Silver Arrows works team to race as MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team

The Mercedes-Benz works Silver Arrows team will compete under the name ‘MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team’ from the 2012 season.

AMG is the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz, and has been synonymous with performance, sportiness, exciting driving and motorsport success for more than 40 years. The Mercedes AMG brand is the most successful in the history of the DTM, winning 165 races from 342 since 1988 and securing a total of 32 driver, manufacturer and team titles. AMG has also been continuously active in the world of Formula One since 1996, supplying both the Formula 1 Safety Car and the Formula 1 Medical Car. It is therefore a logical step to strengthen the links between AMG and the Formula One activities of Mercedes-Benz.

Norbert Haug, Vice President, Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, said: “Our new team name fuses the proud traditions of AMG and the Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrows at the pinnacle of motorsport. These three letters are synonymous with high technology, sporting performance and excitement and this step is a further strong sign of the strategic commitment Mercedes-Benz has made to Formula One. 16 of the 24 drivers on the grid at the season’s final Grand Prix in Brazil have, or have had, a connection to Mercedes-Benz. In addition to the role of a works team, our commitment to Formula One comprises the customer engine programme and supply of the official Safety and Medical Cars.”

The Mercedes-Benz Formula One powertrain facility at Brixworth, UK has worked closely with AMG for a number of years. This wholly owned Daimler subsidiary will now be renamed ‘Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains’.

Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH , commented: “The Mercedes AMG brand promises ‘Driving Performance’ – and what better embodies this philosophy than the intense competitive arena of Formula One? It is an historic first for the AMG name to be associated to the works Silver Arrows team, and offers fantastic opportunities: first, to further build the sporting identity of the Mercedes AMG brand through one of the world’s most-watched and most successful sports; second, to explore and deliver technology transfer between road and track. This is already being practised with the SLS AMG E-Cell project, whose electric powertrain will be developed as a joint venture between Mercedes AMG and our F1 engine specialists in Brixworth.”

The car with which the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team will compete in the 2012 season is currently under development at the team’s headquarters in Brackley, UK. Codenamed F1 W03, it is planned for the car to make its official track debut at the second winter test of 2012, on 21 February at Barcelona.

Team Principal Ross Brawn concluded: “We are very proud to reveal our new team name today. It adds another strong performance element to our team’s identity and, by virtue of being shared between Brackley and Brixworth, will forge even stronger links within our team. At the factory, we have been focused for some time on the challenge of 2012, and our very clear ambition to move forward up the grid next year. As always, the winter development and manufacturing processes are a trade-off between time for finding performance in the factory, and time for delivering that performance during pre-season testing. We believe that the decision to run the car at the second winter test is the optimum compromise for our design and development programme with F1 W03.”

About AMG

AMG – for more than 40 years, these three letters have been synonymous worldwide with automotive high performance, sportiness and dynamic driving enjoyment.

The company was founded in 1967 and built its image as the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz through an impressive motorsport track record and high-powered Mercedes car. Today, as a wholly owned subsidiary of Daimler AG, AMG is the company’s technological spearhead in the performance car segment.

AMG is strongly rooted in the development processes of Mercedes-Benz and offers a unique portfolio of high-performance vehicles. If you’re looking for something special, or if you love exclusivity, then Mercedes-AMG is the place for you. The Performance Studio in Affalterbach/Stuttgart also develops and produces individual AMG vehicles in exclusive limited editions.

The AMG performance brand grew out of motorsport, and has been at home on the race track for decades – from the successful DTM commitment to top-level customer motorsport with the SLS AMG GT3.

Over 1,000 employees currently work at the headquarters of Mercedes-AMG GmbH in Affalterbach. Precision and efficiency are part of our DNA – every AMG vehicle promises not just the finest quality down to the smallest details, but also exceptional performance and a fascinating driving experience.

Learn more at www.mercedes-amg.com

Official Response to the 'Fake Email Claim' of Mercedes-Benz Direct Recruitments Offer

This has reference to your enquiry relating to “Mercedes-Benz Direct Recruitments Offer” purportedly received by you from Mr. Deck Zobe, Human Resources Officer, Mercedes-Benz.

Please be advised that this is a fake email from unknown source.  The Company has not sent any such emails and request you not to take any action in furtherance to this email.  The Company does not have any connection, neither directly or indirectly with this email.  We at Mercedes-Benz India Private Limited do not offer any such direct employment opportunities to any candidate/s. 

The Company is in the process of taking legal action including filing Criminal Complaint / case against such criminal activity undertaken by some unknown person/s with an intension to dupe innocent and gullible individuals. 

We appreciate having referred to the email to us for verification. 

Thanking you, 

HR Department 

Mercedes-Benz India Private Limited 

E-3, MIDC Chakan, Phase -III,

Chakan Industrial Area, 

Kuruli & Nighoje, Taluka : Khed, 

Pune - 410 501 (India). 

Two golden steering wheels for Mercedes-Benz

Stuttgart – 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.

Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class

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.

MERCEDES GP PETRONAS Formual One Team at the inaugural Indian GP

Strong drives from MERCEDES GP PETRONAS pair Michael Schumacher and Nico Rosberg saw them finish in fifth and sixth places respectively in today’s inaugural Indian Grand Prix at the Buddh International Circuit.

Michael Schumacher

“I am obviously happy about the race today. We achieved the maximum that we could hope for, and as a team we maximised our potential. Fifth and sixth places are a great result for us. On top of that, my car was very nicely sorted for the race and very stable. At the start, everything worked out according to my strategy as I deliberately didn’t want to use KERS in the first two corners and save it for the long straight where I knew that I could make up some positions. In the second stint, I managed to maintain my tyres so I could stay out longer and that was enough for fifth place. What’s really important at the moment is that we keep pushing and trying to improve, and that is what we achieved today. To the organisers of the first Indian Grand Prix, I would like to send a big compliment; I’m sure that I am not the only one to say that this was a very positive debut.”

Nico Rosberg

“We can be happy with a good team result and that’s what the boys in the garage deserved. I’m also pleased to have gained one place on my grid position. However my strategy was not perfect today and I lost some time in the second pit stop which meant that I wasn’t able stay ahead of Michael. I had good pace at the end of the race and pushed very hard but it was impossible to catch him over the last laps. I’m confident that we can repeat this good result in the last two races. All in all, it has been a good Indian Grand Prix debut for us and I hope all the fans enjoyed the race. I’m looking forward to coming back next year.”

Ross Brawn

“A very solid race from the drivers and team today, and we are very pleased to have achieved fifth and sixth places. Michael, Nico and the engineers did an excellent job to focus on getting the car right for the race, and making the best use of the tyres. We certainly got everything that we could out of our current car this weekend. It was an exciting race from our two drivers with Michael coming out on top this time, however you could see just how closely matched they are during the race. Nico’s second set of tyres faded a little bit more on him whilst Michael was able to stay out longer which was enough to take fifth place. It was a very good result for the team today and I’m extremely pleased with how we have worked this weekend.”

Norbert Haug

“A strong result today for our team considering the possibilities that our technical package currently has. It is satisfying for everybody to extract the maximum and to achieve the best possible result. Our lap times looked consistent throughout the race

which shows that we handled the tyres well and found a set-up which suited the track. Of course, our drivers did a very good job today. To come home in fifth place after starting in 11th is certainly satisfying for Michael. His start, when he gained three places, and his second long and consistent stint were decisive for him to get in front of Nico. He also did a good job today with both our drivers doing similar lap times throughout the race which shows that they achieved what was possible. This inaugural Indian Grand Prix was a remarkable event. This is a fantastic and challenging race track, and saw packed grandstands and great enthusiasm from the fans. Formula One could not have wished for more during the first race in a new country. So a big thank you to the organisers, the Jaypee Group, and to Bernie Ecclestone and FOM, who have worked very hard to make this new event happen. We now are looking forward to the next Grand Prix in Abu Dhabi, the home of our co-owners and partners Aabar, where we hopefully can achieve a similar result. Fifth and sixth places are not what we are ultimately striving for but it is satisfying to get the best possible results and we can build on that in order to make a good step next year.” 

Race Preview Feature 17: Simulating New Circuits

The Formula One drivers will only turn a wheel for the first time at the Buddh International Circuit on Friday morning. But although those practice laps will mark the beginning of a new learning process, the teams and drivers are far from starting from zero when they actually take to the track. Preparations for the race have been underway for nearly a year – and by race day, around one million simulations of the race will already have been completed.

When did the team’s first preparations begin for the inaugural Indian Grand Prix?

The process of preparing for a new race begins with the logistical challenges rather than the technical ones. The team’s travel department conducted a recce of the local area in December 2010, and made hotel reservations shortly afterwards. The logistics crew generally make a visit around nine months ahead of the race, in order to plan the layout of the garage, access routes and storage areas. In terms of technical preparations, these begin with architects’ plans of the circuit. The elevation and camber provided on these are used to construct a basic track map for virtual simulation, around six weeks before the event. This map is gradually improved as more information becomes available from the FIA and the circuit. In recent years, circuits have only been completed very shortly before the first race weekend – and the same is true for the inaugural Indian GP – which means the team cannot make a digitised map of the track. Set-up simulations, which provide the baseline settings for the car at the start of the opening practice sessions, are carried out the week before the event.

 

What factors are taken into account when devising the baseline set-up?

Circuit characteristics can be distinguished from a basic two-dimensional map. Factors such as downforce levels, braking duty and g-force loadings are all a function of the circuit’s geometry, and basic simulations will provide a direction for those parameters. Initial simulation suggests that the cars will spend around 65% of the lap at full throttle, with the longest full throttle period of 14.5 seconds, between turns three and four. The cars will exceed 285 kph at three points around the lap, while the fastest corner is expected to be turn 12, which is expected to be taken at 255 kph. The maximum g-loading around the circuit is expected to be 4.0 G, at Turns 5, 9 and 11.

 

How is the driver-in-the-loop simulator used before the event?

The basic nature of the track map means that the simulator can only be used for basic familiarisation with the circuit, because the track map is not detailed enough to include information such as bumps and kerbs which influence set-up tuning. The team will generally complete around 100 laps (nearly two race distances) in the simulator, programmed with a variety of fuel loads and grip levels, to ensure as many possible scenarios as possible are covered. In addition to using the driver-in-the-loop simulator, the team conducts strategy simulations to analyse as many race outcomes as possible. By race day, we will have performed around one million iterations of the potential race, which are used to inform decisions about how to approach qualifying and the race itself.

 

What preparation do the drivers have to do for a new circuit?

Like with other circuits, they must be familiar with the KERS deployment schedule (when KERS is deployed to the greatest performance advantage around the circuit), the DRS zones and also the pit-entry and exit lines, for speed limiter activation and deactivation. In terms of learning the circuit, the drivers will conduct their usual track walk on Thursday to inspect it on foot, and potentially note specific signs and markings that they will need to be aware of when in the car. In terms of learning the circuit, this is an ongoing process through the weekend, as grip levels increase, and the team structures its practice programmes to give the drivers maximum time to familiarise themselves with the intricacies of the layout.

 

Which track does the new Buddh International Circuit most resemble?

The circuit has similarities to Turkey, with a long main straight and a very long, sweeping corner (Turns 10 and 11) that resembles the triple-apex Turn Eight in Turkey. However, while Turn Eight was taken with an average corner speed of 270 kph, in India the corners are expected to be taken at 170 kph (Turn 10) and 210 kph (Turn 11) respectively. The lap time and speed will be very much dependent on the grip level achieved by the Pirelli tyres on the new asphalt surface. A lap time of 1:25.000 would correspond to an average lap speed of 218 kph, while a lap time of 1:30.000 would equate to an average lap speed of 205 kph.

Mercedes-Benz is the world’s most valuable premium automotive brand

Mercedes-Benz continues to be regarded as the world’s most valuable premium automotive brand. In the latest ranking by respected brand consultancy Interbrand Zintzmeyer & Lux, ‘Best Global Brands 2011’, the three-pointed star brand again took twelfth place – as it did last year – and is therefore the most valuable European brand. Its brand equity has risen to US$ 27.455 billion, an increase of 9 percent compared to 2010. Mercedes-Benz’s brand equity has therefore risen continuously since 2009.

The study’s authors attribute this success to customer satisfaction with the brand, which is higher than that of all other automotive brands. What’s more, the model initiative launched two years ago is enabling Mercedes-Benz to successfully respond to the market’s demand for ground-breaking, sustainable transport solutions.

Interbrand conducts the ‘Best Global Brands’ study every year. Leading CEOs regard it as the benchmark for measuring the value of international brands. The study identifies the 100 most valuable brands in the world. 

Saffronart and Mercedes-Benz India join hands in a unique partnership in support of Arts

The partnership seeks to broaden and enrich the understanding of Indian aesthetics, inspired by the country’s vibrant art, design and jewelry traditions


A key aspect of the partnership is Saffronart’s ‘Art and Aesthetics Series’, a six part series of talks held around the Country, focusing on Indian art, jewelry, design and architecture 


Mercedes-Benz unveils the new “S- Class Art Edition” at an attractive price of Rs 1.14 Cr. A limited edition of two cars created exclusively for Saffronart’s clientele 

Mumbai, September 21, 2011: In a unique initiative, Saffronart, India’s leading art auction house and Mercedes-Benz India, the global premium automobile brand have partnered for promotion of the arts in India. The result is an exclusive industry partnership inspired by the vibrant art, design and jewelry traditions of India. 

Mercedes-Benz is supporting the Saffronart Autumn Online Auction of Modern and Contemporary Indian Art being held online at www.saffronart.com on September 21-22, 2011. Celebrating the launch of this auction, today an event was held at ‘Tote on the Turf’ in Mumbai to showcase a selection of lots in the auction, including a wide variety of artworks of exceptional provenance and quality. The event featured modern works by M.F. Husain, S.H. Raza, Arpita Singh and Jehangir Sabavala alongside those of contemporary artists like Atul Dodiya, Shibu Natesan, Anju Dodiya, Subodh Gupta and Surendran Nair.

A special highlight of the partnership was the unveiling of a customized Mercedes-Benz S-Class ‘Art Edition’ at the event. This S-Class, one of the two limited edition cars have been specially designed to commemorate the alliance between Saffronart and Mercedes-Benz at a special price of Rs 1.14 Cr ( Ex Showroom Delhi) 

Designed to be different, every stroke of the S-Class Art Edition brings you the finest finish, trims and fittings from Designo by the AMG Performance Studio. 

The experience inside an S-Class is the epitome of luxury, offering a range of unparalleled options that promise exclusivity while ensuring ethereal harmony between the interior and exterior. 

The alluring colour Designo Mocha Black lends the car a visually captivating appeal, with precision finished shades and a deep lustre rich colour finished precisely by specialists at Mercedes-Benz. This Art Edition offers one of the pioneering Innovative technologies SPLIT VIEW, a unique display technology allowing both driver and front passenger to view different visuals at the same point of time. Equipped with single tone leather upholstery, Designo deep white – is the finest grain leather sourced exclusively from bulls of Southern Germany and carefully handcrafted by experienced upholsterers ensuring the seats cut a fine figure. The masterpiece has the finest wood, piano lacquer to augment the rich-feel inside and is further emphasized by the use of Harman Kardon® LOGIC 7® Surround Sound System, which provides the world’s best surround sound technology. Additional features include the rear seat entertainment system with a Champagne chiller, massage function with lumbar support.

Dinesh Vazirani, Co-Founder and CEO of Saffronart commented on the association, “Both Saffronart and Mercedes-Benz deeply value aesthetics and have constantly endeavoured to innovate to serve their customers. Through our partnership, we explore and engage with the changing face of aesthetics in India today, as influenced by both its long-standing traditions as well as contemporary trends and forces. Together, we hope to expand and enrich the understanding of the finer aspects of Indian art and aesthetics, and help people set out on new and exciting journeys as informed collectors.”

Mercedes-Benz is indistinguishable from a refined and luxurious lifestyle, and we have consistently set newer benchmarks for style, quality and luxury for our connoisseurs. We are delighted to be associated with Saffronart and support the most creative and exquisite pieces of art. It is a proud moment for us where our wealth of innovation in the creation of automobiles has merged with the unique and imaginative world of art and culture.” said Mr. Peter Honegg, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India.

A key aspect of this partnership is Saffronart’s ‘Art & Aesthetics Series’, which features presentations by well-known experts on understanding modern and contemporary Indian art, jewelry, design and architecture. Special events are being held in Mumbai, New Delhi, Pune, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Ludhiana. Each of these events will be followed by a private cocktail reception where guests can interact with the speakers and learn more about their fields of expertise. 

The ‘Art and Aesthetics Series’ has already hosted two successful events: the first, held in August at Saffronart’s gallery space in Mumbai, was an illustrated talk by Reema Keswani exploring the life and work of A.V. Shinde, Harry Winston’s head designer. Addressing jewelry enthusiasts and collectors, Keswani spoke on Shinde’s design sensibility, his contribution to the jewelry industry, and his highly sought after work. Dinesh Vazirani, Co-founder and CEO of Saffronart had also addressed a packed audience at the second event in the series, held at the Mercedes-Benz dealership in Pune. The topic was ‘Collecting and Investing in Modern and Contemporary Indian Art’, where Vazirani had offered a critical appraisal of the developments that have influenced the evolution of the Indian art market over the last fifteen years. The event was attended by Peter Honegg, Managing Director, and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India. 

Mercedes-Benz India ushers in new era of contemporary design and luxury: Launches the New C 200BE AVANTGARDE

• The launch of New C 200BE AVANTGARDE signifies the arrival of the contemporary profile of the hallmark and legendary C-Class with a stylish presence more than ever before with the introduction of the Panoramic sunroof


• Introduction of comprehensive safety package: The C-Class will feature - Attention Assist and Parktronic including Parking Guidance for the first time ever in its segments


• Striking interiors: With completely redesigned dashboard with integrated central display, new instrument cluster with colour display, high-grade trim and a wide choice of colours and materials for the line-specific interior appointments


• Intelligent Light system & LED day time running lights add to the attractive exterior design of the New C-Class highlighting the dynamically shaped headlamps and seamlessly integrated tail lights, with a powerful new front Bumpers

New Delhi: Mercedes-Benz India today introduced the New C 200BE characterized by its distinct sporty & aggressive look while retaining its classic luxury & appeal. Setting new standards in its segment, the spectacular new generation C-Class offers a new presence that integrates safety, comfort and agility. Mirroring one of the most important iconic model series, this C-Class is the epitome of luxury and comfort.


Mr. Debashis Mitra, Director Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India: “The New C-Class, with its complete redesign both external and internal, will continue to set newer benchmarks in design, quality and luxury for the segment. With features that are stylish and luxurious like the first ever Panaromic Sunroof in this segment, this latest generation of the best-selling Mercedes model offers the highest level of remarkable driving experience to the Indian consumer. Setting new standard in its segment, this New C-Class will occupy an excellent position in the competitive line-up.”


The New C 200BE continues the exemplary visual appeal of its predecessors while simultaneously creating a more masculine appearance. The front and rear of the vehicle have been provided with a distinguished overhaul, with pronounced body parts. Equipped with distinctive contours in the front, the seamlessly blended LED taillights and the dynamically shaped headlamps offer an unparalleled intelligent advantage. A distinctive new bumper design allows the car to display its masculine prowess even as the alloy wheels provide a resolute impression of the car. At the rear, emphasis has been given to create a light pattern that is seamless with an emphatic pattern. Aditionally, the spectacular sunroof reflects the dynamic characteristic of its driver more expressively, providing the driver a superlative experience.


With a redesigned dashboard, new instrument cluster, equipped with an integrated color display and revamped upholstery, the New C-Class has witnessed a complete makeover in its interiors, offering the customers a deluxe travelling opportunity.


AGILITY CONTROL package with the selective damping system, provides a customised style of vehicle handling, showcasing the vehicle’s technological prowess. With functions such as PRE SAFE and NECK PRO, ADAPTIVE BRAKE with ABS and ASR, brake drying function and hill start assist, Thermatic Cruise control, fog lamps and rain sensors the car offers outstanding levels of safety for the passengers


This New C-Class is equipped with a 4 cylinder petrol engine with 7-Speed Automatic Transmission, which enables reduced fuel consumption while delivering high output and torque for unmatched driving pleasure. As the world's premier automobile manufacturer, Mercedes Benz takes its responsibility for environment care very seriously. Which is why, we are constantly engaged in improving every aspect of automotive technology to reduce the impact on the environment. 

Mercedes-Benz opens Newer horizons in India with the launch of the New Roadster SLK 350 BlueEFFICIENCY

The New SLK-Class

• SLK pioneered the Roadster segment in the world. With the SLK, Mercedes-Benz reinvents the Roadster yet again; introduces the world’s first Magic Sky Control 
• Rated as one of safest cars in its class: Awarded the Euro NCAP 5 Star Safety Ratings
• Combines fun with responsibility: Powered by 3.5L engine; yet implementing BlueEFFICIENCY measures which ensures optimal performance and environment compatibility


Delhi– Mercedes-Benz India today unveiled the exemplary and stunning New generation SLK 350, showcasing its distinctively aggressive design and an impressive sporty architecture, mirroring the sharp lineage of the SLS-AMG and the SL Class. Adding another highlight to Mercedes-Benz India’s luxury car portfolio, this engineering marvel introduces the ‘MAGIC SKY CONTROL’ panoramic vario-roof for the first time ever. Blending sporty inspiration with unrivalled safety, the New SLK embodies the luxurious performance of trend setting technology.


Mr. Debashis Mitra, Director Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India: “The New SLK 350 is one of the most revolutionary products to come from the stable of Mercedes-Benz! Demonstrating the rich blend of sophistication with the latest in design and technology, the car is a testament to our continued endeavor to offer a thrilling experience to our customers. With its powerful innovative features and state of the art technology, the car proves not just to be an exhilarating experience to the driver but also a visual delight, consolidating its status as a benchmark product world over.”


For the first time ever - MAGIC SKY CONTROL
Proving yet again its leadership in technological advancements, this stunning roadster takes its pioneering concept of the vario-roof to a New level, with the introduction of the world’s first ‘Magic Sky Control’ panoramic vario-roof. The third generation of the SLK family offers its driver a never before advantage, as this meticulous design breakthrough transforms the roadster into a coupé at the touch of a button. Blending harmoniously into the overall design, the roof offers a brighter and more natural interior, offering a spectacular view of the skies.


Supreme design mirroring leadership in technology
Designed to be thrilling, powerful and yet royal, the SLK 350 boasts of sleek lines and shapely contours demonstrating its supremacy with a bolder look. With symmetrically arranged headlamps and bumpers, the contours of the car invoke the car’s all powerful character, as the hallmark Mercedes V-Shape adds the final finishing touch. From the side and from the front, the car is sculpted to rise and glide likes a powerful machine, exuding its lively, sporty presence. With authentic sporty trimmings, sweeping lines and stylish seating mechanisms, the interiors of the SLK have been intricately crafted to offer the pinnacle in luxury and comfort. 


Ingenious material mix and high levels of safety 
The striking New SLK 350 impresses with the New BlueEFFICIENCY technology, unleashing a slew of revolutionary features for the most tempting driving experience. Designers and engineers have integrated superior maintaining the edge in new age technology accompanied with stylish designs. Safety is an important benchmark for every Mercedes vehicle. The SLK 350 has achieved the much coveted 5 stars in the Euro NCAP Crash Rating making it the epitome in safety. The third generation of the powerful trend-setter will make use of a whole host of the latest assistance systems to support the driver. These include the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST which predicts the level of driver attentiveness to provide an early warning of overtiredness. The parking guidance system PARKTRONIC aids in representing the recommended parking manoeuver. 


SLK-Class: Engine specifications
The New SLK-Class is equipped with a V6 engine and a capacity of 3.498cc with a 306hp output and 360Nm torque making its engine a force to reckon with. The exemplary efficiency is coupled with a torque that offers a high level of responsiveness making this roadster impressive in every aspect.


Priced at Rs. 61.9 Lakhs (Ex-Showroom Delhi), the New SLK 350 will be retailed through Mercedes-Benz Dealerships across the country.

Three awards in the Automotive Brand Contest 2011

"Best of Best": the Mercedes-Benz design team is "Team of the year"

Stuttgart – It’s official: Mercedes-Benz design is outstanding. As confirmed by three first places in the Automotive Brand Contest 2011. The competition’s top-flight expert jury voted the Mercedes-Benz design team "Team of the year". They additionally awarded the ultimate "Best of Best" plaudit to the Mercedes-Benz CLS in the Exterior category. The Concept A-Class interior was also deemed "Best of Best", taking first
place in the Interior area of the Concept & Study category.

The Automotive Brand Contest is the first international brand and design competition for the automotive industry. It was launched by the German Design Council, which was established as a foundation by decree of the German Bundestag back in 1953. The independent institution organises
this competition dedicated exclusively to the automotive sector in order
to acknowledge outstanding achievements in brand management, brand communication and design.  In this way, the internationally reputed German Design Council highlights the great importance of design and brand image
to the success of an automotive company.

Mercedes-Benz design director professor h.c. Gorden Wagener and his staff of around 500 based in Sindelfingen and at four studios abroad were found to be in a league of their own. The expert jury of the Automotive Brand Contest 2011 awarded them the title of "Team of the year". "We are all delighted to receive this valuable award in recognition of a magnificent joint effort," says professor Wagener. "Everyone in our team works with great dedication day-in, day-out to ensure that the Mercedes-Benz models of the future retain their distinctive, hallmark Mercedes character in keeping with the very highest aesthetic standards."

The Mercedes-Benz design team, responsible for the design of products from the smart to the Actros, have been named "Team of the Year" at the Automotive Brand Contest 2011.

Two "Best of Best" titles in the Automotive Brand Contest 2011 additionally underscore the Mercedes design team’s efforts.  The Concept A-Class interior by Mercedes-Benz took first place in the Interior area of the Concept & Study category.  Bionic cell structures, echoes of aircraft design, an operating concept with fully integrated smartphone and unique and revolutionary graphic design featuring three-dimensional, dynamically growing glass elements provide a foretaste of a new generation of the A-Class.

The "Best of Best" title in the Exterior category saw the new generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class following in the footsteps of its predecessor, which has long enjoyed international renown as a design icon. The new CLS combines an elegant coupé silhouette with an expressive front. Its dynamic, athletic figure features a beguiling composition of lines and surfaces and a dropping line, drawing on the uniquely rich fund of design treasures to be found in historical Mercedes sports cars to embody a contemporary aesthetic statement.

The awards will be presented at the Automotive Designers Night which is to take place at the Frankfurt International Motor Show on 13 September. 

Mercedes-Benz scores top marks in customer satisfaction study

 Stuttgart - Mercedes-Benz customers are the most satisfied. The proof comes with the results of the latest J.D. Power Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study (VOSS^SM) Germany, undertaken by the world-renowned market research organisation J.D. Power and Associates into the satisfaction of car buyers. The C-, E- and M-Class each scored the best marks in their respective segments. In the category Service Satisfaction, the three-pointed star also once again secured first place among the premium brands. In addition, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class has won silver in the editorial awards presented by the German magazine AUTO TEST, based on more than 500 tests and pre-purchase consultations.

The strengths and weaknesses of a car are best shown in its day-to-day running. This realisation lies behind the J.D. Power 2011 Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study (VOSS^SM), a far-reaching survey of how satisfied car owners are with their vehicles. The results appear as a list that ranks more than
100 models from 28 manufacturers in eight categories. The current study shows Mercedes-Benz models in first place three times, while the brand also scores exceptionally well when it comes to service:

• In the ranking "Overall VOSS^SM - Compact Executive", the top slot is taken by the C-Class, reflecting the fact that its customers are the most satisfied among those of all models in the Midsize Premium category.
• The E-Class takes first place for customer satisfaction in the Executive Luxury Car ranking, followed by the S-Class.
• The M-Class trails all other models in the "SUV" segment in its wake when it comes to customer satisfaction.
• Mercedes-Benz took first place ahead of all other premium-brand manufacturers in the service satisfaction category.

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class and CLK were already the winners in their segment in 2010. First place across all brands was taken by Mercedes-Benz.
In the category of service satisfaction, Mercedes-Benz was also already placed well ahead of its premium-class competitors in the 2009 and 2010 studies. Customers were asked for their views on criteria such as the friendliness of
the service advisor, the condition of the equipment used and the thoroughness with which any servicing or maintenance work was undertaken.

Dr Joachim Schmidt, Member of Mercedes-Benz Cars Management
responsible for Sales and Marketing: "We are delighted that our customers
are able to experience this high level of quality on a day-to-day basis and have shown their recognition in this way. Our aim is to offer products that delight, coupled with excellent customer care and the best service. All this is integral
to the Mercedes-Benz brand. The results of these latest studies provide confirmation for the work we do."

The J.D. Power Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study undertaken by the global market research company J.D. Power, based in Los Angeles, is seen as an important guide for buyers.

For this current study, the market research specialists undertook an online survey of more than 17,000 motorists in Germany, asking about their experience with their vehicle. All of them had at that point been driving the
car for around two years and driven almost 39,000 kilometres. The survey is therefore based on the experience of over 650 million kilometres of everyday driving. In order for a reliable assessment of the strengths and weakness of each model to be made, the owners were asked to give marks for overall satisfaction, quality and reliability, vehicle appeal, service and ownership costs.

The positive image of the premium automotive brand Mercedes-Benz is rounded off by the silver award presented for the E-Class by the editors of the German magazine AUTO TEST. The results are based on more than 500 tests and pre-purchase consultations as well as on almost two million driven kilometres, and add up to a well-founded guide for buyers.

Mercedes-Benz vehicles thus take the lead among some of the most desirable premium passenger cars, whilst also proving themselves in terms of their excellent reliability and value retention.

Mercedes-Benz India becomes the first automotive manufacturer to launch a Mobile-optimized Website in India

• http://m.mercedes-benz.co.in is optimized for all Smart phones, Androids, and web enabled mobile phones
• Visitors may now enter the Mercedes virtual showroom, contact dealers or request brochures and test-drives, all from their mobiles
• Updated news and events information, latest TV commercials, great wallpapers and technology reads and more available on the mobile-optimized website
• The corporate website of Mercedes-Benz India, www.mercedes-benz.co.in now features  faster browsing, easy navigation and richer viewing experience for the visitors 

The new Mercedes-Benz India Mobile-optimised Website

Mumbai, June 10, 2011: Continuing its legacy of introducing newer innovations and catering to the rapidly evolving set of tech savvy customers, Mercedes-Benz India becomes the first car manufacturer in India to launch a mobile-optimized website, m.mercedes-benz.co.in
The new mobile-optimized website can be readily accessed through multiple mobile devices including smart phones, Androids and other feature phones capable of internet browsing. Customized for mobile viewing, the website presents a summary of the brand’s corporate website, which is designed to function like a virtual car showroom with information on product highlights, technical data, picture galleries, pricing and details on local service centers. 
The mobile website is served in multiple layout modes device specifically to ensure maximum quality output: irrespective of using HTML, xHTML or WML. Aimed at offering improved usability, better graphics & functionality, users soon will also have the option of redirecting themselves to the mobile website from the main website as well. 

The new Mercedes-Benz India Mobile-optimised Website

Mr. Manas Dewan, General Manager, Corporate Communications & Strategic Planning, Mercedes-Benz India Ltd elaborated, “The mobile website reflects the contemporary nature of the Mercedes brand. Our mobile optimized website will ensure that customers and enthusiasts of the Mercedes brand can enjoy far greater levels of interactivity as compared to any other manufacturer in India. Features like– fast browsing, video and flash content, easy navigation and enhanced interface will further enhance browsing experience”
Mercedes-Benz India has also upgraded its corporate website www.mercedes-benz.co.in. With optimized interface, easier navigation and features such as a full-screen viewing, bookmarks and downloads, the visitor experience has been significantly enhanced. 
Besides being the pioneers of luxury automobile Mercedes-Benz now also earns the distinction of pioneering the concept of mobile website in India that truly epitomizes the core brand philosophy of “The Best or Nothing”.

Mercedes-Benz is once again Germany’s strongest brand in the ADAC AutomarxX study

• Mercedes-Benz takes first place in the Safety category and overall
• Significant improvement in the CO2-ranking: Star brand moves up 11 places 
• Mercedes-Benz the most successful brand since the introduction of AutomarxX, capturing first place a total of 13 times

Stuttgart – Mercedes-Benz has once again defended the top position in the ADAC AutomarxX study, making it Germany’s strongest automotive brand. Mercedes-Benz is the most successful brand since AutomarxX was introduced in 2001, capturing first place a total of 13 times and beating its competitors in more than half of all the rankings. The ADAC AutomarxX study assesses the automotive brands sold in Germany in six categories: Brand Image, Market Strength, Customer Satisfaction, Product Strength/Vehicle Quality, Environment, and Safety. The results reflect the current capabilities of all automakers that are of relevance in Germany. A winner is ascertained for each category and out of this the overall winner is determined.

“We’re very pleased that we once again are ranked first in the ADAC AutomarxX study,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars. “The result confirms our ambition to deliver our customers the very best. Our first place finish demonstrates that Mercedes-Benz continues to be the strongest brand. This also includes Mercedes-Benz being a pioneer in the development of active and passive safety systems. We also want to set benchmarks when it comes to continuous improvement of our vehicles’ efficiency. The significant improvement in the CO2-ranking shows we are successful in this as well.”

Taking the number four slot, Mercedes-Benz moved up 11 places in the CO2-ranking, far ahead of its competitors in the premium segment. The improvement was mainly due to the introduction of new, highly efficient engine variants in high-volume models such as the new-generation C-Class. The new engines, the enhanced 7G TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission, and the ECO start-stop function reduce fuel consumption by up to 31 percent compared to the figure for the predecessor model.

The main factors in the Safety category are availability of active and passive safety systems and the fact that the systems are fitted as standard. The new-generation C-Class, for example, impresses not only as a result of its greater efficiency, but also because of its many new assistance systems. Thanks to features ranging from the ATTENTION ASSIST fatigue detection system to DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control, the C-Class reaches a new level of safety.

The evaluation for the Brand Image category incorporates the results of the ADAC Motorwelt image survey of 4,000 German respondents as well as an assessment of vehicle residual values. In the image survey, the participants were primarily interested in maximum quality and the highest-possible safety standards. Not only did Mercedes-Benz take first place in both of these areas; the people surveyed also ranked the brand at the top with regard to automotive research and development.