As 2020 is nearing the end, the business sector must be looking forward to a new year. Though the pandemic is far from over, we now have a vaccine so there is hope that 2021 can see less worries about infection spreading.
The auto sector must certainly be looking forward to sales growth and is filling showrooms with new models. The latest to launch a new range is Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) which today unveiled its eighth model to join the premium SUV line-up, the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLA. Two variants are available – the GLA 200 and GLA 250 4MATIC – both of which are imported CBU from Germany.
Two variants, two engines
The GLA 200 comes in Progressive Line spec with a 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder 163 bhp/250 Nm engine and 7G-DCT automatic transmission. The GLA 250 4MATIC has the AMG Line spec and comes with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine. Turbocharging boosts output to 224 bhp/350 Nm which goes through an 8G-DCT automatic transmission to all 4 wheels.
GLA 200 1.3-litre engineGLA 250 2.0-litre engine
Save money if you buy this month
Depending on when you buy the new cars, the price will differ. Before December 31, 2020, the exemption of half the amount of sales tax means the GLA 200 will be priced (without insurance) from RM244,199.82, and the GLA 250 from RM285,336.66. From January 1, if the exemption is not extended, then the 5% sales tax will be included which will raise the prices to RM252,888.00 and RM295,888.00, respectively.
The new GLA has, for some time, served as the entry-level model to the SUV family, offering the benefits of a compact car as well as a SUV. “The GLA is the key entry point to the brand in the fast-growing compact SUV family. The model enables us to offer a unique lifestyle proposition that is similar to the bigger GLB that we have recently introduced,” said Michael Jopp, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
This new generation is the second one since the model line appeared in 2013. While having a similar styling theme, the body is slightly smaller but the wheelbase has been extended by 30 mm as it now sits on the MFA-2 platform. At 4.41 metres in length, it is the shortest vehicle in the current Mercedes-Benz portfolio.
As a crossover SUV, the styling has functionality but also sportiness, with short overhangs front and rear. As before, there are powerful shoulders and the coupe-like lines of the side windows which give a contoured side profile.
Like the other Mercedes-Benz SUV models, the radiator grille features distinctive openings along with a single louvre and a central star, with LED High Performance headlamp. All-round protective cladding adds structure to the overall proportions and emphasizes the vehicle’s character, as does the simulated underride guard at the front and rear.
More compact outside but more spacious inside
Although shorter than its predecessor, the new GLA offers a more spacious interior, particularly for rear legroom and luggage compartment volume. The seating position for both the driver and the front passenger is higher and more upright than before too, more typical of an SUV.
Utility value was, in general, one of the focuses of development. There is plenty of room for one or two people in the rear and with a 40:20:40 division of the backrests, flexibility in the layout is possible.
The height-adjustable load floor also offers considerable variability. When the rear seat backrests are folded down and the load floor is in the upper position, an almost flat loading area extending to the front seats can be created to take long items.
The instrument panel consists of a basic volume, which features optical ‘cut-outs’ in the driver and front passenger area. The cut-out on the driver’s side is dominated by the free-standing display unit with two 10.25-inch displays.
The round ventilation outlets (5 in all) have a high-quality turbine look with meticulously designed air guidance vanes. The door centre panel flows seamlessly over into the armrest, while the grab handle has a tubular profile and runs horizontally like a railing.
The latest generation of the Mercedes me connect is also standard with the GLA and of course, there is the intuitively operated MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) in its latest version. MBUX can be individually configured with the aid of a range of options to personalise interaction. Remote Engine Start is also available with the GLA 250.
Helping the driver
The GLA comes with many driving assistance systems, offering the driver cooperative support to avoid accidents. The systems can automatically activate the brakes if a collision is imminent and the driver has taken no action to prevent it. In the GLA 250, Blind Spot Assist warns of vehicles, including bicycles, in the blind zone and also signal the driver with a visual warning in the exterior mirror if a vehicle is driving past if the door is about to be opened.
Mercedes-Benz owners in the northern region of Peninsular Malaysia, specifically Kedah and Perlis, can now enjoyed an enhanced ownership experience with the availability of the Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile Service. With this service offered by C&C Bintang, maintenance of the same high standard as that at authorised Mercedes-Benz service centres will be available at their homes.
“Our customers in the north have been requesting expanded coverage of our maintenance services for their Mercedes-Benz vehicles within the safety and comfort of home. By expanding our Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile Service coverage, we are bringing one of the most sought-after services to our customers and will improve overall customer satisfaction that has been an important focus of our Exceptional Journeys promise,” said the CEO of Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad, Wilfrid Foo.
On-site maintenance
First introduced in 2018 within the Klang Valley, the Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile Service has been providing owners with a variety of on-site maintenance by certified technicians fully equipped with the Xentry Diagnosis system. The service had been well-received since its inception, bringing convenience to thousands of customers.
For the northern region tour, the Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile Service will offer on-site maintenance services including battery and wiper change, air and combi filter inspection and dust filter replacement. The service will also include the disinfection of the vehicle at completion of service.
Special offer
Owners who call for the service between now and February 28, 2021, will be entitled to a waiver of the Star Mobile Travel Fee of RM 250.The first 30 owners also receive an exclusive Mercedes-Benz care kit after every service.
The Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile Service is available to all Mercedes-Benz owners, but an appointment has to be made first. Service appointments can be made daily (except on Sunday and public holidays), from Monday – Friday, 8.00 am – 5.00 pm and on Saturday, from 8.00 am – 12.00 noon.
Cycle & Carriage, associated for decades with the Mercedes-Benz brand, now has the first Mercedes-Benz virtual showroom in Malaysia. Responding to trends, the Cycle & Carriage Virtual Showroom offers the same high-touch retail engagement online that customers get with the physical retail experience.
“The low-touch economy spurred by e-commerce marketplaces has propelled a need for us to re-engineer our strategy in the luxury car segment. While our physical retail experience will certainly be here to stay, complementing it with an immersive online experience and seamlessly incorporating both channels would make the purchasing journey better for our customers,” said Cycle & Carriage Bintang CEO, Wilfrid Foo. “Our customers’ car-buying journeys can begin not just at our showroom, but at their fingertips. We hope that with a seamless offering, we can deliver on our promise of delivering Exceptional Journeys to our customers in ways that meet those needs.”
Immersive high-quality experience
Simulating a physical showroom, customers can virtually explore both the showroom and vehicles in an immersive experience. For now, there are nine Mercedes-Benz models on display. Visitors can select external and internal 360-degree views of the models, and customise them using the configurator.
There are also exclusive Cycle & Carriage Expert Review videos for more in-depth understanding, with detailed information also available just a click away. Once customers have previewed each vehicle and have an interest, they can also make an appointment for a test-drive at their preferred Cycle & Carriage Autohaus.
Meeting customers’ evolving needs
“We believe that to be a trusted dealer partner, we need to deliver on that promise of meeting our customers’ evolving needs. Our new virtual showroom is one of the many investments we are making to nurture the overall customer experience and together with our physical showrooms, our customers can begin their ownership journey with confidence,” added Mr. Foo.
Cycle & Carriage has been in existence since 1899, starting in Kuala Lumpur as a general goods store. It is today a leading regional automotive group in Southeast Asia that distributes, retails and provides aftersales services for passenger cars as well as commercial vehicles of various brands.
Listed on Bursa Malaysia, Cycle & Carriage Bintang is one of the leading dealer groups for Mercedes-Benz passenger and commercial vehicles, as well as a dealer group of FUSO commercial vehicles. It has 12 outlets across the country, with three Daimler AG-certified ‘Centre of Competence’ facilities.Cycle & Carriage Virtual Mercedes-Benz Showroom.
With electric vehicles going to take over in coming years, will some segments disappear? Will the rugged 4×4 vehicles and pick-ups slowly fade away? Not likely if we look at what Mercedes-Benz is working on as its electrification program progresses.
The company has revealed a prototype which uses a drivable technology platform on the basis of an EQC 400 4MATIC that is now on sale. Known as the EQC 4×4², this SUV is able to go further on rough terrain using future-oriented technology.
Technology platform
With the EQC 4×4², Mercedes-Benz engineers will test the limits of the vehicle and show that e-mobility is not just urban but also conceivable off-road. The one-off prototype was developed by a cross-departmental team as a technology platform.
“Our aim is to combine modern luxury and sustainability with emotional appeal. The EQC 4×4² shows how enjoyable sustainable mobility can be. This is where electromobility high-tech and an intriguing customer experience are transferred to the mountains, thanks to MBUX and over-the-air updates. To put it succinctly, electric, progressive luxury goes off-road,” said Markus Schafer, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG responsible for Daimler Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars COO.
“This drivable study clearly shows that, alongside a passion for e-mobility, we at Mercedes-Benz lay a strong claim to leadership in this sector and will heighten the emotional appeal of this even further in the future,” he declared.
The capabilities of the EQC 4×4² include driving through sand in desert regions and on beaches, on rocky terrain and through mountain streams. As well as great reliability and corresponding comfort, the mature genes of the standard model also allow trailer operation and installation of a roof-rack. A roof-tent and inflatable dinghy allow the remotest areas to be reached.
Very generous ground clearance
At 293 mm, the EQC 4×4² rides more than twice as high as a production EQC; even a G-Class is 58 mm lower. The fording depth is increased by 15 cm to 40 centimetres and, of course, all necessary measures are taken to protect the many electronic systems and battery pack.
The generous ground clearance is made possible by the conversion to portal axles. Unlike conventional axles, the wheels are not at the height of the axle centre but are instead situated much lower down on the axle hubs owing to the portal gears. Or conversely, the entire vehicle moves up.
The reprogrammed Off-Road drive programs take advantage of the high-performance logic of the current GLC models. For example, using targeted brake interventions, this enables an improved torque curve when starting on loose ground. In combination with the tyres (285/50R20), this results in very good traction.
Soundscape gives feedback to driver
Another highlight of the EQC 4×4² is the sound experience with its own ‘soundscape’. The acoustic production comprises sounds that give the driver feedback on system availability and vehicle parking. It is influenced by various parameters such as the position of the accelerator pedal, speed or energy recovery rate.
The technology uses intelligent sound design algorithms to calculate the sounds coming from the amplifier of the sound system in real time and the interior loudspeakers to reproduce them.
The production EQC uses the external noise generator (Acoustic Vehicle Alert System, AVAS) required by law to reproduce the sounds. The EQC 4×4² has a more powerful AVAS composed specifically for it and uses the headlamps as external speakers for this purpose. The reason for this is that the sound experts at Mercedes-Benz have made creative use of the available installation space in the headlamp housings – thus the ‘lampspeaker’ was born.
The EQC 4×4² is actually the third model of the 4×4² family from Mercedes-Benz. The G 500 4×4² has been around since September 2015, and in 2017, came the E 400 All-Terrain 4×4² study. For now, the EQC 4×4² remains a study, a vehicle for the engineers to test new technologies. However, if response from the public proves to be good and there is a business case, perhaps Mercedes-Benz will turn it into a production model in future.
With a Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) now in force in Klang, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Selangor and Sabah, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia informs the public of the following measures with Mercedes-Benz Star Shield from October 14 to October 27, 2020.
The Star Shield Programme
The Mercedes-Benz Star Shield programme is a safety protocol for Mercedes-Benz dealers and customers. It consists of a comprehensive safety plan that includes social distancing, provision of masks and hand sanitizers, cleaning and sanitization of showroom cars and common areas, temperature checks and limit on customers present.
During this CMCO period, all authorized Mercedes-Benz dealerships nationwide will remain open for business as usual. They will, however, strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the government for the protection of customers as well as their own employees.
Customers can still request for test-drives, while owners can bring their vehicles in for routine service and maintenance and/or repairs at service centres. The Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) that have been observed for some months continue to apply.
24-hour support service
Customers can still obtain 24-Hour Roadside Assistance for emergency breakdowns and technical issues. They can call 1-800-88-1133 at any time of the day for support.
In order to minimize social contact, the Mercedes-Benz Star Shield also includes initiatives such as the Drop & Go, Door-to-door and Express Service.
While most people will think of cars when mention is made of Mercedes-Benz, the brand also has a range of exclusive lifestyle products for owners as well as those who are not owners [yet]. These products are available at most authorised Mercedes-Benz outlets and at Hap Seng Star’s new Autohaus, they are presented in a Luxury Lifestyle Boutique that is part of the showroom.
RM3.5 million investment
The Autohaus, situated along Jalan Sultan Ismail, was originally opened in 2004. It has since undergone a RM3.5 million refurbishment exercise to create the first new Mercedes-Benz Retail Brand Presence in the ‘Golden Triangle’ of Kuala Lumpur. The Mercedes-Benz Accessories and Collection Boutique is the first of its kind in Malaysia.
“With this investment, we aim to create the best experience for our customers throughout their ownership journey. Hap Seng Star embraces the Mercedes-Benz spirit of innovation, luxury, and world-class service, delivered by experienced personnel with in-depth product knowledge and exceptional service skills,” said Harald Behrend, Group Chief Operating Officer of Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad and CEO of Hap Seng Group Automotive Division.
Providing the luxury experience
There’s also a private lounge on the second level, while a cafe on Level 3 is available with refreshments for customers. The Autohaus also sells cars, of course, and the spacious delivery bays, are special illuminated to provide a unique vehicle hand-over experience for the new owners.
“The new Autohaus by Hap Seng Star reaffirms Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s commitment to create a fascinating brand experience at every point in the customer journey. The new brand presence promises an authentic luxury experience with a modern touch. Our aim is to connect our customers not just with a car, but also a lifestyle experience that encourages a sense of joy, luxury and exclusivity,” said Dr. Claus Weidner, President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Hap Seng has invested a total of over RM300 million to date in enriching customer touchpoints nationwide. Its Mercedes-Benz Autohaus network is in 11 locations nationwide, with three in East Malaysia.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the latest Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe and Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+ Coupe with the flagship GLS 450 4MATIC to be available in early 2021. The new models join the brand’s SUV range which includes compact GLA, GLC and G-Class.
“The new GLE Coupe seamlessly blends the unrivalled power of an SUV with the agility and elegance of a coupe. Every function and every detail aims to offer an incredibly enchanting experience in its segment,” said Michael Jopp, Vice-President, Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe
The GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe is priced from RM661,009.42, while the GLE 53 4MATIC Coupe price starts from RM787,357.88, both prices without insurance but with relevant sales tax deducted until the end of 2020.
The GLE 450 Coupe is powered by the 3-litre turbocharged in-line 6-cylinder engine that produces 367 bhp/500 Nm, giving it a claimed acceleration capability of 5.7 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h. The similar engine size and type in the GLE 53 Coupe generates 435 bhp/520 Nm, which can take off another 4/10ths of a second in the 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time.
Both models ride on AIRMATIC air suspension system with adaptive adjustable damping. The system uses highly complex sensor systems and algorithms to constantly adapt damping characteristics to road and driving conditions for optimum comfort levels.
The interior of the new GLE Coupes shares many common features with the other models in the SUV range family with a clear emphasis sportiness while maintain the premium image. Large 12.3-inch screens complement the instrument panel, horizontally divided by a trim element tier, tom provide the driver with all the important information while on the move.
As with all the latest Mercedes-Benz model, the GLE Coupe comes with the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. The latest generation of MBUX has a more intuitive operating structure and high visual quality.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC AMG Line
The GLS 450 4MATIC AMG Line is expected to be priced from RM899,888 when it goes on sale in 2021. As it will be after the sales tax-exemption period, the indicated price includes sales tax of 10% (unless there are changes when the new Budget is announced in October).
Described as the ‘S-class among Mercedes-Benz SUVs’, the latest version of the SUV will offer more of everything – space, comfort and luxury. It will come with an in-line 3-litre 6-cylinder engine with electrification by 48-volt technology. Maximum output is 367 bhp/500 Nm which is transmitted to all four wheels by the 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission.
The GLS 450 features an upright radiator grille, chrome-plated underguard with the bone-shaped air inlet grille and two powerdomes on the bonnet. LED lighting technology is used front and rear for maximum illumination at night.
The level of luxury within is enhanced by leather appointments and high quality materials. Styling elements are unified with the dashboard support flowing into the door panels and the integral trim element likewise extending to meet the doors.
Convenience features include electrically-adjustable seats with an EASY-ENTRY system for getting to the third row. The seats in the second row can also be moved forward to give extra legroom to those sitting in the third row.
The MBUX Rear Seat Entertainment System is available for the 7-seater SUV. Like in aircraft, the content on each screen can be selected by each occupant. This personalisation extends to movies, music and the integrated web browser, with two wireless headsets that come with the vehicle.
Mercedes me connect (Mmc)
Mercedes me connect is a connectivity system for Mercedes-Benz owners to stay connected and also remotely manage some functions of their vehicles using a dedicated app. The connected service, available in all the SUV models, enables unlocking their car, starting the engine remotely, getting customer support or even checking the level in the fuel tank from inside the home. Other features are remote vehicle diagnostics, pre=entry climate control, predictive navigation, parked vehicle locator.
Mmc includes an emergency call facility (E-call) that could make the difference between life and death should an accident occur. With a dedicated button on the roof panel of the vehicle’s cabin, drivers and other occupants can make an emergency call to a dedicated emergency response centre. The vehicle’s location will already be known which will help rescuers reach the vehicle faster.
‘Gelandewagen’ (and also ‘G-Wagen’) was a reference name to the 4×4 vehicle that Mercedes-Benz launched in 1979 which would evolve into the G-Class in the 21st century. It is also the name of the first outcome of a collaboration that is a first of its kind between Mercedes-Benz and Chief Creative Director and Founder of Off-White and Men’s Artistic Director of Louis Vuitton, Virgil Abloh.
Conceptual design project
Project Gelandewagen, a conceptual design project led by Mercedes-Benz Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener and Abloh, used the Mercedes-Benz G-Class to explore ways of disrupting future perceptions of luxury. The result is a distinctive manifestation of the SUV as never seen before.
Compelled to support the arts at a critical time, a replica of the design piece will be auctioned as part of Sotheby’s Contemporary Curated, one of the auction house’s most revered series which is defined by the unique perspective of a different influential tastemaker each year, with all proceeds going to a charity that supports international creative communities. Advance bidding will begin on September 14th, 2020.
In support of creative communities
Describing Project Gelandewagen as perfectly encapsulating Mercedes-Benz’s manifestation of contemporary luxury, pushing creativity and innovative design, Bettina Fetzer, Vice-President Marketing at Mercedes-Benz AG, said: “Culture and the arts have always played an important part in both Mercedes-Benz products and the brand, and we are proud to donate all proceeds of the replica auction to support international creative communities to continue their education in the arts.”
“With Project Gelandewagen, we create a unique artwork that showcases future interpretations of luxury and the desire for beauty and the extraordinary. The result is something between reality and future,” said Wagener. “The collaboration with Virgil has seen two distinct design philosophies unite, for a one-of-a-kind re-imagination of the G that continues to celebrate the extraordinary at its core.”
G-Class racing car
From a 4×4 to a Landaulet, the G-Class has had many incarnations to date, but never a racing car – until now. The finished design simultaneously never forgets its point of origin and captures the experience of a racing car.
The design process was inspired by Wagener and Abloh owning and experiencing the G-Class first-hand and identifying opportunities for maximizing its Mercedes-AMG attitude. Together, they considered how to make the viewer look at the brand’s designs with a fresh perspective, while driving luxury away from a polished and flawless aesthetic to something raw, natural and altogether more honest.
The exterior is kept as clean as possible to emphasize the iconic silhouette of the G-Class, demonstrating its monolithic character. The final design lays its construction methods bare, and celebrates the handcrafted imperfections that make it unique. The paintwork was partially sanded by hand to create a sense of timeless simplicity.
Welds are celebrated as key design motifs, as craftsmanship takes centre stage. The indicators, outside mirrors and the bumper bar have all been removed and the body of the car widened and lowered, for a sportier effect. The distinct personality of the G-wagen remains intact, with an exaggeration of the tyres and spare wheel.
Inside the art piece, reduction reigns and the racing inspiration is clear. All interior areas have been stripped back, and the safety frame becomes a central motif. The dashboard is removed and replaced with a clean, reduced version that incorporates an analogue speedometer and fuel gauges, reminiscent of a classic car.
This contrasts with the steering wheel and seats, which are more akin to a Formula 1 racing car. Safety features and key racing elements, such as the safety frame or the 5-point seatbelts are highlighted in baby blue and bright red tones. These strong accent colours create a new kind of colour grouping, and contrast against the bare interior.
After months of shutdown and cancellation of many activities, it seems that the auto industry is now making up for lost time with a vengeance. New models are being launched almost every month but in a new way: online. The traditional launch crowded with guests and media is no longer appropriate in the current pandemic situation where social distancing is necessary. So the car companies are instead using the internet to present their new models and it goes out to a global audience.
Actually, broadcasting a global debut online is not new and has been done for a number of years now, except that it is now more focused online. Money saved on renting spectacular venues and lavish events can now be used to produce even better presentations, and the technology today makes smooth and reliable streaming of events live possible.
France, UK and tonight, Germany
Yesterday, Peugeot revealed its updated 3008 and some hours later, Rolls-Royce presented its all-new Ghost. Today, it’s the Germans’ turn and Mercedes-Benz unveiled its flagship S-Class model with key board members personally introducing various aspects of the product.
As in the launch of the now-superseded W222 generation in May 2013, Alicia Keys, the singer-songwriter, also participated in the event along with 6-time F1 champion, Lewis Hamilton who drives for the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Racing Team.
Alicia Keys provided a virtual tour of the new S-Class.
A pioneer again
Highlights of the all-new S-Class – designated ‘W223’ – have been publicized in the last few months and as the ‘snippets’ suggested, this new generation is once again a pioneer with numerous innovations in the areas of driver assistance, protection and interaction. It is, of course, also a benchmark in the luxury segment, as its predecessors have been for decades.
‘Focus on people’ is how Mercedes-Benz describes its product development for the next generation of individual mobility. Extensive digitization is now used to provide convenience, comfort and connectivity for every occupant, besides enhancing operating efficiency. Even the well-being of its occupants is looked after, with an effective air filtering system referred to as ENERGIZING Air Control.
MBUX becomes smarter
Cars are becoming more ‘intelligent’ and in the new S-Class, this is exemplified best by the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience). Debuting in its second generation with the new S-Class, this ‘learn-capable’ system is even more digital and intelligent. Both the hardware and software have made great strides with displays on up to 5 large screens, in part with OLED technology.
There’s a new 3D driver display which allows a spatial view at the touch of a button for the first time. It gives a real 3-dimensional effect without having to wear 3D glasses. There are also two different head-up displays (HUDs), one with augmented reality (AR) content and the other is a more conventional type.
MBUX now has services for each individual passenger, making the possibilities for personalization far more extensive. The voice assistant, which responds to ‘Hey Mercedes’, is even more learn and dialogue-capable by activation of online services in the Mercedes me App. Moreover, certain actions can be performed even without the activation keyword.
Using cameras in the overhead control panel and learning algorithms, MBUX Interior Assist recognizes and anticipates the wishes and intentions of the occupants. It does this by interpreting head direction, hand movements and body language, and responds with corresponding vehicle functions.
With the MBUX Smart Home function, the S-Class now also becomes a control centre for the home. The driver or passengers can monitor and control things like room temperature and lighting, roller blinds and compatible appliances. Of course, there must also be smart and connected devices at home as well.
Dimensional concept and interior design
The S-Class is a big car, as befits its status and the W223 S-Class has increased in size compared to its predecessor. It has extra length and width, with the wheelbase extended as well (there is a long-wheelbase variant too). Apart from expanding rear legroom, it also makes for generous boot volume.
The interior design has associations with interior architecture and yacht design elements. The sculptured look of the dashboard, centre console and armrests appears to float above an expansive interior landscape. Systematic reduction in the number of controls gives a minimalist appearance of the interior. A fine divide between the upper section of the dashboard and the large trim element structures the area and creates horizontal breadth.
Alongside up to five screens, there are large areas of trim in the dashboard and in the rear. One particularly attractive version of the trim is an open-pored wood veneer shot through with inlays of real aluminium that follow the contours.
New design elements include the flat, four-square centre vents with horizontal nacelles. Two slim, vertical side vents on each side round off the ends of the dashboard. The driver display and media display can be personalized in up to four display styles (Discreet, Sporty, Exclusive, Classic) and three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service).
There are no less than 19 motors inside the front seats, which makes them quite complex structures. Therefore no one should complain that he or she cannot get a comfortable position. The flowing, three-dimensional layer design theme gives an impression of lightness and different finishes give the seats different characters. Five different rear seat variants make it possible to configure the rear of the S-Class as a working or rest area.
In earlier years, seats were carefully shaped and cushioned with advice from ergonomic specialists to reduce fatigue on long journeys. Today, cars like the S-Class have seats that massage your body so you reach your destination fresh and alert. There are 10 different massage programmes available using vibration motors. The relaxing massage is enhanced with warmth based on the hot-stone principle.
Even more support for the driver
The new S-Class arrives in the market ready for a high degree of autonomous operation. Specifically, it will be able to operate in Level 3 mode which means it can drive itself from point A to designated point b without human control – but the human must be ready to take over when necessary. Mercedes-Benz says this capability will be available in Germany from the second half of 2021 with the new DRIVE PILOT. Availability elsewhere would depend on infrastructure and regulations permitting autonomous operation.
Each S-Class generation has introduced new safety technologies and the W223 continues the tradition with numerous new or extended driving assistance systems. The operating principle of the systems is made visible by a new display concept in the driver display.
Innovations in restraint systems also confirm the leading role of the S-Class when it comes to passive safety. A significant new safety feature is the optional rear airbag system. During severe frontal collisions, the rear airbag can considerably reduce the loads acting on the heads and necks of seatbelt-wearing occupants on the outer rear seats.
During a severe side impact, depending on the direction of impact, impact severity and front seat occupancy, the new centre airbag positions itself between the driver and front passenger seat, reducing the risk of their heads making contact. It is integrated into the driver’s seatback in the middle of the vehicle.
The parking systems are also more sophisticated and the driver can park and recall the car via a smartphone with remote parking assist. With the INTELLIGENT PARK PILOT, the S-Class can provide Automated Valet Parking and if the required services are available, it can even enter and leave multi-storey car parks in highly automated mode – without a driver. In other words, the car can come to you on its own.
More maneuverable and dynamic
The new S-Class has rear-axle steering (optional) with a steering angle of up to 10° that improves maneuverability in urban areas to the level of a compact car, with the turning circle reduced by up to 2 metres.
The optional, fully active E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension on a 48V basis offers a unique synthesis of comfort and agility, plus additional protection in the event of a lateral collision. The AIRMATIC air suspension with continuously adjustable damping ADS+ is standard equipment.
Mercedes-Benz has now added a new function of PRE-SAFE Impulse Side to its measures in the pre-accident phase. When a side impact threatens, the vehicle body can rise by up to 80 mm by the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension within a few tenths of a second. This reduces the loads on the door structures, as the door sill can absorb more of the energy thanks to its higher position. As a result, deformation of the passenger cell and the loads acting on the occupants can be reduced. Radar sensors are used to recognize a potential side crash.
The optional DIGITAL LIGHT system is introduced for the first time in a Mercedes-Benz. It is am exceptionally intelligent system which can warning of recognized roadworks by projecting an excavator symbol onto the road surface, aiming a spotlight at pedestrians detected at the roadside as a warning, and projecting guidelines onto the road surface in narrow lanes.
In each headlamp, DIGITAL LIGHT has a light module with three extremely powerful LEDs with light that is refracted and directed by 1.3 million micro-mirrors. The resolution is therefore more than 2.6 million pixels per vehicle, enabling highly precise light distribution.
More electrification, more efficiency
Although its electrification program is well underway, Mercedes-Benz will still offer petrol and diesel engines with the new S-Class. These are 6-cylinder units with various outputs and there will also be a V8 engine with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) and 48V onboard electrical system. A plug-in hybrid with an all-electric range of around 100 kms will follow in 2021.
Ola Kallenius, Chairman of Daimler AG and Mercedes-Benz AG, also mentioned the EQ S, an all-electric S-Class to come in due course, but gave no details about it. It’s not something new, though, as the company displayed the Vision EQS concept which was described as a ‘future S-Class-like sedan’ with an all-electric powertrain and a projected range of 700 kms.
New factory for the new generation
Production of the new S-Class is now underway at the new Factory 56 in Sindelfingen, Germany. Like the S-Class which has been considered (by Mercedes-Benz) as the future of the automobile, the new facility also represents the future of automobile production at Mercedes-Benz. Advanced manufacturing technologies and processes enable it to have maximum flexibility to produce vehicles of different designs and drive systems, from conventional to all-electric drive.
Deliveries to customers in Germany will begin during the last quarter of this year and the new model will be progressively launched in other global markets from the start of 2021. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia would now be planning for the introduction of the new generation on the assembly line at its plant in Pekan, Pahang, and we should also see in sometime in 2021.
