The new 2018 E-Class Cabriolet

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The new 2018 E-Class Cabriolet

The new 2018 E-Class Cabriolet

Now on sale at U.S. dealers, the all-new E-Class Cabriolet is poised for any change in season. Available for the first time with 4MATIC all-wheel drive, the E-Class Cabriolet also boasts AIRCAP® wind deflector and AIRSCARF® neck-level heating technology to enhance comfort when driving with the top down.

The new E-Class Cabriolet four-seater combines pure, elegant design with long- distance comfort for four occupants and the latest E-Class technology. When the soft top is up, the E-Class Cabriolet has a silhouette similar to that of the E-Class Coupe and displays the same expressive proportions and clean lines. The ‘hot and cool’ design idiom represents both elegance and intelligence, and shapes the appearance of the Cabriolet, which nevertheless exudes a unique character – especially when the soft top is down.

Open-air driving comfort all year

Maximum open-air comfort makes the E-Class Cabriolet a pleasure to drive. Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to bring neck-level heating to market with AIRSCARF® technology, which makes top-down driving enjoyable even at low temperatures by circulating warm air around the neck area in cooler weather. The available AIRCAP® system was developed specifically for Mercedes-Benz cabriolets and consists of an electric wind deflector inconspicuously integrated into the roof frame and an electric wind blocker behind the rear seats. At the press of a button, this system reduces the interior turbulence for the rear passengers as well. A number of additional features make the E-Class Cabriolet suitable for all seasons and weather conditions:

  • Acoustic soft top insulated to protect against heat and cold
  • Heat-reflecting leather in conjunction with leather appointments
  • Individually folding rear seat backrests with through-loading feature
  • Available 4MATIC all-wheel drive
  • MAGIC VISION CONTROL® – the intelligent and highly efficient wash/wipe system for the windscreen – is heated when the outside temperature falls to prevent snow or ice from sticking in winter.

Starting at $66,300 for the E400 Cabriolet and $68,800 for the E400 4MATIC Cabriolet (not including $995 destination & delivery), the E-Class Cabriolet joins a range of convertibles in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The extensive Mercedes-Benz Cabrio family includes the smart electric drive cabriolet, C-Class Cabriolet, recently redesigned S-Class Cabriolet, SLC, SL and AMG GT and GT C Roadsters and the ultra-exclusive Mercedes-Maybach S650 Cabriolet.

Premium-class fabric soft top

With the new E-Class Cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz is continuing its tradition of high- caliber cabriolets with a classic fabric soft top. Available in dark brown, dark blue, red or black, the fully automatic acoustic soft top features sophisticated insulation that reduces wind and driving noise at highway speeds. The soft-top structure and insulation has an equally positive effect on climate control and comfort, making the Cabriolet suitable for use year-round.

Even with the top down, the trunk capacity offers a high level of everyday practicality, with enough space to store luggage for a weekend getaway. The 50:50 folding rear seat backrests create a through-loading feature in the interior – another advantage when it comes to daily driving.

Larger and more luxurious: interior comfort for four

Compared with its predecessor, the new E-Class Cabriolet has grown in length, width, wheelbase, and boasts a wider track. Its considerably larger footprint benefits passengers in the rear in particular. On each of the four high-quality seats – which all feel like individual seats in their own right – passengers can all enjoy true comfort even on long journeys.

The luxurious seats for all four occupants feature a sporty sculpted individual-seat character. Standard-fit automatic belt presenters for the front seats help the occupants to fasten their seat belts.

courtesy: www.media.mbusa.com

The new Mercedes-Benz CLS

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The new Mercedes-Benz CLS

The new Mercedes-Benz CLS

The new CLS pioneers the new design idiom of Mercedes-Benz, which is recognizable by its clear contours and reduced lines. Its character is marked by a grille contour that widens towards the base and a forward-slanting front section. Other features include wide, low-set headlights and two-section taillamps. At the same time the design reflects the timeless aura of the first CLS, which founded a new segment and quickly became a design icon. The CLS is equipped with a new inline six-cylinder engine and is the first vehicle in the Mercedes-Benz lineup with 48-volt technology with ISG that offers increased efficiency and comfort. Like its predecessors, the new CLS exudes self-assured sportiness in exemplary style: a highly emotional vehicle offering impressive long-distance and acoustic comfort coupled with thrilling, unrivalled technology. Additionally, the all-new four-door coupe seats 5 passengers for the first time. The 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have its World Premiere at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show in November, and will go on sale in the U.S. by Fall 2018.

In 2003, with the CLS, Mercedes-Benz created a new vehicle segment that combined the elegance and dynamic feel of a coupe with the comfort and functionality of a sedan for the first time. With the third generation of the CLS, Mercedes-Benz is building more strongly than ever on the aura and unique character of this trendsetting model: the new model has pure CLS genes with its arching waistline, flat side window lines and low greenhouse. At the same time it is another example of the logical evolution of the Sensual Purity design idiom: sharp edges and lines have been significantly reduced. It blends seamlessly into the current Mercedes-Benz coupe family with numerous design features.

The in-line six-cylinder engine in the CLS450 and CLS450 4MATIC is completely new, boasting 362 hp in addition to a 21 hp boost from the integrated starter- generator.

The sporty CLS also has a comfortable side: AIR BODY CONTROL suspension, ENERGIZING Comfort and the very latest infotainment generation with Inductive Wireless Phone Charging with NFC pairing accentuate this.

The standard appointments of the CLS are very extensive: highlights include AMG body styling, newly designed LED headlamps and taillamps, 19-inch light-alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch high-resolution COMAND® display, ambient lighting including illuminated air vents, Car-to-X Communication and Smartphone Integration.

Exterior: Self-assured sportiness in the style of Mercedes-Benz coupes

“The new CLS is a design icon as the archetype of the four-door coupe. In line with our hot & cool design philosophy, we have reduced its DNA to an extremely puristic level while emotionally charging its beauty,” says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG.

Striking front-end features include the diamond grille typical of Mercedes-Benz coupes, with a single louver. The silhouette of the radiator grille widens towards the base, resembling the contours of the grille on the Mercedes-AMG GT. The hood is completely surrounded by body surfaces. The very flat and wide headlamps with inward-slanting flanks dynamically follow the contour of the grille.

The side design is characterized by the high, arching waistline and the sporty, low greenhouse with frameless side windows. The forward-slanting front end is reminiscent of a shark’s nose, and appears longer thanks to the fully inset hood. The contours follow the design philosophy of sensual purity: lines and edges are greatly reduced, and the surfaces are generously arched.

Also typical of the CLS is the muscular rear shoulder line which blends smoothly into the flat rear end. Characteristic coupe features include the two-section taillamps, reflectors positioned in the rear bumper, location of the license plate in the bumper and the Mercedes star at the center of the trunk lid.

Like the headlamps, the LED taillamps have a crystalline appearance and create a three-dimensional effect. Their low positioning accentuates the width of the vehicle.

Interior consistent color scheme, Widescreen Digital Instrument Cluster

The luxurious interior of the CLS Coupe impresses with its clear basic lines, and echoes the sensual, flowing contours of the exterior. The high-grade choice of materials shows a very high level of finish.

The sporty, width-accentuated cockpit and color combination creates an impression of particularly generous spaciousness. For a flowing overall impression, the wave-like course of the interior design extends from the front to the rear doors, opening up at the B-pillars. As a new highlight of the ambient lighting, the illuminated air vents are reminiscent of jet aircraft turbines. The sporty impression is also reinforced by the hand-finished appearance of the seats.

The CLS450 is equipped with a high-resolution central display with a wide screen diagonal of 12.3 inches, and is optionally available with two 12.3-inch displays that merge to form a wide-screen cockpit beneath a shared, continuous glass cover.
The center console with open-pored or high-gloss wood appears to be free-floating thanks to its surface trim.

In the fully digital cockpit, the driver is able to feely configure the information content according to need and the driving situation. Three different styles can be selected depending on preference, mood or to suit the interior appointments: Classic, Sport or Progressive.

The ambient lighting is individually adjustable in 64 colors, and also includes the air vents. When the temperature setting of the air conditioning system is changed, it briefly changes color to show whether the temperature is being made warmer (red) or cooler (blue).

The seats were also newly designed exclusively for this model series with high- quality piping. The outer seats in the rear have the same appearance as the front seats, creating a sporty single-seat impression, although the CLS Coupe is in fact a five-seater for the first time. When required the backrests can be folded down in a 40/20/40 ratio.

Wellness on long-distance journeys: ENERGIZING Comfort

ENERGIZING Comfort links various comfort systems in the vehicle. It systematically uses the functions of the climate control system (including fragrancing) and the seats (heater, ventilation, massage), the surface and steering wheel heating as well as lighting and musical atmospheres, and allows a specific wellness set-up tailored to the mood and need of the customer. As a result, well-being and performance levels are enhanced.

These six programs can be selected:

  • Refresh / Freshness
  • Warmth
  • Vitality
  • Joy
  • Comfort / Well-Being
  • Training (three training modes – muscle relaxation, muscle activation and balance – each with several exercises).

Intelligent Drive: Technology from the S-Class

The new CLS generation has many things in common with the new S-Class, the automotive flagship of the entire industry. The CLS is equipped with the latest generation of driving assistance systems, with route-based speed adaptation and driver support provided by the Driver Assistance Package.

The range of driver assistance and safety systems features a modular design and as standard includes Active Brake Assist, ATTENTION ASSIST and the occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®. Newly standard as well is PRE-SAFE® Sound (prepares human hearing for the anticipated accident noise when there is a risk of a collision).

The optional Driver Assistance Package consists of Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Steering Assist, Active Speed Limit Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Evasive Steering Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, PRE-SAFE® PLUS and PRE-SAFE® Impulse Side. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC and Active Steering Assist now provide even more comfortable support for the driver to keep a safe distance and steer. The speed is now adjusted automatically ahead of bends or junctions. Active Lane Change Assist has also been significantly improved.

Thanks to improved camera and radar systems, the new CLS also has an even better view of the surrounding traffic. For the first time it also makes use of map and navigation data to calculate driving behavior.

The “Assistance Graphics” menu of the instrument cluster shows the driver at a glance which assistance functions have been selected, and to what situations the systems are currently responding. Unmistakable icons provide the driver with information on-screen as well as in the head-up display. All functions are now controlled from the steering wheel.

In stop & go traffic on motorways and similar roads, stops of up to 3 seconds are now possible, during which time the CLS starts moving again automatically and follows the traffic.

The LED Intelligent Light System is now optionally available with advanced LED headlamps and Ultra Wide Beam high beams. The Ultra Wide Beams produce light at an increased width for maximum illumination of the road and surround area. For the driver, this means a clear improvement of the already great lighting performance of the LED Intelligent Light System. Adaptive Highbeam Assist is also part of the LED Intelligent Light System and allows drivers to drive with activated main beams without dazzling other road users. When there are oncoming vehicles or vehicles in front, the LEDs of the high beam modules are switched off. The other areas of the road continue to be illuminated with the mainbeam.

Suspension

The new CLS has a four-link front suspension and a five-link rear suspension. A dynamically set-up steel comfort suspension is standard equipment. The optionally available AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension has been improved, adjustable and adaptive damping system. The driver is able to choose vehicle characteristics from comfortable to sporty using the driving mode switch.

New engine: with EQ Boost and 48 volt onboard electrical system

The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz CLS is powered by a completely new in- line six-cylinder engine.

The new, systematically electrified in-line six-cylinder with EQ Boost (integrated starter/generator) and a 48 volt onboard electrical system powers the CLS450 and CLS450 4MATIC. Its performance data: 362 hp and 369 lb-ft plus a further 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque available via EQ Boost over short periods. The integrated electric motor known as EQ Boost assists the combustion engine, for example when accelerating, makes driving without the combustion engine possible (“sailing”) and supplies the battery with power by means of high-efficiency recuperation. By doing so it makes fuel savings possible that were previously the exclusive domain of high-voltage hybrid technology. All in all, the new in-line six-cylinder engine delivers the performance of an eight-cylinder engine with significantly lower consumption. The CLS450 is equipped with a particulate filter as standard.

courtesy: www.media.mbusa.com

The Mercedes-AMG G 65 Final Edition: Powerful and refined

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The Mercedes-AMG G 65 Final Edition: Powerful and refined

The Mercedes-AMG G 65 Final Edition: Powerful and refined

To mark the discontinuation of the Mercedes-AMG G 65 (fuel consumption, combined: 17 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 397 g/km) AMG is offering an exclusive Final Edition, limited to just 65 examples worldwide. The particularly expressive Final Edition reflects the successful story of the world’s most powerful series production off-roader. More than a third of all G‑Class vehicles sold worldwide originate from AMG. The G 65 Final Edition is available with immediate effect starting at 310,233 euros*.

The AMG 6.0-litre V12 engine generating 463 kW (630 hp) is totally self-assured. With a maximum torque of 1000 Nm at 2300-4300 rpm, the top-of-the-line V12 engine boasts a unique combination of drive dynamics and smooth running characteristics. The G 65 Final Edition accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.3 seconds and reaches a top speed of 230 km/h (electronically limited).

The V12 biturbo engine with its superior response and powerful sound is unquestionably a highlight in the long, successful story of petrol engines and features a host of top-class technical details. Alongside twin turbochargers it boasts a multi-spark ignition with twelve twin-spark ignition units plus a particularly effective engine management system. The results are optimum combustion, accomplished comfort, maximum efficiency as well as outstanding levels of refinement and power delivery. The high-quality carbon-fibre/aluminium engine cover rounds off the package visually. The AMG SPEEDSHIFT PLUS 7G‑TRONIC automatic transmission takes care of the transfer of power to all four wheels.

The Mercedes-AMG G 65 Final Edition: Powerful and refined

High ground clearance and long suspension travel form the basis for the excellent off-road characteristics of the Mercedes-AMG G 65. The figures speak for themselves:

  • Slope climbing ability of up to 80% on suitable surfaces
  • Maximum fording depth of 60 cm when driving through water and mud
  • Driving stability at angles of 28°
  • Angle of approach/departure: 27°
  • Breakover angle: 22°

Expressive exterior, high-quality interior
The sporty appearance of the dynamic exterior design of the G 65 Final Edition is underscored by large 21‑inch 5‑t win-spoke light-alloy wheels in bronze, silver brake callipers and AMG Sport trim strips on the sides. Additional highlights come courtesy of features retained in matt bronze such as the underride guard, the trim elements in the bumpers, the wheels and exterior mirrors plus the spare wheel cover in obsidian black with appropriately designed insert. These are complemented by the radiator grille with black mesh screen and surround painted in matt bronze. Running boards and tailpipes are retained in matt black. Inserts in the exterior protective strips in high-gloss black complete the look.

This special model also has a high-quality interior design: the scope of equipment includes the designo Exclusive package in designo black nappa leather with seat side bolsters in a carbon-fibre look and topstitching in light brown. Carbon-fibre trim elements with decorative stitching in bronze, the milled Edition lettering in the grab handle plus floor mats with leather edging in light brown and topstitching in black round off the look. The driver sits behind an AMG Performance steering wheel in black nappa leather featuring a flattened bottom section and excellent grip. Driving is particularly comfortable thanks to the Seat Comfort package including multicontour seats and climatised seats for driver and front passenger.

An off-road legend since 1979
The G-Class has been the top model among luxury off-road vehicles since 1979. It is not only by far the passenger car model series with the longest production run in the history of Mercedes-Benz, but also the forefather of all SUVs to bear the three-pointed star – this is why all Mercedes off-road models feature the upper-case G in their name. Like the entire model series, the G 65 Final Edition will be produced in Graz, primarily in the hand-finishing section of the production facility.

AMG brought a G model onto the market as early as 1979. This was followed in 1999 by the G 55 AMG. Its V8 engine produced 260 kW/354 hp. Although the eight-cylinder engine with a displacement enlarged to 5.5 litres adopted the three-valve technology and dual ignition of the series production unit, it also offered high torque of 525 Nm from 3000 rpm alongside significantly increased output. The G 55 AMG was available with closed roof in short- and long-wheelbase variants and as a cabriolet with a short wheelbase.

In 2012 the family tree was extended. As part of a very comprehensive facelift, the G‑Class was given a completely new exterior. Affalterbach also made some powerful refinements and launched the G 65 AMG into the mix. It incorporated everything the performance-hungry fans of the off-road icon had been dreaming of – such as a 6.0‑litre 12‑cylinder engine with carbon-fibre/aluminium cover. Generating 1000 Nm, the G 65 AMG became the most powerful series production off-road vehicle in the world. The G became an ultra-modern legend, which has since delighted a growing community of fans.

courtesy: media.daimler.com

S-Class campaign “Feel Intelligent Drive”: ENERGIZING comfort control: How the new S-Class tames the lion

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S-Class campaign "Feel Intelligent Drive": ENERGIZING comfort control: How the new S-Class tames the lion

S-Class campaign "Feel Intelligent Drive": ENERGIZING comfort control: How the new S-Class tames the lion

The S-Class, the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz brand, has throughout its long, prestigious history always been a technological pioneer in the automotive sector. Once again, the new generation of the luxury saloon combines ground-breaking technologies with unparalleled ride comfort. The focus of the global campaign “Feel Intelligent Drive” is on the unique interaction between various comfort systems. In the driving mode, air-conditioning, fragrance, light, music and seat massage can be adapted to the current mood at the push of a button, thus increasing well-being. The video function can be activated in stand-by mode and contributes additionally to the relaxation. “ENERGIZING comfort control” is the name of the latest achievement of the S-Class. How convincing this feature is in action is shown by the film “Leon”, which will be available to view on social media from October 15. In humorous scenes, it shows how even a bad-tempered “business lion” is tamed into a gently purring kitten by the new comfort control. The ENERGIZING comfort control is available since September 2017 at the price of 238 Euro*.

S-Class campaign "Feel Intelligent Drive": ENERGIZING comfort control: How the new S-Class tames the lion

“The campaign tracks the reorientation of Mercedes-Benz as a brand of “human-centered innovation” that consistently focuses on people and their needs,” says Natanael Sijanta, Head of Marketing Communications at Mercedes-Benz Cars. “No other vehicle in the luxury class is currently as intelligent as the new S-Class. With “Feel Intelligent Drive”, we show in an entertaining and humorous way how the latest, intelligent technologies perfectly match the needs of driver and front passenger.”

In the film about the new S-Class, a lion stands as a metaphor for an alpha animal from the world of business. We see the boss of a young company, who is having anything but a successful day. He suffers a series of minor mishaps that put him in an increasingly bad temper. Stressed out and in anything but a good mood, he climbs into the new S-Class at the end of a long working day. There, he experiences the effect of the ENERGIZING comfort control features. The press of a button is all it takes, the lion’s bad mood vanishes and he relaxes. He sets out on a journey through the night, at the end of which he arrives home in the best of moods. The stress of the day has vanished – thanks to the personalised wellness experience on board the S-Class.

 

courtesy: media.daimler.com

Mercedes-Benz Vans focuses on intelligent production for the new Sprinter

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Mercedes-Benz Vans focuses on intelligent production for the new Sprinter

Mercedes-Benz Vans has been holding a leading position in the area of intelligent production among the van manufacturers already for years. Now the business division is lighting the next stage: For the upcoming start of production of the new model of the iconic Sprinter van, Mercedes-Benz Vans brings new connected series-production technologies online. The reasons behind this are increasing requirements on flexibility and efficiency. For one, the variety of variants will increase further – for example, as the result of manufacturing electrified vans. In addition, the global production network of Mercedes-Benz Vans has been utilised near capacity for years, and sales are rising continuously. The employees benefit from the increasing digitisation in production by being relieved of routine tasks. This is to give them more and more time for higher-end tasks.

Between 2017 and 2025, Mercedes-Benz Vans will invest more than 200 million euros in the expansion of intelligent production. Frank Klein, Head of Operations Mercedes-Benz Vans, today presented key new technologies in running production operations in a press workshop at the Sprinter plant in Ludwigsfelde near Berlin.

New milestone on the road to full connectivity

“We will take the next logical step in the advancement of intelligent production at Mercedes-Benz Vans with the upcoming new Sprinter“, says Frank Klein. “We already accomplished a great deal in recent years. With the paperless factory, self-driving transport systems and a host of other projects, we have set the course for the future. As part of our ‘IntelligentProduction@VANS‘ strategy, we are now setting another milestone on the road to the fully connected ‘factory of the future‘ for more efficiency and flexibility. We want to realise potentials throughout the entire production process with new technologies such as RFID. Our production operations around the world are to be fully digitised by 2025“.

RFID technology for even better production processes

For employees in logistics and production, it has been a long-pursued goal: knowing exactly where a particular component is at any given time. The benefits are obvious: This information allows them to respond flexibly to changes in the sequence, such as caused by delays in certain areas, and change plans on short notice. In addition, they always know the current warehouse stock. The quality assurance employees are consequently also always informed whether the right component was installed in the right vehicle. All that is already reality in the Mercedes-Benz Ludwigsfelde plant. In a pilot phase, the so-called RFID technology (radio-frequency identification) is used to track and identify the door mirrors and seats automatically and contactlessly via radio waves. This happens from the moment they are received to the time the Sprinter rolls off the lines. The project is being implemented in close cooperation with the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation (IFF). The goal in Ludwigsfelde is to digitally connect up to 40 parts with the production system via RFID in the next few years. With the ramp-up of the new Sprinter, the technology will become an integral part of series production in Ludwigsfelde. Other locations of Mercedes-Benz Vans are also to be equipped with this technology.

Relieving the employees of routine tasks

“New digital technologies such as RFID offer the major advantage of relieving our highly qualified production employees of routine tasks such as documenting work steps“, says Klein. “Our employees have extensive experience and know-how in the production of globally successful vans. They should also be able to use both to full effect in their day-to-day work.”

In the past, the employees in Ludwigsfelde had to manually and repeatedly scan barcodes on the mirrors and seats at various stations – in addition to their actual production job. The RFID solution eliminates a total of seven documentation-related work steps per vehicle for these two components alone. RFID consequently relieves the employees of this routine task and thanks to automatic checks gives them peace of mind knowing they installed the right parts.

RFID from supplier to the van customer

The implementation already starts far outside the gates of the Mercedes-Benz plant: at the suppliers. They attach the electronic labels required for RFID – so-called RFID tags – to the components. As a result, the suppliers are the first to benefit from the advantages of the technology in their own logistics and production operations and are able to identify and track parts via radio waves. The labels are computer chips roughly the size of a postage stamp, which can store and send information. To track the components with these transponders, readers are located at key points of the logistics and production operations. The wireless contact is established by radio waves generated by the readers. The waves power the chips and thereby prompt them to send their information. RFID also offers advantages in after-sales, when the vehicle later is in customer hands. It allows service employees to use information stored in databases to retrace which parts are installed with the greatest of ease.

Additional self-driving transport systems for the new Sprinter

The Mercedes-Benz Ludwigsfelde plant already has extensive experience with RFID. Since 2012, automated guided vehicles (AGV) have been deployed effectively in the assembly operations in Ludwigsfelde – currently around 20 vehicles. They are controlled for one by being connected to the IT system, but for another also by RFID. To this end, the transponders are in the floor of the factory buildings and contain driving commands. Ten more AGVs will be used and additional routes will be developed with the start of production of the new Sprinter. For about a year now, the second generation of the AGVs has already been operating in the plant. These vehicles communicate with each other via Bluetooth to coordinate their actions autonomously. This ensures a smooth traffic flow even when several AGVs cross paths. Up to now, simultaneous coordination was only possible between a few vehicles. By the end of the year, the first vehicles are to be able to operate freely and thus flexibly in the buildings thanks to optical sensors. Currently, the AGVs still follow predetermined paths. The AGVs of the first generation also are able to recognise obstacles such as forklifts or pedestrians via laser scanning. In this case, they stop automatically.

New IT architecture for global data networking

New digital systems such as AGVs or the parts connectivity via RFID require a highly effective IT infrastructure. A lot of data must be acquired, processed and provided to other areas in real time. For example, the RFID data are sent to Equipment Monitoring, Production Control, Quality Inspection, and Parts Scheduling. Experts from Mercedes-Benz Vans have now developed a completely revised IT architecture together with partners. The central element is a “data highway”, which all systems can access at the same time. In addition, the different IT platforms of the plants worldwide will be harmonised to ensure a global exchange can take place. Furthermore, the architecture makes it possible to quickly add new digital applications – just as the ‘app’ principle of smartphones. This means that once the RFID pilot project is completed successfully, other plants will be able to use the finished software immediately. Mercedes-Benz Vans will gradually roll out the new IT architecture globally starting next year.

Worldwide project teams at work on intelligent production

Currently, some 100 technology and IT experts of Mercedes-Benz Vans at headquarters in Stuttgart and plants in Germany, Spain, Argentina and the USA are working in more than 20 projects on intelligent production. The global teams cooperate closely in flat hierarchies across national and specialist unit boundaries. Employees from Logistics, Quality Assurance, Engineering and IT are already part of the project teams at the start of the planning phases. The relevant experts also involve production employees early to ensure the practicality of projects from the start. Intelligent production is a component of employee qualification and the apprenticeship programme as well.

Stepped up cooperation with partners

“We are also opening up more and more to the outside world to be even closer to the heartbeat of new technologies“, says Klein. “To this end, we are stepping up the cooperation with partners such as suppliers, research institutions, but also tech start-ups and universities. We also want to provide school and university students more insights into our activities to get them interested early in the subject of production and in Mercedes-Benz Vans.”

courtesy: media.daimler.com