Mercedes-Benz: Sales, Marketing, and Financial News
01-20-2004, 02:35 PM
#41
Outnumbered at home
I think it is a good tactic. You know there are tons of tards that will walk around saying they drive a mercedes it just has a chrysler badge on it. Had a friend that swears her toyota avalon was a lexus (not quite dear)
i freaking love those cars for what they are. A return to the big v8 powered, rear wheel drive, american sedan. They will be crazy pimp mobiles.
i freaking love those cars for what they are. A return to the big v8 powered, rear wheel drive, american sedan. They will be crazy pimp mobiles.
01-20-2004, 03:52 PM
#42
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if they drove pretty well, i'd go for one regardless. the 300C is a solidly pimp car and if they ever put the SRT10 engine in the Magnum? oh man, that would be the end of it all. it seems like the american companies are making a small and slow come back (with the exception of ford, who's only ok car will be the new Cobra).
01-20-2004, 05:54 PM
#45
Got da Internet Goin Nutz
It would sell me on the car if the engine were the same as a mercedes and the internal controls, seating, etc were from a mercedes.
It's kinda like the Saturn Vue. I would definately consider the VUE redline now because it has the same engine as the MDX. Unfortunately after going to look at one I realized that Saturn had NONE of the features that other car makers are offering (steering wheel audio controls, homelink, etc.).
The crossfire would honestly be a consideration to me but it only has TWO seats! I think cars with two seats are a complete and total waste. The 300C will be a serious option if somebody makes a pimped out grill for it. It's looks really do screem Bently.
It's kinda like the Saturn Vue. I would definately consider the VUE redline now because it has the same engine as the MDX. Unfortunately after going to look at one I realized that Saturn had NONE of the features that other car makers are offering (steering wheel audio controls, homelink, etc.).
The crossfire would honestly be a consideration to me but it only has TWO seats! I think cars with two seats are a complete and total waste. The 300C will be a serious option if somebody makes a pimped out grill for it. It's looks really do screem Bently.
01-20-2004, 08:07 PM
#48
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Originally posted by 95gt
I think it is a good tactic. You know there are tons of tards that will walk around saying they drive a mercedes it just has a chrysler badge on it. Had a friend that swears her toyota avalon was a lexus (not quite dear)
i freaking love those cars for what they are. A return to the big v8 powered, rear wheel drive, american sedan. They will be crazy pimp mobiles.
I think it is a good tactic. You know there are tons of tards that will walk around saying they drive a mercedes it just has a chrysler badge on it. Had a friend that swears her toyota avalon was a lexus (not quite dear)
i freaking love those cars for what they are. A return to the big v8 powered, rear wheel drive, american sedan. They will be crazy pimp mobiles.
Like people trying to being ES330 buyers, telling them it's a rebadged Camry.
01-20-2004, 08:08 PM
#49
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Originally posted by 1SICKLEX
I mean, so it's bad to buy a cheap, bad quality Chrysler but okay to buy an expensive, worse quality, Mercedes?
I mean, so it's bad to buy a cheap, bad quality Chrysler but okay to buy an expensive, worse quality, Mercedes?
Good question...
01-21-2004, 04:07 PM
#50
Senior Moderator
Originally posted by gavriil
Like people trying to being ES330 buyers, telling them it's a rebadged Camry.
Like people trying to being ES330 buyers, telling them it's a rebadged Camry.
huh?
01-22-2004, 08:23 AM
#52
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Originally posted by gavriil Like people telling ES330 buyers, your Lexus is a rebadged Camry. [/B]
Too bad I can't argue with either.
01-22-2004, 08:28 AM
#53
Senior Moderator
Originally posted by gavriil
And the reason for that...
And the reason for that...
I've never owned a Dodge or Chrysler product, and don't plan on owning one anytime soon. Alot of my family members have. My sister has a Dodge durango, and the other sister had a minivan.
I think the Dodges and Chryslers of the 60's and 70's were great (who can argue with the Hemi and the durability of the slant six).
Something happened at Chrysler when they were at the verge of bankruptcy. They were more concerned w/ the bottom line then putting out quality products.
I think that's changed, and they have tried hard to gain back customers with some great cars like the viper, prowler, etc. etc. Alot of the america manufacturors are trying to make vehicles that are "unamerican" now. I think they've finally caught on (Isn't Toyota like #3 in the USA now ??)
The perseception that Chryslers blow is still out there tho'.
01-22-2004, 01:48 PM
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I love Chryslers, Dodges, Jeeps, I wouldnt care if they had no mercedes parts or all mercedes parts, i'd drive one because I think they are the best looking cars on the road...i havent kept a car for more than three years, and most people dont anyway, so if i ever had a problem with one...i'd get a new one. Thats what makes warranties so wonderful=)...
...and sorry to tell ya...its all an opinion on "how well a car is made"...or how long they've lasted. I have owned two Chrysler cars that had over 200,000 miles on them and they ran/run just fine!
...and sorry to tell ya...its all an opinion on "how well a car is made"...or how long they've lasted. I have owned two Chrysler cars that had over 200,000 miles on them and they ran/run just fine!
06-22-2004, 09:46 AM
#58
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Chrysler boss in running for Mercedes job
Chrysler boss in running for Mercedes job - - Reuters / June 22, 2004 - - Source: AutoNews
HAMBURG, Germany -- Chrysler chief Dieter Zetsche could take over DaimlerChrysler's luxury Mercedes Car Group as part of a sweeping management revamp at the automaker, a source close to the company told Reuters on Tuesday.
If so, then Wolfgang Bernhard -- Zetsche's former deputy at the group's U.S. arm who was blocked at the last minute from taking over Mercedes in May -- could emerge as the new head of Chrysler, the source said.
Some members of the German group's supervisory board are pushing for a comprehensive solution that could cement senior management for years to come rather than just replace outgoing Mercedes chief Juergen Hubbert, the source said.
"The events of recent months lead me to think that we need an overall concept that looks to the future and restores calm to the company," the official said.
He stressed that Eckhard Cordes, who won praise for turning around DaimlerChrysler's loss-making truck division without resorting to layoffs, was not the only candidate in the running to succeed Hubbert, as German media have suggested.
"Should Mr. Zetsche become a candidate, I could very well imagine that Mr. Bernhard becomes head of Chrysler. If he still wants to," said the source, who spoke on condition he not be identified.
When filling these two high-profile posts, the source said, the company should also look to naming a successor for Chief Executive Juergen Schrempp, whose contract runs until 2008 after being extended earlier this year.
He did not name any potential successors for Schrempp.
Bernhard, a rising star at DaimlerChrysler, was set to step into Hubbert's shoes at the group's most profitable division but was abruptly halted by the supervisory board after crossing swords with Hubbert and labor union representatives.
He still works for DaimlerChrysler, but his future role is unclear and many thought at the time he would quit.
The supervisory board is supposed to discuss Hubbert's successor at a meeting on July 28, but the source said no decision was likely at that point.
"I don't see the July meeting as the one to decide this. We have to be finished by the end of the year," he added.
HAMBURG, Germany -- Chrysler chief Dieter Zetsche could take over DaimlerChrysler's luxury Mercedes Car Group as part of a sweeping management revamp at the automaker, a source close to the company told Reuters on Tuesday.
If so, then Wolfgang Bernhard -- Zetsche's former deputy at the group's U.S. arm who was blocked at the last minute from taking over Mercedes in May -- could emerge as the new head of Chrysler, the source said.
Some members of the German group's supervisory board are pushing for a comprehensive solution that could cement senior management for years to come rather than just replace outgoing Mercedes chief Juergen Hubbert, the source said.
"The events of recent months lead me to think that we need an overall concept that looks to the future and restores calm to the company," the official said.
He stressed that Eckhard Cordes, who won praise for turning around DaimlerChrysler's loss-making truck division without resorting to layoffs, was not the only candidate in the running to succeed Hubbert, as German media have suggested.
"Should Mr. Zetsche become a candidate, I could very well imagine that Mr. Bernhard becomes head of Chrysler. If he still wants to," said the source, who spoke on condition he not be identified.
When filling these two high-profile posts, the source said, the company should also look to naming a successor for Chief Executive Juergen Schrempp, whose contract runs until 2008 after being extended earlier this year.
He did not name any potential successors for Schrempp.
Bernhard, a rising star at DaimlerChrysler, was set to step into Hubbert's shoes at the group's most profitable division but was abruptly halted by the supervisory board after crossing swords with Hubbert and labor union representatives.
He still works for DaimlerChrysler, but his future role is unclear and many thought at the time he would quit.
The supervisory board is supposed to discuss Hubbert's successor at a meeting on July 28, but the source said no decision was likely at that point.
"I don't see the July meeting as the one to decide this. We have to be finished by the end of the year," he added.
12-01-2004, 08:53 PM
#59
Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported November sales of 18,832 vehicles
MONTVALE, N.J., Dec. 1 /PRNewswire/
-- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported November sales of 18,832 vehicles, an increase of 3.4 percent over last November, pushing the company's year-to-date volume to 194,714. The month's sales marked the second-best November in MBUSA history, surpassed only by record sales in November 2002.
November sales volume was led by the C-Class with 6,297 units sold, an impressive 29.5 percent increase over last year. Sales for the month were further strengthened by the enthusiastic reception to the new SLK-roadster which was launched this Fall, as sales for the sporty model line more than tripled to 1,293 units sold. CLK-Class coupes and cabriolets posted gains of 7.7 percent for the month with 1,618 units sold.
On a year-to-date basis, the C-Class model line was the volume leader with 60,381 units sold. Highlights for year-to-date sales also include a strong performance by the CLK-Class with a 17 percent increase over the same period in 2003 (20,441 vs. 17,478). Sales of the highly-acclaimed E-Class model line grew by 3.9 percent year-to-date (51,378 vs. 49,429).
The company is preparing to launch the largest product offensive in its history beginning in 2005, further expanding its product portfolio in the luxury market. Highlights will include introductions of new products in new segments -- from January's launch of the CLS, an all-new highly styled four- door coupe, to the Spring launch of the all-new M-Class SUV, to highly anticipated offerings in the new "sport touring" segment scheduled for the Fall of 2005: the Grand Sports Tourer and the Compact Sports Tourer.
Separately, MBUSA recorded 3,585 units for its Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program in November, bringing the total to 51,178 units sold, an increase of 5.8 percent year-to-date.
In 2003, MBUSA achieved its tenth consecutive year of sales growth by setting the highest sales volume in its history with 218,717 new vehicle sales. Headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, MBUSA is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found on the Internet at http://www.mbusa.com/ .
MERCEDES-BENZ USA
Sales -- November 2004
Model Nov. '04 Nov. '03 Monthly % YTD 2004 YTD 2003 Yearly %
C-CLASS 6,297 4,861 29.5% 60,381 60,657 -0.5%
E-CLASS 4,925 5,202 -5.3% 51,378 49,429 3.9%
S-CLASS 1,733 2,086 -16.9% 18,082 20,643 -12.4%
CL-CLASS 238 262 -9.2% 2,428 3,120 -22.2%
SL-CLASS 794 1,388 -42.8% 11,804 11,782 0.2%
CLK-CLASS 1,618 1,502 7.7% 20,441 17,478 17.0%
SLK-CLASS 1,293 342 278.1% 5,659 5,652 0.1%
M-CLASS 1,804 2,366 -23.8% 23,223 26,419 -12.1%
G-CLASS 130 201 -35.3% 1,318 1,750 -24.7%
GRAND TOTAL 18,832 18,210 3.4% 194,714 196,930 -1.1%
Quelle: Mercedes-Benz USA
-- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported November sales of 18,832 vehicles, an increase of 3.4 percent over last November, pushing the company's year-to-date volume to 194,714. The month's sales marked the second-best November in MBUSA history, surpassed only by record sales in November 2002.
November sales volume was led by the C-Class with 6,297 units sold, an impressive 29.5 percent increase over last year. Sales for the month were further strengthened by the enthusiastic reception to the new SLK-roadster which was launched this Fall, as sales for the sporty model line more than tripled to 1,293 units sold. CLK-Class coupes and cabriolets posted gains of 7.7 percent for the month with 1,618 units sold.
On a year-to-date basis, the C-Class model line was the volume leader with 60,381 units sold. Highlights for year-to-date sales also include a strong performance by the CLK-Class with a 17 percent increase over the same period in 2003 (20,441 vs. 17,478). Sales of the highly-acclaimed E-Class model line grew by 3.9 percent year-to-date (51,378 vs. 49,429).
The company is preparing to launch the largest product offensive in its history beginning in 2005, further expanding its product portfolio in the luxury market. Highlights will include introductions of new products in new segments -- from January's launch of the CLS, an all-new highly styled four- door coupe, to the Spring launch of the all-new M-Class SUV, to highly anticipated offerings in the new "sport touring" segment scheduled for the Fall of 2005: the Grand Sports Tourer and the Compact Sports Tourer.
Separately, MBUSA recorded 3,585 units for its Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program in November, bringing the total to 51,178 units sold, an increase of 5.8 percent year-to-date.
In 2003, MBUSA achieved its tenth consecutive year of sales growth by setting the highest sales volume in its history with 218,717 new vehicle sales. Headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, MBUSA is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. More information on MBUSA and its products can be found on the Internet at http://www.mbusa.com/ .
MERCEDES-BENZ USA
Sales -- November 2004
Model Nov. '04 Nov. '03 Monthly % YTD 2004 YTD 2003 Yearly %
C-CLASS 6,297 4,861 29.5% 60,381 60,657 -0.5%
E-CLASS 4,925 5,202 -5.3% 51,378 49,429 3.9%
S-CLASS 1,733 2,086 -16.9% 18,082 20,643 -12.4%
CL-CLASS 238 262 -9.2% 2,428 3,120 -22.2%
SL-CLASS 794 1,388 -42.8% 11,804 11,782 0.2%
CLK-CLASS 1,618 1,502 7.7% 20,441 17,478 17.0%
SLK-CLASS 1,293 342 278.1% 5,659 5,652 0.1%
M-CLASS 1,804 2,366 -23.8% 23,223 26,419 -12.1%
G-CLASS 130 201 -35.3% 1,318 1,750 -24.7%
GRAND TOTAL 18,832 18,210 3.4% 194,714 196,930 -1.1%
Quelle: Mercedes-Benz USA
07-09-2005, 11:31 AM
#62
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Mercedes Benz and others alter or drop free maintenance offers
Carmakers Drop Free Maintenance to Save Money - - Source: Edmunds.com
DETROIT — Automakers are eliminating free-maintenance programs, even on luxury brands, in an effort to cut costs.
A growing number of manufacturers are requiring customers to pay for maintenance services such as oil changes, tire rotations and other routine checks that used to be free, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Volvo plans to shave its 2006 program to one free-maintenance visit, down from the first four scheduled checkups. Mitsubishi did away with its free maintenance plan in the 2005 model year and doesn't plan to restart it anytime soon. Mercedes-Benz replaced its four-year free-maintenance plan with packages that cost customers anywhere from $576 to almost $4,000.
In contrast, BMW and Lexus are retaining some or all of their free-maintenance programs.
Free maintenance doesn't drive showroom traffic, automakers say. In 2005, "free maintenance" ranked 52nd in importance among consumers out of 55 vehicle attributes measured, down from 48 five years ago, according to CNW Marketing Research, a Bandon, Oregon, researcher. Cupholders, however, came in at 19th.
A growing number of manufacturers are requiring customers to pay for maintenance services such as oil changes, tire rotations and other routine checks that used to be free, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Volvo plans to shave its 2006 program to one free-maintenance visit, down from the first four scheduled checkups. Mitsubishi did away with its free maintenance plan in the 2005 model year and doesn't plan to restart it anytime soon. Mercedes-Benz replaced its four-year free-maintenance plan with packages that cost customers anywhere from $576 to almost $4,000.
In contrast, BMW and Lexus are retaining some or all of their free-maintenance programs.
Free maintenance doesn't drive showroom traffic, automakers say. In 2005, "free maintenance" ranked 52nd in importance among consumers out of 55 vehicle attributes measured, down from 48 five years ago, according to CNW Marketing Research, a Bandon, Oregon, researcher. Cupholders, however, came in at 19th.
07-09-2005, 11:32 AM
#63
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Free maintenance doesn't drive showroom traffic, automakers say.
Lexus does not even count in my book. There is so little mainenance required, it's like it's not there at all. Debatable point but mostly true IMO.
07-09-2005, 01:05 PM
#64
Race Director
I don't see MBs sales taking much of hit due to this - although in the US it's hard to cut out something that's been offered free in the past.
The only time this makes a diff is when you're within about $1K between two cars - if a 325 and IS250 is within $1K and everything else is equal to someone I can see that person being swayed by the free maintenance.
On the diplomatic list of options for BMW virtually everything can be ordered seperately, including the free maintenance - last year it was $900 I think.
The only time this makes a diff is when you're within about $1K between two cars - if a 325 and IS250 is within $1K and everything else is equal to someone I can see that person being swayed by the free maintenance.
On the diplomatic list of options for BMW virtually everything can be ordered seperately, including the free maintenance - last year it was $900 I think.
01-07-2014, 11:51 PM
#65
Senior Moderator
Mercedes-Benz Overtakes BMW as Top Luxury Brand in US
From here: http://www.leftlanenews.com/mercedes...#ixzz2pmb3gc3u
Mercedes' U.S. sales jumped 14 percent to 312,534 units last year, setting a new company record. That final tally was also enough to slip past cross-country rival BMW for the U.S. luxury sales title.
BMW also set a company sales record in 2013, but its 309,280 deliveries weren't enough to hold onto the sales crown. BMW had been the U.S.' top selling luxury brand for the last two years.
"It's been an incredible year for Mercedes-Benz in every way," said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. "We saw record sales, flexed our muscles across the entire product line from top to bottom and brought the customer experience to an all-time high. With the help of our dealer partners and the entire organization behind us, we expect this beautifully choreographed series of product debuts to lead us to another phenomenal year in 2014."
Despite its impending replacement, the C-Class was Mercedes' most popular vehicle of 2013 with 88,251 units sold. Mercedes' all-new entry-level CLA sedan racked up a respectable 12,000 sales during its four months on the market.
Toyota's Lexus brand, which was the U.S.' best-selling luxury brand for 11 years before being knocked off by BMW in 2011, manged 273,847 deliveries in 2013, up 10.8 percent from the year prior.
Audi finished a distance sixth in the sales race, but still managed to sell a record-setting 158,061 vehicles.
BMW also set a company sales record in 2013, but its 309,280 deliveries weren't enough to hold onto the sales crown. BMW had been the U.S.' top selling luxury brand for the last two years.
"It's been an incredible year for Mercedes-Benz in every way," said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA. "We saw record sales, flexed our muscles across the entire product line from top to bottom and brought the customer experience to an all-time high. With the help of our dealer partners and the entire organization behind us, we expect this beautifully choreographed series of product debuts to lead us to another phenomenal year in 2014."
Despite its impending replacement, the C-Class was Mercedes' most popular vehicle of 2013 with 88,251 units sold. Mercedes' all-new entry-level CLA sedan racked up a respectable 12,000 sales during its four months on the market.
Toyota's Lexus brand, which was the U.S.' best-selling luxury brand for 11 years before being knocked off by BMW in 2011, manged 273,847 deliveries in 2013, up 10.8 percent from the year prior.
Audi finished a distance sixth in the sales race, but still managed to sell a record-setting 158,061 vehicles.
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05-04-2014, 02:28 PM
#66
Senior Moderator
Mercedes Offers Airport Helicopter Transfers
Neat.
From here: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...poor-customers
From here: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...poor-customers
Mercedes-Benz has launched a new service for its well-heeled customers that may just change what’s considered luxury in the world of autos. Mercedes-Benz already has dealerships based near major airports, where customers about to fly can leave their cars and then be transported to the airport and thus avoid the hassle of the public parking stations. Now the automaker is introducing a new level of luxury and convenience that redefines the service.
Starting at its dealership near the international airport in Melbourne, Australia, Mercedes-Benz’s existing airport transfer service, called Airport Express, is teaming up with a helicopter ride company called Air Melbourne. Their new joint service, called Mercedes-Benz Heli-Express, will allow customers to travel from the airport direct to Melbourne’s central business district by helicopter in just four minutes. The helipad is located at the dealership itself.
The cost of a one-way trip is 274 Aussie dollars, which works out to be about $254 at current exchange rates. The service operates from sunrise to sunset, and soon the service will also be offered for additional airports in Melbourne: Moorabbin Airport and Lilydale Airport. The helicopters used are twin-engined aircraft from Italy’s Augusta.
“Mercedes-Benz Airport Express already offers our customers the ability to have their vehicle serviced whilst they travel and to take the hassle out of traffic and parking with our valet service to the terminal,” Mercedes-Benz Australia boss Horst von Sanden said in a statement. “Our facility at Mercedes-Benz Airport Express has proven itself with strong demand from customers and we have added the Heli-Express service to add another dimension of convenience especially for time poor customers.
Starting at its dealership near the international airport in Melbourne, Australia, Mercedes-Benz’s existing airport transfer service, called Airport Express, is teaming up with a helicopter ride company called Air Melbourne. Their new joint service, called Mercedes-Benz Heli-Express, will allow customers to travel from the airport direct to Melbourne’s central business district by helicopter in just four minutes. The helipad is located at the dealership itself.
The cost of a one-way trip is 274 Aussie dollars, which works out to be about $254 at current exchange rates. The service operates from sunrise to sunset, and soon the service will also be offered for additional airports in Melbourne: Moorabbin Airport and Lilydale Airport. The helicopters used are twin-engined aircraft from Italy’s Augusta.
“Mercedes-Benz Airport Express already offers our customers the ability to have their vehicle serviced whilst they travel and to take the hassle out of traffic and parking with our valet service to the terminal,” Mercedes-Benz Australia boss Horst von Sanden said in a statement. “Our facility at Mercedes-Benz Airport Express has proven itself with strong demand from customers and we have added the Heli-Express service to add another dimension of convenience especially for time poor customers.
06-27-2014, 08:28 PM
#67
Senior Moderator
Sculpture Revealed at 2014 Goodwood
Press release...
The Central Feature at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed – the sculpture soaring 26 metres over Goodwood House, weighing 160 tonnes and measuring 90 metres in length – has been unveiled in spectacular style by Lord March and Head of Mercedes-Benz Classic, Michael Bock.
Created by artistic genius Gerry Judah, the sculpture is the most complex and ambitious yet conceived and is a fitting celebration of 120 years of motorsport heritage by Mercedes-Benz and its founding fathers.
Swooping over Goodwood House, the curve – which spans 45 metres – tested the artistic and engineering ingenuity of the team of specialists assigned to making Gerry Judah’s concept a reality.
Two cars spanning 80 years form an integral part of the sculpture – a replica of the 1934 Mercedes-Benz W 25 Silver Arrow, like that raced by Manfred von Brauchitsch to victory “first time out” at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, and a MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS F1 W04, the same chassis raced by Lewis Hamilton in 15 Grands Prix in 2013. The car forms a special part of recent racing history, having taken Lewis Hamilton to five pole positions, and to victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Together, the W25 and the F1 W04 show the first – and currently last – of the eight-cylinder Silver Arrows Grand Prix machines. This years’ car, the F1 W05 HYBRID, has a 1.6-litre V6 turbo PowerUnit, and is currently leading the F1 Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships.
Michael Bock commented: “The sculpture goes beyond my wildest expectations. It’s truly amazing and an apt focal point for what promises to be a vibrant celebration of the most thrilling, most charismatic and most beautiful racing machines ever created. Our support of the Festival of Speed is stronger than ever this year as we celebrate 120 years since Daimler-powered cars won the first motorsport events in 1894. These tentative first steps set us on a course that’s led us to where we are today – here’s to the next 120 years of thriving competition, both on and off the track.”
In unveiling the sculpture, Lord March explained: “This year’s Central Feature is the most architecturally and artistically challenging sculpture that we’ve ever had at Goodwood and it’s a testament to the out-of-the-box thinking of Gerry Judah, which is very much aligned with our philosophy of constant innovation around the Festival of Speed. The result is a truly spectacular sight for all our Festival of Speed visitors to see.”
Gerry Judah added: “It is a tremendous opportunity to be asked by Mercedes-Benz to create a sculpture to celebrate their 120 years of motor racing. For this we have pushed the limits of what is possible with size and complexity in engineering, with a 160 tonne steel arch connecting two of their great historic cars over the top of Goodwood House. The sculpture also celebrates the dynamic between Mercedes-Benz and the Festival of Speed, which for me is a pleasure and a privilege to be involved with.”
The unveiling was accompanied by spectacular fireworks and a pack of Mercedes-Benz road and race cars making a dramatic and unique run up the Goodwood Hill in darkness.
A century-old Mercedes Grand Prix car, an SSK from 1928, the mighty W 196 R from 1955 and a fire-breathing Sauber-Mercedes C9 from 1989 were joined by a distinctive SLS AMG Black Series, emerging from the darkness with striking glowing bodywork for the occasion.
All five cars will be joined by an array of iconic Mercedes-Benz cars from over the decades as the track action kicks off on Friday.
Created by artistic genius Gerry Judah, the sculpture is the most complex and ambitious yet conceived and is a fitting celebration of 120 years of motorsport heritage by Mercedes-Benz and its founding fathers.
Swooping over Goodwood House, the curve – which spans 45 metres – tested the artistic and engineering ingenuity of the team of specialists assigned to making Gerry Judah’s concept a reality.
Two cars spanning 80 years form an integral part of the sculpture – a replica of the 1934 Mercedes-Benz W 25 Silver Arrow, like that raced by Manfred von Brauchitsch to victory “first time out” at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, and a MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS F1 W04, the same chassis raced by Lewis Hamilton in 15 Grands Prix in 2013. The car forms a special part of recent racing history, having taken Lewis Hamilton to five pole positions, and to victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix. Together, the W25 and the F1 W04 show the first – and currently last – of the eight-cylinder Silver Arrows Grand Prix machines. This years’ car, the F1 W05 HYBRID, has a 1.6-litre V6 turbo PowerUnit, and is currently leading the F1 Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships.
Michael Bock commented: “The sculpture goes beyond my wildest expectations. It’s truly amazing and an apt focal point for what promises to be a vibrant celebration of the most thrilling, most charismatic and most beautiful racing machines ever created. Our support of the Festival of Speed is stronger than ever this year as we celebrate 120 years since Daimler-powered cars won the first motorsport events in 1894. These tentative first steps set us on a course that’s led us to where we are today – here’s to the next 120 years of thriving competition, both on and off the track.”
In unveiling the sculpture, Lord March explained: “This year’s Central Feature is the most architecturally and artistically challenging sculpture that we’ve ever had at Goodwood and it’s a testament to the out-of-the-box thinking of Gerry Judah, which is very much aligned with our philosophy of constant innovation around the Festival of Speed. The result is a truly spectacular sight for all our Festival of Speed visitors to see.”
Gerry Judah added: “It is a tremendous opportunity to be asked by Mercedes-Benz to create a sculpture to celebrate their 120 years of motor racing. For this we have pushed the limits of what is possible with size and complexity in engineering, with a 160 tonne steel arch connecting two of their great historic cars over the top of Goodwood House. The sculpture also celebrates the dynamic between Mercedes-Benz and the Festival of Speed, which for me is a pleasure and a privilege to be involved with.”
The unveiling was accompanied by spectacular fireworks and a pack of Mercedes-Benz road and race cars making a dramatic and unique run up the Goodwood Hill in darkness.
A century-old Mercedes Grand Prix car, an SSK from 1928, the mighty W 196 R from 1955 and a fire-breathing Sauber-Mercedes C9 from 1989 were joined by a distinctive SLS AMG Black Series, emerging from the darkness with striking glowing bodywork for the occasion.
All five cars will be joined by an array of iconic Mercedes-Benz cars from over the decades as the track action kicks off on Friday.
06-27-2014, 08:28 PM
#68
Senior Moderator
Neat.
06-27-2014, 08:29 PM
#69
Senior Moderator
06-30-2014, 04:27 PM
#70
Senior Moderator
Partnership with Nintendo
From here: http://www.leftlanenews.com/mercedes-nintendo-gla.html
Mercedes-Benz has teamed up with one of the most iconic characters in video game history to hawk its new GLA. The new partnership with Nintendo features everyone's favorite digital plumber, Mario, driving the new crossover.
A new 30-second spot airing in Japan renders an 8-bit GLA in the familiar world of the the 1985 Nintendo classic, Super Mario Bros. The car, with Mario behind the wheel, breaks bricks, stomps goombas, and collects coins, just like in the game.
Things get bizarre, however, after Mario and the GLA reach the flagpole marking the end of a level within the game. Suddenly, the world becomes "real" as a GLA roars into view in front of the castle, and a life-sized Mario -- played by an actor wearing somewhat grotesquely exaggerated facial features -- emerges from the soft-roader, all triumphant-like. We won't spoil the ending for you; you'll just have to watch the kicker for yourself in the video below.
Furthermore, the Mercedes GLA is also downloadable content in the Mario Kart 8, a highly anticipated fantasy racing-themed sequel released Friday. However, the car is available only to players in Japan.
The real-life GLA is a compact crossover built atop the CLA platform. A transversely-mounted 208hp 2.0-liter inline-four occupies the engine room while a 355hp turbocharged version will motivate the AMG-ified edition, presumably after collecting a mushroom power-up.
A new 30-second spot airing in Japan renders an 8-bit GLA in the familiar world of the the 1985 Nintendo classic, Super Mario Bros. The car, with Mario behind the wheel, breaks bricks, stomps goombas, and collects coins, just like in the game.
Things get bizarre, however, after Mario and the GLA reach the flagpole marking the end of a level within the game. Suddenly, the world becomes "real" as a GLA roars into view in front of the castle, and a life-sized Mario -- played by an actor wearing somewhat grotesquely exaggerated facial features -- emerges from the soft-roader, all triumphant-like. We won't spoil the ending for you; you'll just have to watch the kicker for yourself in the video below.
Furthermore, the Mercedes GLA is also downloadable content in the Mario Kart 8, a highly anticipated fantasy racing-themed sequel released Friday. However, the car is available only to players in Japan.
The real-life GLA is a compact crossover built atop the CLA platform. A transversely-mounted 208hp 2.0-liter inline-four occupies the engine room while a 355hp turbocharged version will motivate the AMG-ified edition, presumably after collecting a mushroom power-up.
07-28-2014, 07:37 PM
#71
Senior Moderator
Mercedes release s'more interactive 360 videos...
Here's the AMG Petronas F1 cart: http://visualise.s3.amazonaws.com/go...w03/embed.html
The Sauber C9: http://visualise.s3.amazonaws.com/go...-c9/embed.html
SLS AMG Black Series: http://visualise.s3.amazonaws.com/go...ack/embed.html
Here's the AMG Petronas F1 cart: http://visualise.s3.amazonaws.com/go...w03/embed.html
The Sauber C9: http://visualise.s3.amazonaws.com/go...-c9/embed.html
SLS AMG Black Series: http://visualise.s3.amazonaws.com/go...ack/embed.html
08-15-2014, 01:23 PM
#72
Senior Moderator
World's Only Mercedes-Benz 540K Streamliner
08-19-2014, 01:42 PM
#73
Senior Moderator
China Finds Mercedes-Benz Guilty Of Price Fixing
From here: http://www.motorauthority.com/news/1...-fixing-report
China is the world's largest car market, and automakers are scrambling to get in on the action. However, a recent government crackdown is dampening enthusiasm at some of them.
Mercedes-Benz has been found guilty of manipulating prices for dealer service and parts in the country, China's Xinhua (via Reuters) reports. The Jiangsu Province Price Bureau reportedly found evidence of these practices after raiding Mercedes dealerships in the eastern coastal province, and an office in neighboring Shanghai.
Mercedes parent Daimler said it is cooperating with authorities, but has not made any other statements on the matter. Chinese officials haven't publicly disclosed penalties for the German carmaker either.
The raids were just another example of the Chinese government's recent attempts to more-stringently enforce anti-monopoly laws enacted in 2008. Accusations from domestic media that carmakers are overcharging Chinese customers for spare parts has led to increased focus on the industry by China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).
The laws empower the NDRC to impose a fine of between 1 and 10 percent of a company's revenues for the previous year. Last week, it was announced that Audi would be fined 250 million yuan (about $40.6 million at current exchange rates) for unspecified violations by its sales division in the province of Hubei. In addition to Audi and Mercedes, Chrysler is reportedly under investigation as well.
In response to the crackdown, German manufacturers are lowering prices. Mercedes will reportedly cut the price of certain spares by 15 percent, BMW will cut prices by an average of 20 percent, and Audi will lower its prices by an unspecified amount.
Mercedes-Benz has been found guilty of manipulating prices for dealer service and parts in the country, China's Xinhua (via Reuters) reports. The Jiangsu Province Price Bureau reportedly found evidence of these practices after raiding Mercedes dealerships in the eastern coastal province, and an office in neighboring Shanghai.
Mercedes parent Daimler said it is cooperating with authorities, but has not made any other statements on the matter. Chinese officials haven't publicly disclosed penalties for the German carmaker either.
The raids were just another example of the Chinese government's recent attempts to more-stringently enforce anti-monopoly laws enacted in 2008. Accusations from domestic media that carmakers are overcharging Chinese customers for spare parts has led to increased focus on the industry by China's National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).
The laws empower the NDRC to impose a fine of between 1 and 10 percent of a company's revenues for the previous year. Last week, it was announced that Audi would be fined 250 million yuan (about $40.6 million at current exchange rates) for unspecified violations by its sales division in the province of Hubei. In addition to Audi and Mercedes, Chrysler is reportedly under investigation as well.
In response to the crackdown, German manufacturers are lowering prices. Mercedes will reportedly cut the price of certain spares by 15 percent, BMW will cut prices by an average of 20 percent, and Audi will lower its prices by an unspecified amount.
08-20-2014, 12:12 PM
#74
Senior Moderator
1914 Mercedes 4.5 Liter Grand Prix
Very cool.
Reunited: The Mercedes Grand Prix racing car of 1914
A further theme of this year's Concours d’Elégance is the French Grand Prix of 1914. On 4 July 1914, near Lyon, Mercedes celebrated an epic one-two-three victory – the first in the history of Grand Prix racing. The three examples of this stunning racing car still in existence will be shown in a specially created judging class, including the winning vehicle from 1914. The Grand Prix cars, all of which are in full running order, come from the collections of George Wingard, the Collier Collection and the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection.
On July 14, 1914 Mercedes celebrated a triumphant one-two-three victory in the French Grand Prix. The race was held over an extremely challenging 37.6-kilometer circuit to the south of Lyon, covering 20 laps and a total distance of around 750 kilometers. The Mercedes team redesigned the car to comply with a new regulation limiting displacement to 4.5 liters. Built with a systematic approach to lightweight design and to withstand engine speeds of more than 300 rpm, its four-cylinder technology made the engine both powerful and, at the same time, superbly efficient. Although Mercedes competed against supposedly superior adversaries – above all Peugeot and Delage from France, Sunbeam from England and Fiat from Italy – after 7 hours, Christian Lautenschlager, Louis Wagner and Otto Salzer had made their way right to the front. This first one-two-three "triple" victory in the history of motor racing was reported in the English magazine "Autocar" as follows: "The Mercedes victory was a victory that showed them to be superior in every respect". The French press wrote: "There can really be no greater achievement than this." Less than four weeks after the team's triumphant victory the First World War broke out, marking the end of motorsport in Europefor the foreseeable future.
Technical data
Period of use: 1914-1924
Cylinders: 4/in-line
Displacement: 4483 cubic centimetres
Output: 78 kW (106 hp)
Top speed: 180 km/h
A further theme of this year's Concours d’Elégance is the French Grand Prix of 1914. On 4 July 1914, near Lyon, Mercedes celebrated an epic one-two-three victory – the first in the history of Grand Prix racing. The three examples of this stunning racing car still in existence will be shown in a specially created judging class, including the winning vehicle from 1914. The Grand Prix cars, all of which are in full running order, come from the collections of George Wingard, the Collier Collection and the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection.
On July 14, 1914 Mercedes celebrated a triumphant one-two-three victory in the French Grand Prix. The race was held over an extremely challenging 37.6-kilometer circuit to the south of Lyon, covering 20 laps and a total distance of around 750 kilometers. The Mercedes team redesigned the car to comply with a new regulation limiting displacement to 4.5 liters. Built with a systematic approach to lightweight design and to withstand engine speeds of more than 300 rpm, its four-cylinder technology made the engine both powerful and, at the same time, superbly efficient. Although Mercedes competed against supposedly superior adversaries – above all Peugeot and Delage from France, Sunbeam from England and Fiat from Italy – after 7 hours, Christian Lautenschlager, Louis Wagner and Otto Salzer had made their way right to the front. This first one-two-three "triple" victory in the history of motor racing was reported in the English magazine "Autocar" as follows: "The Mercedes victory was a victory that showed them to be superior in every respect". The French press wrote: "There can really be no greater achievement than this." Less than four weeks after the team's triumphant victory the First World War broke out, marking the end of motorsport in Europefor the foreseeable future.
Technical data
Period of use: 1914-1924
Cylinders: 4/in-line
Displacement: 4483 cubic centimetres
Output: 78 kW (106 hp)
Top speed: 180 km/h
08-20-2014, 12:13 PM
#75
Senior Moderator
Some pics...
08-20-2014, 12:53 PM
#76
Moderator
Very nice.
10-21-2014, 03:00 PM
#77
Senior Moderator
Source: Daimler Eyes Stake In Motorcycle Brand MV Agusta: Report
Daimler may end up buying a stake in Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Agusta in an attempt to rival BMW and Audi with their respective Motorrad and Ducati bike divisions. At the same time, MV Agusta is said to be looking for a partner to help grow its sales in new markets.
Some readers may recall that Daimler’s performance unit Mercedes-AMG was working closely with Ducati at one point, but eventually cut its ties in 2012 when Ducati was sold to Audi. Now it appears Daimler is courting MV Agusta.
German daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung first reported that Daimler is seeking to buy 25 percent of MV Agusta through Mercedes-AMG for 30 million euros (approximately $39 million), with an option to increase the stake for further investments. An insider has since confirmed to Reuters that talks between the two firms are taking place but that no deal has been reached yet.
Not only would a stake in MV Agusta allow Daimler to expand into a new segment, it would provide the German auto giant with access to the Italian firm’s potent three-cylinder engines. The VW Group has already taken advantage of Ducati’s engine know-how, using one of its V-twin engines to power its XL Sport concept car.
Once a leading team in MotoGP, MV Agusta fell into obscurity in the ’70s and ‘80s before being bought by Italian entrepreneur Claudio Castiglioni. It’s changed hands a number of times since then, with Harley-Davidson and Proton taking turns at running it. Castiglioni repurchased the brand in 2010 and currently it is run by his son.
Some readers may recall that Daimler’s performance unit Mercedes-AMG was working closely with Ducati at one point, but eventually cut its ties in 2012 when Ducati was sold to Audi. Now it appears Daimler is courting MV Agusta.
German daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung first reported that Daimler is seeking to buy 25 percent of MV Agusta through Mercedes-AMG for 30 million euros (approximately $39 million), with an option to increase the stake for further investments. An insider has since confirmed to Reuters that talks between the two firms are taking place but that no deal has been reached yet.
Not only would a stake in MV Agusta allow Daimler to expand into a new segment, it would provide the German auto giant with access to the Italian firm’s potent three-cylinder engines. The VW Group has already taken advantage of Ducati’s engine know-how, using one of its V-twin engines to power its XL Sport concept car.
Once a leading team in MotoGP, MV Agusta fell into obscurity in the ’70s and ‘80s before being bought by Italian entrepreneur Claudio Castiglioni. It’s changed hands a number of times since then, with Harley-Davidson and Proton taking turns at running it. Castiglioni repurchased the brand in 2010 and currently it is run by his son.
11-11-2014, 06:32 AM
#78
Safety Car
AutoNews
Mercedes-Benz is overhauling the nomenclature used to identify its car and light-truck lineup as it prepares for the launch of 30 models -- including 11 all-new vehicles -- by 2020.
Along with the new models planned, Mercedes-Benz said the changes are being made as the company prepares to introduce new body variants and drive systems.
"This results in an increasingly complex situation when it comes to naming the models,” the company said in a statement today.
Mercedes-Benz joins Nissan Motor Corp.'s Infiniti and General Motors' Cadillac among luxury brands that have significantly revised or plan to change the way they identify models.
Some dealers have said the proliferation of models has posed marketing challenges and confusion among consumers, especially when companies have adopted alphanumeric names.
The new nameplates will begin to appear next year when Mercedes-Benz will launch either redesigned or freshened version of all of its crossovers and SUVs.
“After more than 20 years of continuity involving some of the most recognized and successful product names in the world, we are now making our system of vehicle nomenclature even more understandable,” the company said.
The new nomenclature is a “simpler, more transparent and more logical system for the designations of our model series, with the aim of providing clear orientation for our customers", Jens Thiemer, head of Mercedes-Benz brand marketing communication, said in the statement.
Mercedes-Benz will have five core models: A, B, C, E and S.
All crossovers will have a GL in their name “in a tribute to the legendary G class,” the company said.
The letter that follows will indicate the vehicle’s size, similar to the way the company has differentiated its sedans through the years.
• The compact GLA becomes GL A-class
• The compact GLK will be renamed GL C-class
• The midsize M-class becomes the GL E-class
• The all-new midsize coupe based on the current ML becomes the GL E-class coupe
• The full-sized GL becomes the GL S-class
• The G will remain the same
The company's 4-door passenger cars with coupe-like styling will all have CL as the 1st 2 letters in their names. The 3rd letter will refer to the size related to the core models.• The compact GLK will be renamed GL C-class
• The midsize M-class becomes the GL E-class
• The all-new midsize coupe based on the current ML becomes the GL E-class coupe
• The full-sized GL becomes the GL S-class
• The G will remain the same
The cars include the compact CLA and the larger CLS sedans. Wagon or Shooting Brake versions of the cars are not sold in the United States.
Beginning in 2016, Mercedes said the SL designation will be used on 2-door roadsters and the 3rd letter will also indicate the size. The SLK will be remained SLC. The SL name won’t change, “in recognition of its iconic status,” the company said.
Engines, other than gasoline-powered, will also get new designations with a single lower case letter on the trunk lid:
• c for compressed natural gas -- it is currently called National Gas Drive
• d for diesel, replacing BlueTEC and CDI
• e for electric, replacing Plug-in Hybrid BlueTEC Plug-in Hybrid and Electric Drive
• f for fuel cell, currently F-Cell
• h for hybrid, currently Hybrid and BlueTEC Hybrid.
Mercedes will continue to call its all-wheel drive models 4Matic.• d for diesel, replacing BlueTEC and CDI
• e for electric, replacing Plug-in Hybrid BlueTEC Plug-in Hybrid and Electric Drive
• f for fuel cell, currently F-Cell
• h for hybrid, currently Hybrid and BlueTEC Hybrid.
In addition, 2 sub-brands are being added.
High-performance AMG models will be called Mercedes-AMG and the range-topping S-class variant has been named Mercedes-Maybach.
11-11-2014, 08:40 AM
#80
Moderator
Just bring back proper displacement reflecting numbering.