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- Report: Daimler dumping stake in Tata Motors
Filed under: Mercedes-Benz, Tata
Daimler has been hit hard by the weakening global demand for luxury automobiles, as evidenced by the German automaker's larger than expected 2009 losses and the company's decision to cut its dividend for the first time in 14 years. Automotive News reports that Daimler is looking to raise money to rebuild its business in developed regions by selling its 25.6 million shares of Tata Motors stock. The move would reportedly net the German automaker an estimated $429 million, four to seven percent below market value. Shares of Tata Motors stock are up 19 percent since February 26, so Daimler stands to earn some serious coin from the share sell off.AN quotes Juergen Pieper at Metzler Equities as saying "we certainly now have as a priority turning around the mature markets and then China. This is certainly now a higher priority for Daimler than India." And while Daimler is selling, it appears that Tata isn't buying, stating that its collection of companies isn't interested in purchasing the shares. Daimler is looking to sell the stocks on the open market in block deals, which moves large amounts of stock at once.
Daimler's break from Tata will be likely be a clean one considering the two companies reportedly don't have any joint ventures or collaborative projects in the pipeline. Analysts reportedly don't foresee Daimler's sale of Tata shares affecting the Indian automaker's stock price.
[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req. | Image: Sascha Schuermann/AFP/Getty ImagesReport: Daimler dumping stake in Tata Motors originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Report: Mercedes to launch B-Class-based hatchback, CUV in U.S.
Filed under: Crossover, Hatchback, Mercedes-Benz, Electric
Mercedes-Benz B-Class - Click above for high-res image gallery
Here in the United States, the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio starts off with the C-Class sedan. Those familiar with the alphabet may realize that there are at least two available letters before 'C' that would theoretically allow the German automaker to offer something a bit less expensive before graduating up the ranks to the likes of the E-Class and S-Class, in all their assorted variations.
Wouldn't you know it, Mercedes has seen fit to fill those two pre-C-Class slots with A- and B-Class ranges across the Pond (okay, so Canada gets the B as well), and we've been hearing rumblings for quite some time that one of these models might make its way Stateside before too long. Those rumors gain new traction today with this report from Automotive News, which suggests that a compact car and a "small SUV" (read: crossover) may soon be in the offing in the U.S.
AN says that Mercedes-Benz plans to launch the next version of its B-Class in Europe in 2011, and that's the likely candidate for conversion to be sold here in the States. Included amongst the powertrain options will reportedly be some kind of fossil fuel alternative, perhaps either an electric version or one powered by a hydrogen fuel cell.
All of this news would seem to gibe with what Autoblog sources within MB have told us in recent days. While earlier reports indicated that the recently launched F 800 Style concept sedan was an indicator of the next CLS or E-Class, we now understand that the Geneva Motor Show star is actually more of a hat-tip regarding the next C-Class, a vehicle that is slated to grow slightly in order to better accommodate new models slotting in below it. Incidentally, we hear that the F-800's controversial snout is in fact a near match for the next-gen E, and that America could receive a sedan version of the rumored B-Class lineup as well.
So, when might we expect all this to go down? Depends. Says Joachim Schmidt, sales and marketing chief at MB, "The behavior of Americans depends on fuel prices. Nevertheless, we see a trend also toward fuel-efficient cars."
[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]Report: Mercedes to launch B-Class-based hatchback, CUV in U.S. originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 16:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Super Coupe: Brabus E V12 now in two-door form
Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz
2010 Brabus E V12 Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery
It's been several days since we left the Geneva Motor Show and we're still finding cars that we somehow missed out on the floor. We especially don't know how we managed to skip this bad boy in the Brabus booth, as it should have been nearly impossible to miss. It's called the E V12 Coupe, and it's got 800 horsepower. Enough said.
There's nothing new about Brabus stuffing a V12 into an E-Class. They've been doing it since 1996, and have been making twin-turbo models since 2003. The latest version is based off of the new E Coupe, and it's a much prettier car than the awkward looking E V12 Black Baron that we saw in Frankfurt. Fortunately it does share the same engine - a 6.3-liter twin-turbo V12 putting out 800 horsepower and 1047 lb-ft torque. Brabus quotes a 0-100 km/h time of just 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 230 mph, and judging from the performance of their previous cars we are inclined to believe them.
Besides the engine, the E V12 Coupe also comes with larger brakes, a Brabus-spec coilover suspension system, 19-inch wheels and more carbon fiber than you can shake a stick at. The front spoiler, grille, front and rear fenders, rear diffuser, intake system, interior trim and seats are all made from the lightweight material. What is all of this going to cost you? 478,000 Euros - approximately $650,000 using today's exchange rate, or more than 13 E-Class Coupes.
[Source: Brabus]Continue reading Super Coupe: Brabus E V12 now in two-door form
Super Coupe: Brabus E V12 now in two-door form originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Final three World Car of the Year finalists announced
Filed under: New York Auto Show, Hybrid, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Chevrolet, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Toyota, Volkswagen, Ferrari, Diesel
The votes from 59 international journalists have been counted and the finalists for World Car of the Year have been named. The Detroit News is reporting that the Toyota Prius, Volkswagen Polo and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class have made the final cut, and the three vehicles will go toe-to-toe on April 1st (no foolin') at the start of the New York Auto Show, which is where the World COTY award is announced.
On the performance vehicle front, the Audi R8 V10, Porsche 911 GT3 and Ferrari California are jockeying for the big prize. We feel sorry for the judges who have to choose from among these three junkers, but we're sure they'll somehow make it fun for themselves.
Design finalists are the Citroen C3 Picasso, Kia Soul and Chevrolet Camaro, and from the green category we have the previously mentioned Prius, the Honda Insight and Volkswagen's BlueMotion diesel offerings. Check back on these pages to see the winners of the individual categories when they are announced in New York on April Fool's Day.
[Source: The Detroit News]Final three World Car of the Year finalists announced originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 05 Mar 2010 16:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Geneva 2010: Carlsson C25 is a 753-horsepower twin-turbo terror
Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz
Carlsson C25 - Click above for high-res image gallery
We have to admit that we were a little disappointed when we saw the Carlsson C25 in person. The finished product doesn't seem to quite have the ultra-aggressive look of the original concept sketches. It could also be that we're not huge fans of the silver, black and orange paint scheme, nor of the brown and orange interior. In Carlsson's defense, the color combination was chosen by their customer, and we'd like to see another version in a solid color and a better choice of interior hues before we declare a verdict.
Even so, the C25 is an impressive beast. Under the hood is a Carlsson-built 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 putting out 753 horsepower and 974 lb-ft of torque, good for a conservatively listed 3.7 second sprint to 100 km/h and a top speed of just under 220 mph. To also appeal to potential clients, Carlsson has made exclusivity a top priority, limiting production to just 25 units and selling only one example in each country where they're available. As is proven by the car you see here, customers can choose from a near-limitless range of exterior and interior color combinations. Hit the jump for more details on the Carlsson C25 or browse through the gallery of live photos below.
Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Geneva 2010: Carlsson C25 is a 753-horsepower twin-turbo terror
Geneva 2010: Carlsson C25 is a 753-horsepower twin-turbo terror originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Geneva 2010: Mansory Limited Edition G-Couture is anything but
Filed under: Aftermarket, Performance, SUV, Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury
Mansory G-Couture - Click above for high-res image gallery
If there's one thing we can say about Mansory, it's that they sure aren't afraid to try new things. A pink Bentley? Sure. A blue and gold Rolls-Royce Ghost? Why not? Then there's this highly modified G55 AMG built in cooperation with fashion designer Philipp Plein named the G-Couture. With a production run of just seven examples, this heavily modified Benz will only be available to a limited few. Truthfully, it's probably better that way.
While we aren't necessarily against fully cladding a G55 in carbon fiber, our hesitation with the G-Couture is less about the concept and more about the execution. The front end particularly looks overly-styled, and the unpainted fibers seem more appropriate on a sports car. We can, however, appreciate the upgrades done underneath the hood. Mansory has boosted the supercharged V8 to 700 horsepower and 649 lb-ft torque. Necessary? Of course not, but impressive nonetheless. Hit the jump for more details about the G-Couture, or check it out in all its carbon fiber glory in the gallery below.
Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.Continue reading Geneva 2010: Mansory Limited Edition G-Couture is anything but
Geneva 2010: Mansory Limited Edition G-Couture is anything but originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 14:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Geneva 2010: Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style concept ladels on the tech and glitz
Filed under: Concept Cars, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Technology, Mercedes-Benz, Design/Style
Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style - Click above for high-res image gallery
While most automakers have scaled back their auto show vehicle press introductions due to budgetary cutbacks or newfound modesty, Mercedes-Benz hasn't forgotten the value of theater. As part of its press conference today showing off several models, the Three Pointed Star kept it flashy with dancers who tubed and bungied in from the ceiling, not to mention the lights blaring debut of the SLS AMG F1 safety car with Messrs. Rosberg and Schumacher inside. Peeling back the frosting, the real focus of Benz's show is this car, the F 800 Style concept.
Said to preview the next CLS, the F 800 Style is a plug-in hybrid with a 272-horsepower gasoline-fed V6 engine. Together with the electric motor, the combination is said to be good for over 400 horsepower and incorporate an electric-only range of 18 miles. Benz also says that the F 800 Style could incorporate a fuel cell powertrain.
The five-passenger sedan looks quite tidy in person, with a shorter tapered trunk than the current CLS, and indeed, the entire concept appears smaller than the aforementioned, with a bluffer face that is said to presage the new face of Mercedes. When viewed in profile, the front looks almost Maserati GranTurismo.
In addition, the F 800 also shows a future derivation of Benz's COMAND all-in-one interior control system that includes a touchpad console. Unlike the production touchpad application in the new Audi A8, the F800 also employs a camera that "...records video images of the user's hand as it works the pad. The live image of the hand is presented in transparent form on the central display above the center console." Uh-huh.
The F 800 also features an evolution of the company's Distronic Plus system that is optimized for use in traffic jams as well as a 360-degree implementation of its Pre-Safe system that monitors for rear impacts. If it senses an impending rearward crash, the system applies the brakes to prevent the car from being pushed forward into other vehicles or pedestrians, though the driver can take control of the vehicle and override the system by hitting the accelerator should that be the safer option.
Live Photos: Chris Paukert / Copyright (C)2010 Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]Continue reading Geneva 2010: Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style concept ladels on the tech and glitz
Geneva 2010: Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style concept ladels on the tech and glitz originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 02 Mar 2010 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - First Live Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG F1 Safety Car
Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Safety, Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Safety Car live shots - Click above for high-res image gallery
During our tour of the Mercedes-Benz AMG facility in Affalterbach, Germany this morning, we spotted this track-ready SLS AMG Safety Car hanging out, and we couldn't resist snapping a few photos.
As we reported earlier, the SLS AMG F1 Safety Car is, for the most part, mechanically unchanged from the street-ready version, save its slightly augmented tailpipe. From there, Mercedes-Benz has outfitted a new carbon fiber hood with front-mounted camera, an all-LED roof light bar, and a rear number plate with an integrated camera.
Checking out this SLS Safety Car in person only has only made us more excited to see it put to good use during the Formula One season, and it brings back fond memories of our time spent flogging the 2011 SLS on both the track and street. Hot stuff. Click through our attached gallery to see high-res shots of the car in the flesh.
Photos Copyright (C) 2010 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.First Live Shots: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG F1 Safety Car originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS roadster spotted in Affalterbach
Filed under: Spy Photos, Convertible, Performance, Mercedes-Benz
2012 Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS Roadster - Click above for high-res image gallery
Our man Chris Paukert had a layover in Germany this weekend on his way to the Geneva Motor Show that included a visit to the headquarters of AMG in Affalterbach. While there, a prototype SLS AMG Roadster made a suspiciously timed pass and pause while he and other journalists were walking around the compound. No matter the motivation, our man Paukert snagged a brace of shots and says that the droptop is expected to arrive as a 2012 model.
Aside from the folding top in place of the upward swinging gullwing doors, not much else is expected to change. Paukert got off-the-record confirmation from a company official, however, that the roadster will not immediately receive the new twin-turbo 5.5-liter V8 that is going into the 2011 S63 sedan. Instead, it will carry over the 563-horsepower, normally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 already on sale in the coupe.
Photos Copyright (C)2010 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.Spy Shots: 2012 Mercedes-Benz AMG SLS roadster spotted in Affalterbach originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - 2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 gets smaller but more powerful 5.5-liter biturbo V8
Filed under: Sedan, Performance, Technology, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury
2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 showcar - Click above for image gallery
We're here in Affalterbach, Germany this morning for a Mercedes-Benz AMG tech day ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, and while we have yet to get a tour of the facilities, we already have some news - the 2011 S63 AMG will receive the company's all-new 5.5-liter bi-turbo V8 engine, as well as the SpeedShift MCT seven-speed gearbox already on offer in the E63 and SL63.
Even though it's down on displacement compared to the outgoing 6.2-liter engine, the M 157 generates more power (544 horsepower in 'standard' mode, 571 with the optional performance package) and more torque (586 pound-feet or 660 lb-ft. with the optional performance pack). And despite the change in engine size, the big sedan's S63 moniker will remain.
MB chairman of the board Volker Mornhinweg has also confirmed to Autoblog that the U.S. market will indeed receive start-stop technology despite the fact that its efficiency gains aren't really recognized by the EPA's fuel economy testing methodology. Even so, the user-defeatable fuel-saving measure ought to pay dividends in city traffic, which is important because cities like Los Angeles and New York are prominent AMG markets.
Despite offering an embarrassment of performance, the S63 will also cut fuel consumption by an astonishing 25 percent, thanks in part to clever programming of its SpeedShift gearbox and a driver-selectable 'Controlled Efficiency' program, an eco-mode that, among other things, instructs the transmission to always start in second gear, shift up as quickly as possible, and remain in higher gears whenever possible. In addition, the Intelligent Generator Management System employed on the E63 is also used to funnel kinetic energy back into the battery, and there is a new generation of cylinder deactivation technology at work as well. All-in, the still-massive motor will turn in an impressive 23.5 miles-per U.S. gallon on the EU cycle and Morninweg pledges that the car will skirt U.S. gas guzzler taxes.
The 'standard' S63 will run to a governed 155 mile-per-hour top end, while the performance package model has been let out to 186 mph. The new car is slated to go on sale in the second half of the year, and the 5.5-liter engine is expected to supplant the 6.2-liter in other AMG offerings over the next several years. We'll see the new engine tomorrow in person at the Geneva Motor Show, where it will reside in the engine bay of a special S63 showcar. The showcar (above) pays tribute to an early AMG-powered 300 SEL that won its class and finished second overall at the 1971 24-hour race in Spa-Francorchamps.
Continue reading 2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 gets smaller but more powerful 5.5-liter biturbo V8
2011 Mercedes-Benz S63 gets smaller but more powerful 5.5-liter biturbo V8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Mar 2010 08:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG F1 Safety Car unveiled
Filed under: Motorsports, Coupe, Performance, Safety, Mercedes-Benz, Specialty, Racing
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG F1 Safety Car - Click above for high-res image gallery
Sometimes, speed equals safety. Perhaps nowhere else is that more true than on a racetrack when you're piloting the so-called safety car and you've got a pack of Formula One cars riding up your tailpipe. Good thing, then, that the newest safety car to be used for F1 duty is the 571-horsepower Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.
Interestingly, that tailpipe is the only mechanical change made to the SLS AMG to bring it up to Official F1 Safety Car specs. Mercedes-Benz left everything else on the car, including the engine, suspension and carbon-ceramic brakes, stock. Not that you won't be able to tell the difference between the Safety Car and a standard Gullwing - a new carbon fiber hood with front-mounted camera, rear number plate with a camera and 700 LEDs and an "aerodynamically optimised roof light bar" (for the first time using all LEDs) ensure nobody can miss this particular SLS AMG.
For what it's worth, the SLS AMG replaces the SL63 AMG, which had been the Official Safety Car for the previous two seasons. Again, the F1 Safety Car will be piloted by former DTM driver Bernd Mayländer. Also, the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Estate (that's wagon to us Americans) will serve as the Official F1 Medical Car. Let's hope that one doesn't see too much track time, eh? Click past the break for the official press release.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]Continue reading Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG F1 Safety Car unveiled
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG F1 Safety Car unveiled originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 15:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Robb Report dubs Mercedes SLS AMG 2010 Car of the Year, Bugatti Veyron Car of the Decade
Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Bugatti, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury
The time has come for luxury mag Robb Report to issue its latest Car of the Year. Being that the end of 2009 also marks the end of a tidy little decade, the editors at the magazine took the opportunity to bestow one important car with the title Car of the Decade - the first time in the 17 years that Robb Report has been handing out automotive awards that it's granted two in one year. So, who won?
First up is the Car of the Year, which goes out to the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. In taking the award, the SLS AMG beat out 11 other worthy contenders to the throne. Certainly not a terrible choice by any means, though this particular writer has yet to find himself lodged behind the Gullwing's leather-wrapped steering wheel. Moving on, then.
Robb Report's Car of the Decade trophy has been awarded to the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 Grand Sport. A good choice? Click here to refresh your memory on what it's like to pilot a $2,000,000 drop-top cruise missile. Yeah, as good a choice as any, we'd say. Click past the break to read more commentary from the magazine and click here to visit the new RobbReport.tv, where you'll see a series of videos recorded during the crew's testing in Napa Valley. Official press release after the jump, high-res galleries below.
Mercedes-Benz photos copyright (C)2009 Chris Paukert / Weblogs, Inc.
Bugatti photos copyright (C)2009 Drew Phillips / Weblogs, Inc.
[Source: Robb Report]Robb Report dubs Mercedes SLS AMG 2010 Car of the Year, Bugatti Veyron Car of the Decade originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 26 Feb 2010 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Geneva Preview: MercedesSport individualization program
Filed under: Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury
MercedesSport E-Class - Click above for high-res image gallery
"Sporty" is a relative term. Some might consider a base Mercedes-Benz "sporty" enough. AMG drivers would undoubtedly beg to differ. But there's a big gap between the two, one that Benz is keen to bridge. The German automaker has already done that in part with various AMG appearance packages, but now it's taking things a step further with the new MercedesSport accessory line.
Offered initially on the new E-Class - in all its iterations, including sedan, wagon, coupe and convertible - the MercedesSport package upgrades with a ground-effects aero kit, spoilers, and 18-inch alloys in glossy black or chrome. Upgraded brakes and suspension are also available, along with interior trim upgrades.
Packages are in the works as well for other models in the Mercedes range, but you can read about this one in the press release after the jump and check out the images in the gallery below ahead of the program's debut at the Geneva Motor Show.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]Continue reading Geneva Preview: MercedesSport individualization program
Geneva Preview: MercedesSport individualization program originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Rumormill: AMG working on entry-level coupe
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Mercedes-Benz, Rumormill
Mercedes-Benz F800 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery
Mercedes-Benz is diligently trying to attract new, younger customers to its AMG performance line, and one giant step forward might be the introduction of a new small coupe, set to rival small performers such as the Volkswagen Golf R, BMW 1-Series, and so on.
A report from Autocar states that this rumored new AMG coupe would be powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four with direct injection, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This engine may produce as much as 300 horsepower, putting the AMG coupe right in line with the competitive set. Fuel-efficient technologies like brake energy regeneration, stop-start and a shift indicator lamp are likely to make their way into this new model, and all-wheel drive isn't out of the question, either.
Autocar reports that the design of this entry-level AMG model will be previewed by the Mercedes-Benz F800 Style concept, set to make its debut next week at the Geneva Motor Show. Consider our interest piqued.
[Source: Autocar]Rumormill: AMG working on entry-level coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Autoblog Podcast #167 - Excitement builds for Geneva
Filed under: Podcasts, Geneva Motor Show, Audi, BMW, Chrysler, Kia, Lotus, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Citroën
Click above for the Autoblog Podcast in iTunes, RSS or listen now!
Episode #167 of the Autoblog Podcast is a fine quartet of Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid, Chris Paukert and Dan Roth. We breeze through the Autoblog Garage, filled with a snow-tired Camaro, a pair of Audi cabrios and a Kia Forte Koup, before hitting the news.
Audi's updated RS5, with a clear-voiced 4.2-liter V8 is up first, followed by the want-it-now BMW 5 Series Touring. We're not done with Europe yet, kicking around the Mercedes-Benz F800 and Citroën DS3 Racing before heading across La Manche to check out the Lotus Proton PHEV and then discuss Kia's Magentis renderings. Wrapping it up, we surmise what Chrysler's purported refreshes might turn out to be and talk about the overwhelming crush of Toyota recall and Congressional hearing news before taking some questions and calling it a night.
Direct fanmail to Podcast at Autoblog dot com, review the show in iTunes, fill out our survey or even leave us a voicemail on our Google Voice line 734-288-8POD (734-288-8763). Until next week, hit up Joystiq and Engadget when podcast loneliness sets in. Thanks for listening!Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #167 - Excitement builds for Geneva
Autoblog Podcast #167 - Excitement builds for Geneva originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Feb 2010 18:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Videos: The Mercedes F800 from every angle
Filed under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Videos, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury
The Mercedes F800 Concept - Click above to view the videos after the jump
The Mercedes-Benz F800 Concept is bringing its slick silver sleekness to the Geneva Motor Show next month and M-B has animated the concept, showing off the car's various and progressive components. Our favorite was probably the powertrain video, picturing the hybrid, fuel cell and internal combustion options. That kind of versatility might still be a ways off, but it's good to see a mass luxury maker designing hot bodies around a variety of green internals. Follow the jump to have a look the F800 yourself.
[Source: YouTube]Continue reading Videos: The Mercedes F800 from every angle
Videos: The Mercedes F800 from every angle originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Feb 2010 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments - Geneva Preview: Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style a sneak peek at next CLS-Class
Filed under: Concept Cars, Hybrid, Sedan, Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz, Design/Style, Electric, Luxury
Mercedes-Benz F800 Style - Click above for high-res image gallery
The Mercedes-Benz F800 Style concept car that'll debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month is highly-touted by Mercedes-benz's press release scribes for its green-car tech, but what's probably of greater interest to most of you is its styling, which is everyone's first peek at what the next-generation CLS-Class sedan is going to look like. To that end, get ready for a nose section whose grille apes that of the SLS AMG, plus enough flame-surfaced bodywork to make one envision Chris Bangle, sporting a set of Groucho glasses to mask his true identity, clandestinely moonlighting at Benz. The rear doors are sliders, because it's a concept, and you need to give the people a clear view into the swoopy, sci-fi passenger cabin. Props to Mercedes PR for gamely making it sound as if there's an actual practical application for those doors, though (see the attached press release).
Mercedes-Benz also touts the concept's flexible powertrain platform. The realistic option is a plug-in hybrid system that's basically an offshoot of the V6 light-hybrid setup found in the S400 sedan. Mercedes says this new plug-in gas-electric system, which is good for over 400 combined horsepower, gives the car an EV-only driving range of 18 miles. The automaker has announced that a new plug-in system is headed to the next-gen S-Class, so don't dismiss the F800's hybrid setup as trendy green pandering. Save that cynicism for the concept's other powertrain option: a compact fuel cell/electric setup evolved from the one used in the current F-Cell cars. We have no doubt that the technology itself is genuinely impressive, and we're sure news of its development will be a hit with all the jet-setters at the next snowbound global warming conference. From a mass-production, real-person's-car standpoint, expect to see the fuel cell system in Benz showrooms right after Mercedes intros a 700-horsepower inline 3-cylinder that runs on unicorn milk. Alas, we digress.
The F800 concept also introduces two new technologies that will doubtless appear in upcoming models. Distronic Plus Traffic Jam Assistant is an enhanced version of Mercedes' active cruise control system, which can now steer the car through curves as long as it's traveling under 25 mph. Neat. Also new is the Pre-Safe 360-degree system, which expands the existing Pre-Safe collision detection/mitigation system to the rear of the car. Now, if Pre-Safe senses that a rear-end impact is imminent, it'll apply the brakes in a bid to keep the car from getting into an additional chain-reaction accident involving other cars or pedestrians.
We'll be in Geneva to see the sheet come off the Mercedes-Benz F800 Style in person, and will have plenty of firsthand observations and live photos then. For now, feast your eyes on the gallery below, and check out the Mercedes PR included after the jump.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]Continue reading Geneva Preview: Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style a sneak peek at next CLS-Class
Geneva Preview: Mercedes-Benz F 800 Style a sneak peek at next CLS-Class originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 20 Feb 2010 09:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - In Hot Water: Cigarette Racing boat inspired by Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Etc., Mercedes-Benz, Luxury
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG-Inspired Cigarette Racing Boat - Click above for high-res image gallery
Mercedes-Benz and Cigarette Racing converged upon the 2010 Miami International Boat Show last week to unveil a new 46-foot custom racing boat inspired by the automaker's SLS AMG supercar. In lieu of the Gullwing's lone 6.2-liter V8 engine, which puts out a measly 563 horsepower, the Cigarette boat offers a pair of twin-turbocharged 552-cubic-inch Mercury Racing engines. Each mill cranks out 1,350 horsepower. Yep, that's 2,700 total horsies. Giddyup.
The new Cigarette 46-foot Rider features hand-applied AMG ALUBEAM silver paint, as seen on the SLS AMG supercar. According to the automaker, its specially developed painting technique "covers body surfaces like a metallic skin, targeting light reflections to further emphasize exterior character lines and design details." We'll take their word for it.
Step inside the boat and you'll be greeted with marine-grade upholstery that's designed to resemble the two-tone porcelain and white Nappa leather offered on the SLS AMG. So far, there's no word on how much this custom Cigarette will go for, but something with a six-pack of zeros is virtually a lock. Check out our high-res image gallery below along with the complete press release after the break.
[Source: Mercedes-Benz]Continue reading In Hot Water: Cigarette Racing boat inspired by Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
In Hot Water: Cigarette Racing boat inspired by Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 17 Feb 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Renntech-fettled Benz CL65 and C63 AMG set records in Palm Beach [w/video]
Filed under: Aftermarket, Motorsports, Coupe, Sedan, Performance, Videos, Mercedes-Benz, Luxury
Hartmut Feyhl's Renntech C63 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Looking over the pantheon of fast cars around the world, Mercedes-Benz and its AMG-tuned models are always near the top. But there's always room for improvement, right? Enter Renntech, the Florida-based tuning company that's been eking more and more power from the German automaker's wares for over 20 years.
Renntech just informed us of two new world records that its vehicles were able to set, the first by a customer and his CL65. The powerhouse machine used its ECU/TCU upgrade, ram air system, intercooler upgrade, high-flow exhaust and limited-slip differential to good effect, hitting a quarter mile pass of 10.62 seconds at 133.7 miles per hour to earn the title of the World's Fastest CL65.
Next up was Renntech owner Hartmut Feyhl, who's modified C63 (using undisclosed prototype products) ran down the quarter in 11.6 seconds at 125.3 mph. That impressive showing was enough to earn Feyhl the Worlds Quickest Trap Speed for the C63. Congrats on the effort, Renntech. Click past the break to watch a video of the record-setting CL65 as it streaks down the track.
[Source: Renntech]Continue reading Renntech-fettled Benz CL65 and C63 AMG set records in Palm Beach [w/video]
Renntech-fettled Benz CL65 and C63 AMG set records in Palm Beach [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
Permalink | Email this | Comments - Report: Daimler to pay $200M over bribery scandal
Filed under: Government/Legal, Mercedes-Benz, Earnings/Financials
For a number of years Daimler kept secret accounts used by executives specifically for the purpose of making illicit payments to foreign officials - a practice otherwise known as bribing. The "improper payments" were made primarily in Africa, Asia and Eastern Europe from banks in those regions. The bribery itself wasn't Daimler's problem - the fired whistleblower and the U.S. Department of Justice and Securities and Exchange Commission were.
Daimler auditor David J. Bazzetta said he complained about the irregular accounts and payments, and was fired for his actions. He took his case to federal court, as well as doing a bit of whispering to DOJ and SEC officials. That lead the DOJ to investigating whether Daimler contravened the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 by bribing government officials, which covers any company with operations in the U.S.
Daimler isn't the only company with slush funds, and Daimler isn't the only one to get caught - Siemens, BAE Systems, Dooney & Bourke and Willbros Group are huge fish to recently end up in the net. And like a few of those others, Daimler is ready to pay to settle the claims against it to the tune of $200 million. Neither the DOJ nor the SEC has stated that the case is closed yet, but if there's one thing we know now it's that crime doesn't pay. Or maybe that it pays double.
[Source: Bloomberg | Image: Andreas Rentz/Getty Images]Report: Daimler to pay $200M over bribery scandal originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Feb 2010 09:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.
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