

$380,900


Now
S 600 L

$402,900


Now
S 65 AMG L

$482,900


Now

The prices detailed in this document are current Manufacturer’s List Prices (MLP) for the Mercedes-Benz S 350, S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY, S 350 L, S 500, S 500 L, S 63 AMG, S 600 L, and S 65 AMG L.

- The attached pricing is an MLP

- That the MLP excludes on road costs and dealer delivery, and

- For drive away price information, you should contact Mercedes-Benz dealers.

Equipment List
Cornering lights: this function of the bi-xenon headlamps and the Intelligent Light System provides more safety on junctions and when driving slowly on tight bends.

Standard
Active Body Control (ABC): active suspension system that adapts the springs to the current driving situation within fractions of a second.

Optional S 500 (standard for S 63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG)
ADAPTIVE BRAKE: this Mercedes brake system offers assistance functions, such as a HOLD function and Hill Start Assist, for even greater safety and comfort.

Standard
Adaptive front airbags: the front airbags deploy in two stages, depending on accident severity.

Standard
Adaptive Highbeam Assist: this system dips the beams and adjusts the range of the headlamps in accordance with the distance to oncoming vehicles/vehicles travelling ahead.

Standard
Adaptive brake lights: flashing brake lights warn vehicles behind in an emergency braking situation.

Standard
AIRMATIC: the air suspension worked together with an electronically controlled damping system.

Standard for all V6 and V8 engine variants
Active multicontour seats: depending on the steering angle, lateral acceleration and speed, the inflation pressure and volume of the air chambers in the side bolsters of the seat backrests are varied to give the driver and front passenger even better lateral support. The seats also have comfort head restraints and a massage function.

Optional as part of Front Seat Comfort package (standard for S 63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG)
Active Light System: the Intelligent Light System’s bi-xenon headlamps follow the driver’s steering movements.

Standard
Ambient lighting: when driving at night, optical fibres behind the trim on the dashboard and door panels provide a pleasant lighting atmosphere in the interior.

Standard
ATTENTION ASSIST: this system warns the driver when it detects signs of drowsiness.

Standard
Motorway mode: from 90 km/h the entire width of the carriageway is illuminated, improving the driver’s range of vision by around 50 metres; part of the Intelligent Light System

Standard
Bi-xenon headlamps: gas-discharge lamps for low and high beam improve safety at night.

Standard
Bluetooth interface: the mobile phone is wirelessly linked to the hands-free system.

Standard
Brake Assist PLUS: this system uses radar sensors to recognise an impending rear-end collision, calculates the necessary degree of braking assistance and makes it available immediately when the driver depresses the brake pedal.

Standard
COMAND APS: the navigation data are stored on a hard disc. Further functions include the MUSIC REGISTER and voice control.

Standard
Digital radio: a special DAB+ tuner (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and additional aerials is required to allow the reception of Australian digital radio broadcasts.

DAB+ tuner not expected until late 2010
DIRECT SELECT: seven-speed automatic transmission operated electronically using a lever on the steering column.

Standard
Direct-Steer: a variable steering rack ratio depending on the steering angle allows more agile handling and provides more comfort when parking and manoeuvring at slow speed.

Standard
DISTRONIC PLUS: this radar-based proximity control system automatically helps the driver to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead. It can brake the S-Class to a standstill if necessary, then accelerate again. If the distance to the vehicle ahead decreases too quickly, the system gives the driver visual and audible warnings.

Standard
Enhanced foglamps: This function of the Intelligent Light System pivots the offside headlamp outwards to illuminate the road verge more effectively.

Standard
ESP®: This safety system is able to reduce the risk of skidding in bends, and warns of pressure loss in the tyres.

Standard
Headlamp Assist: a sensor on the windscreen automatically switches the headlamps on when darkness falls.

Standard
Rear Seat Entertainment package: the rear faces of the front seat head restraints feature 8-inch displays connected to a DVD player.

Optional (standard S 65 AMG)
Gracenote®: database that recognises music tracks on a CD/DVD or from the MUSIC REGISTER and shows the title, album and artist on the colour display.

Standard
Belt force limiters: this technology reduces the force exerted by the belt strap on the seat occupant during a crash.

Standard for the front seats and the outer rear seats
Belt tensioners: any slack in the seat belt strap is instantly taken up during a crash to reduce the forward movement of the occupants caused by the impact.

Standard for all seats
Intelligent Light System: This innovative headlamp technology provides five lighting functions which are activated depending on the driving and weather conditions (also see Cornering lights, Country mode, Motorway mode, Active Light System and Enhanced foglamps).

Standard
KEYLESS-GO: the doors and boot can be opened without a key. It is sufficient to carry the KEYLESS-GO transponder on the person and operate the door handle. Merely operating the start/stop key is sufficient to start the engine.

Standard
Automatic climate control: this system controls four temperature zones and offers numerous adjustments for individual passenger comfort.

Standard
Kneebag: an additional airbag is able to reduce the loads acting on the driver during a frontal collision

Standard
Individual comfort seats: a seat unit with two comfortable, individual seats, a folding armrest, heating, comfort head restraints, a stowage box and cupholders is available for passengers in the rear.

Optional (standard for long-wheelbase variants)
Comfort telephony: the driver and passengers are able to conduct onboard telephone conferences by mobile phone, and send or receive SMS messages. The phone is housed in a cradle under the armrest.

Standard
Paintwork: Nano-technology makes the paintwork more scratch-resistant and ensures a glossier sheen.

Standard
Country mode: this function of the Intelligent Light System replaces the previous low-beam headlamps and provides broader and brighter illumination of the opposite road verge.

Standard
LINGUATRONIC: the voice control system operates the radio, CD/DVD-player, CD/DVD-changer, navigation system and telephone.

Standard
Media Interface: this universal interface allows portable audio devices to be connected to and controlled by the infotainment system of the S-Class.

Standard
Memory function: three memory settings are stored for both the driver’s and the front passenger seat. The settings for the steering wheel and exterior mirrors are also stored.

Standard
Multifunction steering wheel: the radio, telephone, navigation system, display and other devices can be controlled from the steering wheel.

Standard
Multicontour seats: inflatable air chambers enable the seat contours and seat cushion length to be adjusted to the individual occupant.

Optional as part of the Rear Seat Comfort package (standard S 63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG)
MUSIC REGISTER with a 7.2 GB hard disc which stores around 2500 digital music files in the MP3, AAC or WMA format. These can be loaded from PC memory cards.

Standard
Music Search: search function that searches SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music tracks and performers.

Standard
Night View Assist PLUS: the display in the dashboard shows a realistic grey-scale image from an infrared camera that monitors the road ahead of the S-Class. Any pedestrians detected are additionally highlighted in the display.

Optional S 350 / S 350 CDI Blue EFFICIENCY
NECK-PRO head restraints: crash-responsive head restraints are able to support the heads of the driver and front passenger at an early stage during a rear-end collision, reducing the risk of a whiplash injury.

Standard
PARKTRONIC including Parking Guidance: ultrasonic sensors measure the length of parking spaces as the car drives past; instructions for safe parking appear in the display.

Standard
PRE-SAFE®: if the system recognises a critical driving situation, it takes precautionary measures to protect the occupants. It can e.g. initiate tensioning of the front seat belts, or closing of the wide windows and sliding sunroof.

Standard
PRE-SAFE® Brake: if there is imminent danger of a rear-end collision, this system brakes the S-Class automatically if the driver fails to react.

Standard
Reversing camera: the area behind the S-Class is shown in the COMAND display, and coloured directional lines show a precisely calculated path into a parking space.

Standard
Crosswind stabilisation: effects of crosswind are largely compensated.

Standard as part of Active Body Control for the S63 AMG, S 600 & S 65 AMG( optional S 500)
Sidebags: these side-mounted airbags reduce the loads acting on the occupants during a side impact.

Standard for the front and outer rear seats
7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission: this automatic transmission is installed in all the V6 and V8 variants.

Standard for all V6 and V8 engine variants
SPLITVIEW: the driver and front passenger are able to view different content on one and the same screen at the same time.

Standard
Lane Keeping Assist: a camera behind the windscreen recognises clear carriageway markings and gives a warning if the car unintentionally leaves its lane.

Standard
harman kardon® Logic 7® surround sound system: a multi-channel system with innovative digital technology, an output of 610 watts and 14 loudspeakers provides surround-sound for every seat.

Standard
Torque Vectoring Brake: by specifically braking the rear wheels, ESP® ensures more safety at the physical limits without any loss of agility.

Standard
Blind Spot Assist: this radar-based system warns the driver before a lane-change if it detects another vehicle in the exterior mirror’s blind spot.

Standard
Windowbags: like a curtain, these large airbags extend from the A to the C-pillar in a side impact.

Standard

A brief overview of the special technical features in the individual model series:

Model 220, W 187 series (1951 to 1954)

* Newly designed six-cylinder engine with overhead camshaft
* Patented safety conical-pin locks prevent doors from jumping open in an accident
* Fan heater available
* Duplex drum brakes at the front

Models 220 a, 220 S and 220 SE, W 180/128 series (1954 to 1959)

* Unitary body design
* Front suspension subframe
* Single-link swing axle with low centre of gravity
* Brake drums with “turbocooling”
* “Hydrak” automatic hydraulic clutch (available from 1957)

Models 220 b, 220 Sb, 220 SEb, 300 SE, W 111/112 series (1959 to 1965)

* Rigid safety passenger compartment with energy-absorbing crumple zones at the front and rear
* Steering wheel with padded boss and elimination of sharp edges in the interior
* Conical-pin door lock with two safety catches
* Disc brakes (300 SE, 220 S/SE from 1962)
* Three-point seat belts
* Four-speed automatic transmission (available from 1961)
* Air suspension (300 SE)
* Long-wheelbase version available (300 SE)

Models 250 S – 300 SE, 300 SEL – 300 SEL 6.3, W 108/109 series (1965 to 1972)

* Safety steering system comprising telescopic steering column and steering wheel with impact absorber (from 1967)
* Hydropneumatic compensator spring at the rear axle
* Also available with eight-cylinder engine (from 1967)

S-Class 280 S to 450 SE, 280 SEL to 450 SEL 6.9, W 116 series (1972 to 1980)

* Officially known as the “S-Class” for the first time
* Fuel tank installed above the rear axle for collision protection
* Safety interior (with four-spoke safety steering wheel)
* Safety door handles
* Side windows with anti-soiling measures
* Tail lights with anti-soiling design
* Anti-lock braking system ABS (available from 1978)
* Double-wishbone front suspension from the C 111 experimental vehicle
* First luxury class saloon with a diesel engine (300 SD)

S-Class 260 SE to 560 SE, 300 SEL to 560 SEL, W 126 series (1979 to 1991)

* New safety concept, the world’s first series production car to be configured for an asymmetrical, frontal crash (offset crash)
* First use worldwide of a driver airbag and belt tensioner in a series production car (available from 1981)
* Front passenger airbag (available from 1987)
* Three-point seat belts in the rear
* Automatic locking differential
* Acceleration skid control ASR (available from 1985)

S-Class 300 SE 2.8 to S 600; 300 SEL to S 600 long-wheelbase, W 140 series (1991 to 1998)

* Electronic Stability Program ESP® (available from 1995)
* Brake Assist BAS (from 1996)
* Adaptive Damping System ADS (available from 1991)
* Seat belt system with automatic height adjustment
* Sidebags (from 1995)
* First series production Mercedes-Benz car with a twelve-cylinder engine

S-Class S 280 to S 500; S 280 long-wheelbase to S 600, W 220 series (1998 to 2005)

* Belt tensioners and belt-force limiters in the rear
* Automatic child seat detection
* WINDOWBAG
* Occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® (from 2002)
* DISTRONIC proximity control (available from 1998)
* Automatic cylinder cut-out (S 500/S 600)
* KEYLESS-GO (available from 1998)
* AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping system
* COMAND control and display system
* Active Body Control suspension
* Active seat ventilation (available from 1998)
* Bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic beam range control and headlamp cleaning system (available from 2002)

S-Class S 320 CDI to S 500; S 320 CDI long-wheelbase to S 600, W 221 series (2005-2009)

* Brake Assist PLUS with radar sensors
* DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control with extended speed range
* Parking Assist based on radar
* Dynamic multicontour seat with extended massage function
* Night View Assist with infrared technology
* Further development of PRE-SAFE® occupant protection
* World’s first automobile with an Environmental Certificate
* COMAND system with menu navigation and Controller
* “S/C/M” keys for individual adjustment of the damper and transmission characteristics and the level control system
* Blind Spot Assist (since 2006)

S-Class S 350 to S 500; S 350 L to S 600; W 221 series (2009)

* World’s first hybrid drive system with a lithium-ion battery in the S 400 HYBRID
* ATTENTION ASSIST drowsiness detection system
* Adaptive Highbeam Assist
* Night View Assist Plus
* Speed Limit Assist
* Lane Keeping Assist
* Further development stage of PRE-SAFE®
* An “electronic crumple zone” – the PRE-SAFE® Brake
* DISTRONIC PLUS and Brake Assist PLUS with further developed radar technology
* Torque Vectoring Brake
* Active Body Control with crosswind stabilisation
* Direct-Steer

Power & Fuel Figures

* S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY – 7.7L/100km – 202 grams per kilometre – 173kW – 520Nm of torque. 0-100km/h in 7.8 seconds.
* S 350 – 9.8L/100km – 234 grams per kilometre – 200kW – 350Nm of torque – 0-100km/h in 7.3 seconds.
* S 500 – 10.9L/100km – 260 grams per kilometre – 285kW – 530Nm of torque – 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds.
* S 600 – 380kW – 830Nm of torque – 0-100km/h 4.6 seconds
* S 63 – 386kW
* S 65 – 450kW

Farmington's Mercedes-Benz Financial releases iPhone app

Mercedes-Benz and iPhones seem like a natural combination of high-end toys for people who aren't exactly poor. It's why Mercedes-Benz Financial decided to combine the two to help streamline its payment process.

The Farmington Hills-based firm has recently released an application for iPhones that lets its users pay their car notes through smart phones. The 27-year-old automotive-focused finance company is the first of its kind to create an iPhone app that lets customers manage their accounts with safety, speed, and convenience.

"We're seeing more and more of our customers making payments to us electronically," says Jack Ferry, a spokesman for Mercedes-Benz Financial. "We want to extend that option to their iPhones."

The application is available for both iPhone and iPod Touch. It also allows users to find the nearest Mercedes-Benz authorized dealer location, contact a customer service representative, and see what's new from Mercedes-Benz Financial.

The firm employs about 350-400 people at its Farmington Hills office. It recently decided to keep its offices in Metro Detroit after the Daimler/Chrysler split. More than 450,000 people in five countries finance their cars through Mercedes-Benz Financial.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG supercar

Magna, the Canadian supplier that hopes to buy 55% of General Motors' European Opel and Vauxhall business in a consortium with Russia's Sberbank, scored a coup with a contract to build the gull-winged Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG supercar.

Magna will assemble the 563-horsepower SLS at its assembly plant in Steyr, Austria.

The SLS AMG will be Mercedes' flagship model in terms of prestige and technology when it goes on sale next year.

That makes the deal to assemble the car a major endorsement of Magna's promise that it will erect a firewall between its customers' technology and the development of future Opel and Vauxhall vehicles. Volkswagen and BMW -- both major Magna customers -- have expressed concern about having their technology and production plans in the hands of a company that competes by building vehicles.

The SLS AMG is expected to cost more than $260,000. The car borrows some of its styling from Mercedes' iconic 1954 gull-wing 300SL.

2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabrio Patent Designs Leaked

The previous Mercedes-Benz CLK is something of an enigma--built around the C-Class platform, styled like the E-Class, and priced in between the two, the car sits in its own unique segment and has no direct competition from its rivals. Its sales history has been a strong success, especially in the U.S., but the car is set to meet its demise with the arrival of the new E-Class Coupe and the Cabrio in the middle of next year.

Previous spy shots show a prototype for the Cabrio model testing at Germany's Nurburgring, and as expected it draws heavily from the recent ConceptFASCINATION. The car will be about 4-inches longer than the CLK Cabrio that it replaces and it sticks with a traditional folding soft top. These leaked patent designs that were filed with the EU trademark office reveals how it will look when it makes its debut next year.

The engine lineup should mirror the Coupe, which means four, six and eight-cylinder units with outputs from 200 to 382 horsepower--the top end model being the E550.

The decision to move the CLK to the E-Class platform will allow Mercedes to introduce a new entry-level coupe and convertible based on the C-Class, finally providing the automaker with a direct competitor to BMW’s popular 3-series two-door models. You can see a preview of such a car in our previous story by clicking here.

The story doesn’t end there, however, as Mercedes is also expected to launch a new ‘shooting brake’ model based on the ConceptFASCINATION, although no official details about its release have been mentioned.

Magna To Build Mercedes-Benz SLS Bodies

GRAZ, Austria — Canadian-Austrian auto parts giant Magna, which recently won a bidding war to acquire Opel, said it will build aluminum bodies for the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG at its manufacturing facility here.

The company's Magna Steyr subsidiary will make a number of parts for the car, including the gullwing doors, hood and deck lid, and will supply much of the paintwork. Magna also will provide engineering support for the complete vehicle.

The Magna Steyr facility in Graz, formerly a part of Steyr-Daimler-Puch, has assembled the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen for 30 years. It will also assemble the Aston Martin Rapide and, beginning in 2012, the Porsche Boxster and Cayman. In addition to the G-Class, Magna Steyr also has built such models as the BMW X3, the Saab 9-3 convertible, the Chrysler 300C and the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The SLS goes into production next spring, priced from around $260,000.

Abu Dhabi fund buys into Banco Santander Brasil

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - The Abu Dhabi investment fund with the biggest stake in Mercedes-Benz said Sunday it has spent $328 million for a piece of a Brazilian bank recently floated by Spanish financial giant Banco Santander.

Aabar Investments' deal — the latest in a string of big bets by the fund this year — is another sign that Gulf governments are regaining their appetite for fresh investments and have plenty of cash left to spend despite the economic downturn.

It comes one day after Qatar's sovereign wealth fund said it boosted its stake in the company that owns much of London's Canary Wharf, a business district that houses offices for many of the world's best-known banks.

"We are delighted to have had the opportunity to invest in such a strong and successful entity," Aabar's chairman, Khadem al-Qubaisi, said in a brief statement announcing the Brazil deal.

"We hope to continue to strengthen and develop the existing relationship we have with Banco Santander and look forward to working with them in the future," he said.

Aabar has been among Abu Dhabi's most active investment funds in recent months, buying a 9.1 percent stake in Mercedes-Benz maker Daimler and nearly a third of commercial space travel startup Virgin Galactic.

It also owns 4 percent of San Carlos, California-based electric car producer Tesla Motors.

The Abu Dhabi government controls Aabar through a majority stake owned by its state-run International Petroleum Investment Co.

Abu Dhabi is the largest and richest of seven sheikdoms that make up the United Arab Emirates, and serves as the federation's capital. It controls nearly all of the OPEC member's conventional oil reserves, the world's fifth largest.

Its buy-in follows Banco Santander Brasil's $8.1 billion initial public offering last week.

Parent company Banco Santander SA initiated the IPO — the largest this year — in an effort to expand its Latin American operations.

It hopes to take advantage of one of the world's fastest growing economies by opening new branches and ATMs, and providing credit through its commercial banking and global wholesale banking divisions.

Santander is Brazil's third largest private sector bank behind Itau-Unibanco and Bradesco.

Aabar's purchase is the second major deal announced by Gulf state-backed investors in as many days.

On Saturday, Qatar Holding said it increased its holding in Songbird Estates PLC to 24 percent, making it the biggest shareholder in the real estate company that owns much of the Canary Wharf financial hub in east London.

Qatar Holding is the investment arm of the natural gas-rich Arab state's sovereign wealth fund.

It said its investment in Songbird now stands at more than 350 million pounds, or $559 million. It also owns stakes in European banks Barclays PLC and Credit Suisse Group, British supermarket operator J Sainsbury PLC and the London Stock Exchange.

KLEEMANN Mercedes-Benz SLK 55K S8 (2005)

Kleemann SLK 55K S8 Based on the New SLK 55 AMG
Kleemann presents yet another high-performance car without comparison. Based on the new SLK 55 AMG from Mercedes-Benz, Kleemann produces a power output of 596 bhp and 568 lb-ft with a Kleemann Kompressor System and a Stage 8 engine upgrade. The Kleemann SLK 55K S8 has an electronic speed limit of 300 km/h (186 mph) and hits 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

The power source in the SLK roadster is a specially revised version of the eight-cylinder Mercedes-Benz NA (Normally Aspirated) 5.5 litre engine. Equipped with only the Kleemann Kompressor system the engines power output raises from standard 360 bhp and 376 lb-ft to an impressive 550 bhp and 530 lb-ft.

Additionally the SLK 55K S8 is fitted with the Kleemann Stage 8 tuning kit. The engines ECU is reprogrammed and application specific super sport camshafts are fitted. To further improve the engines gas flow the 5.5 litre V8-engine is fitted with custom-developed headers in stainless steel and a complete dual 70 mm stainless steel exhaust system utilizing four steel racing catalysts. As the finishing touch to it all, the Kleemann SLK 55K S8 is fitted with two Trapezoid-shaped rear mufflers.

After the full tuning conversion from Kleemann the eight-cylinder engine delivers a maximum power output of 596 bhp / 438 kW at 5800 rpm and even more important for the overall driving characteristic is the peak torque of 568 lb-ft available from 2000 rpm. This incredible power is routed through a custom-made Kleemann Limited Slip Differential (LSD) which applies a 60 percent lock-up ratio between the rear wheels. This modification is essential for maximum traction of the driven wheels and the fantastic acceleration figures for this car.

The power treatment pushes the SLK roadster far beyond normal sports car territory. Not many super cars are able to accelerate from standstill to 62 mph in just 3.7 seconds and 125 mph in 12.3 seconds, but the Kleemann SLK 55K S8 does so without any drama. Like all other high-performance Kleemann cars the top speed is electronically limited to 300 km/h (186 mph).

To meet the enormous performance potential of the Kleemann SLK 55K S8, Kleemann has developed exceptional upgrades in terms of wheels, suspension and brakes.

The Kleemann SLK 55K S8 comes with a choice between the classic two-piece TM-5 and the three-piece forged TS-6 light alloy wheel, which can be fitted on the car in sizes ranging from 17- to 19-inches in diameter. The largest possible combination on the SLK 55K S8 is the Kleemann TS-6 alloy wheel in size 8.5JX19 for the front axle with 235/35 ZR 19 tires, and 9.5JX19 with 275/30 ZR 19 tires on the rear. The special shape of the TS-6 rim star augments aerodynamics as it exhausts the air from underneath the car. In addition to reducing lift this also increases cooling of the brakes and adds to the handling and stability of the vehicle.

To further increase the cars handling characteristics Kleemann has fitted the car with Kleemann Speed Sensitive Suspension which reduces body roll and increases the cars turn-in capability. Designed specifically for use with sporty low-profile tires it's a perfect combination of agile cornering and extraordinary ride comfort.

The safety aspect is handled by the Kleemann high performance brake system, which is designed for maximum performance under the most extreme braking tasks. Fitted with the largest KB-3 Kleemann high performance brake system the Kleemann SLK 55K S8 features 396 x 36 mm vented and cross-drilled two-piece brake discs with six piston forged and handmade calipers in the front, and 342 x 28 mm vented and cross-drilled two-piece brake discs with four piston forged and handmade calipers in the rear.

For further refinement of the sporty two-seater Kleemann can fit aerodynamic parts that emphasize the cars striking appearance. The cars front design becomes even more muscular with the low and stunning looking Kleemann front spoiler lip. To round of the visual look a custom developed rear diffuser panel is fitted making provision for the Kleemann sport exhaust system with one Trapezoid shaped rear muffler in each side.

Another focal point of refining the Kleemann SLK 55K S8 is the interior. Kleemann offers an extensive programme for the sporty roadster ranging from full leather to a combined leather/alcantara interior. The Kleemann program also includes a wide selection of individual accessories such as illuminated entrance panels with Kleemann logo, and an ergonomic Kleemann sport steering wheel with a choice of leather, leather/wood or leather/carbon. The finishing touch to the interior is genuine carbon inlays on the dashboard, centre console and door covers which creates a sporty yet comfortable and exclusive feeling.




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Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid Qualified for Hybrid Vehicle Credit

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has designated the new Mercedes-Benz 2010 S400 Hybrid (earlier post) as eligible for the Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit as a Qualified Hybrid Motor Vehicle. Mercedes-Benz S400 Hybrid customers are eligible for a one-time tax credit of up to $1,150.

The S 400 BlueHYBRID is the first series-production hybrid to be equipped with a Li-ion battery. Continental and Johnson Controls-Saft (JCS) are teaming on the pack, with JCS is providing the cells. Continental is the pack integrator and will also supply power electronics: the inverter and the DC/DC converter.

The battery works in combination with a 20 hp (15 kW) electric motor and a 275-hp, 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine to deliver EPA mileage ratings of 19 mpg US city and 26 mpg US highway—an improvement of 26% when compared to the V8-powered S550 sedan. The 120-volt lithium-ion battery weighs less than most other batteries and can be installed in the engine compartment, requiring no reductions in trunk or cabin space.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia To Push Newly Launched Truck

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 6 (Bernama) -- Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd aims to sell between 150 and 200 units of its newly launched heavy-duty truck next year, its vice-president of commercial vehicles, Rainer Schaefer, said Tuesday.

The company had started delivering the new Mercedes-Benz Actros Third Generation since last month, he told reporters after the launch here today.

Schaefer said the first generation Mercedes-Benz Actros was introduced in 1996 and the second generation model in 2002.

The Actros family is acknowledged to be the world's best-selling heavy-duty truck, with about 600,000 units sold in more than 100 countries, he said.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia expects to sell about 150 units of heavy-duty trucks this year with the second and third generation Mercedes-Benz Actros.

"Our target is to sell 150 units this year but we are trying to do more than that. The problem is that it is very difficult for our customers to obtain financing," Schaefer said.

Last year, the company sold over 200 units of the second generation Mercedes-Benz Actros, he said.

Currently, he added, the company was holding an average of 30 per cent market share of the heavy-duty truck segment in Malaysia.

Spy Shots: 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS AMG

The Mercedes-Benz CLS ignited the four-door coupe market when it was first introduced back in 2004, and since then we’ve seen several other luxury rivals attempt to emulate the design with cars like the 2010 Porsche Panamera, recently revealed 2010 Aston Martin Rapide and upcoming Audi A7.

Now, prototypes for Mercedes’ next-generation CLS has been spotted, revealing a few subtle clues about the new model. These latest shots show the high-performance AMG model, which is likely to be the dubbed the CLS63 in reference to its 6.2-liter V-8 engine.

Clear giveaways that this is the AMG model are the quad exhaust tailpipes, additional air vents on the bonnet, and oversized brakes.

Expect to see similar performance to that of the 2010 E63, which means an engine output of about 525-horsepower and 465-pound-feet of torque and a 0-62-mph time of around 4.6 seconds. Drive is likely to be channelled rearward via AMG’s new SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission.

The new CLS range, including the AMG model, is expected to be launched in late 2010 as a 2011 model, and positioned more upmarket to bring it in line with some of its more premium rivals. This will also allow Mercedes to introduce a second four-door coupe model, rumored to be based on its next-generation small car platform.

The new design will feature a wider track, as indicated by the extended wheel arches seen on previous test mules, and according to insiders its platform will be borrowed from the current S-Class sedan flagship.

For more information on the regular 2011 CLS range, click here. Also rumoured to be in the works is a new ‘shooting brake’ variant, which you can read about by clicking here.

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, which is about to celebrate its world premiere on 15 September 2009 at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main, embodies a blend of consummate automotive fascination and high tech. The super sports car delivers a compelling mix of purist styling, consistent lightweight design and superior driving dynamics. At the same time, the SLS fully lives up to all the expectations of hallmark Mercedes everyday practicality and optimum safety. In essence, the new 'Gullwing' offers the ideal synthesis of the strengths of Mercedes-Benz and AMG.

The new super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and AMG makes for an alluring proposition with its unrivalled technology package: aluminium spaceframe body with gullwing doors, AMG 6.3-litre V8 front-mid engine developing 420 kW/ 571 hp peak output, 650 Nm of torque and dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration, sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones and a kerb weight of 1620 kilograms based on the DINstandard – this superlative combination guarantees driving dynamics of the highest order. The ideal front/rear weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent and the vehicle's low centre of gravity are testimony to the uncompromising sports car concept. The 'Gullwing' accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 317 km/h (electronically limited). The fuel consumption of 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres (combined) puts it at the front of the competitive field (all figures provisional).

"Mercedes-Benz is presenting an exhilarating super sports car in the guise of the new SLS AMG, which is bound to set the pulses of all car enthusiasts racing that extra bit faster. The brands Mercedes-Benz and AMG have joined forces to create the SLS AMG– which is set to become one of the most alluring sports cars of all time", says Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

"Our customers will experience with the SLS AMG the expertise of Mercedes-AMG, built up over 40 years of motor racing. The unrivalled technology package delivers outstanding driving dynamics coupled with moderate fuel consumption figures – part and parcel of the modern-day AMG," says Volker Mornhinweg, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

"The styling of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is not only very special because of the exclusive gullwing doors. Our aspiration is to utilise this interpretation to create the classic of tomorrow and roll out the most alluring sports car of the 21st century. Our aim is also to create a new design icon, which shapes the incomparable legend of our brand, alongside Mercedes models like the CLS or the SL. At the same time, the new SLSpaves the way for the design philosophy of forthcoming Mercedes-Benz sports cars", says Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Mercedes-Benz Cars.