Exclusive colour combination in the interior: GLS available as Grand Edition

Exclusive colour combination in the interior: GLS available as Grand Edition

Exclusive colour combination in the interior: GLS available as Grand Edition

A highly luxurious interior with an exclusive colour combination, a dashboard all in nappa leather and unique wood trim plus 50.8 cm (20-inch) 10-spoke light-alloy wheels are the hallmarks of the Grand Edition of the GLS immediately available for ordering (fuel consumption combined: 11.3–7.7 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 264-190 g/km). Customers have a choice of an Interior and an Exterior package, which also combine to perfection. The special models will reach the showrooms from March 2018.

The highlights in the interior include the fine colour combination porcelain/espresso brown, which is only available in this edition. The seats in designo nappa leather boast exclusive diamond quilting, seams in mid brown and special Budapest-design piping. The dashboard and upper section are in nappa leather. The open-pore trim Radiant lime with light stripes is an exclusive feature. The standard specification also includes an ambiance light and velour floor mats in espresso brown. The Interior package costs 5950 euros.

Exclusive colour combination in the interior: GLS available as Grand Edition

A strikingly sporty look on the exterior comes courtesy of 50.8 cm (20-inch) 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted black with a high-sheen finish. As standard the Grand Edition models boast appropriate badges on the sides of the wings. The price for the Exterior package is 2300 euros.

The Grand Edition models at a glance:

GLS 350 d 4MATIC GLS 400 4MATIC GLS 500 4MATIC
Number of cylinders/arrangement 6/V 6/V 8/V
Displacement (cc) 2987 2996 4663
Rated output (kW/hp) 190/258 245/333 335/455
Rated torque (Nm) 620 480 700
Fuel consumption, combined (l/100 km) 8.0-7.7 9.4-8.9 11.3-10.9
CO2 emissions combined (g/km) 203-190 218-206 264-255

courtesy: media.daimler.com

Extreme G-Class Model now available in 1:18: Extreme colours for the extreme G

Extreme G-Class Model now available in 1:18: Extreme colours for the extreme G

Extreme G-Class Model now available in 1:18: Extreme colours for the extreme G

Stuttgart. After the great success of the model car series of the Mercedes-AMG G 63 Colour Package (Code: 01), Mercedes-Benz now brings out a limited edition of the G 500 4×4² in eight distinctive special colours.

With portal axles and a full 44 centimetres of ground clearance, the G 500 4×4² has been the highlight in the model program of the off-road icon since 2015. Even scaled down to 1:18, the extreme G has an imposing appearance. The G 500 4×4² is now available as a limited edition model car in the eight special colours; diamond white, electric beam, tektite grey, mauritius blue, sunset beam, alien green, tomato red and galactic beam. In line with the internal model code W 463, there are be exactly 463 copies of every colour – each numbered, i.e., “1 of 463”, “2 of 463”, etc., on the bottom of the each car.

The exclusive, resin-made miniatures were created in collaboration with the model car specialist GT Spirit, who Mercedes-Benz gave the original design data to for the development of these unique models. The level of detail is extremely high: for example, the 4×4² logo on the rim was implemented as true to the original vehicle as the perforated metal under the front apron. The eight miniature extreme G models consist of up to 100 parts and are outfitted with a number of special equipment.

courtesy: media.daimler.com

GLC F-CELL goes into preproduction: world’s first electric vehicle with fuel-cell/battery powertrain

GLC F-CELL goes into preproduction: world's first electric vehicle with fuel-cell/battery powertrain

GLC F-CELL goes into preproduction: world's first electric vehicle with fuel-cell/battery powertrain

At this year’s IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Mercedes-Benz is presenting preproduction models of the new Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL as the next milestone on the road to emission-free driving. Under the technology designation EQ Power, the latest electric model (destined for subsequent series production) is set to combine innovative fuel-cell and battery technology in the form of a plug-in hybrid: in addition to hydrogen, the all- electric variant of the popular SUV will also run on electricity. Intelligent interplay between battery and fuel cell, along with short refueling times, will in future make the GLC F-CELL a vehicle of high everyday practicality and also suitable for long-distance motoring. With 4.4 kg of hydrogen on board, the preproduction model produces enough energy for a range of up to 437* km in the NEDC. F-CELL drivers will also benefit from a range of up to 49 km in the NEDC thanks to the large lithium-ion battery. An output of 147 kW guarantees both dynamic performance and locally zero emissions driving pleasure. In unveiling the preproduction vehicles of the Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL, Daimler is taking another important step as part of its systematic “CASE” strategy.

Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, emphasizes: “Our many years of experience with fuel-cell technology pay dividends in the new GLC F- CELL: its long electric range, short refueling times and everyday practicality of an SUV will make it the perfect vehicle. This is made possible by the compact construction of our fuel-cell system. Another genuine world first is the combination with a large additional lithium-ion battery, which can be conveniently charged using plug-in technology.”

Fuel-cell technology is a firm element of Daimler’s powertrain strategy. Under the EQ product brand, the company is pooling its know-how related to intelligent electric mobility while offering a comprehensive e-mobility ecosystem of products, services, technologies and innovations. EQ is therefore a key part of the company’s strategy for the mobility of the future, known at Daimler as “CASE.” The four letters stand for the strategic future pillars of networking (Connected), autonomous driving (Autonomous), flexible use (Shared & Services) and electric drive systems (Electric), which are being systematically further developed and intelligently combined by the company. Between now and 2022, Daimler intends to bring out ten battery-electric vehicles, globally, with the GLC F-CELL representing an important landmark.

Unique: two electric energy sources

The vehicles unveiled at the IAA represent a world first in which a fuel-cell-operated electric car uses a lithium-ion battery as an additional energy source that can be externally charged by means of plug-in technology. Through intelligent interplay, the two energy sources drive the electric motor while offering locally zero emissions driving pleasure. The long range, short refueling time, an output of 197 hp and the latest generation of assistance systems with powertrain-specific features demonstrate, based on the models on show, that the GLC F-CELL will be a family- friendly electric vehicle of high everyday practicality.

For this world first, the Mercedes-Benz engineers cooperated closely with partners from the Daimler competence network to develop a completely new fuel-cell system. Compared with the B-Class F-CELL, which has been on the market since 2010, the overall drive system offers around 40 percent more output. The fuel-cell system is around 30 percent more compact than before, can for the first time be housed entirely in the engine compartment and is installed on the usual mounting points like a conventional engine. Also, the use of platinum in the fuel cell has been reduced by 90 percent. This conserves resources while lowering the system costs – with no compromises in terms of performance.

The lithium-ion battery in the preproduction vehicles on show has a gross capacity of 13.8 kWh and additionally serves as an energy source for the electric motor. For the first time, it can also be charged externally using plug-in technology. An intelligent operating strategy in combination with the fuel-cell/battery system offers maximum efficiency and comfort. Just like the drive motor, the powerful storage battery is space-savingly installed in the rear of the SUV. By means of the 7.2 kW on-board chargers, it can be conveniently charged from a standard household power socket, a wallbox or a public charging station. The charging time is around 1.5 hours if the full capacity is used.

Two carbon-fiber-encased tanks built into the vehicle floor hold around 4.4 kg of hydrogen. Thanks to globally standardized 700 bar tank technology, the supply of hydrogen can be replenished within just three minutes, which is about the same amount of time it takes to refuel a car with an internal combustion engine.

The F-CELL vehicles on show at the IAA are powered by an asynchronous machine with an output of 197 hp and a torque of 258 lb-ft. As the electric drive requires no propeller shaft, this makes room for one of the two hydrogen tanks, while the second tank is installed under the rear seat bench.

GLC F-CELL goes into preproduction: world's first electric vehicle with fuel-cell/battery powertrain

Coordinated: operating strategy with unique variety of combinations

Like the GLC Plug-in Hybrid, the fuel-cell variant comes with various operating modes and drive programs. The drive programs of the GLC F-CELL will include ECO, COMFORT and SPORT. ECO is optimized for low consumption. COMFORT is geared not only for comfort, but also provides ideal climate control. SPORT optimizes the hybrid powertrain for sporty performance.

While the drive programs change the behavior of the car and therefore the driving experience, the operating modes influence the interplay between fuel cell and high- voltage battery. The combination of drive programs with operating modes is presented for the first time in this form in a fuel-cell vehicle.

Freedom of choice: four operating modes HYBRID – F-CELL – BATTERY – CHARGE

The innovative plug-in fuel-cell powertrain combines the advantages of both emission-free technologies and, thanks to its intelligent operating strategy, constantly ensures that the use of both energy sources is optimally adapted to the particular operating situation.

In HYBRID operating mode, the vehicle draws power from both energy sources. Power peaks are handled by the battery, while the fuel cell runs in the optimum efficiency range. The intelligent operating strategy means that the characteristics of both energy sources can be ideally exploited.

In F-CELL mode, the state of charge of the high-voltage battery is kept constant by the energy from the fuel cell. Driving almost exclusively on hydrogen is the ideal mode if the intention is to keep the electric range in reserve for certain driving situations.

In BATTERY mode, the GLC F-CELL runs all-electrically and is powered by the high- voltage battery. The fuel-cell system is not in operation. This is the ideal mode for short distances.

In CHARGE mode, charging the high-voltage battery has priority, for example in order to recharge the battery for the maximum overall range prior to refueling with hydrogen. This mode also creates power reserves for uphill or very dynamic driving.

In all operating modes, the system features an energy recovery function, which makes it possible to recover energy during braking or coasting and to store it in the battery.

Safety first: getting there safely

Daimler applies extremely high safety standards in all its vehicles. This is true of both vehicles with a conventional internal combustion engine and also those with an alternative drive. This means that the vehicles comply with all legal standards and regulations. However, the internal safety requirements for Mercedes-Benz vehicles go one step further. The battery and all hydrogen-containing components are governed by particularly stringent safety standards typical of Mercedes. Alongside safety in the event of a crash, all Mercedes-Benz vehicles undergo additional component tests at system level that go far beyond the usual tests. The powertrain components and hydrogen tanks of the F-CELL preproduction vehicles are space-savingly and safely housed in the engine compartment as well as under the floor.

Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the fuel-cell vehicles, too, are exemplary in terms of active and passive safety. With Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Lane Tracking Package with Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist, Parking Package with 360° camera or COMAND with traffic sign recognition, the GLC F-CELL will come with safety and comfort built in as standard.

Self-assured: with the DNA of a genuine Mercedes

The GLC F-CELL models on show at the IAA demonstrate the high expectations on a Mercedes-Benz and all Mercedes-Benz brand values in terms of comfort, sustainability, safety, quality and design. When it comes to loading capacity and occupant comfort, the electric SUV will offer excellent everyday practicality. The only differences will be a minimal step in the luggage compartment, familiar from the GLC Plug-in-Hybrid, and the slightly raised rear seat bench due to the positioning of the hydrogen tanks. Climate comfort in the GLC F-CELL will also be totally on a par with that in a conventional vehicle. Automatic air conditioning with pre-entry climate control as well as heated seats and mirrors are included as standard. At cooler temperatures, the vehicle will make energy-efficient use of the waste heat from the fuel cell in order to optimize the energy balance of the vehicle.

The series-production vehicle, like the preproduction models, will be equipped with coil springs on the front axle and with single-chamber air suspension with integral automatic level control on the rear axle. This means that, even when the vehicle is carrying a load, there is no change in spring travel on the rear axle, which guarantees balanced vibration characteristics with a virtually constant natural frequency of the body, including when the vehicle is loaded.

Unmistakable: Touches in the style of EQ Power

The F-CELL models on display at the IAA embody the current Mercedes-Benz design philosophy of Sensual Purity. The design premises include features that emphasize the special status in general and within the GLC family in particular. These design premises are the formal on-road attributes and the technical modifications to the exterior and interior as well as the control and display concept.

Blue touches on the radiator grille and light-alloy wheels, side skirts and rear bumper on the one hand, as well as classy style wraps with F-CELL inscription on the other, provide a clearly visible indication of the fuel-cell drive. Specifically styled bumpers, with an enlarged air inlet at the front, as well as aerodynamically optimized 20-inch wheels are the hallmarks of the vehicles on show at the IAA.

The interior impresses with its high-grade look & feel and flowing forms as a reinterpretation of contemporary luxury. The center console features elegant trim with flowing lines exuding unique exclusivity in a piano-lacquer look or versatile modern wood surfaces.

Precision-styled details and the choice of authentic materials by using open-pore wood as trim and a high proportion of wool and linen for the fabric covers, make for an agreeable ambience while contributing to the classy overall impression of the interior.

The cockpit will be further enhanced by the instrument cluster in the form of a full display with 12.3-inch diagonal. Information from the COMAND system is presented on the 10.25-inch central display. The menus and indicators on the displays are geared to the functionality of the combined fuel-cell/battery powertrain. The new-type design style clearly differentiates the fuel-cell vehicle from the conventional GLC.

New in the GLC F-CELL is the multifunction touchpad with handwriting recognition, which celebrates its world debut at the IAA in the unveiled preproduction vehicles. This newly developed feature allows telematics functions to be controlled by single- or multi-finger gestures (so-called Multitouch). The touchpad thus offers a full- function and innovative input option over and above LINGUATRONIC in combination with COMAND. The touchpad also makes it possible to enter letters, numbers and special characters by means of handwriting. Further control options are offered by Touch Control buttons on the left and right of the steering wheel as well as by voice control.

Timed to perfection: on the road to series production

Daimler is systematically working to prepare for series production of the Mercedes- Benz GLC F-CELL. With the current test fleet, the Mercedes-Benz engineers are taking the final key steps on the road to production start-up. Market-specific sales concepts, including a rental model, are being evaluated at present. Like the conventionally powered GLC, this family-friendly SUV of high everyday practicality will be produced in Bremen.

During development and production of the innovative fuel-cell drive, Daimler is able to call upon its global competence network. The centerpiece of the technology, the fuel-cell stack, was developed in Vancouver, Canada, together with partner Ford in the Automotive Fuel Cell Cooperation (AFCC) joint venture. Production takes place directly nearby at Mercedes-Benz Fuel Cell (MBFC). The entire fuel-cell unit and the hydrogen storage system were developed by the Daimler subsidiary NuCellSys in Kirchheim/Nabern in Baden-Württemberg. The Daimler parent plant in Untertürkheim is responsible for fuel-cell system assembly, also in Nabern. The hydrogen tank system, consisting of carbon-fiber-encased tanks, is produced at Daimler’s Mannheim plant, while the lithium-ion battery comes from the wholly owned Daimler subsidiary ACCUMOTIVE in Kamenz, Saxony.

Infrastructure is key

A nationwide infrastructure is essential for the success of electric mobility.
The spread of both charging stations and hydrogen filling stations is proceeding apace around the world. Whether at home, at work, on the road or when shopping: there are various ways to supply electric vehicles with power. Also when it comes to H2 infrastructure, progress is constantly being made. Together with its partners in the H2 Mobility joint venture, Daimler has already drawn up a concrete action plan. The network of H2 filling stations is scheduled to reach 100 by the end of next year. By 2023, there will be a network of up to 400 hydrogen filling stations. Similar infrastructure projects are being promoted in Europe, the USA and Japan.

Systematic approach: Daimler opts for electric mobility with fuel cell

It all began back in the 1980s, when Daimler researchers turned their attention to cold combustion. In 1994, Mercedes-Benz unveiled the first fuel-cell vehicle to the global public – the NECAR 1. Many further vehicles followed, including the A-Class F-CELL fleet. In 2011, special attention focused on the F-CELL World Drive, the first round-the-world journey in fuel-cell vehicles. In 2015, the F 015 Luxury in Motion concept car presented an F-CELL plug-in hybrid drive system, designed for 1,100 kilometers of zero emissions motoring. To date, fuel-cell vehicles from Mercedes- Benz, including the B-Class F-CELL and the Citaro FuelCELL Hybrid urban bus, have together covered over eighteen million kilometers, thereby demonstrating the maturity of the powertrain concept. The next technological advance is now imminent: the GLC F-CELL.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC F-CELL will celebrate its World Premiere at the 2017 Frankfurt International Auto Show in September, and will go on sale in the U.S. by the end of 2019.

courtesy: www.media.mbusa.com

Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017

Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017

Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017

At Caravan Salon Düsseldorf (26 August to 3 September 2017), Mercedes-Benz Vans presents the first edition models of the Marco Polo HORIZON, its compact recreational vehicle launched at the beginning of 2017. The Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION impresses with a host of extras as standard at an attractive price. The Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic” is a real eye-catcher with the classy looking red metallic paint finish already familiar from certain Mercedes-Benz passenger car models. New optional equipment features for further customisation also celebrate their premiere at the world’s largest trade fair for camper vans and caravans. Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz Vans displays a Grand Canyon S from HYMER and an Independent from CS-Reisemobile, both based on a Sprinter 4×4, and a Citan conversion solution from VanEssa. The brand bearing the three-pointed star thus demonstrates in hall 16 (stands D18-01, D18-02) that it offers the ideal platform vehicles for body and conversion solutions in the camper van market.

“At this year’s Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, the Marco Polo HORIZON takes centre stage for us. We’re giving our newcomer added appeal, with two edition models and new optional equipment features. We are also proud of the considerable interest shown by body and conversion specialists in our vehicles, from the big Sprinter to the small Citan. Once again we are able to show a range of new camper van solutions on our Mercedes stand”, says Klaus Maier, Head of Sales and Marketing Mercedes-Benz Vans.

The Marco Polo product family: identical genes, different characters

Independence and everyday practicality in a compact camper van and recreational vehicle: it is a promise the Marco Polo and the Marco Polo ACTIVITY have been living up to since 2015. In January 2017, the product family welcomed a new addition: the Marco Polo HORIZON.

The Marco Polo ACTIVITY, based on the Vito, is above all a functional and versatile companion. Featuring an exceptionally variable interior and comfortable sleeping options for up to five people, the Marco Polo ACTIVITY is aimed at young families as well as at sports enthusiasts and outdoor fans looking for a vehicle both for everyday use and for short holidays and outdoor activities.

The Marco Polo is based on the V-Class and offers space for four people. It is equipped with a kitchenette, wardrobe, swivelling front seats, a bench/berth and roof bed. The compact camper van is the ideal companion for individualists and savourers who like to use their vehicle for longer trips whilst looking to retain as much independence as possible and enjoy familiar living comfort. They also attach importance to style and appreciate everyday practicality.

The Marco Polo HORIZON, based on the V-Class, combines the high-quality design of the Marco Polo with the maximum functionality of the Marco Polo ACTIVITY, thanks to its flexible seating configurations with up to seven seats and sleeping options for up to five people. As such it is the ideal supplement to the portfolio with appeal to additional target groups.

At Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017, the first edition models of the Marco Polo HORIZON and new optional equipment features celebrate their premiere.

Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017

Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic” – for a particularly stylish appearance

From September 2017, Mercedes-Benz Vans will be offering their most style-conscious customers in Europe a special limited edition of the Marco Polo HORIZON, the so called Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic”. The edition model features the elegant paint colour already familiar from certain Mercedes-Benz passenger car models – including the C-Class and E-Class. However, with the Marco Polo HORIZON it comes as standard in combination with the Night Package. The Night Package further enhances the exterior with black design highlights (for more information on the Night Package, see page 4). Additional extras – including, for example, the AMG Line – are available for the Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic” on request.

The Limited Edition “Designo hyacinth red metallic” in conjunction with the Night Package will also be available for the Marco Polo and the V-Class from September 2017.

Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION – sporty, comfortable, functional and attractively priced

With the Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION, Mercedes-Benz Vans is launching another edition model of its compact recreational vehicle for the German market, with numerous extras to give it a sporty look, additional functionality and comfort as standard and all at an attractive price of 55,750 Euro (including 19 percent VAT). The Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION will be available from September 2017.

The sporty good looks of the Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION are what set it apart from the base model. The Exterior Sports Package, together with metallic paintwork, 17-inch alloy wheels and tinted rear windows, give the vehicle a dynamic appearance. Furthermore, the edition model comes with a separately opening rear window as standard. This makes loading and unloading easier in two respects: on the one hand, it allows a second loading level; on the other – particularly in tight parking spaces – there is no need to open the large liftgate. The Marco Polo HORIZON EDITION also offers increased comfort. The 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission ensures that the vehicle handles nicely. The Parking Package with reversing camera and Active Parking Assist makes parking and reversing in tight spaces much easier. TEMPMATIC air-conditioning ensures that a pleasant temperature is always maintained – including in the rear – and infotainment comes from the on-board Audio 20 CD multimedia system featuring intuitive touchpad control.

Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017

New optional equipment features – more scope for individuality

From September 2017, a series of new optional equipment features for the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo will offer customers even more opportunity to individualise their vehicles with regard to both style and functionality.

Night Package, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo: The Night Package transforms the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo models into highly distinguished travelling companions thanks to the inclusion of black design highlights such as: high-sheen black 18-inch alloy wheels, obsidian black metallic exterior mirror casings, a radiator trim with black louvres and chrome inserts and black tinted rear windows. A special highlight is the pop-up roof in black. The pop-up roof is also available on request in the same colour as the vehicle. In conjunction with the AVANTGARDE Exterior Sports Package or the AMG Line the front bumper trim is also painted in black.

Interior Design Package, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo: Lugano leather seats in black, or in silk beige as an option in the Marco Polo, give the vehicle interior a particularly luxurious feel. This impression is enhanced by a choice of trim finishes including piano lacquer or wood look. A leather steering wheel and brushed aluminium sports pedals round off the Interior Design Package.

Interior Premium Package, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON: Customers opting for the Interior Premium Package for the Marco Polo HORIZON can choose from three colours of high-quality nappa leather: black, in conjunction with a grey roof liner, or either marron or silk beige with a roof liner in porcelain. A leather-covered instrument panel with decorative stitching and ambient lighting in the cockpit and rear complement the high-end interior.

New seating configuration, available for the Marco Polo HORIZON: The Marco Polo HORIZON is available with a variety of different seating configurations. Hitherto these have ranged from the standard five-seater with three-seater bench/berth in the rear and two swivelling front seats to the option of a seven-seater with three-seater bench/berth in the second rear row and two additional single seats in the first rear row. These are now supplemented by the new option of four single comfort seats in the rear.

Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2017

Mercedes-Benz Vans bolsters the Marco Polo dealer network and taps into new markets

Beyond the extension of the product portfolio in regard to the Marco Polo HORIZON and Marco Polo, Mercedes-Benz Vans also reinforces its camper van expertise in the dealer network and expands its presence in the international camper van market in 2017.

In January 2016 Mercedes-Benz Vans introduced a specialist camper van service at selected dealerships. At the end of 2016 there were 57 sites with special Marco Polo expertise in Germany. This year will see the addition of seven more, with plans to roll out the scheme across other European countries. Along with specially trained sales staff – the so called Marco Polo Experts – the specialist dealerships have Marco Polo models in their showrooms for demonstration purposes and test drives.

The Marco Polo family also adds its own contribution to the “Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global” growth strategy this year. A right-hand-drive Marco Polo has been launched in Great Britain in May 2017. The Marco Polo ACTIVITY celebrated its market premiere in Australia in June 2017. This is the first time a Marco Polo model from the current model series is available overseas.

Entire Marco Polo family with TÜV test mark for “certified occupant protection”

In an accident scenario defined by TÜV Rhineland in 2015, the Marco Polo was the first camper van to have proven in a crash test, over and beyond the conventional testing regime, how well the occupants are protected from the vehicle’s load as well as the stability of the vehicle’s fitted furniture. In this test, the vehicle structure absorbed all the forces generated in a collision at a speed of 56 km/h without any particular deformation in the interior. The built-in units remained intact and the furniture doors closed. In 2017 the Marco Polo HORIZON and the Marco Polo ACTIVITY have likewise received the “certified occupant protection” test mark from TÜV Rhineland.

Further camper van body and conversion solutions based on Mercedes-Benz vans

From the big Sprinter and compact Vito and V-Class to the small Citan, the entire Mercedes-Benz Vans range is a big hit among leading camper van body and conversion specialists.

At this year’s Caravan Salon Düsseldorf, Mercedes-Benz Vans is showcasing a Grand Canyon S from the body manufacturer specialist HYMER and an Independent from CS-Reisemobile on its stand, both based on a Sprinter with all-wheel drive. With the Sprinter 4×4 as a platform vehicle these camper vans can cope easily on unsurfaced or snow-covered roads. Moreover, the brand bearing the three-pointed star shows how the Citan can be transformed into a fully fledged camper van in next to no time with a conversion solution featuring a sleeping module/kitchen module from VanEssa. The sleeping module as well as the kitchen module can be fastened to the existing lashing eyelets in the luggage compartment in a matter of minutes – and once the holiday is over, the camper van can just as quickly be converted back into a normal city car for everyday use.

courtesy: media.daimler.com

Five years of continuous growth: Mercedes-Benz Vans sets new sales records

Five years of continuous growth: Mercedes-Benz Vans sets new sales records

Five years of continuous growth: Mercedes-Benz Vans sets new sales records

Mercedes-Benz Vans has recorded a significant increase in sales in the first half of 2017. With deliveries of 190,200 vehicles in all, the Vans division of Daimler surpassed the previous record set last year by eight percent (previous year 176,200). This means the business unit has now been growing for five years in a row. All model series contributed to the latest sales record and set new highs: Sales of the large Sprinter van increased to about 96,200 units (previous year 95,100, +1%), the mid-size Vito van gained 14 percent to come to 52,500 units (previous year 46,000), the V-Class multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) recorded an increase in sales by 24 percent to about 29,000 units (previous year 23,300), and sales of the small Citan van improved by five percent to 12,500 units (previous year 11,900).

Mercedes-Benz Vans also projects a significant increase in sales for 2017 as a whole. As part of the “Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global“ business unit strategy, the division last year launched the V-Class and the Vito also in China, the world’s largest automotive market. This provides additional boosts in demand. In addition, as the world’s first premium manufacturer, Mercedes-Benz Vans will enter the segment of mid-size pickups with the X-Class at year’s end.

courtesy: media.daimler.com