Autoblog

LA 2009: Hands-on with Hughes and Mercedes-Benz's new telematics apps

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Etc., Technology, Mercedes-Benz

Hughes Telematics recently announced its partnership with Mercedes-Benz on the automaker's new line of "mbrace" mobile telematics solutions. The system, which connects mbrace-equipped vehicles with an app installed on the user's Apple iPhone or RIM Blackberry, allows people to lock and unlock their doors, contact roadside assistance, get in touch with a local dealer or find their vehicle in a crowded parking lot. It's a relatively trick technology that we spent some time with at the LA Auto Show, and there's plenty of potential on the horizon.

Continue reading LA 2009: Hands-on with Hughes and Mercedes-Benz's new telematics apps

LA 2009: Hands-on with Hughes and Mercedes-Benz's new telematics apps originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other

Noah Joseph — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:20:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren range - Click above for high-res image gallery

When the end of one's life approaches, individuals are prone to reflect and wonder how they'll be remembered. A car, on the other hand, can't think for itself, so we'll have to take up the task in its stead.

A joint effort between Mercedes-Benz and its erstwhile Formula One racing partner McLaren, the SLR spawned five variants: the original coupe and roadster, the 722 coupe and roadster and the Stirling Moss edition... not to mention a racing version or two. Over the course of its five-year production run, more than 2,000 examples were built, making the SLR one of the most prolific supercars in automotive history. As the final examples of the Stirling Moss roll out of the McLaren factory in Woking, its parents are going their separate ways: Mercedes has sold its stake back to McLaren, acquired its own F1 team, and each has produced its own successor: the SLS AMG and the MP4-12C.

So with its production run drawing to a close, we can't help but wonder how will history remember the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. As the purest embodiment of the Gran Turismo? A fitting tribute to the original 300 SLR that dominated racing in the Fifties? The flawed result of a conflict of interests? Or perhaps as the roadgoing product of one of the most intriguing partnerships in automotive history? Read through the history lesson in the press release after the jump and peruse the gallery of high-resolution images below and you'll get Daimler's perspective. We invite you to share yours in the comments section below.

Gallery: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren retrospective

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other

Mercedes and McLaren bid farewell to SLR, each other originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Confirmed: Mercedes to shift some production of next-gen C-Class to Alabama

Noah Joseph — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST

Filed under: Sedan, Europe, Plants/Manufacturing, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Fluctuations and disparities in currency exchange rates have grown to become a significant factor in determining where foreign automakers in particular assemble their vehicles. Mercedes-Benz is among those carmakers most cognizant of these effects, and it has been assembling select models in the United States to meet local demands. Now the German automaker has announced that, for the next generation of its popular C-Class sedan due in 2014, partial production will shift to its assembly plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where the M-Class, R-Class and GL-Class crossovers are already built.

The shift in production - which is set to comprise no more than one-fifth of global C-Class production - will not only help offset currency rates, but also afford greater flexibility in meeting local customer demand. The move is expected to further upset Germany's automotive workforce, which has grown restless in the wake of General Motors' collapsed sale of Opel.

In addition to the partial shift to Alabama, German production of the remaining four-fifths of C-Class production is set to switch places with the SL-Class roadster, the former moving from Sindelfingen to Bremen and the latter vice-versa. Full details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Confirmed: Mercedes to shift some production of next-gen C-Class to Alabama

Confirmed: Mercedes to shift some production of next-gen C-Class to Alabama originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 03 Dec 2009 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Essen 2009: 1,050-hp 1956 Mercedes Gullwing drag car

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:28:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Mercedes-Benz, Misc. Auto Shows, Specialty

Gullwing dragster - Click above for high-res image gallery

This ungainly little creature had an area all to itself at this year's Essen Motor Show. Built over four years by Swiss drag racer Stefan Winter - who is a roofer by trade - the most important thing to say is this: Winter did not mangle a genuine 1956 Mercedes 300 SL to create this beast, and we can thank all the gods that be for that. He copied the body in fiberglass and placed it over a tube chassis, hiding a small block Chevy in front that's been bored out to 422 cubic inches.

With modified pistons, crankshaft, cylinder heads, and a bit more black-art-ness, the gullwinged monster puts 1,050 horsepower to the ground through a 3-speed transmission and rear tires 15 inches across. The 1/4-mile rolls off in 8.1 seconds at 166 mph. If nothing else, at that speed he shouldn't have any problem with keeping the car's interior cool, a problem the originals were known for...

Gallery: Essen 2009: Mercedes Gullwing Dragster

[Source: Das Auto Blog (translated) via Autoblog.nl]

Essen 2009: 1,050-hp 1956 Mercedes Gullwing drag car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gah!x2: Kicherer Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG rendered

Jonathon Ramsey — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:09:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Design/Style, Luxury

Kircherer SLS 63 CP -- Click above for high-res image gallery

To put it kindly, we'll call the attempts to tune the appearance of the Mercedes SLS AMG gilding the lily. Although the folks at Kircherer were obviously not doing the same amount or potency of drugs procured by the gents at MEC Design, they have still managed to disturb the lines of a car that most feel needed no help in the looks department.

This is said to be Kircherer's version of a Pan-Am car, and it gets carbon fiber blackening bits all around, a rooftop air intake, Kircherer's trademark wheels, and a leering grille lifted from an Aston Martin. You can also get that grille in gold, if you wish. But there's only one part of the world where we see that happening...

Gallery: Kircherer SLS 63 CP

[Source: World Car Fans]

Gah!x2: Kicherer Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG rendered originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 29 Nov 2009 15:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Essen 2009: Brabus tweaks the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

Drew Phillips — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 12:44:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Sedan, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Misc. Auto Shows

2010 Brabus B63 S - Click above for a high-res image gallery

Don't have enough money for Brabus to swap out the V8 in your E63 AMG for a V12? Not to worry. Today at the Essen Motor Show, the German tuner officially launched its B63 S performance package for 6.2-liter V8 in the four-door Benz. The upgrade consists of dual "sport" air filters, high-flow catalytic converters, and revised program for the engine and results in a 30 horsepower increase.

Brabus is also offering other modifications for the E63 AMG as well, including a carbon fiber aero kit, wheels in 18 to 20-inch sizes, and various interior trim pieces like stainless-steel scuff plates, a new 225 mph speedometer, and wood or carbon fiber inlays. For the most part ,we'd skip the visual bits and stick with the engine upgrades. Hit the jump for full details in press release, or check out the high-res gallery below courtesy of Brabus.

Gallery: 2010 Brabus B63 S

[Source: Brabus]

Continue reading Essen 2009: Brabus tweaks the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

Essen 2009: Brabus tweaks the 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 28 Nov 2009 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Gah! MEC Design fantasizes over tuned Mercedes SLS AMG

Noah Joseph — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:31:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Europe, Mercedes-Benz

MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

Say what you will about the retro design of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Some call it a contemporary take on a classic shape, others may deride the lack of originality. But at least it's consistent. Which is a heck of a lot more than we can say for what MEC Design has done to it.

The Berlin-based tuner has been dreaming up how it could butcher the gullwing's lines, and from the looks of things, they've done a bang-up job. First thing you notice is the nose - you could hardly miss it - that apparently attempts to bring the preceding SLR McLaren's F1-inspired treatment back. But MEC hasn't stopped there. The full aero kit includes side skirts with integrated exterior lighting. The rear end fits in a spoiler, chrome tailpipes and a new diffuser. There are comically oversized and blinged-out rims. And they've theoretically fitted a carbon and Alcantara steering wheel.

And that's where the sigh of relief comes in. Thankfully, MEC Design hasn't actually gotten its hands on an actual SLS to perform these mods. And for the sake of everything we hold dear, we hope they never do.

Gallery: MEC Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

[Source: MEC Design]

Continue reading Gah! MEC Design fantasizes over tuned Mercedes SLS AMG

Gah! MEC Design fantasizes over tuned Mercedes SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes-AMG presses on with alternative energy powertrains

Noah Joseph — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Electric, Diesel

AMG Driving Academy at Lime Rock - Click above for high-res image gallery

It could be argued that Mercedes-Benz' AMG division -- more than any other brand -- is culpable for perpetuating the horsepower wars. Not that we're complaining, mind you, but sooner or later, consumer demands for environmental responsibility will catch up even with these stratospheric performance automobiles. The power-crazed tuners at the Benz performance division can see the writing on the wall, and are reportedly preparing to do something about it. More than one thing, actually.

First up is the electric version of the SLS, AMG's first in-house developed product. Confirmation came this past summer that an electric SLS - with the equivalent of 526 horsepower and 649 lb-ft of torque on tap - would see production, although no launch date has been revealed at this point. There's no telling if the electric powertrain in the green gullwing will foreshadow the trickle-down effect into other vehicles, but we'd hardly be surprised.

What could end up powering more commonplace future AMG products, however, are diesel engines. The possibility was first mooted nearly two years ago, and confirmed as a possible course of action a bit over a year ago by AMG boss Volker Mornhinweg. According to the latest reports, AMG is still toying with the idea, but given the torque-heavy capacity of modern diesels - German ones, especially - we could be looking at oil-burning performance Mercedes before we know it.

[Source: What Car?]

Mercedes-AMG presses on with alternative energy powertrains originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Mercedes GP confirms Nico Rosberg for 2010

Noah Joseph — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Mercedes-Benz

Following earlier speculation, the newly-acquired Mercedes Grand Prix team has confirmed its first driver for the upcoming Formula One season. As expected, Nico Rosberg will be switching places with Rubens Barrichello, the departing Brawn GP driver who moves to Williams for next year.

24-year-old Rosberg is the son of former World Champion Keke Rosberg, but he has earned a reputation all his own. After winning the inaugural GP2 Series title in 2005, Nico became the youngest driver to test an F1 car and was subsequently hired by Williams F1, for whom he's raced for the past four seasons. This year, he placed a respectable seventh in the drivers' championship, but there's no telling what he can accomplish with his new World Champion team.

Although he holds Finnish citizenship, Nico was born in Germany, raised in Monaco and races under a German license. The new Mercedes team is tipped to be pursuing an all-German driver lineup, with eyes locked on departing arch-rival BMW's Nick Heidfeld to join Rosberg behind the wheel, while rumors of Michael Schumacher's return or Kimi Raikkonen's change of heart persist.

Details are the press release after the jump, where the team repeatedly refers to the return of the Silver Arrows, leading us to wonder exactly what banner the new team will fly when it hits the grid next year.

[Source: Mercedes GP | Image: Clive Mason/Getty]

Continue reading Officially Official: Mercedes GP confirms Nico Rosberg for 2010

Officially Official: Mercedes GP confirms Nico Rosberg for 2010 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 23 Nov 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini not attending LA Auto Show

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:32:00 EST

Filed under: LA Auto Show, Performance, Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, BMW, Lamborghini, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Spyker, Fisker, Luxury

The closest we'll get to the Ferrari 458 - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's an unsurprising stat for you: 60 percent of all vehicles sold in the U.S. that cost over $100,000 find homes in New York, Florida and California. The majority of which are parked in garages in Manhattan, Miami and Los Angeles, respectively. So the revelation that Bentley, Ferrari and Lamborghini won't be attending next month's LA Auto Show is -- at the very least -- surprising.

According to a spokesperson speaking with The Detroit Bureau, Bentley has decided to skip the So. Cal. show, adding that the automaker is looking for "a better use of our resources." Ferrari and its sister marque Maserati are out as well, with an unnamed source telling the industry pub, "It's just the economy. We're cutting back on a lot of things."

Given the global economic climate and its affect on high-end automotive sales, the choice to scale back isn't such a shock, but for automakers that rely on the Southern California market, it's a disturbing sign of the times. As for the rest of the LA exhibitors, the luxury market's Big Three (Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz) will be in attendance, although it looks like the lower hall will only house Aston Martin, Spyker, Fisker and -- we'd assume -- Rolls-Royce.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Ferrari 458 Italia

[Source: The Detroit Bureau]

REPORT: Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini not attending LA Auto Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes

Frank Filipponio — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari, Rumormill

Say it ain't so, Schu! The Daily Telegraph is reporting that seven-time World Champion Michael Schumacher is close to signing on with the newly formed Mercedes Formula 1 team. Mercedes is the new name of the former Brawn GP team, the current Constructors Champion. After a stellar rookie season that saw this former Honda team clinch not just the Constructors Championship, but also the Drivers Championship for Jenson Button, they had a bit of a dropoff as Button bolted for rival McLaren.

That left a seat to fill at Mercedes and if BBC Sport's Eddie Jordan is to be believed, none other than Michael Schumacher is about to sign a one-year contract to return to racing in that very car. The deal, which would net Schumacher the same salary that Button turned down at Brawn GP in favour of McLaren, would finally see the German teaming up with Mercedes, who were in the past unsuccessful in their bids to lure him away from Ferrari.

Ferrari almost lured the retired champ back this season when Felipe Massa went down following the infamous spring incident in Hungary. The Champ's sore neck put a stop to that comeback, but apparently it got Schumi's juices flowing again. Signing with Mercedes would create something of a German dream team with Nico Rosberg in the other car. If the deal goes through, MS will be reunited with Brawn GP-namesake and current Mercedes team principal Ross Brawn, the man who guided Michael to all seven of his World titles.

Still just a rumor for the moment, the deal is said to give Schumacher the same salary Button turned down when he defected to McLaren. The Schumacher deal is just the latest volley in the silly season melee that has seen Kimi Raikkonen vacate his seat in order to make room for Fernando Alonso at Ferrari, which lost adviser Michael Schumacher as well. Whatever the future holds, it is only going to get more interesting. We'll keep you posted as things develop. Thanks to everyone for the tips!

[Source: The Daily Telegraph via Planet F1, BBC Sport | Image Source: Getty]

BREAKING: Schumacher likely to return to F1 racing with Mercedes originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Nov 2009 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes Grand Prix searches for drivers while dispelling board's concerns

Noah Joseph — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Mercedes-Benz

The new Mercedes GP car rendered - Click above to view in high-resolution

With two manufacturers leaving the series, four new teams joining the grid and a giant game of musical chairs amongst the drivers ensuing, the off-season between the 2009 and 2010 Formula One World Championships is packing in as much action as the racing itself. But few developments have garnered as much attention as the coup orchestrated by Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, withdrawing from McLaren after fifteen years as its active partner in favor of a more conventional engine supplier role, while buying over 75% of the Brawn GP outfit to enter the sport as a full manufacturer team under the Mercedes Grand Prix banner.

The acquisition has drawn public criticism from Erich Klemm, employee representative on the Daimler board and chairman of its Corporate Works Council, who decried the move as an unnecessary cost when money is tight and other automakers are withdrawing from the series. Chairman Dieter Zetsche responded that the acquisition of the Brawn team will give the company more exposure for less cash: The deal reportedly cost the German automaker some $336 million, but its operating costs are expected to drop to about $74 million annually by 2011, analyzed as far less than what Mercedes was contributing annually to the McLaren budget.

Zetsche might have more trouble, however, explaining to the board how their star driver slipped through their fingers and defected to the team they just ditched. McLaren just announced the recruitment of Jenson Button to team up with Lewis Hamilton for a twin-champ "super team," and Rubens Barrichello is off to Williams next season, leaving the new Mercedes GP team looking for new drivers. Considering they're the reigning champions suddenly flush with cash, they shouldn't have much trouble, though.

Zetsche and Mercedes motorsport boss Norbert Haug are reportedly keen to capitalize with an all-German line-up, fueling speculation that Michael Schumacher could rejoin Mercedes (whose junior driving program gave him his start) and Brawn (who orchestrated all seven of his world championships). Nico Rosberg is thought to already have signed on to switch places with Barrichello, while Nick Heidfeld has been linked with a switch from the departing BMW to its arch-rival Mercedes. Toyota's Timo Glock was also reportedly in the running, but the young German driver signed with newcomer Manor GP instead. Haug has indicated an announcement will come within the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned.

[Source: F1 Live]

Mercedes Grand Prix searches for drivers while dispelling board's concerns originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST

Filed under: Safety, Technology, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Mercedes-Benz has teamed up with Hughes Telematics to begin offering a new system that allows drivers to enable dozens of their vehicles features with their Apple iPhone or Blackberry.

Dubbed "mbrace," the telematics setup covers everything from locking and unlocking doors to contacting roadside assistance and pinpointing an mbrace-equipped Mercedes-Benz in a parking lot.

The system will be included on all new Mercedes products, and current customers with the automaker's outgoing Tele Aid system are eligible to retrofit their aging Mercs with mbrace. The technology could also be used to stream music from the web, upload video content and connect to users PCs, however, that's further down the road. The system is available now for $280 a year, and you can get all the details in the press release below the fold.

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry

Mercedes-Benz and Hughes release app-based "mbrace" telematics for iPhone, Blackberry originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 17:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges

Chris Shunk — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Safety, Technology, Videos, Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash test - click above to watch the video after the jump

It's a sad fact that incredibly expensive, highly desirable cars have to be smashed to bits in the name of safety, but we have to admit we quietly enjoy watching the carnage. The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG had to endure its time with the crash barrier, and the video proves that the $200,000 supercar can hold its own against the international wall of destruction. The offset impact crash showed that virtually all of the energy was absorbed by its long front end while the cockpit remained largely intact. But what if the SLS flipped on its lid, rendering the gullwing doors inoperable?

In order to comply with federal standards that mandate that a door must be operational in the event of a rollover crash, MB built explosive charges into the hinge pins so that the doors could be blown off in the event of a rollover. As evidenced by the video after the jump, the charges worked, although in the video shown here, the explosives were triggered by an outside switch. In the event of a real-wold crash, yanking on the door handles would trigger the explosives once the SLS AMG was upside-down for a pre-determined amount of time.

If you haven't seen the vid already, click past the break to view it in full. It's a bit long and boring at the beginning, but it gets interesting around the halfway point when the merciless destruction begins.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges

VIDEO: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG crash-test video shows off exploding door hinges originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 17 Nov 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced for Europe, now taking orders

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG now has an order form and a price. While it's not cheap, it's nowhere near the most expensive car in the range: for €177,310 ($265,531 U.S. - note: that is a straight conversion, not an indication of the car's U.S. cost), you can put one of the gullwinged wonders in your - probably climate-controlled - garage.

That fits well in between the prices for the SL63 AMG at €148,155 and the SL65 AMG at a blistering €224,672. You get four more cylinders, 40 more hp and a folding hartop on the SL65; yet the SLS gets you gullwing doors, retro styling and €47,000 left over in your pocket. And you're still cooler than the folks in a Mercedes-McLaren SLR, who spent €450,000 when it was new.

What the SLS AMG purchase price won't get you is expedited delivery: the car still won't arrive until Spring of 2010. If you're one of those who needs to keep up, some gent named Matthew K. has been designated "the SLS AMG reporter" and he'll be posting all manner of info and clips online. You can read about it in the press release after the jump, check the car out again in the gallery of high-res photos below, or call your Luxembourger account manager in three, two, one...

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced for Europe, now taking orders

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG priced for Europe, now taking orders originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Officially Official: Mercedes-Benz buys 75% stake in Brawn GP, rebrands

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Mercedes-Benz

Brawn Grand Prix officially announced this morning that Daimler AG and Aabar Investments PJSC has bought a 75-percent stake in the team that won the world championship in its first year of existence. The team run by ex-Ferrari technical director Ross Brawn was born just under a year ago out of the ashes of the former Honda F1 team after that automaker pulled out of the sport. With Brawn taking over the reigns, the team secured a supply of engines from Mercedes and went on to win numerous races in 2009 along with both the constructors and drivers world championship for driver Jenson Button.

Rumors of Mercedes expanding its involvement with the Brawn team have been ongoing throughout most of the season. The Stuttgart automaker has been gradually pulling away from the McLaren team following the scandals of recent years and end of the SLR road car program. The McLaren Group will buy back the 40-percent stake in itself that Daimler currently holds by the end of 2011. The deal leaves the door open for Mercedes to continue supplying engines to McLaren through 2015. However, there has been speculation about McLaren attempting to buy the former BMW F1 engine shop to build its own powerplants.

The Brawn team will now be known as Mercedes Grand Prix and Ross Brawn will continue as the team principal. Thanks to Peter and Oliver for the tips!

[Source: Mercedes-Benz, Brawn GP]

Continue reading Officially Official: Mercedes-Benz buys 75% stake in Brawn GP, rebrands

Officially Official: Mercedes-Benz buys 75% stake in Brawn GP, rebrands originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid 4Matic not for sale, lease only

Sam Abuelsamid — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:28:00 EST

Filed under: Hybrid, SUV, Mercedes-Benz

2010 Mercedes Benz ML450 hybrid - click above for high-res image gallery

This week brings the official launch of the first European-branded vehicle equipped with the two-mode hybrid system that was co-developed between General Motors, Daimler, BMW and Chrysler. The Mercedes-Benz ML450 edges out the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid in getting to showrooms but it actually shares much with the BMW. Mercedes is building the re-packaged two-mode transmission that is being installed in both vehicles. And while the vehicles bear German nameplates, both are actually built in the southeastern United States.

Unlike the BMW, Mercedes has tuned the ML for improved fuel efficiency compared to its conventionally-powered siblings. While the BMW uses a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 to achieve 17/19 mpg ratings. The ML450 instead uses an Atkinson cycle version of Mercedes 3.5-liter V6 to achieve up to 335 hp and 381 pound-feet of torque in combination with the electric motors. The result is a boost in mileage compared to the V8 ML550 to 21 mpg city and 24 mpg highway. That compares with the ML350 Bluetec diesel which is rated at 18/25 mpg.

Interestingly, Mercedes has actually opted not to sell the ML450, instead offering it only for lease for either 36 or 60 months at $659 or $549 per month, respectively. According to Mercedes USA spokesman Rob Moran, "We are offering this vehicle as lease only due to a limited supply of batteries available. We felt a lease only program offered the best option for customers."

Gallery: 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML450 hybrid

[Source: Mercedes-Benz]

Continue reading Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid 4Matic not for sale, lease only

Mercedes-Benz ML450 Hybrid 4Matic not for sale, lease only originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche dishes out advice for Chrysler

Jonny Lieberman — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:46:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Mercedes-Benz, Fiat

It's said that certain cultures don't handle the concept of irony well. You know, irony - where the intended answer is the opposite of the actual answer. Case in point: Back when cab forward cars were all the rage and the once mighty Plymouth brand was put out to pasture, Chrysler looked as if it had a fighting chance at remaining solidly within the Big 3. The Dodge Ram was a gauntlet thrown, the V10 Viper had sports car fans atwitter and the Dodge Intrepid really was a smart, good looking car.

Chrysler, meet Daimler, your new "equal." And by equal we mean Daimler gets the all the profits and you get cast off, last-generation Mercedes platforms on which to underpin your new cars. In the case of the 300C/Charger/Magnum, this particular strategy worked, for a couple of years at least. In the case of the Crossfire, not even a little bit. And then under Daimler's watch - and specifically under the eyes of Dieter Zetsche, a.k.a. Dr. Z - Chrysler was piledriven through the mat. Have you driven a Dodge Journey lately?

Here's the irony - Dr. Z is handing out unsolicited advice to Fiat's Sergio Marchionne vis-a-vis Chrysler - and we just can't help but laugh. Zetsche claims, "I continue to be emotional about this company and am crossing my fingers for the very best future." And while we're 51% sure he's being sincere, where was that emotion when he green lit the Jeep Compass? Or the Chrysler Sebring? Or the Dodge Caliber? All cars that led directly to the bankruptcy of Chrysler. We could go on, but you get the idea. Our advice to Sergio? Do the opposite of whatever Zetsche is telling you.

[Source: USA Today | Source photo by TORSTEN SILZ/AFP/Getty Images]

Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche dishes out advice for Chrysler originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 15 Nov 2009 08:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: Mercedes considering more affordable "baby" SLS AMG gullwing?

Chris Shunk — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Rumormill

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG - Click above for high-res image gallery

The folks over at Mercedes appear to be pretty excited about their newest supercar. For starters, the SLS AMG gullwing is the first ever home-grown AMG supercar, and it replaces the ho-hum McLaren SLR. And of course, the nearly $200,000 German hot rod comes equipped with retro-tastic gullwing doors and a 6.2-liter V8 capable of 563 horsepower and 0-60 mph times of 3.8 seconds - both of which we certainly like. But will the SLS AMG be the one-and-only purpose-built vehicle to come from Mercedes' performance group? We kinda doubt it, and so do the scribes over at PistonHeads.

While attending the SLS drive event in Monterey, California, the PistonHeads crew spoke off-the-cuff with company execs who said that an additional AMG model could be in the works. We already know that a convertible version of the SLS is in the works, and a Black Series and dedicated racing version have also been mooted. However, the rumored second AMG Pistonheads is speaking about could be a Porsche 911 hunter based off of the same platform of the SLS AMG, with a front engine layout and smaller overall proportions. Further speculation is that the smaller, presumably less expensive SLS sibling would also carry a V8 engine between 5.8 and 6.2 liters with direct injection and cylinder shutoff tech.

If a smaller, lighter AMG model sounds good to you and you can afford the presumably high price tag, we hope you have some patience. The same executive who spilled bean on the possible smaller AMG also stated that such a car isn't likely to see the light of day for another five years.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.

[Source: PistonHeads]

Rumormill: Mercedes considering more affordable "baby" SLS AMG gullwing? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Even if the Mercedes E-Class Wagon doesn't handle like a slot car, it can still handle slot cars

Jonny Lieberman — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Wagon, Etc., Europe, Videos, Mercedes-Benz, Toys/Games, Luxury

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon + slot car track - click above to watch the video

First of all, yes - this is pure Mercedes-Benz propaganda. We're fully aware of that fact. Second, despite it all, we're very jealous of what takes place in this video. In order to show off just how much junk you're able to fit inside the new E-Class Wagon -- or "Estate" in Mercedes parlance. How they settled on building a giant slot car track (or more precisely, sneaking it past the corporate money men) is beyond us, but we're glad they did.

So, how much junk? Quite a bit. Specifically, 1,275 pieces of track, including a section that snakes through the E-Class. All told, the track is over 400 meters long (about a quarter mile) and takes the 1/32 scale DTM cars four minutes and forty-seconds to complete. The track layout was designed beforehand on a computer because otherwise, well... they'd still be building it. Watch the full video after the jump.

Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Wagon

[Source: Mercedes-Benz via YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Even if the Mercedes E-Class Wagon doesn't handle like a slot car, it can still handle slot cars

VIDEO: Even if the Mercedes E-Class Wagon doesn't handle like a slot car, it can still handle slot cars originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 10 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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