Mercedes-Benz inaugurates a new showroom

Mercedes-Benz further strengthens its presence in the National Capital– inaugurates a new showroom

• T&T Motors West Delhi is spread over 20,000 sq. ft. area; investment of over INR 50 million
• Dealership to showcase the entire range of Mercedes-Benz cars including the all new B Class, India’s first Sports Tourer
• Mercedes-Benz India continues to have the densest network amongst all luxury car makers in India with 72 touch points in 31 cities
• Mercedes-Benz India as part of ‘Go to Customer’ strategy is aggressively expanding its network presence in both Metro and non-Metro markets 

New Delhi – In its constant endeavor to provide unparallel customer experience, Mercedes-Benz India delighted its customers in the National Capital by inaugurating its new  state of art dealership in New Delhi, today. Spread over 20,000 sq. ft. and built with an overall investment of more than INR 50 million towards the facility, T&T Motors West Delhi will give the customers a classy yet sporty feel of the brand with its exciting range of Mercedes-Benz cars including the all new B-Class Sports Tourer. Mr. Peter Honegg, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India and Mr. Ravi Talwar, Chairman, T&T Motors Ltd. inaugurated the dealership in presence of Mr. Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India.

Mr. Peter Honegg, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented: “Big metros will remain key enablers for driving growth for Mercedes-Benz India, and Delhi will play a pivotal role in this growth story as it is a matured market with a well established base for connoisseurs of luxury cars. Delhi has tremendous growth potential for Mercedes-Benz as our customer base has been rapidly increasing here and the buyers want to experience the superlative attributes of the Brand Mercedes-Benz.”

“T&T Motors has been our distinguished partners in India since 1997 and we share a similar growth story. In T&T Motors, we see a partner who shares the same passion and commitment towards excellence in servicing the customers. I am confident that our growing customer base in New Delhi will experience even further an enriched vehicle ownership experience. Inauguration of T&T Motors West Delhi is part of our ‘Go to Customer’ strategy which is defining newer benchmark for the luxury car industry in India and we are committed to reaching out and delighting more customers and expanding our footprints to more Indian cities” added Mr. Honegg.

T&T Motors West Delhi is a well structured showroom with contemporary design, strategically located at Rajouri Garden area to cater to the growing customer base of Mercedes-Benz in West Delhi. Created in a span of mere three months with an initial investment of over INR 50 million towards the facility, T&T Motors West Delhi offers a unique blend of lifestyle and contemporary ambience bringing the customer closer to the brand. The showroom built with an objective of creating a luxurious experience for the customers, is a delight to visit. T&T Motors West Delhi is completed with luxurious Mercedes Café, a valet service, display of the exciting range of Mercedes-Benz cars, Mercedes-Benz accessories & collectibles, an engaging Mercedes-Benz Experience zone and several other exciting aspects. T&T Motors West Delhi also has a dedicated and highly trained team to ensure on-time & efficient sales and after-sales service facilities for the discerning customers.

Mr. Ravi Talwar, Chairman, T&T Motors Ltd. commented on the inauguration: “T&T Motors has been one of Mercedes-Benz’s long standing partners and it is an honour to be associated with the prestigious brand with the Three Pointed Star. I am extremely delighted to present this world class dealership to our connoisseurs of West Delhi.  We have already started receiving bookings from customers which reiterates the growing demand for the brand in this region of the national capital. In sync with Mercedes-Benz’s brand philosophy of ‘Best or Nothing’, T&T Motors West Delhi will provide the customers with world-class service standards and the complete display of the emotion evoking product range of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, will be a huge draw for our esteemed customers.”

With the inauguration of T&T Motors West Delhi, the first ever Mercedes-Benz showroom in West Delhi, Mercedes-Benz retains the distinction of being the leading luxury car brand with the densest sales and service network penetration in India with 72 touchpoints spread over 31 Indian cities. The dealership will have Mercedes Cafe to provide the customers a delightful experience visit. Services like easy finance, insurance of the cars will be available at the new dealership.

Every question, treated like a Star

Ever had a question you wanted to ask Mercedes-Benz, but didn’t know how or where to do so?

Introducing mb.Connect! An exclusive platform where fans of Mercedes-Benz can pose questions and watch them answered in real time. 

This new initiative from Mercedes-Benz India kicks off on Friday 29th July between 4 to 5 PM. Questions will be answered on a live webcast by Mr. Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales and Marketing for Mercedes Benz India.

This never before seen initiative is a bold new step for the brand and helps connect with a younger net savvy target audience. The result: diehard fans will be able to engage Mr Mitra in a tête-à-tête like never before on a wide range of topics related to Mercedes-Benz. This is an ongoing initiative and users can continue to pose their questions on a continuing basis to Mercedes-Benz even after Friday. 

So logon, ask your question and join us this Friday on www.mb.Connect.in

You can also Tweet us your questions at @mercedesbenzind – Use the hash tag #mbconnect

Mercedes-Benz A-Class, C-Class and E-Class take four first places in customer survey in Germany

Taking four first places with the A-Class, C-Class and E-Class, Mercedes-Benz has turned up a clear winner in terms of driver satisfaction, according to JD Power in Germany, a market research company that conducts surveys of customer satisfaction research on new car quality and long-term dependability. The German car maker has also been voted as the strongest brand in the Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club (ADAC) AutoMarxX study, Europe’s largest automobile club with more than 18 million members as of May 2012. A little over 14,000 drivers in Germany responded to the online survey to assess the quality and reliability of the cars, which is the basis for the JD Power 2012 Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study (VOSS). All the cars had to be driven for around two years.

“We are delighted that we have once again been able to secure the top places in the JD Power Study 2012. Our aim in the future is to continue to set the highest of standards, not only in terms of quality, service and ecology, but, of course also with our exciting designs, inspirational technology and high levels of driving pleasure. As a result we hope that the Mercedes-Benz brand will continue to be extremely well received by our customers,” said Joachim Schmidt, member of the board of Mercedes-Benz cars responsible for sales and marketing.

The company emerged as the winner in the Overall VOSS ranking with the C-Class taking the podium for the third time in succession, the E-Class winning the award for the second consecutive year and the A-Class scoring top marks for satisfaction in the compact class. Also Read: 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML 350: First Drive

Based on the responses, market researchers drew up comprehensive lists of vehicles achieving best satisfaction, comprising 79 models from 25 manufacturers in eight categories.

New driving safety training courses from Mercedes-Benz and AMG

New driving safety training courses from Mercedes-Benz and AMG: Helping to ensure a safe, confident and enjoyable driving experience

Mercedes-Benz is starting the 2012/2013 season with a new wide-ranging programme of driving safety training events designed to appeal to all types of drivers. Courses for young people, beginners, advanced and even expert drivers are being offered at 14 locations throughout Germany using vehicles generally provided by Mercedes-Benz – whether saloons, coupés, roadsters or off-road vehicles. The goal of the events is to help drivers to handle their vehicles in a safer and more confident manner, even in emergency situations – and of course to ensure that they enjoy the experience of driving.

One fact confirmed by the accident statistics is that Mercedes drivers are involved in fewer accidents than drivers of cars made by other manufacturers. And this is an area in which the diverse range of driving safety training events offered by Mercedes-Benz can make a contribution. It is all part of the comprehensive safety philosophy of the brand with the star – which in addition comprises accident research and the development of trend-setting assistance and safety systems based on this research and which other automotive brands have also adopted.

Taking place at 14 on and off-road locations throughout Germany, the driving safety training events enable participants to learn how to be more aware of typical danger situations and to practise appropriate responses. By providing courses almost nationwide and at reasonable prices – the half-day basic compact training event for 18 to 25-year olds, for example, costs just 95 euros – Mercedes-Benz is aiming at as many car drivers as possible. Ultimately all road users are able to benefit from the confident car control practiced during the training, not just Mercedes drivers. Any accident is one accident too many.

The target group for the various courses is correspondingly diverse, ranging from learner drivers to experienced professionals, and from sales training to events for professional drivers and chauffeurs. The sole requirement is that the driver must hold a class 3/class B driver's licence.

According to Wolfgang Müller, Chief Instructor for Mercedes-Benz Driving Events: "We offer training events to meet a variety of different interests, so for example not only classic driving safety training sessions which can be aimed specifically at young drivers who are still a bit inexperienced, but also pure sports driving training events for highly motivated drivers." The sports driving training sessions are not just geared towards fun but also towards driving safety. Anyone who is able to control a vehicle at its limits is more composed and considered in situations of danger. Another highlight is that the participants take part in the training using vehicles provided by Mercedes-Benz. This enables exercises to be incorporated which are considerably more dynamic. In addition, the instructors also have the opportunity to demonstrate how effective modern assistance systems can be – as a safety pioneer, Mercedes-Benz provides technologies in this area which are simply not available, or not yet available, in other vehicles. Almost the entire Mercedes-Benz model range is available for the training events.

In addition to extensive driving skills and experience, all of the instructors have the distinct ability to convey the various interconnected driving physics principles in such an easy-to-understand manner that the participants are able to apply them in practice in their everyday driving.

There are on and off-road events designed to take place both in the summer and the winter. The most important events include:

• Basic compact training: on this half-day course, participants find out how an accident can be prevented effectively. Exercises include full brake application combined with an evasive manoeuvre, and a slalom course. Compact training is also available as a reasonably-priced special training event for 18 to 25-year-olds.
• Basic training: as part of this one-day event, the participants learn how dangerous situations can be dealt with safely and confidently with support from active control systems. The demanding programme of lessons includes taking evasive action without braking from 80 km/h, emergency braking and correcting skidding vehicles.
• Advanced training: this extension course provides additional solutions for dealing with hazardous situations at higher speeds – such as emergency braking at 100 km/h or controlling a rear-end skid on a wet bend.
• Enhanced training: here exercises are conducted at high speeds. For example, participants learn how to keep their vehicle under control during an emergency lane change manoeuvre at motorway speeds of 130 km/h. In addition, challenging drift exercises on famous race tracks are also on the agenda.
• Sports training: with this new training event, racing enthusiasts enjoy the unique opportunity to experience driving from the perspective of a racing driver. For example, they learn how to find the ideal line and optimum braking point.
• Eco training: during this half-day event, attendees take part in simple practical and theoretical exercises to learn how to reduce fuel consumption by handling their car more efficiently. On average, those who complete the eco training course subsequently use 15 percent less fuel.
• Professional basic training: this event enables professional drivers to enhance their driving skills. For example, the programme includes performing an evasive manoeuvre at 100 km/h in a predefined direction through a set of traffic lights, emergency braking scenarios and correcting a tail-skidding vehicle at motorway speed, for example. Driving practice is complemented by theoretical exercises tailored to the specific profession with trainers who also instruct police taskforces.
• Mercedes-Benz Fascination Tour: this is a new addition to the range of Mercedes-Benz driving events. This one-day driving experience in vehicles provided by Mercedes-Benz features highlights focusing on the history and present status of the brand in Stuttgart and the surrounding area.

• Mercedes-Benz Fascination Experience: this event immerses participants in the world of Mercedes-Benz for two full days. A visit to the wind tunnel and test track at the plant in Untertürkheim is followed by a voyage of discovery around the Mercedes-Benz Museum and an evening meal together. On the second day, it is on to the training circuit with the opportunity to put the current model range through its paces in slaloming, braking and evasive manoeuvres.
• Off-road events: at a variety of off-road driving training events participants are able to discover what an off-road vehicle is capable of and how to keep such a vehicle under control both on and off the road. In addition to basic training, additional stages are available such as advanced training, enhanced training and extreme training. New additions include a range of winter off-road training events. In the spacious stone quarry outside Kitzbühel, participants are able to get to grips with difficult terrain at half or full-day training events using G, GL, GLK and M-Class vehicles.
• Travel Experience: discovering the world with Mercedes – this is what the participants in the Travel Experience event can expect to enjoy. There are trips to Abu Dhabi, for example, with its endless dune-covered landscape and perfect sandy beaches offering relaxation. Other trips of a lifetime include experiencing Spain from a different perspective or enjoying an off-road adventure in the wintry Arctic Circle. A particular highlight is the "Journey to the Roof of the World": lasting some 47 days, it takes participants from Lodz in Poland all the way to India, travelling via Russia, Kazakhstan, China, Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan.

Mercedes-Benz wins The Plus X Award

Mercedes-Benz honored as the world’s most sustainable automobile manufacturer

Mercedes-Benz was honored with a total of five awards at the presentation of the world’s biggest innovation prize for technology, sport and lifestyle in Cologne.

Not one but two vehicles won the prestigious Plus X Award: the new A-Class in the category “Innovation, High Quality, Design and Ease of Use” and the new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID in the category “Innovation and Ecology”. In addition, both vehicles received seals of approval as the “Best Product of 2012”; the A-Class as the best compact vehicle and the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID as the best luxury vehicle. Furthermore the jury of the Plus X Award honored Mercedes-Benz with a special award as the world’s most sustainable automobile manufacturer.

The jury honored the diversity of the pioneering drive concepts from Mercedes-Benz as well as the strong and successful commitment to the development of new concepts for urban mobility, in particular the car sharing solution car2go, with the “Plus X Award for Sustainability” special award.

The Plus X Award, now in its ninth year, is the world’s biggest innovation prize for products from the technology, sport and lifestyle sectors. The Plus X Award seals of approval are awarded in seven different categories – Innovation, High Quality, Design, Ease of Use, Functionality, Ergonomics and Ecology. The “Best Product of the Year” honor goes to a product that garners more seals than the other products in its product category.

Leading up the Automotive Scene

Aggressive Looks, Enhanced Dimensions, Refined Performance and Green footprint: The New M-Class from Mercedes-Benz sets a new benchmark among luxury SUVs in India

Now in its third generation, the M-Class is the most popular SUV from the Mercedes-Benz stable with over 1500 units already sold in India. The new M-Class with its aggressive looks, larger dimensions and green footprint has raised the bar for luxury SUVs in India. The best in Class SUV with Active Parking Assist, Airmatic Air Suspension, 20 inches AMG Body styling & Alloy wheels, Easy pack Tailgate, Designo Leather Interiors and Mini Spare wheel included in the standard fitments

Power packed with technology and gadgets the new M-Class introduces several concepts into the SUV segment for the first time- like Attention assist, Eco start stop, Reversing Camera etc. Legendary Mercedes technology, safety and robustness earned it the Euro 5 star rating from EURO NCAP

Mercedes-Benz India introduced the powerful, agile and luxurious new third generation M-Class, sporting the Mercedes-Benz new design language, to the market. The New M-Class stays true to the lineage of its predecessors and drives into the future with better fuel efficiency, new look and superior performance. The New M-Class exemplifies Mercedes-Benz’s philosophy of the ‘Best or Nothing’ being the engineering marvel that it is. 

Peter Honegg, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India explains: “At the start of this year we had promised to introduce exciting new models into the market. We are proud to present today the New M Class, built to perform with the highest precision and follows the Mercedes-Benz new design language. We are confident that the quality of drive and the luxurious experience it can deliver will be a big hit with the customers and it will be warmly received.”

Aggressive design language:  The design of the M-Class is a trailblazing further development of the SUV concept. The unmistakable style makes the W166 series instantly recognizable as an M-Class. The horizontal lines at the rear emphasize the vehicle's on-road character. These lines are picked up in the cockpit, with its compelling combination of ergonomic, practical design and the use of high-grade materials.

What’s New?

This new edition of the M-Class, now in its third generation, sets new benchmarks in SUV design, technology and performance. The NEW M-Class sports powerful exterior and interior design featuring high – quality details, following the interpretation of a contemporary SUV. 

The vehicle leads the field in safety, comfort, quality feel over its competitors. The pinnacle of comfort and load compartment capacity offering ease of handling,  on and off-road.

Keeping true to the new design language, the new M-Class has been envisioned with a much sleeker frame as compared to its predecessor. Though the vehicle is significantly larger it does not make it look bulkier. There is an overall increase in the length and width of the car.

 A true off-roader,  the New M-Class has been fitted with technology that would help customized settings for engine performance, automatic transmission, anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Electronic Traction System all at the touch of the off-button on the console.

Safety is a primary mover for Mercedes-Benz; the New M-Class is packed with safety technology. It has nine strategically located airbags that ensures the safety of its passengers upon collision / accident. Additionally it is built with a PRE-SAFE technology that helps prevent such instances.

Protection of the environment is a key task of every individual; the New M-Class has been built with this thought in mind. The vehicle has been built with the ECO start-stop function, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions- by automatically switching off the engine during traffic jams or traffic signals.

Making the drive more pleasurable is the technology that has been packed into the new generation such as ATTENTION ASSIST, that alerts the driver on detection of drowsiness on longer trips; an Active Parking Assist with integrated PARKTRONIC technology, and a new rearview camera that increases comfort and provides a real safety plus.

The NEW M-Class sets the bar higher for a Luxury SUV in driver’s delight, passenger convenience and overall safety, a testimony of which is the prestigious EURO NCAP 5 Star rating awarded to the vehicle.

The Third Generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class Launch

Presenting the Third Generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class – For Those in Control

When your eyes see only empty road for miles ahead and your heart is fluttering like the wind rushing by, you know that the best part of the journey has begun. And you are in control.

It is by far the most advanced SUV created by Mercedes-Benz and is in the 3^rd generation. The individuality that it projects, the style statement and the adventurous spirit of an explorer is what makes this car so magnificent. The New Mercedes Benz M-Class truly is a car ‘For those in Control’.

Here are the extra-ordinary features of the all new Mercedes-Benz:

• The new M-Class comes with a standard with the ECO start/stop function which reduces fuel consumption and emissions by automatically switching off the engine (for example in traffic jams or at traffic lights)

• The AMG Exterior Sports package (20” AMG alloys & AMG body styling) as well as exclusive appointments (like Designo exclusive 2-Tone leather upholstery) further enhance the sportiness rugged looks and comfort of the M-Class.

• Extensive safety features that are unique in this segment include the PRE-SAFE® system & 9 airbags

• PRE-SAFE: includes preventive belt tensioner, positioning function for front passenger's seat with Memory package, closing function for sliding sunroof and side windows.

• Most comprehensive standard equipment in the segment in terms of restraint systems with 9 airbags- front (2), front side (2), driver kneebag (1), front/rear windowbags (2), rear sidebags (2)

• Innovative assistance systems, such as ATTENTION ASSIST, Active Parking Assist, etc

• COMAND Online system with a bigger 17.8 cm color display, 10 GB MUSIC REGISTER, SD slot for memory cards. Playback of audio CD and DVD audio/video possible, amongst others. Search for music titles with LINGUATRONIC (voice operated control)

• THERMOTRONIC 3-zone luxury automatic climate control with selectable climate modes (FOCUS, MEDIUM and DIFFUSE).

• High traction: 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive with 50:50 power distribution ideal for off-road use. Downhill speed regulation via engine and transmission control.

• AIRMATIC package  incl. air suspension, all-round level control and ADS II adaptive damping system with selectable "Sport" and "Comfort" (button name: "COMF") modes at the touch of a button. Even more flexible handling on the road for enhanced comfort and dynamics.

• 7G-TRONIC PLUS fitted as standard with further decrease in torque converter slip and optimized efficiency. Improved damping of rotational eccentricities and vibrations at the same time makes for even greater comfort, faster gear changes and more durability.

• The first in new M-Class is the Easy pack tailgate which ensures excellent loading convenience with the press of a button.

• The all new reversing camera in the new M-Class increases comfort & provides a real safety plus by not only make parking easier, but also maneuvering in difficult terrain.

• Euro NCAP ratings: Five star rating for excellent occupant protection.

• The New M-Class is longer & wider than the outgoing predecessor by + 23mm & +15 mm respectively while the height is reduced by -19mm making the new M-Class more aerodynamic.

• Off-road driving program with off key: helps the driver to off-road trips with customized settings for engine performance, automatic transmission, anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Stability Program ESP ® and Electronic Traction System 4ETS . It is activated via the off-button on the center console.

Victory in DTM Debut Race

Gary Paffett (THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) wins season opener at Hockenheim in first race of new DTM era

• First win in first race for DTM AMG Mercedes C-Coupé
  
• 100th one-two victory in the DTM for Mercedes-Benz
• 166th victory in 343 DTM races for Mercedes-Benz
• Mercedes-Benz scoops 65 of the 101 points available with five C-Coupé drivers in the Top 8
• Sixth Hockenheim victory (opening and closing races of season) in succession for Mercedes-Benz

Gary Paffett (THOMAS SABO Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) won the 2012 DTM season opener at Hockenheim from sixth place on the grid with a 4.7- second lead on Jamie Green (Mercedes AMG C-Coupé). It was Paffett’s 18th Victory in the DTM and his fourth at Hockenheim. It was the British driver’s 26th podium in the 82nd DTM race of his career and his seventh in a DTM race at Hockenheim. With 18 wins and a winning rate of 22%, Paffett has achieved the greatest number of victories among those drivers currently contesting the DTM. Paffett and Green secured the 100th one-two victory for Mercedes-Benz in the DTM since 1988.

It was the sixth consecutive Mercedes victory at their home race in Hockenheim (opener and finale), and their third win in a row at a DTM season opener (Paffett 2010 and 2012, and Bruno Spengler, 2011). Overall since 1988, Mercedes-Benz has won 32 of 65 DTM races at the Hockenheimring. During the same period, Mercedes-Benz drivers were victorious 166 times in 343 DTM races.

Paffett’s victory was the first success in the new DTM era in the three-way battle between the three premium brands Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz and the first victory for the new DTM Mercedes AMG C Coupé, the successor to the AMG Mercedes C-Class, which is the most successful vehicle in the history of the DTM with 85 victories in 159 races.

Christian Vietoris (Mercedes-Benz Bank AMG C-Coupé) advanced from 15th on the grid to finish fourth. Ralf Schumacher (Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) and David Coulthard (DHL Paket Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) were also amongst the points, finishing seventh and eighth respectively. Susie Wolff (TV Spielfilm Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) and Robert Wickens (stern Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) ended the day in twelfth and 14th positions. DTM rookie Roberto Merhi (Junge Sterne Mercedes AMG C-Coupé) was forced to retire from the race.

Jamie Green set the fastest lap with a time of 1:34.901 minutes – the sixth time he has done so at Hockenheim. It is also the 36th time in 65 DTM races at this venue that a Mercedes-Benz driver has posted the fastest lap time. Nine of the last ten fastest laps here were set by a Mercedes-Benz driver.

A total of 142,000 fans attended the DTM opener at Hockenheim this weekend (Fri, Sat, Sun). Some 71,000 spectators were at the track for Sunday’s first race of the new DTM era.

SLS AMG lets loose on the race track

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG sets the fastest lap time on the Buddh International Circuit.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is as much a sight to behold as it is a thrill to drive. There are not many cars on the road that can match its looks and the performance leaves everything else in its dust. But few have actually witnessed the true potential of the SLS AMG. It is capable of going toe to toe with the finest racing cars in the world.

Recently, the SLS AMG gave undeniable proof of that fact.  The lucky participants of the AMG Driving Academy held at the Buddh International Circuit were able to see the car in its true element when it set the lap record for the circuit at 2.1 minutes. The F1 track that not too long ago hosted its first Grand Prix had its fastest time blown away by the Roadster with AMG Driving Academy instructor, Norman Simon, behind the wheel.

The AMG Driving Academy at the Buddh International Circuit is a first of its kind in India. The first session of the AMG Driving Academy got a rousing response with the participants grasping the idea of cornering and braking at race pace. At the end of the day, they left with a sense of awe and accomplishment.

The SLS AMG is certainly making waves, not only on the road but on the race track as well.  

Mercedes-Benz – A True Leader

Mercedes-Benz India expands its footprint in Haryana, inaugurates new dealership at Karnal

• First luxury car dealership in Karnal spread over 34,000 sq. ft. area; investment of over Rs. 30 million.
• Boasts of a display area showcasing the exciting range of Mercedes-Benz cars, boutique display showcase, and exclusive customer lounge creating a delightful customer experience.
• An integrated 3S State-of-art facility on GT Karnal Road which will boast of displaying a total of 11 cars with complete mechanical and Body & Paint workshop is under development.
• Densest network among all luxury car makers in India with 70 touch points in 31 cities.

Continuing its commitment to reach out to new customers, Mercedes-Benz India announced the inauguration of its first state-of-art dealership at Karnal, Haryana. Spread over 34,000 sq. ft., and built with an investment of Rs. 30 million, Berkeley Motors is Karnal’s first ever luxury car dealership primely located at the city’s automobile hub at 118-119 Km Stone, GT Road. The new dealership was inaugurated by Mr. Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India and Mr. Sanjay Dahuja, Managing Director, Berkeley Motors.

Mr. Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India remarked: “Inauguration of Berkeley Motors, the first ever dealership by a luxury car manufacturer at Karnal, is reaffirmation of our long standing association, deep commitment and thorough understanding of the Indian market. As part of our successful ‘Go to Customer’ strategy we are committed to reaching out to more customers and give them the Mercedes-Benz experience of Best or Nothing, which is core to our brand philosophy . I am confident that Berkeley Motors will offer the disconcerted customers of Karnal and nearby areas, the excitement associated with brand Mercedes-Benz through our fascinating product range and distinct world class service.”

Created over a span of two months, the provisional facility of Berkeley Motors, Karnal is spread over a total area of 34,000 sq. ft. embracing a well structured showroom and the full-fledged workshop. Strategically located in the automobile hub of the city at 118-119 Km Stone, GT Road, the new dealership has been established with an investment of Rs. 30 million (3 Crores). The new interim dealership has been designed and created to provide a fascinating ‘Mercedes-Benz experience’ for the customers. In addition to the interim facility, a State-of-art 3S facility on GT Karnal Road which will boast of displaying a total of 11 cars with complete mechanical and Body & Paint workshop is under progress.

 This interim facility at Berkeley Motors includes a Drive-in valet service, exclusive customer lounge combined with the display of a wide range of Mercedes-Benz cars. The accessories arenas, an engaging audio-visual presentation, a boutique collection are some of the elements that will introduce the customer to the world of Mercedes-Benz. Berkeley Motors has dedicated and hand-picked personnel to assist the customers in making the purchase of their dream Mercedes-Benz a hassle free one. Towards this, Berkeley Motors has a qualified & experienced team of committed personnel who will take care of the sales, after-sales and service requirements of the customers.

Equipped with highest quality Mercedes-Benz equipment and trained manpower, the workshop of Berkeley Motors has been built at par with the brand’s stringent universal benchmark. Berkeley Motors boasts of a workshop that can take care of customer service requirements and service 6 cars each day. The workshop can undertake general repairs and accident jobs, spares; round the clock after sales support and also have a separate driver’s lounge. Mr. Sanjeev Dahuja, Managing Director, Berkeley Motors commented on the inauguration: “I am extremely delighted to present the city’s first ever luxury car dealership to the customers of Karnal. To be associated with the Three Pointed Star is a matter of immense prestige and we are delighted at this opportunity. At Berkeley Motors we are inspired by Mercedes-Benz’s brand philosophy of ‘Best or Nothing’ and we will ensure the customers of Karnal and nearby cities are offered Mercedes-Benz’s globally famed vehicle ownership experience enabled through its fascinating and emotion evoking product range and benchmarking service standards.”

With the inauguration of Berkeley Motors, the first ever luxury car dealership at Karnal, Mercedes-Benz remains the leading luxury car brand with the densest sales and services network penetration in India with 70 touch points spread over 31 Indian cities.

Encouraged by its novel and benchmarking ‘Go to Customer’ initiatives like inauguration of the Star Lounge, offering the Star Lease, organizing Star Drive, opening of Trendz concept stores, inauguration of AMG Driving Academy at BIC and rolling-out of Star Showcase across the country; Mercedes-Benz remains confident of its strong growth and further expanding its footprint in the dynamic Indian market.

The Stars Lead the way

When it comes to the pinnacle of automotive engineering, you only need to turn to the Stars to find your way. With last weekend’s win of the Mercedes-Benz GP team at Shanghai China, the brand has once again reiterated this fact.

Mercedes-Benz has for long been a true leader in the automotive space. Not just the inventors of the automobile, the very genes of innovation run through our veins. The company has established itself in every aspect of automotive engineering, including performance, safety and luxury. Over 80% of all automotive patents are owned by Mercedes-Benz. We help define the future of mobility with innovations such as BLUE EFFICIENCY.  Our innovations have moved beyond occupants and keep in mind the safety of pedestrians as well with innovations like the ACTIVE SAFETY bonnet.  

We have pioneered several initiatives in the Indian market, creating benchmarks for other luxury automotive brands. We established the AMG Driving Academy in India, an event where people could learn how to handle top –of-the-line vehicles with the help of experts. The MercedesTrophy redefines luxury golfing in India for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Our StarDrive initiative is the first in its segments and offers a unique test-driving experience that tests the mettle of our Stars. We even offer more car, per Star, with our unique Star Lease program that allows you to lease a Mercedes-Benz car without any hassle of maintenance.

The recent Formula One win is another stellar example of a new beginning and how we will lead the way in the near future.

World Green Car Award 2012 Goes To Mercedes-Benz

At the annual World Green Car awards corresponding with the New York International Auto Show, Mercedes garnered for the second time this award which distinguishes the world’s most efficient cars. Initially won in 2007 by the carmaker’s E 320 BlueTEC, this year’s award was garnered by the Mercedes-Benz S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY. It overcame 23 other entries such as the Ford Focus Electric and the Peugeot 3008 Hybrid.

The S 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is the first four-cylinder engine used in the S-Class, with the diesel unit triumphing fuel consumption levels of just 5.7 litres per 100 kilometers. Says Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Board of Management, responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, “The highly efficient gasoline and diesel engines in the S-Class show that our customers can drive a luxury vehicle with a clear conscience. The S250 CDI is the most remarkable example: with a fuel consumption of only 5, 7 l per 100 km, the S250 CDI is the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in the world.”

To be entitled for the 2012 World Green Car award, a vehicle had to be all-new, or noticeably revised, in production, and announced for sale or lease to the public in quantities of at least 10 in at least one major market during the period beginning Jan. 1, 2011 and ending May 30, 2012. Tailpipe emissions, fuel consumption, and use of a major advanced power plant technology (beyond engine componentry), aimed precisely at increasing the vehicle's environmental responsibility, were all taken into consideration.

Three green experts were selected by the World Car Awards Steering Committee to expansively review all documentation and specs linked with each vehicle contender. They were asked to create a short-list of qualifiers for review by the 64 jurors in their second round of voting in February. Their ballots were then tabulated by the international accounting firm KPMG, according to the World Car Awards.

According to the experts, “This is the first 4-cylinder S-Class in the 60-year history of the legendary model. Powered by a 204 hp diesel turbo producing 500Nm, this S-Class develops generous power from the world’s cleanest diesel, while the integration of a start-stop system means that this car produces an exceptional 149g/km of CO2.”

A Day without Speed Limits

Watching a Formula 1 car zip down the race track is one of the most thrilling moments that an auto enthusiast might experience. The sound of engines roaring at unimaginable RPMs, the blurring of colors as cars skim by like bullets - truly a rush! One wonders what it must feel like to be in the midst of something so high octane that pushes man and machine to their limits. Would a seat in the cockpit make for an auto enthusiast’s ultimate exhilaration?
 

The Mercedes-Benz Track Day Experience was an event that put most of these questions to rest. Hosted at the Buddh International Circuit (BIC), Sahara Force India’s Mercedes drivers Paul Di Resta and Nico Hulkenberg took to the wheel with a single motive - to push their cars to the very edge while giving media personnel, our YEO customers and auto enthusiasts a feel of how it is to race in a GP!

A stack of papers to be signed as an acceptance of indemnity clauses, a briefon driving dynamics and rules by Mr. Hari Singh and the lucky Track Day participants were ready to shut the visors on their helmets. What followed was a gut wrenching blast as they zipped across the BIC at speeds at excessive speeds of 200kmph in the C63 AMG one of the most powerful cars in its league and Mercedes-Benz's official car for the DTM circuit! Auto enthusiasts and young entrepreneurs alike were treated to the ‘the drive of their lives’. Post racing, it took them a while to get over the hair-raising speeds that they had travelled at. The enthralled look on all faces at the end of the day served as a testament to the fascination that the Mercedes-Benz Track Day Experience had delivered.

Mercedes-Benz has always been a strong advocate of motorsports & so have its initiatives in the country:

• In the F1 arena, Mercedes-Benz today has the distinction of having three teams, and their six cars, running on Mercedes-Benz engines.

• Sahara Force India's showcase in F1 is woven around engines manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, and the continuous podium appearances across different race tracks and varied conditions are a testimony to the technological prowess of the engines.

• Sahara Force India as the 'only Indian' F1 team on the circuit, along with Mercedes-Benz will be striving with newer initiatives to popularize motorsports in the country.

• The initiation of such collaboration together with Mercedes-Benz will go a long way in sculpting the future of motorsports in India, with the active help of our partner JPSI.

• The AMGs have been revered in the motoring circuit with high esteem ever since its inception and each race reaffirms the belief in the amazing performance capabilities of this beautiful racing machine.

• In India, just like the other part of the world, the AMGs have won hearts of all motoring enthusiasts and is synonymous with performance motoring.

• The entire range of AMG from Mercedes-Benz's stable are offered for sale in India for customers and enthusiasts who are passionate about performance motoring.