Posts by author: Kharl Prado

Frankfurt-bound F125! Hydrogen-powered Coupe Concept Leaks

F125 01 597x397 Frankfurt bound F125! Hydrogen powered Coupe Concept Leaks

Mercedes-Benz is slated to make a big splash at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show when it debuts a powerful new hydrogen-powered concept. Dubbed the F125!, this gullwing coupe concept goes for 231 horsepower with a top speed of 137 mph—all on four motors powered by hyrdrogen.

The concept takes many design cues from the  F800 Style Concept, which was unveiled at last year’s Geneva Motor Show. It also has CL-line styling—intended for the 2025 model year, that is. The F125! chassis is made with different materials: plastics, aluminum, and carbon fiber. It is also equipped with a carbon fiber hydrogen tank, plus a li-ion battery that lets drivers go for 31 miles prior to the fuel cell kicking in.

According to the leaked specifications, the concept requires 0.79 kg of hydrogen to travel 100 kilometers, which means a maximum range of 621 miles with just a single full tank.

The Frankfurt Motor Show is slated for September 15 through 25.

Photo credits: Omni Auto

Media Oriented Systems Transport network tech for the new M-Class

2012 Mercedes Benz M Class 597x427 Media Oriented Systems Transport network tech for the new M Class

Daimler’s brainchild, Mercedes-Benz, is continuing the adoption of SMSC’s Media Oriented Systems Transport networking technology for the latest generation of the M-Class. This particular tech is, according to a press release from the company, “the accepted standard for high bandwidth infotainment networking in the car.”

The tech was introduced in the first generation of the M-Class. Now on its second round, it comes with an entirely new set of infotainment features in the new M-Class, namely a dominant instrument panel with a large color screen for infotainment, navigation and communication. The MOST system will be in charge of connecting different kinds of infotainment devices in the M-Class.

“We are pleased to continue to be selected by Daimler as the in-vehicle networking system of choice for this prestigious Mercedes-Benz model,” says SMSC’s Automotive Information Systems group Vice-President and General Manager Dr. Christian Thiel. “Approximately 108 cars worldwide have been equipped with MOST technology so far. Daimler has relied on MOST technology since 2002 due to its performance, high quality and robustness.”

The MOST system lets the driver and passengers access a wide range of feature-rich infotainment systems which include multimedia functions such as CD or DVD changers, AM/FM radio, GPS-navigation systems, mobile telephones and digital media interfaces. Put simply, it’s going to up the level of fun in the new M-Class to new heights. So watch out for it if you’re planning to invest in this premium SUV.

Source: Market Watch

Brabus delivers with updates for the E-Class and E63 AMG

mercedes amg e klasse upgraded by brabus 1 597x396 Brabus delivers with updates for the E Class and E63 AMG

Mercedes-Benz specialists at Brabus have spent a lot of time in the wind tunnel trying to come up with various ways to outclass everything that AMG has done to its sports cars. Whether it’s in the looks department or performance wise, these guys have always managed to outdo and come up with the unthinkable. Well, guess what? They’ve done it once again.

Their latest kit is meant for the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and includes a sporty lip which attaches to the stock AMG front apron. It’s designed to reduce lift at the front wheel axles to help stabilize corner steering and straight line driving at high speeds. There’s also the rear diffuser and spoiler mounted on the trunk’s lid as well as a central reflector. In line with AMG’s design, these have cutouts for the tailpipes on both sides to fit the stock exhaust or that of Brabus’ quad sport exhaust system.

There’s also the aerodynamic update for the E63 AMG. Brabus is offering a front spoiler lip, made of carbon fiber, of course, plus custom-tailored air ducts that give the side outlets of the AMG apron a more intense appearance.

Enough said, guys. Check out the gallery for the full preview.

Source: Auto Evolution

S-Class Tackled from Behind in Monte Carlo Fender-Bender

s class accident 597x362 S Class Tackled from Behind in Monte Carlo Fender Bender

In perhaps one of the most expensive minor collisions in the history of the automotive world, the rear of a Mercedes-Benz S-Class was bumped by a Bentley Azure with a trio of women in it. What’s more, the wayward vehicle also hit a nearby Ferrari F430, Porsche 911, and Aston Martin Rapide. This collision of high-end metal and top-class finishing, which occurred in Monte Carlo, is estimated to reach six figures in terms of damage.

The S-Class actually got off easy compared to the poor F430. The Bentley, perhaps after grazing the Mercedes vehicle’s back side, swerved into the Rapide and went straight to the nose of the F430 before it hit the 911.

Authorities were quick to the scene, as it happened right in front of a premiere casino, the Place du Casino, that was brimming with people because of the summer season. Soon, people were outside snapping pictures using their smartphones, as they peered onto a scene that could easily have been an exhibition hall in an auto show—excepet that these high-end vehicles engaged in a little twisted metal action.

Only in Monte Carlo.

Daimler, Bosch Form EM-motive GmbH for Joint Electric Motor Production

daimlerbosch Daimler, Bosch Form EM motive GmbH for Joint Electric Motor Production

German automotive manufacturer Daimler has joined forces with supplier of innovative automobile components, Robert Bosch GmbH, in a joint venture called EM-motive GmbH. This joint venture will be responsible for the development as well as the production of electric motors to be used in European all-electric vehicles.

The companies have already confirmed that the agreement has been officially signed after working on negotiations for three months. Production is said to be scheduled for 2012, and the venture will be based in Hildesheim, where the production facilities will also be located. Engineering, on the other hand, will most likely be located in Stuttgart, close to the home of Daimler and Bosch.

It is said that EM-motive’s electric motors will feature a modular design so that they can be accommodated in a wide range of vehicles. Of course, it is expected that Mercedes-Benz and smart vehicles will be the first beneficiaries of these new motors. The next-generation smart fortwo electric drive, set to be released sometime during early 2012, will feature this motor. By 2020, the companies expect over a million electric motors to have been produced.



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