Mercedes-Benz research vehicles, concepts and design studies.

Evolution of Innovations.

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Preface

From the idea to the finished research vehicle

Mobility trends Searching for the future

S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE Autonomous driving

3D Body Engineering Formula for more efficiency

ESF 2009 Innovations for safety

Comfort More than just comfortable

Connected car Automobility 2.0

The evolution of fuel cell technology

Benz Patent Motor Car The pioneer

The mobility of tomorrow

BIOME Symbiosis with the ecosystem

Silver Arrow Racing car for sci-fi thrillers

ReCy Recyclable roadster

Vision G-Code Visionary all-rounder

AMG Vision GT Virtual super sports car

SilverFlow Micro-metallic transformer

Formula Zero Clean racer

Mojave Runner High-tech adventure in the desert

Vision Ener-G-Force Off-road for the future

F 015 Luxury in Motion

F 125! Redefinition of automotive luxury

F 800 Efficiency meets elegance

F 700 For luxurious travel

F 600 HyGENIuS Powerful. Comfortable. Clean.

F 500 MIND Research lab on wheels

F 400 Carving Safe driving pleasure

F 300 Life Jet The curve master

F 200 Imagination A new driving sensation

Vario Research Car Four cars in one

F 100 Unbridled technology

Concept S-Class Coupé

Vision SLR . Vision SLA

SLK Study I und II

Vision A93 . Study A

Concept A-Class

Concept BlueZERO

Concept Ocean Drive . Concept Fascination

Concept Shooting Brake

Concept Style Coupé

Coupé-Studie . Vision CLS

Vision GLK FREESIDE

Vision GLK TOWNSIDE . AA Vision

Concept GLA

Concept Coupé SuV

Vision GST . Vision GST 2

Vision R . Vision B

Mercedes-Benz bionic car

Design stuDies

ReseARCH VeHiCLes ConCept VeHiCLes

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Mercedes-Benz C 112 The future of driving dynamics

Mercedes-Benz NAFA The “short-distance vehicle”

Mercedes-Benz Auto 2000 Drive systems

Mercedes-Benz C 111 The Wankel engine

VeHiCLe stuDies

Fascinating research

Dear readers,

How will we drive vehicles in the future? This constantly relevant question has been addressed by Mercedes-Benz for

decades now with research and concept vehicles that throw a light on developments, show the technical possibilities

and project them into the future.

But that is not all: research vehicles are at the same time rolling records of social trends and aesthetic innovations.

And they are tangible evidence of the creativity of our engineers, designers and researchers. Without any

limitations or restrictions imposed by statutory provisions, the demands of series production or commercial

considerations, they can give full rein to their creativity.

The vehicles are not fantastic dream-like creations bearing no relation to reality. Rather, they describe concrete

visions – and a great many elements are to be found, sooner or later, in series-production vehicles. Our research

vehicles provide potential answers to the questions arising out of new technical and social developments and

mobility requirements. By turning them, physically, into a vehicle, many thoughts, theories and trends become real,

tangible, and something people can relate to.

With the invention of the motor car our founding fathers changed the world. We embrace the role of the pioneer anew

every day and want to help shape tomorrow’s world both actively and responsibly. This can only be possible if we

maintain an open dialogue – both within our organization and with the public. The Mercedes-Benz research vehicles

are real and important discussion points in the dialogue we are holding about how we will drive vehicles in the future.

The research vehicles from the last four decades which are brought together in this brochure allow you to see how

Mercedes-Benz was already looking far into the future in times past. You can see what has become reality, what is

close to series production – and what has even been overtaken by reality in the meantime.

This also applies to the many ideas behind our current research vehicle. The F 015 Luxury in Motion is a study in the

potential outcomes of the greatest revolution in mobility since the Benz Patent Motor Car rattled through the

streets of Mannheim in 1886 with not a horse in sight. For we are now, without doubt, a long way down the road from

the self-propelling “automobile” to the self-driving “autonomous” vehicle.

I wish you an enjoyable and thought-provoking journey through time.

Yours,

Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber

Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG

responsible for Group Research & Mercedes-Benz Cars Development

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Preface003

From the idea to the finished >>> research vehicle

New IDeAS are created in people’s heads. Today, as was the case over 100 years ago,

very creative and motivated people work at Mercedes-Benz. The company supports

them by giving them the space they need to think and work freely and creatively. This

ensures that the source of our innovative strength never dries up. The research vehicles

are one of the places where the ideas gained are implemented. They enable the engi-

neers and designers to make it possible for new technologies to be experienced, driven

and assessed, and mirror the company’s innovation skills. It takes around two years

from the idea until a research vehicle is ready to be driven.

Many technologies which were tested for the first time in a research vehicle and

which were deemed to be revolutionary years ago are now in series production at

Mercedes-Benz. Not every idea is suitable for implementation, no matter how exciting

and interesting it may appear. For what is essential is not the number of innovations

but their benefit for the customer. And the other challenge lies in bringing the right

innovations to market at the right time. Every suggested innovation is measured

against these two parameters.

There are new features which are still too far ahead of their time – and the customer

does not want them. But even if the time is not yet come for certain innovations – we

will nonetheless continue to make sure there’s a place at our company for bold and

wild ideas. This is also due to the love of inventing for which Swabians have long been

known – but it’s not just that. “Thinking in reserve” and systematically pursuing good

ideas – this proves itself over and again.

RESEARCH VEHICLES think cleverly ahead to the future, unite several innovative

technologies in a single vehicle concept and allow them to be experienced, driven and

assessed by the public.

TEST OR TECHNOLOGY VEHICLES are close relatives of the research cars.

Their purpose is to put new technologies from the research lab out onto the test track

to try them out in practical operation. The NECAR of 1994 presented in this brochure

serves as an example of this type: it is the first vehicle in the world with fuel cell tech-

nology and based on a modified MB 100 van.

CONCEPT VEHICLES AND VISIONS are near-production, ready-to-drive vehi-

cle studies. They position a future vehicle model on the market. One example is the

Study A of 1993, which reveals several characteristics attributed to the subsequent

A-Class. Concept cars are equipped with new technology that is already in production

cars or soon to reach production standard.

VEHICLE STUDIES are feasibility studies that show new ideas in the form of a

complete automobile. These, however, are not usually roadworthy. This category

includes NAFA, a short-distance vehicle that originated a good twenty years ago. It

had a short, high body and, as such, was a forerunner of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

and the smart city coupé.

DESIGN STUDIES concentrate on the formal aspects of potential vehicles of the

future, but simultaneously link these with visionary ideas for new vehicle concepts

and technologies which today might sound more like science fiction. An example

of this is the Biome study from 2010, whose futuristic shape grows from seeds in

symbiosis with nature.

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MAKING-OF The design sketches give a first indication of the research vehicle’s form.

Once the dimensional concept has been defined, the vehicle is first designed on the computer

before finally being built as a fully functioning vehicle.

IN ADDITION TO RESEARCH VEHICLES, THE COMPANY CLASSIFIES SEVERAL VEHICLE TYPES TO ASSIST WITH THE DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATION OF NEW MODELS.

004 005 From the idea to the finished research vehicleMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Mercedes-Benz

The autonomously driving forerunner to a mobility revolution raises modern automobile luxury to a new level.

Location Consumer Electronics Show [CES], Las Vegas, USA

introduction 2015

›› Intuitive user experience as a combination of eye-tracking, touch and

gesture control

›› Large LED displays for communication with the outside world

›› “Saloon door” system with opposed door opening for maximum access convenience

objective An autonomously driving luxury sedan as a private retreat with maximum space and a lounge-like interior atmosphere

drive SyStem Further development of an F-CELL plug-in HYBRID with two electric motors [each with 100 kW/136 hp and 200 Nm of torque],

peak output of overall system 200 kW [272 hp], maximum speed limited to 200 km/h

›› Dynamic mobile digital living space with harmoniously integrated screens offering brilliant ultra-HD resolution›› Variable seating concept

with four swiveling lounge chairs

›› “Extended Sense” sensor system comprehensively links up the vehicle with the outside world

LUXURY IN MOTION

›› Unusually long wheelbase for maximum interior spaciousness

F 015

›› Head-up display with augmented reality technology

006 007 F 015 Luxury in Motionmercedes-benz Evolution of Innovations

inteLLigent Partner The color of the LED fields indicates the current driving mode to the outside world –

blue stands for autonomous, white for manual.

more than mobiLity For the autonomously driving

F 015 Luxury in Motion research vehicle, the experts at

Mercedes-Benz have developed a scenario that takes

numerous aspects of the mobility of the future into conside-

ration. A future in which autonomous driving is quite normal

– it is socially acceptable and technically reliable. Well

beyond its mobility function, the automobile will be a private

place of retreat and offer the general public important added

value. As autonomous driving takes over the driver’s role in

situations where driving is not very enjoyable, for example

in dense urban traffic, time spent in the car takes on a com-

pletely new quality. The occupants of autonomously driving

automobiles are able to use the time gained in many different

ways for relaxation or work.

autonomouS vehicLe concePt The visionary

Mercedes-Benz F 015 Luxury in Motion research vehicle is

an automobile which raises comfort and luxury to a new level

with its maximum spaciousness and lounge-like interior.

The F 015 already reveals itself as a vision for an innovative

vehicle concept with its unusual proportions, having a length

of 5,220 millimeters, a width of 2,018 millimeters and a

height of 1,524 millimeters, with its seamless, monolithic ex-

terior and with large LED light modules at the front and rear.

SignaLS for more Safety A range of different lighting

functions can be provided through these LED fields. At the

same time, the vehicle uses them to communicate and inter-

act with the outside world. Pedestrians are given a signal that

the F 015 has “seen” them, for example. The displays have

a communication matrix with three-dimensional, rod-shaped

LED modules and two outer blocks consisting of large LED

rods. A slim LED light band above the rear display shows cur-

rent functions such as braking, direction indicators and the

driving mode. When the vehicle is started, the LED blocks in

the two communication displays light up in sequence. A spe-

cial start-up sound signals that it is ready for operation. The

F 015 then uses the color of its lights to indicate what driving

mode it is currently in. This particular information is commu-

nicated at the front by the large outer LED blocks in the grille

and at the rear by the slim LED light strip. What’s more, the

high-precision laser projection system allows the F 015 Lux-

ury in Motion to project a broad cone of light onto the road

in front showing important information. This includes, for

example, a virtual zebra crossing indicating to pedestrians on

the side of the road that it is safe to cross. And if the F 015

brakes with the intention of stopping, a suitable projected

display marks the position where it will come to a stop. Other

road users can then prepare themselves accordingly.

convenient acceSS The F 015 Luxury in Motion does not

have any B-pillars. This fact, together with the wide-opening

“saloon doors” with opposed opening makes getting into and

out of the vehicle interior particularly convenient and com-

fortable. The doors open to a full 90 degrees. This allows a

clear view of the generously dimensioned and intelligently

laid out interior, and ensures problem-free entry. The pivotal

feature of the innovative interior concept is the variable

seating system with four rotating lounge chairs, which

allows an opposed seating arrangement. This enables the

front occupants to turn around and talk directly to the other

passengers while on the move – or to focus their attention

towards the front as necessary for manual driving.

Led SignaL The F 015 actively communicates with following traffic

using the LED display at the rear. For example, vehicles behind are

given an early warning when the traffic flow slows down.

LaSer Projector To communicate with other traffic users, the

F 015 is able to project precise information onto the road. It can also

give audible messages such as a helpful “Please go ahead”.

The F 015 shows what form communication and interaction between man and machine might take in the age of autonomous mobility.

009008 F 015 Luxury in Motionmercedes-benz Evolution of Innovations

focuS on communication The luxurious interior of the F 015 is

completely devoted to the intuitive and natural exchange of information

from person to person, and between man and machine.

virtuaL WorLdS The occupants furthermore have the

option of superimposing various digital natural landscapes

on the side displays, including forests, mountains, lakes and

coastlines. Other virtual worlds can likewise be projected.

The display of the virtual surroundings is always synchronized

with the actual vehicle movement, meaning that uphill climbs

or downhill descents, for example, are simulated based on

the current route profile, thereby allowing the passengers to

sense the vehicle’s changing motion visually, too.

SharPened SenSeS With “Extended Sense”, the F 015

monitors its surroundings in every direction. Stereo cameras

as well as radar and ultrasonic sensors relay extensive

data. High-precision GPS data together with the extremely

accurate 3D navigation maps make sure the position can be

pinpointed to the exact centimeter. This means the vehicle

digitaL Living SPace One core theme of the innovative

interior concept is a continuous exchange of information

between the vehicle, its occupants and the outside world.

To this end, six displays are integrated into the instrument

panel, rear wall and side walls, making the interior a digital

living space. The screens mounted on the side walls and

rear can be used to display route planning, music, photos or

contacts, for example, and select these by gesture or touch

control. The functions on the front display are ergonomically

and conveniently controlled by innovative eye-tracking and

gesture recognition. Besides accessing personal address

books or playlists of favorite music, the vehicle’s route can

be displayed as a timeline including points of interest.

A simplified reproduction of the vehicle’s surroundings can

also be visualized in the displays, with the vehicle’s motion

depicted in the form of particle streams.

knows its precise location at all times. Critical traffic situa-

tions such as a potential collision are detected at an early

stage, correctly interpreted and avoided by taking appropri-

ate action. Thanks to this high-resolution sensor system, the

vehicle keeps a constant eye on its surroundings, is capable

of interpreting what it sees and taking action at any time, and

relays relevant information to its passengers, depending on

the specific driving situation. This converts the F 015 into a

perfectly dependable partner, while always letting the occu-

pants make the final decision and retain overall control if they

so wish. The F 015 Luxury in Motion recognizes its owner

or authorized user by their smartphone or wearable device.

high-tech drive SyStem The fuel cell electric drive

system is based on the pioneering F-CELL PLUG-IN HYBRID

system seen in the F 125! research vehicle from 2011,

and combines on-board generation of electricity with

an exceptionally powerful and compact high-voltage battery

which can be recharged using non-contact induction

technology. The system stores the hydrogen for generating

electricity in 700 bar tanks of carbon-fiber reinforced

plastic (CFRP) that can be integrated into the floor of the

car to keep them protected from impacts, without

compromising the interior space available to the occupants –

while also providing a high storage capacity totaling

5.4 kilograms. The overall operating range of the electric

hybrid system is 1,100 kilometers, of which around

200 kilometers can be covered with the battery alone and

around 900 kilometers with the power from the fuel cell

stack. Thus equipped, the F 015 has the operating radius of

a comparable diesel car, but in all-electric mode and with

no local emissions.

With its ability to perceive and interpret the surroundings, the F 015 is an intelligent partner for all urban road users.

fuLLy interactive The front display shows all driver-relevant

information and control menus, while the head-up display in the

windscreen area shows location- and object-related content.

011010 F 015 Luxury in Motionmercedes-benz Evolution of Innovations

Mercedes-Benz

The vision of emission-free driving at the highest level is tangible with the “S-Class of tomorrow”.

LOCATION Frankfurt International Motor Show [IAA], Germany

INTRODUCTION 2011

›› Significant reduction in driver workload due to Car-to-X communication›› F-CELL Plug-in HYBRID with revolutionary structure-integrated hydrogen composite

storage unit and a range of up to 1,000 kilometers

›› Gullwing doors can be opened via gesture control

›› Lightweight hybrid construction

with an intelligent material mix

›› Lithium-sulfur high-voltage battery

with a capacity of 10 kWh and a high energy density, can be charged via induction

OBJECTIVE A visionary look at the sporty luxury sedan beyond the year 2025

DRIVE sysTEm F-CELL Plug-in HYBRID, pioneering hydrogen composite storage technology, lithium-sulfur high-voltage battery with

high energy density, modular e4MATIC system with a continuous output of 170 kW [231 hp] and a peak output of 230 kW [313 hp]

F 125

›› Intuitive touch, gesture and voice control

for maximum driver-fitness safety and ease of operation

›› @ your COMAND visionary, fully Cloud-based infotainment system

›› Advanced Driving Assist for partially autonomous driving

RedeFinition oF

automotive luxuRy

›› e4MATIC all-wheel drive

with individual torque control at each wheel

012 013 F 125! Redefinition of automotive luxurymercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

F-CELL Plug-in HYBRID

Structure-integrated hydrogen composite storage unit

Lithium-sulfur battery

The F 125! unites luxury and high-end technologies in a superlative research vehicle.

EmIssION-FREE The F 125! is powered by an F-CELL Plug-in

HYBRID consisting of a further developed fuel cell and a

powerful lithium-sulfur high-voltage battery. This combination

allows for completely emission-free mobility with full day-to-

day suitability, superior performance and a total range of up

to 1,000 kilometers. With respect to performance, consump-

tion and practical suitability, the further improved stack pro-

vides the power for four powerful electric motors installed

near the wheels, which ensure sporty, superior performance

figures. Apart from ensuring optimal traction at all times, the

electronic all-wheel drive with its wheel-specific yaw-damping

improves handling stability at high speeds. During brisk cor-

nering, however, wheel-specific intervention allows for a

metered increase in the yaw rate with an improved steering

response and less steering effort. This drive configuration

also allows for cross-wind stabilization, avoidance of load-

change responses and therefore improved handling when cor-

nering, without the need for ASR [acceleration skid control]

intervention.

REVOLUTIONARy The structure-integrated hydrogen com-

posite storage unit of the future opens up completely new

perspectives with respect to the operating range and vehicle

architecture, allowing the hydrogen tank to be fully integrated

into the bodyshell structure for the first time. The H2 tank

integrated into the floor assembly has a capacity of around

7.5 kg of hydrogen and potentially requires less installation

space compared to high-pressure tanks in use today. Tanks

that can be filled at a pressure of 30 bar or less can be seam-

lessly integrated into the bodyshell while acting as “structural”

components at the same time. A highly advanced, very power-

ful and extremely compact lithium-sulfur battery is also envis-

aged for the F 125!. It has a storage capacity of 10 kWh and

will be capable of energy densities up to 350 Wh per kg.

This would represent roughly a doubling of the current perfor-

mance. In combination with the e4MATIC all-wheel drive

system this facilitates a significantly higher recuperation rate.

HyBRID LIGHTWEIGHT CONsTRUCTION With a combina-

tion of fiber-reinforced plastics [FRP] and a high content of

carbon-fiber [CFRP], lightweight metals and high-strength

steel alloys, as well as hybrid materials, precisely designed

to meet the relevant requirements, the F 125! impressively

demonstrates the wide variety of possible applications. The

bodyshell weight of the research vehicle was thus reduced

to around 250 kilograms – roughly 40 percent less than that

of a comparable model in current series production. At the

same time, the level of safety has once again been signifi-

e4MATIC

F-CELL Plug-in HyBRID

FOREsIGHT Whilst the previous Mercedes-Benz research

vehicles have “looked ahead” by roughly one vehicle gene-

ration, the latest technology visionary goes a whole step fur-

ther, by more than two generations to the year 2025 and

beyond. The researchers and developers have incorporated

already well-proven concepts and technologies which are not

yet available today, but for which basic research has shown

great potential, and therefore a realistic chance of implemen-

tation in future Mercedes-Benz models. On this basis, the

F 125! was created as an innovative four-seater luxury sedan

with a powerful, emission-free electric drive system based

on the fuel cell technology developed to series-production

maturity by Mercedes-Benz. The “S-Class of tomorrow” com-

bines pioneering, highly efficient storage, drive and bodyshell

technologies with unparalleled control and display concepts.

The research vehicle also features an expressive design set

to transform the classic Mercedes-Benz design idiom in the

future.

Fiber-reinforced plastics [FRP]

Metal/plastic hybrid construction

CFRP sandwich construction

Bodyshell in innovative hybrid lightweight construction

EXPREssIVE CONTRAsTs The exterior design of the F 125! blends serenity with dynamism and tension with harmony.

015014 F 125! Redefinition of automotive luxurymercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

via the vehicle’s specific homepage. Just as easily, a home

PC or of course a smartphone can be used for remote

configuration of the on-board navigation or entertainment

system, and to select individual interior temperature settings

for each seat.

The F 125! features high-end sound and high-resolution

screens with brilliant, individual displays. If required, the

autostereoscopic 3D display for spatial representation of the

instrument cluster is able to show relevant information in

clustered form. The 3D image adapts natural visual habits,

allows for a better overview and thus considerably reduces

driver workload. The head unit in the upper section of the

center console uses projector beam technology, and is con-

trolled via a touchpad with 3D finger-tracking located within

easy reach of the driver. A retractable 17-inch display is in-

stalled on the front passenger side, and this is fully controlled

by hand gestures.

cantly improved. The high-strength structure with crash-

active protection systems inside the door facilitates the elimi-

nation of a B-pillar and the use of continuous gullwing doors.

VIsIONARy INFOTAINmENT sysTEm @yourCOMAND in the

F 125! provides a visionary outlook on future Mercedes-Benz

telematic systems. Operation is primarily through natural

speech, intuitive hand gestures and touch. Navigating, calling

up current news, receiving and sending text messages, mails

and Facebook messages, updating appointments or selecting

entertainment media – the driver controls all this with free,

natural speech. The multimedia systems are seamlessly and

cross-functionally networked, socially interactive and non-

distracting. The multimedia system, as well as all applications

and contents, can be completely preconfigured remotely.

Thanks to its predominantly Cloud-based functions, autho-

rized individuals have access at all times to information such

as the fuel level, next scheduled service or fuel consumption

sEmI-AUTONOmOUs DRIVING With the help of innovative

driver assistance systems, the touring sedan of the future

defuses even “invisible” hazards and considerably reduces

driver workload in many standard situations. If the driver

requires, the F 125! is able to carry out frequently occurring

driving maneuvers autonomously. Advanced Driving Assist

allows lane-changes on multi-lane, one-way roads, and in

a further development stage even automatic overtaking

maneuvers.

EXPREssIVE AND UNIQUE WITH A LOUNGE CHARACTER

The F 125! represents a radical reinterpretation of a sports

sedan. Its sensuous sportiness and dramatic, organic use of

body surfaces are a pioneering further development of the

current Mercedes-Benz design strategy. The two gullwing

doors provide convenient access and egress even in parking

bays. Dispensing with exterior mirrors and door handles, plus

the uninterrupted, single-piece hood with integral front fen-

ders, reduces the contours to the essential, also contributing

towards lowering the drag coefficient. The interior also im-

presses with its futuristic and high-quality impression. Wood,

Alcantara and silk are entwined with one another. Wood as

a light decorative element plays a central role and is present

throughout the entire interior.

The intentionally chosen, pronounced asymmetry – the

interior is not divided between front and rear in the usual

way, but between the left and right halves – reflects the dif-

ferent form of use. Using switches in the center console and

rear door area, the rear seat backrest can be moved from

upright to a chaise-lounge position: the seat cushion extends

forwards and provides a very comfortable reclining position.

This provides generous space in the rear and allows for a

clear view of the integrated front passenger 17-inch display,

which is controlled by hand gestures.

3D DIsPLAy The high-resolution retractable 17-inch

display at the fore of the front passenger side is fully controlled

by hand gestures.

ADVANCED DRIVING AssIsT The driver only has to give the appropriate command,

then the F 125! automatically performs lane-changes. It goes without saying that the driver

can take full control again at any time.

mULTImEDIA sysTEm Its intuitive control and display system

turns the F 125! into a “real” contact for the driver, facilitating

effortless interaction.

Always online, always connected with the visionary infotainment system “@yourCOMAND”.

COmFORTABLE CHILL-OUT ZONE The rear compartment of the F 125! becomes a lounge with a high comfort factor.

017016 F 125! Redefinition of automotive luxurymercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

F 800EFFICIENCY MEETS ELEGANCE

Pioneering upper-range sedan with “green” technology and an avant-garde design.

››  Rear pivot-and-slide doors for easy entry

››  HMI Cam-Touch-Pad for intuitive and safe operation

››  New display concept with focus on electric drive

››  Innovative lightweight-construction seats

consisting of magnesium, carbon fiber laminate and netting

STYLE

››  Multi-drive platform with plug-in hybrid or fuel-cell electric drive

››  Headlamps in LED technology

Mercedes-Benz

››  PRE-SAFE® 360° for extended passive safety

[series introduction in the E- and S-Class: 2013]

››  DISTRONIC PLUS with Traffic Jam Vehicle Follow Assist for even greater active safety and comfort

[series introduction in the S-Class: 2013]

LOCATION Geneva Motor Show, Switzerland

INTRODUCTION 2010

OBJECTIVE Generous interior with intelligent seating, operating and display concept in combination with highly efficient

and environmentally compatible drive technologies and innovative comfort and safety functions

DRIVE sysTEm Variable vehicle architecture laid out for two alternative drive concepts – plug-in hybrid with direct-injection V6 gasoline engine

[approx. 220 kW/300 hp] in combination with a hybrid module [approx. 80 kW/109 hp] or electric drive based on fuel cell technology

[approx. 100 kW/136 hp]

018 019 F 800 Style Efficiency meets elegancemercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

THE FUTURE OF DRIVE sysTEms With its F 800 Style

research vehicle presented in early 2010, Mercedes-Benz

offers a comprehensive preview of the future of the premium

automobile. The five-seat luxury-class sedan, which provides

generous interior space with intelligent seating, operating

and display concepts, combines highly efficient drive tech-

nology with innovative comfort and safety functions. One

feature that is unique worldwide for large sedans is the com-

pletely new variable vehicle architecture. It is suited both for

electric drive with a fuel cell, enabling a range of around 600

kilometers, and for the application of a plug-in hybrid with

an overall range of around 700 kilometers, up to 30 of which

can be driven on electricity alone. Both variants of the

F 800 Style thus enable locally emission-free mobility on a

premium level, combined with complete everyday usability.

PLUg-IN-HyBRID In the hybrid version, Mercedes engineers

placed particular emphasis on the further development of

electric-only driving in urban traffic. The drive unit consists of

a V6 gasoline engine with an output of approximately 220 kW

[300 hp], next-generation direct injection and a hybrid mod-

ule with an output of about 80 kW [109 hp]. The lithium-ion

battery with a storage capacity of > 10 kWh is mounted in

the interests of space and best-possible protection beneath

the rear seat bench. It can be charged at charging stations

or household power outlets and enables an electric range

of up to 30 kilometers. The powerful and high-torque hybrid

module is fully integrated into the casing of the 7G-TRONIC

seven-speed automatic. Its high power reserves enable a

top speed of 120 km/h in electric mode. The overall power

output of the hybrid drive is around 300 kW [409 hp], guar-

anteeing performance of sports-car caliber. Yet, due to the

efficient drive and a CO2 bonus for battery-electric operation,

the F 800 Style achieves a certified fuel consumption of

only 2.9 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers. With its highly

efficient drive, the F 800 Style marks a further important

step toward market-readiness for the plug-in hybrids that

Mercedes-Benz will put into series production with the next

generation S-Class.

FUEL CELL ELECTRIC DRIVE The F 800 Style also offers

clean driving fun with an electric drive system based on fuel

cell technology. The approx. 100 kW [136 hp] electric motor

generates refined torque of around 290 Nm. The F 800 Style

is characterized by innovations that are already in a close-

to-production stage of development. The fuel cell compo-

nents, which can be used flexibly, come from the modular

Mercedes-Benz platform for electric vehicles and are already

mULTIFUNCTIONAL From the telephone, audio and navigation system

to the internet – thanks to the multifunctional HMI Cam-Touch-Pad the

vehicle functions can be operated intuitively and comfortably.

being built in low-volume series production for the B-Class

F-CELL. They are suited to different drive configurations,

meaning that they also work in the F 800 Style, which,

contrary to the B-Class F-CELL, is rear-wheel drive. In the

research vehicle, the fuel cell is mounted in the front of the

vehicle while the compact electric drive is located close to

the rear axle. The lithium-ion battery behind the rear seats

is also afforded the best possible protection in the event

of an accident, as are the four hydrogen tanks.

HmI WITH CAm-TOUCH-PAD The many innovations in the

F 800 Style include a new operating and display concept

that, for the first time, is conceived primarily for electric drive

functions. The new Cam-Touch-Pad HMI is a highly user-

friendly expansion of the COMAND system. The operating

unit consists of one touchpad in the center console and a

camera that records video images of the user’s hand on the

touchpad. In the live image, the hand is displayed transpa-

rently in the monitor above the center console. The user sees

the contours of his or her fingers moving over the image

without concealing anything. The menu functions – including

air conditioning, phone, audio and navigation system, as well

as internet service – can be controlled via light pressure on

the touchpad. Thanks to its extremely simple, intuitive and

comfortable operation, the driver is less distracted from the

traffic situation, meaning that the system has a role to play in

the further improvement of active safety.

DIsTRONIC PLUs TRAFFIC JAm VEHICLE FOLLOW AssIsT

In 2005, Mercedes-Benz launched with DISTRONIC PLUS the

world’s first proximity and cruise control system that oper-

ates right down to a complete standstill. The new function

DISTRONIC PLUS Traffic Jam Vehicle Follow Assist presented

in the F 800 Style is the world’s first system that is also able to

follow the vehicle in front through bends. The necessary data

is generated by the radar proximity sensors and an additional

stereo camera. Up to a speed of approx. 40 km/h, the system

takes over both longitudinal and transverse movements, mean-

ing that the driver no longer has to steer. Instead, he or she

can – with hands on the steering wheel – sit back and relax. At

speeds of more than 40 km/h, the Traffic Jam Vehicle Follow

Assist is gradually deactivated by successively reducing the

steering force. Naturally, the driver can override the system at

any time. DISTRONIC PLUS Traffic Jam Vehicle Follow Assist is

the next logical step in the Mercedes-Benz safety philosophy

and forms a further milestone on the road of innovative tech-

nologies that will continue to increase the high level of driving

comfort in future vehicles that is so characteristic of Mercedes.

V6 gasoline engine

Power and control electronics

7G-TRONIC automatic transmission

Gasoline tank Hybrid module

Lithium-ion battery

2

1

3

2

1 3

Lithium-ion battery

Electric motor with reduction gear

Onboard loader Fuel cell

Hydrogen tanks

DIsTRONIC PLUs TRAFFIC JAm VEHICLE FOLLOW AssIsT The system

monitors and analyzes the traffic situation with a range of approx. 50 m

ahead [light gray area] and follows the vehicle in front through bends.

DIsTRONIC PLUs Traffic Jam Vehicle Follow Assist

as DISTRONIC PLUS STEER CONTROL in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2013

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTIONWith the F 800 Style Mercedes-Benz is giving a preview of the future of the pioneering luxury sedan.

021020 F 800 Style Efficiency meets elegancemercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

With its DIESOTTO drive the touring sedan of the future unites the environmentally relevant benefits of the gasoline engine and diesel.F 700

Mercedes-Benz

››  PRE-SCAN door laser scanner in the base of the exterior mirror on the driver’s

side to identify obstacles in the door opening range

›› Enhanced hybrid drive

››  DIESOTTO engine combining the strengths of the low-emission gasoline engine

with the diesel engine’s fuel economy

››  PRE-SCAN suspension advance identification of road conditions and highly sensitive

reaction to uneven patches of road surface

››  Contour illumination all round

››  Innovative, generously large and flexible interior

including a REVERSE seat in the rear

››  SERVO-HMI novel operating concept›› LEDs for driving and daytime driving lights

For luxurious travel

LOCATION Frankfurt International Motor Show [IAA], Germany

INTRODUCTION 2007

OBJECTIVE Combining outstanding ride comfort with a high standard of environmental compatibility,

good performance and exceptionally low fuel consumption

DRIVE sysTEm Four-cylinder DIESOTTO engine [1.8-liter displacement, 175 kW/238 hp]

combined with a hybrid module [15 kW/20 hp]

022 023 F 700 For luxurious travelmercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

AVATAR A virtual assistant supports the driver of the

F 700 in spoken dialogue when operating the functions

integrated in the vehicle.

mercedes-Benz F 700

120 V high-voltage battery

Hybrid module with an integral starter-alternator:

additional output of 15 kW [20 hp]

a displacement of 1.8 liters, which nonetheless delivers the

superior performance typical of a luxury-class sedan. A two-

stage turbocharger is responsible for the engine’s excellent

response and high-torque accelerating power. In addition, on

ignition, the hybrid module electric motor assists the internal

combustion engine. The maximum engine output is 175 kW

[238 hp]; the electric motor develops another 15 kW [20 hp],

and the system’s maximum torque is as high as 400 newton-

meters. Acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h in

7.5 seconds is testament to the dynamism of the F 700,

whose top speed is limited to 200 km/h. Despite this

outstanding performance, the F 700 has a fuel consumption

in the EU driving cycle of just 5.3 liters [44.3 mpg], which

corresponds to carbon dioxide emissions of 127 grams –

an extremely low level for a car of this size.

ANTICIpATORy INTELLIgENCE The F 700 likewise takes an

important step toward the future when it comes to suspen-

sion technology. Active PRE-SCAN suspension makes the

vehicle extremely responsive to uneven road surfaces as well

as allowing it to anticipate situations. The “eyes” of the

PRE-SCAN system are two laser sensors in the front head-

lamp modules, which deliver a precise picture of the road

surface conditions. The control unit uses this picture to

calculate parameters for the active suspension with the goal

of providing the highest possible level of comfort.

THE EyEs OF THE F 700 Two vertical rows of LED line arrays

with a lens system in front serve as driving lights. A third ver-

tical row of individual high-performance LEDs functions as

daytime driving lights. Together with the all-round contour

illumination, the lights give the F 700 an unmistakable appear-

ance, including at night. Even the driver’s door “watches” its

environment closely. A highly compact laser scanner is ac-

commodated in the base of the wing mirror on the PRE-SCAN

door. It checks for obstacles in the door opening range. If

there is a danger of the door hitting an obstacle, it is locked

in position by a hydraulic cylinder.

The F 700 combines outstanding ride comfort with a high standard of environmental compatibility and good performance with low consumption.

RELAx pOsITION The REVERSE seat in the F 700 can be flexibly

adjusted and even swiveled to face the opposite direction. Thanks to

the monitor with 3D technology and a surround sound system a real

cinema atmosphere is created.

syNERgy The Mercedes-Benz F 700 presents the future of

the superior touring sedan. It demonstrates innovative ap-

proaches and technologies for using resources sparingly, pro-

tecting the environment and permitting the driver and pas-

sengers to travel in a completely relaxed style. At the heart

of the F 700 is a novel powertrain. DIESOTTO combines the

advantages of the low-emission gasoline engine with the

diesel’s fuel economy. For the first time, the diesel’s principle

of [controlled homogeneous] charge compression ignition is

incorporated in a gasoline engine. Also, thanks to homoge-

neous combustion at reduced reaction temperatures, nitro-

gen oxide emissions are minimized.

DOwNsIzINg Moreover, the reduction in displacement and

the number of cylinders improves the degree of efficiency.

The F 700 is powered by a compact four-cylinder engine with

RELAx pOsITION AND CINEmA ATmOspHERE Four people

are accommodated in the classic arrangement, with all of

them facing in the direction of travel. If the front passenger’s

seat is unoccupied, the rear seat on the right-hand side

[near side] can be adjusted to a relax position at the push of

a button. In addition, the REVERSE seat can be swiveled so

that the occupant faces away from the direction of travel – if

they wish to talk face-to-face with the person opposite, or to

work, rest, or indulge in some audiovisual entertainment.

A 51-centimeter monitor, 3D technology and surround sound

system create a genuine cinema atmosphere.

sERVO-HmI The research engineers developed SERVO-HMI

to improve physiological safety. The driving and vehicle infor-

mation displayed by the system appears at the lower edge of

the windscreen, but seems to be further away from the driver.

As a result, the driver’s eyes no longer tire from the constant

shifting of focus from near vision to far vision as they do in a

conventional cockpit. The navigation, communication, phone

and audio/entertainment systems are operated by means of

a rotary/pushbutton control on the center console. A pleas-

ant climate is crucial for comfort. The inconspicuous and

draught-free automatic climate control system is operated by

means of a separate rotary/pushbutton on the center console.

The control panel automatically recognizes whether it is be-

ing operated by the driver or passenger, and correspondingly

activates the desired functions on the left or right-hand side.

AVATAR For more complex input functions, innovative sup-

port is provided by an individual assistant, known as AVATAR

in computer language. In the F 700, the AVATAR has the

identity of a young woman. She engages in dialogue with the

driver, asking for the destination in the navigation menu, for

instance, and confirming the voice input. Looking for num-

bers in the telephone directory and tuning the desired radio

station operate in much the same way. This form of dialogue

simplifies voice control and improves the system’s speech

recognition. Furthermore, the scope of a dialogue assistant

function can be expanded almost infinitely. The AVATAR can,

for instance, serve as a virtual assistant and access online

databases via an on-board internet link, make new entries in

the driver’s appointment calendar, or read out important

e-mails. Through dialogue-controlled operation, distractions

are reduced to a minimum – safety is, after all, always writ

large at Mercedes-Benz.

DIEsOTTO sysTEm With controlled charge compression ignition the

diesel’s principle is integrated in the gasoline engine – and ensures

very low nitrogen oxide emissions.

7G-TRONIC

automatic transmission

pRE-sCAN suspension

as Magic Body Control in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2013

iNNovatioNs iN series ProDuCtioN

025024 F 700 For luxurious travelmercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

F 600HYGENIUS

The further development of fuel cell technology points the way to climate-friendly mobility of the future.

››  Innovative operating concept with virtual display

›› Flashing brake lights in emergency braking maneuvers

››  Expanded PRE-SAFE® protection with active knee protection and head restraints with automatically

extending side bolsters for supporting the head

››   Innovative driver’s seat with automatic adjustment to body contours and support of spinal discs

››  Interior appointments and seats matched to the needs of families

››  Two-part boot-lid for maximum variability

››  Video cameras

for risk-free alighting and safe lane changes

››  Revised COMAND system for even easier operation

››  High-performance light-emitting diodes

for all light functions

››  Space-saving front doors

swivel upwards

Mercedes-Benz

›› Further developed fuel cell hybrid drive

CLEAN .

POWERFUL . COMFORTABLE .

LOCATION Tokyo Motor Show, Tokyo, Japan

INTRODUCTION 2005

OBJECTIVE Further development of the fuel cell drive, family-friendly interior,

innovative operating concept, extended PRE-SAFE® system

DRIVE sysTEm Fuel cell with electric motor, peak output 85 kW [115 hp], continuous output 60 kW [82 hp]

026 027 F 600 HYGENIUS Powerful. Comfortable. Clean.mercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

With the novel virtual display in the F 600 HYGENIUS Mercedes-Benz renders an important contribution to physiological safety.

FAmILy AUTOmOBILE OF TOmORROW Thanks to many

detailed solutions, such as the child-friendly design of the seats,

the F 600 HYGENIUS is the perfect family automobile of the future.

LIGHT TECHNOLOGy Light-emitting diodes are also used for

the rear and brake lights of the F 600 HYGENIUS. In emergency braking

maneuvers flashing brake lights warn the drivers behind.

VIDEO CAmERAs FOR ENHANCED sAFETy Cameras in the

wing-mirror housings monitor the area alongside and behind

the car, including when the F 600 HYGENIUS research car is

being parked. When another car or a cyclist approaches from

behind, the system automatically locks the relevant door for

a short while to prevent a collision. An audible alarm sounds

and a red danger symbol appears in the mirror glass. While

the vehicle is moving, cameras monitor the two wing-mirrors’

blind spots and, on changing lanes, the driver is warned if

another vehicle is too close behind. Images appearing on

the two high-resolution color displays in the dashboard are

deflected by two mirrors and projected in such a way that

they appear to be 1.40 meters in front of the driver. With this

novel virtual display technology, Mercedes-Benz renders an

important contribution to physiological safety because the

driver needs less time to refocus from the more distant traf-

fic situation to the cockpit display. Scientific studies confirm

that, with this technology, the driver’s eyes do not have to

adapt from short-range to long-range vision and therefore do

not tire as quickly.

HIGH-PERFORmANCE LIGHT-EmITTING DIODEs FOR ALL

LIGHT FUNCTIONs The engineers also concerned them-

selves with light technology. Headlights with high-performance

light-emitting diodes improve the driver’s vision in the dark

and help prevent accidents. The LEDs are allocated to three

projection modules which ensure wide and even distribution.

The middle light module is activated in specific driving situ-

ations and also functions as the full beam, cornering light

and turning indicator. The individual light-emitting diodes are

activated to perform different light functions; the conventional

moving parts required for cornering lights are no longer

necessary. Mercedes-Benz also uses LEDs for the rear and

brake lights. In case of emergency braking maneuvers, flash-

ing brake lights warn drivers behind and reduce the risk of

rear-end collisions.

PREVENTIVE PRE-sAFE® PROTECTION The preventive

PRE-SAFE® occupant protection system, which made its

worldwide debut in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class in 2002,

is to be the subject of further engineering refinement. The

F 600 HYGENIUS offers two additional protection systems,

namely active knee protection for supporting the front pas-

senger, and automatically extending side bolsters to restrain

the head. These and other PRE-SAFE® features are activated

before an imminent accident to prepare the occupants and

the car itself for the impact. When the accident actually

occurs, seat belts and airbags provide maximum protection.

If the accident is prevented at the last minute, the reversible

PRE-SAFE® systems return to their original settings.

TREND-sETTING DRIVE sysTEm The Mercedes-Benz

F 600 HYGENIUS continues the series of fascinating and

groundbreaking research cars. Powered by an 85 kW [115 hp]

zero-emission fuel cell drive, the compact family car con-

sumes the equivalent of just 2.9 liters per 100 kilometers

[81 mpg] and has a range of over 400 kilometers on one

tank filling of hydrogen. Mercedes-Benz has also significantly

improved performance characteristics and cold-start be-

havior with this forward-looking drive system. The extensively

reworked fuel cell of the F 600 HYGENIUS is some 40 percent

smaller than before, operates even more efficiently, and is

exceptional for its good cold-start ability. The continuous

output of the fuel cell drive is 60 kW [82 hp]. Energy not

required for driving the car is stored in a high-performance

lithium-ion battery. The system therefore operates rather like

a hybrid drive and selects the source of energy best-suited

to the driving situation. The generous amount of energy made

available by the fuel cell can also be used for the well-being

of the passengers in the F 600 HYGENIUS. The cup holders, for

instance, cool or heat beverages with electricity generated by

the environment-friendly unit. Via a conventional power out-

let, electrical appliances can be operated at normal voltage.

If required, the fuel cell can also function as a mobile power

plant: its electric power output of 66 kW is enough to supply

several one-family houses with electricity.

COmPACT CAR WITH THE COmFORTABLE sPACE OF A

LUXURy mODEL Despite its compact body, the space inside

the four-door F 600 HYGENIUS surpasses the dimensions con-

ventionally found in the luxury class. The distance between

the front and rear seats is a generous 95 centimeters and

can be increased by up to 40 centimeters by moving the in-

dividual rear seats further back. With its host of well-thought-

out details, the F 600 HYGENIUS is a perfect family car. The

seats, for instance, are designed to match the needs of

children and families. Thanks to a new design, both sides of

the back of the front passenger and single rear seats can be

used. Moving the seat forward allows a rear-facing ISOFIX

child’s seat to be engaged. The driver’s seat features two-

part backrest padding, whose height, width and angle can

be precisely adjusted to the driver’s body shape by means of

electric motors. It therefore offers firm support, especially at

waist height. The backrest is mounted to follow the move-

ments of the upper body, thereby reducing the strain on the

spinal discs in every seating position.

Expanded PRE-sAFE® protection

with active knee protection as a kneebag in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Flashing brake lights in emergency braking maneuvers

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Further developed fuel cell hybrid drive

in the Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL

2005

2009

2009

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

029028 F 600 HYGENIUS Powerful. Comfortable. Clean.mercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

On board the F 500 Mind, new technologies for the powertrain, operation and car comfort were tested.F 500

MIND

››  Electronic pedals for accelerator and brake

››  Diesel hybrid drive a strong duo: V8 diesel and electric motor

››  Night View system with infrared laser headlights up to a range of 150 meters

››  Variable door concept with two different opening options

››  Holographic image projection in the rear a novel holographic information and entertainment system

for the rear passengers

››  Multi-vision display a novel display and operating concept which combines the speedometer,

rev counter, navigation display and other instruments with each other

››  Ultrasonic technology providing the driver with specific information

Mercedes-Benz

RESEARCH LAB 

››  All-glass roof for a light-flooded interior

››  High-performance light-emitting diodes as daytime driving lights

››  Touchpad in the center console and switches with novel sensors

››  Electronically controlled steering cables transmit the driver’s steering and braking commands

as data to two electric motors

ON WHEELS

LOCATION Tokyo Motor Show, Tokyo, Japan

INTRODUCTION 2003

OBJECTIVE Testing of the hybrid drive, new door and interior concept, electronic driver information system

DRIVE sysTEm V8 diesel engine [184 kW/250 hp] in combination with an electric motor [50 kW/68 hp]

030 031 F 500 Mind Research lab on wheelsmercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

ThE BEsT Of BOTh wORLDs The hybrid drive system comprising

diesel engine and electric motor reduces urban fuel consumption by

up to 20 percent compared to conventional drive systems.

NEw DIsPLAy AND OPERATING CONCEPT The gauges in the multi-

vision display are freely programmable. This means that lots of informa-

tion can be called up at the touch of a button on the steering wheel.

offers more legroom in the rear than other sedans in its

category. Progress comes in the form of novel electronic

accelerator and brake pedals. They consist of force-sensitive

surfaces with sensors that transmit, in the form of electric

pulses, the driver’s commands to the engine and the SBC™

brake system. The greater the driver’s foot pressure on a

pressure plate, the more vigorously the car accelerates or

brakes. These innovative pedals take up less space than con-

ventional ones and hardly protrude into the interior compart-

ment at all, which enlarges the front footwell by 12 centi-

meters. This means that the driver’s and front passenger’s

seats can be moved forward to provide more space for the

back-seat passengers. At the same time, passive safety is

enhanced as the pedals are not pushed into the interior

compartment in the event of a crash. The steering of the

research car is also electronically controlled.

NOVEL DIsPLAy AND OPERATING CONCEPT The multi-

vision display in the cockpit of the F 500 Mind forms the

key element of a novel operating and display concept which

offers drivers a wider range of information, while at the same

time relieving stress. The gauges in the display are freely

programmable; their pictorial information can be superim-

posed by means of a semi-transparent mirror, or they can be

combined with each other. At the push of a steering-wheel

button, the driver can retrieve a variety of information that is

always displayed well within their field of vision without caus-

ing distraction. Another display, above the center console, is

coupled with a touchpad whose controls mirror those of the

display. It is used to control the navigation system, radio, air

conditioning, phone and other systems, simply by lightly tap-

ping the touchpad. Other switches and buttons are fitted with

special sensors that identify the driver’s approaching hand

at a distance of several centimeters. The central display then

instantly switches to the relevant function to facilitate opera-

tion. A highly-developed voice control system and a driver

information system based on ultrasonic technology offer

further operational convenience. Thanks to the ultrasonic

technology, only the driver hears the navigation system’s

instructions, traffic news and other acoustic information

– the front and rear passengers of the F 500 Mind are not

disturbed.

NIGhT VIEw sysTEm fOR ENhANCED sAfETy In the

dark or poor visibility conditions, the innovative Night View

function appears on the right-hand display of the instrument

cluster. Night View consists of two infrared laser headlamps

whose invisible light illuminates the road up to 150 meters

ahead. A camera in the windscreen of the F 500 Mind

captures the headlamps’ light as it is reflected by other road

users, and converts the signals into an unambiguous black-

and-white picture which is shown in the multi-vision display.

The driver thus becomes aware of potential danger spots

much earlier than they would if relying on standard low-beam

headlights that illuminate about 40 meters of the road ahead.

teries, as the car also features a 50 kW electric motor that

works either by itself or in conjunction with the internal com-

bustion engine. An electronic control unit that adapts to the

traffic situation and driving style perfectly coordinates the

engine and motor. The electric motor, for instance, powers

the car when it starts up, in stop-and-go traffic and in other

situations where the internal combustion engine, by virtue of

its design principles, does not develop optimum efficiency.

Should the driver require higher engine output, the V8 engine

cuts in to provide dynamic acceleration. The electric drive’s

300-volt battery is recharged during braking. This sophisti-

cated engineering results in improved fuel economy – of up

to 20 percent, especially in city traffic – and significantly

lower emissions compared with a conventional propulsion

system. The concept of the F 500 Mind already anticipates

future emission regulations.

CENTRAL ROOf PILLAR IN ThE INTERIOR When designing

the shell, the research engineers were faced with the chal-

lenge of accommodating the unique variable door concept

and omitting full-length B-pillars. Their task was to find an

alternative to B-pillars, which normally contribute significantly

to the structural rigidity and crashworthiness of the body.

Computerized simulations, based on the finite-element meth-

od, gave the engineers the idea of a central roof pillar in

the middle section of the body. Together with the additional

cross-bracing in the floor and the solid side-skirt profiles,

which are particularly effective in case of a side impact, the

central pillar offers high bending and torsional strength. The

innovative structural element owes its special design to a

study, conducted specifically for this purpose, of visibility

conditions for the driver. As a result, the slightly curved

shape of the central pillar ensures that the driver’s view of

the sides and the rear is not impeded in any way.

ELECTRONIC PEDALs The all-glass roof makes for a light-

flooded interior compartment. With a body length of

5.09 meters and a wheelbase of 2.97 meters, the car clearly

hyBRID DRIVE The future will never cease to be exciting.

This is borne out by the Mercedes-Benz F 500 Mind, present-

ed in 2003. The four-door car served as a research lab on

wheels and demonstrated over a dozen technical ideas for

enhancing the safety, propulsion and comfort of future

Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. The innovation begins with

the hybrid drive, the first in the luxury car segment. It has the

ability to utilize different propulsion energies. If a great deal

of power is required, a V8 diesel engine with 184 kW [250 hp]

drives the F 500 Mind – and simultaneously charges the bat-

Night view system with infrared laser headlights

as Night View Assist in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Electronically controlled steering under the name

STEER CONTROL in the Mercedes-Benz B-Class

2005

2005

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

F 500 Mind: Forerunner of alternative drive technologies.

holographic information and entertainment

system for rear passengers as SPLITVIEW in the

Mercedes-Benz S-Class and in the Mercedes-Benz CL

2009

high-performance light-emitting diodes for

the daytime driving lights as the first fully dynamic

headlights in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

2010

033032 F 500 Mind Research lab on wheelsmercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

A research roadster with spectacular dynamic cornering.F 400CARVING

››  Steer-by-wire electronic steering system››  Brake-by-wire

electronic braking system

››  Xenon headlights

incorporating fiber-glass technology

››  Brake discs made of carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic

›› Active camber control›› Turn signals with high-performance LEDs

››  Aluminum space frame with a CFRP [carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic] body

››   Additional headlights for cornering

with a fog lamp function

Mercedes-Benz

SAFE DRIVING PLEASURE

››   Active hydropneumatics with a new type of Active Body Control [ABC]

LOCATION Tokyo Motor Show, Tokyo, Japan

INTRODUCTION 2001

OBJECTIVE Testing of novel dynamic handling systems

DRIVE sysTEm Four-stroke spark-ignition engine, six cylinders, 3.2-liter displacement,

160 kW [218 hp], rear-wheel drive, electrohydraulic five-speed manual transmission

034 035 F 400 Carving Safe driving pleasuremercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

sHORTER BRAKING DIsTANCE All four wheels are cambered

simultaneously during emergency braking.

The F 400 Carving seems to have stepped out of the future – thanks to its innovative engineering and its design.

Electronic braking system [brake-by-wire]

as the Sensotronic Brake Control [SBC] in the

Mercedes-Benz SL

Brake discs made of carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic

in the Mercedes-Benz CL 55 AMG F1

Additional headlights for cornering and fog lamps

in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

seats made of carbon fiber

in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

2000

2001

2002

2003

sAFETy, DyNAmICs, DRIVING PLEAsURE The F 300 Life Jet

research vehicle provided extensive insights into the active

wheel camber control for cars. The engineers then systemati-

cally extended their research work to a four-wheeled vehicle

and, in 2001, presented the F 400 Carving. In particular,

its systems enhance handling safety, driving dynamics and

motoring pleasure. The most conspicuous feature of the

F 400 Carving, which gets its name from the sporty carvers

on ski slopes, is the tilting of its wheels. When cornering,

the wheels on the outside of the bend tilt by as much as

20 degrees, which distinctly improves directional stability and

road-holding, and reduces the danger of skidding. Electronics

have been combined with mechanics to achieve this. Sensors

measure the road speed, acceleration, steering lock and

yaw of the car, and send control signals to the outer wheels’

hydraulic servo cylinders, causing them to tilt at a precisely

defined angle. The curb-side wheels, like the body, remain in

their normal position.

ACTIVE CAmBER ADJUsTmENT Thanks to the

F 400 Carving’s active camber control, the cornering forces,

compared with a contemporary car chassis, are up to 30

percent higher. Longitudinal forces are improved by up to

15 percent. Due to high lateral forces acting on the outer

wheels, lateral acceleration is up to 28 percent higher than

with sports cars built on conventional chassis technology.

This solution not only affords more dynamic cornering and

sporting agility, but also improves handling safety. This applies

in critical situations in particular, such as taking bends too

quickly or swerving suddenly. The risk of skidding caused by

under- or over-steering is eliminated by means of efficient

hydraulics. The system tilts one or more wheels briefly and to

a precisely computed angle, which increases the cornering

forces and stabilizes the vehicle. For emergency braking,

all four wheels can be cambered in a flash so that only the

insides of the tires, with their friction-optimized tread com-

pound, have contact with the road. This shortens the stop-

ping distance from 100 km/h by a good five meters. The

chassis technology also has the ability to change the tire

contact patch if aquaplaning threatens.

sPECIAL TIREs The success of the F 400 Carving is attri-

butable, in major part, to its tires. These were developed

specifically for this car and combine the advantages of car

tires with those of the motorcycle. The inner tire has a round-

ed tread to allow best cornering behavior; this tread also has

an especially high coefficient of friction. When the wheels

are tilted, the transmitted forces are particularly high. The

outer shoulder of the tire features a proven car tread and

good straight-line stability. The tire is mounted on a special

rim which ensures that, on a straight stretch, the research

car drives on only the part of the tread that is not arched.

On bends, thanks to the smaller inside diameter, the largest

possible tire contact patch is ensured.

ADVANCED ELECTRONICs Drive-by-wire technology was

a further development goal of the F 400 Carving. The

F 400 Carving does not have a mechanical linkage like a

steering column, with its spindles and joints, or links between

the brake pedal and brake booster. Instead, cables transmit

the driver’s steering and braking commands solely by elec-

tronic means. This allows for additional safety. In hazardous

situations, automatic steering correction reduces the risk of

skidding. The electronics compute and, as required, appor-

tion brake pressure to each wheel according to the situation,

thus ensuring highly reliable braking on bends, for example.

In addition to the standard on-board power supply, the

F 400 Carving is equipped with two 42-volt systems, mainly

for the electronic steering.

CERAmIC BRAKE DIsCs The brake discs are made of

carbon-fiber-reinforced ceramic, a high-tech material which

resists extreme temperatures in the range of 1400 to 1600° C

and permits optimal deceleration.

sUsPENsION AND LIGHT sysTEms The F 400 Carving fea-

tures a new kind of Active Body Control [ABC] coupled with

an active hydropneumatic system. This influences both the

springing and damping of the car. The result, once again, is

enhanced handling safety and better ride comfort. The head-

light system is another new development. The light source

and headlight proper are separate – glass fibers transmit the

combined light of the xenon bulbs to the apertures without

loss, where it is distributed across the roadway by special

lenses. This has special benefits for the design of the sports

car’s front, because the headlights occupy very little space.

On bends, depending on the angle of the wheels, additional

side headlights switch on; they also function as fog lamps.

The indicators are high-performance light-emitting diodes,

whose light is distributed by prismatic rods.

LIGHT mATERIAL mIX Research into materials was also

undertaken for the F 400 Carving. The body is made of

carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic [CFRP] and weighs just over

100 kilograms. The space-frame chassis is made of steel,

aluminum and CFRP.

LIGHTWEIGHT CONsTRUCTION The body and the seats

of the research vehicle consist of carbon fiber.

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

037036 F 400 Carving Safe driving pleasuremercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

F 300LiFe Jet

Perfect fun on three wheels.

›› Actively controlled rotational headlights››  Active Tilt Control [ATC]

›› �Light sensor

››  Shift-by-wire electrohydraulic manual transmission

Mercedes-Benz

tHe CURVe MASteR

›› Aluminum chassis with removable roof halves

››  Magnesium rims reduce the weight by approx. 15 percent

LOCATION��Frankfurt International Motor Show [IAA], Germany

INTRODUCTION��1997

OBJECTIVE��Feel and cornering dynamics of a motorcycle, combined with the safety and comfort of a car

DRIVE�SYSTEM��Four-stroke spark-ignition engine, four cylinders, 1.6-liter displacement, 75 kW [102 hp],

rear-wheel drive, electrohydraulic five-speed manual transmission featuring sequential gear change

038 039 F 300 Life Jet The curve masterMercedes-Benz���Evolution of Innovations

LIGHT�SENSOR��The headlight of the F 300 Life Jet is switched on

fully automatically at dusk or when entering a tunnel.

The F 300 Life Jet leans into bends thanks to Active Tilt Control.

UNADULTERATED�DRIVING�PLEASURE The development of

the F 300 Life Jet was initiated by a specific question: how

can the feel and cornering dynamics of a motorcycle be com-

bined with the safety and comfort of a car? Motorcyclists en-

joy the freedom offered by their vehicles: they lean into bends,

sense the power of the engine, are agile, feel at one with the

elements, and experience the unbridled pleasure of the road

– all of which are also part and parcel of the F 300 Life Jet.

Over and above this, it offers the advantages of a car: even

three wheels are more stable than two. The top can be closed,

and seat belts are provided. The motoring experience can be

shared with a second person inside the vehicle, both unim-

peded by protective clothing, helmet and wind noise. And air

conditioning makes for pleasant temperatures.

BODY�LEANS�INTO�BENDS Never before had the world seen

a three-wheeler that leans into bends. To make this possible,

Active Tilt Control [ATC] was developed. A complex electronic

system computes the tilt angle, calculating the speed, accel-

eration, steering angle and yaw of the vehicle so that the tilt

always complies with the actual driving situation. The electron-

ic control commands are transmitted to a hydraulic cylinder

on the front axle. Depending on the steering angle, it presses

one of the two spring struts outwards so that wheel and body

adopt the tilt angle calculated by the computer. The maximum

angle of inclination is 30 degrees. Special tires that allow

large camber and slip angles were specially developed in co-

operation with a tire manufacturer.

LIGHTWEIGHT�CONSTRUCTION The chassis of the two-

seater is an aluminum construction weighing just 89 kilo-

grams. The bodywork styling resembles that of a jet. The

vehicle is as long as a regular car, but not as wide – so that it

can lean into bends. The F 300 Life Jet has room for two per-

sons seated one behind the other. The special features of the

body include an upward-opening, space-saving, hinged door

for the driver, a hinged door which swings to the rear for the

passenger, and a fixed two-part roof made of aluminum and

transparent plastic. In good weather, the two halves of the

roof can be removed in a jiffy and stowed in a compartment

aft of the rear wheel, thus converting the F 300 Life Jet into

an open roadster. The rims of the F 300 Life Jet are made of

magnesium and tip the scales at only about 75 percent

of what a conventional aluminum motorcycle rim weighs.

INNOVATIVE�HEADLIGHTS The lighting technology is in

keeping with the unusual vehicle concept. The headlight

has three reflector sections and two bulbs. The headlight

electronics ensure the best possible roadway illumination

including in bends. They are linked to the Active Tilt Control

computer and turn the headlight to conform to the body tilt;

when required, they also cut in a special cornering light.

This increases the range of the low-beam headlight by more

MOTORING�FUN�ON�THREE�WHEELS��The Active Tilt Control [ATC]

at the front axle tilts the wheels and body to the side in the bend,

facilitating much higher cornering speeds.

than 80 percent. A light sensor controls the beam: the light

comes on automatically at dusk and when the vehicle enters

a tunnel. Neon lamps are used for the indicators, brake lights

and marker lights. The slender tubes are accommodated in

the wings.

FROM�THE�COMPUTER�TO�THE�WORLD�OF�RESEARCH

The F 300 Life Jet was the first research vehicle to be

designed entirely on the computer and then brought to life.

It thus served not only as a proving model for new vehicle

equipment, but also to test a design tool called CASCADE

[Computer Aided Simulation of Car, Driver and Environment],

developed by Daimler. From a very early stage, the computer

was able to deliver data on the F 300 Life Jet’s handling by

means of simulation. The company consistently adopts an

unconventional approach in the interests of developing both

the automobile and mobility – as demonstrated by the F 300

Life Jet. The F 300 Life Jet may be capable of establishing a

new type of vehicle, combining everything required to fulfill

the modern desire for perfect enjoyment on wheels: the

fresh-air feel of a convertible, the individuality of a roadster,

the performance of a sports car, the comfort of a compact

car, and the safety of a Mercedes-Benz.

TRANSMISSION�WITH�A�SEQUENTIAL�GEARSHIFT

The engine – a 1.6-liter unit from the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

– and the electrohydraulic transmission [shift-by-wire] are

installed in a space-saving position between the interior and

the rear wheel. Power is transmitted via a toothed belt to

the rear wheel. The 75 kW [102 hp] output allows accelera-

tion from standstill to 100 km/h in 7.7 seconds and a top

speed of 211 km/h. Consumption is around 5.3 liters per

100 kilometers [44.3 mpg]. To change gear, after stepping on

the clutch, the gear lever situated on the right of the cockpit

is moved lightly forward and backward. This technique is

known as “sequential gearshift”. It enables particularly rapid

gear change and underscores the dynamic character of the

F 300 Life Jet.

Light�sensor in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class1998

iNNOVAtiONS iN SeRieS PRODUCtiON

JET�COCkPIT��The steering wheel, instruments, shift lever

and seats make the driver feel like they are sitting in the cockpit

of an airplane.

041040 F 300 Life Jet The curve masterMercedes-Benz���Evolution of Innovations

F 200 A glimpse of the future – the F 200 Imagination uses sidesticks and does without a steering wheel – thanks to electronics.

›› Video cameras in place of rear-view mirrors

››  Active Body Control [ABC]

››  Window airbag

›› Electro-transparent panoramic glass roof

››  Forward-looking dynamic handling control system

IMAGINATION

››  Headlight system featuring variable light distribution

Mercedes-Benz

A New

››  Voice recognition for mobile phone

›› Swiveling gullwing doors

››  Drive-by-wire sidesticks instead of a steering wheel

drIvING seNsATION

LOCATION Paris Motor Show, France

INTRODUCTION 1996

OBJECTIVE Testing of new ergonomic concepts based on drive-by-wire technology, cockpit design

DRIVE SYSTEM Four-stroke spark-ignition engine, 12 cylinders, six-liter displacement, 290 kW [394 hp],

rear-wheel drive, five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission

042 043 F 200 Imagination A new driving sensationMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Headlight system featuring variable light distribution

as bi-xenon headlights with Active Light Function in the

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The form and function of technological progress can be experienced in the F 200 Imagination with drive-by-wire technology.

Voice recognition for mobile phone

under the name LINGUATRONIC in the

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Active Body Control [ABC] in the Mercedes-Benz CL

Electro-transparent panoramic glass roof

in the Maybach 62

Headlight system featuring variable light distribution

as bi-xenon headlights with Active Light Function in the

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Swiveling gullwing doors

in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

1996

1998

1999

2002

2003

INNOvATIONs IN serIes PrOdUCTION

2009

Window airbag in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

NEW ERGONOMIC CONCEPT Does the car of the future

still have a steering wheel and foot-operated controls? The

Mercedes-Benz F 200 Imagination systematically tested a

new ergonomic concept and was the product of the joint ef-

forts of engineers and designers. Sidesticks – small joysticks

in the doors and the center console for steering and braking

– replace the steering wheel. The signals are exclusively

transmitted electronically to the relevant components. The

conventional mechanical control elements used by the driver

are now linked to electric and hydraulic actuators, and elec-

tronic pulses carry out the desired actions. Drive-by-wire is a

technical solution that also allows the interior to be improved,

for example. If the steering wheel and the pedals are removed,

the passengers have more space and thus more comfort. It

also enhances safety because the cockpit and footwell can

be designed completely differently.

VISIONARY DYNAMIC HANDLING The F 200 Imagination

embodies the systematic networking of electronic systems.

One result is futuristic dynamic handling. The electronics

recognize the driver’s commands as requests for a certain

driving mode – accelerate, brake, steer, reverse – and decide

in a flash how to comply with the commands in the best

and safest manner. In response to the actual situation, the

computer utilizes the information from various sensors con-

cerning travel, wheel and engine speed, road conditions and

body movement. Based on the data, the computer decides,

for example, how sharply the wheels should be turned when

cornering, or what engine speed is appropriate for driving

on a wet road. The system is interlinked with the active sus-

pension Active Body Control [ABC]. Even in critical traffic

situations, the electronics keep the car safely on course by

intervening at lightning speed to regulate steering, braking,

engine or transmission management and chassis control.

The driver can fully utilize the technical capabilities of the car

without transgressing physical limits – a genuine advantage

for safety. The electronically controlled rear spoiler system

of the F 200 Imagination also enhances safety, setting itself

upright in a flash and creating drag for better deceleration

when an emergency braking situation is detected.

HEADLIGHTS FOLLOW THE STEERING MOVEMENT

The F 200 Imagination research car presents further innova-

tive technology. The headlights, for instance, feature variable

light distribution. Six individual reflectors in each module,

each with a separate bulb, are switched on and off depend-

ing on the situation and speed. This ensures optimum light

without dazzling oncoming traffic. In bends, the light follows

the wheel angle set by the driver, thus enhancing safety when

driving at night. At high speeds on freeways, an additional

spot reflector is switched on to improve the illumination of

the roadway far ahead. The rear end sports a very compact

light unit, incorporating nine separate functions: turn signal,

rear light, rear fog lamp, brake light, reversing light, rear

reflector, side reflector, side-marker light and ambient light.

The unobtrusive indicator panel – a slender, arched neon tube

– is distinguished by high luminous power and a long life.

DEBUT OF THE WINDOW AIRBAG Safety has always been a

priority for Mercedes-Benz. This commitment is demonstrat-

ed in the F 200 Imagination by the first-ever window airbag.

It inflates across the side walls and considerably reduces the

risk of head injuries in side crashes and roll-overs. Since the

coupé study does not have a steering wheel, the front airbags

are incorporated in a kneepad underneath the dashboard.

VIDEO CAMERAS INSTEAD OF REAR-VIEW MIRRORS

Instead of the conventional rear-view mirrors, the experts

installed a video system with five permanent mini-cameras.

Four of them are discreetly concealed in the roof frame

struts on each side of the car and, out on the road, they con-

stantly monitor the areas alongside and behind the vehicle.

The fifth camera is in the rear bumper and automatically

switches on when the vehicle reverses. The images appear

on various monitors in the vehicle interior, where normally

the mirrors would be located.

FINDINGS FOR LARGE-SCALE PRODUCTION

Especially when considering its overall characteristics,

the F 200 Imagination is revealed as a truly pioneering re-

search vehicle. Its electronics prepared the ground for new

concepts and will play an even greater role in future cars.

The F 200 Imagination was the forerunner of a special

Mercedes-Benz SL in the R 129 series. It was equipped with

electronic steering and sidesticks for test purposes in 1998

and was used for intensive trials. Although steering, braking

and accelerating with sidesticks requires the driver to think

differently, it opens up new dimensions in driving dynamics,

ride comfort and handling safety. The steering ratio and

steering forces can be customized and adapted to specific

situations. To brake, the foot no longer has to move from

the accelerator to the brake pedal, which enables the driver

to respond more quickly.

SIDESTICKS WITH DRIVE-BY-WIRE Small joysticks in the doors and

the center console replace the steering wheel and pedals. Signals are

transmitted electronically instead of mechanically.

ELECTRO-TRANSPARENT PANORAMIC GLASS ROOF The glass roof

can be darkened at the touch of a button – thanks to a liquid crystal

film of electrically conductive plastic which reacts to electric current.

044 045 F 200 Imagination A new driving sensationMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Thanks to its modular design the Vario Research Car can adapt to meet individual needs.

Mercedes-Benz

VARIOFOUR CARS IN ONE

RESEARCH CAR

›› Light and sturdy bodies of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic [CFRP]

›› Interchangeable bodies sedan, estate, convertible and pickup on one and the same chassis,

conversion achieved within 15 minutes›› Safety display coupled to traffic sign evaluation function and distance warning radar ›› Drive-by-wire

steering and brakes are electronically activated

›› Active Body Control [ABC]

›› Central rotary control to operate electronic functions

›› Color display

›› Navigation system

LOCATION Geneva Motor Show, Switzerland

INTRODUCTION 1995

OBJECTIVE Variable vehicle concepts, ergonomics

DRIVE sysTEm Front-wheel drive,

continuously variable automatic transmission

046 047 Vario Research Car Four cars in onemercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

mODULE 4 Estate with a spacious luggage compartmentmODULE 1 Convertible with a soft top mODULE 3 Sedan with seats for four passengersmODULE 2 Pickup with a large cargo space

Diversity with the Vario Research Car: it can be an appealing estate car with plenty of load space, or a two-door coupé.

in combination with a continuously variable automatic trans-

mission – as well as active suspension Active Body Control

[ABC] in the interests of enhanced handling safety and

comfort.

COLOR sAFETy DIsPLAy The cockpit contains a color

display, showing the driver all the required information. The

rotary actuator installed on the center console enables the

driver to control the entire menu selectively. It includes not

only the rev counter, trip computer and trip odometer, but

also route recommendations from the on-board navigation

system. A special feature is the safety display in conjunction

with the traffic sign evaluation system. If the driver keeps

to the official speed limit, it shows a green circle. If he or

she drives faster or does not maintain the correct distance

from the vehicle in front, the color and shape of the symbol

change – the circle turns into a yellow ellipse or a red

triangle, depending on whether the driver exceeds the speed

limit or falls below the safe distance. This function requires

the on-board electronics to be coupled with distance radar

and traction control. The upper part of the center console

accommodates a second display which, among other things,

shows information on the air conditioning settings and

navigation system. Also, when the driver stops to refuel, the

system indicates whether the tire pressure, engine oil, cool-

ant and windscreen wash levels and the lights are in order.

While driving, additional functions cannot be selected, so

that the driver is not distracted from the traffic. Front pas-

sengers have unimpeded access, however, to all secondary

information. The rotary control “senses” whether the display

is being touched by the left hand [front passenger] or right

hand [driver].

DRIVE-By-WIRE FOR sTEERING AND BRAKEs The Vario

Research Car was the first research car from Mercedes-Benz

featuring drive-by-wire technology, in which the steering and

the brakes, for example, are activated electrically with no

mechanical steering or braking. By way of the Vario Research

Car, Mercedes-Benz has underpinned its strengths, namely

the holistic design of new vehicles – and the ability to put

them on wheels, ready to run.

TREND-sETTING CHAssIs TECHNOLOGy Depending on the body

variant the chassis is tuned to the respective vehicle model thanks to

Active Body Control [ABC].

formed into a different car. Whatever trip you’re planning,

you need only one car thanks to the variable body options of

the Vario Research Car. On weekdays it’s a sedan. For longer

journeys, the load capacity of an estate car is available.

In the summer, the sun invites you to take an open-top ride

in a convertible. And for heavy loads, there’s the pickup.

Mercedes-Benz fulfilled the task with a compact two-door

car. It has a one-piece body that consists of a roof, side walls

and rear section; the body can be lifted off and exchanged

for another variant. All that is needed is a few simple opera-

tions and a little time. The Vario Research Car was a vision:

customers would not themselves own the bodies but would

drive up to a rental station. Service technicians would

exchange the body and a few minutes later, the customer

would be on the road again. The driver could decide how long

to use a particular body variant, because the rental system

would be just as flexible as the car itself.

NEW mATERIALs The bodies are light and sturdy, as they

are made of the high-tech material CFRP – carbon-fiber-rein-

forced plastic. Compared with aluminum, CFRP is 25 percent

lighter; what’s more, it’s exceptionally strong. Weighing only

30 to 50 kilograms each, despite their lightweight design the

bodies afford a high level of stability and crashworthiness.

FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE AND ACTIVE sUsPENsION The

Vario Research Car served the purpose of further testing the

front-wheel drive concept in a Mercedes-Benz – in this case

Color display in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Active Body Control [ABC] in the Mercedes-Benz CL

Central rotary control to operate electronic functions

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

safety display coupled to traffic sign evaluation

function and distance warning radar

under the name Speed Limit Assist and DISTRONIC

PLUS in the Mercedes-Benz S- and E-Class

Navigation system in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class1995

1998

1999

2005

2009

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

COLOR DIsPLAy IN THE CENTER CONsOLE The screen shows

important information on settings, e.g. for the air conditioning and

navigation system. The rotary switch recognizes whether it is being

used by the driver or front passenger.

FOUR CARs IN ONE Variability was the design focus of the

Vario Research Car [VRC] by Mercedes-Benz, a car that

attracted great attention at its premiere at the 1995 Geneva

Motor Show. Within just a few minutes, the VRC can be trans-

048 049 Vario Research Car Four cars in onemercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

F 100Mercedes-Benz

Unbridled technology

The visionary first “F” from Mercedes-Benz represents a new type of automobile.

›› Central driver’s seat

›› Linear windshield wipers

›› Novel door concept

›› Autonomous intelligent cruise control

›› Gas-discharge headlights››  Radar system

for monitoring following traffic

›› Sophisticated ergonomics

›› Electronic tire pressure monitoring

››  Prismatic rod-type taillights

›› Rain sensor›› Sandwich floor

›› Reversing camera›› Solar cell roof

›› Lane Keeping Assist

›› Proximity warning radar

››  Optical fibers for signal transmission ›› Electric parking brake

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

INTRODUCTION 1991

OBJECTIVE Seat and door concept, passive and active safety, ergonomics

DRIVE sysTEm Four-stroke spark-ignition engine with six cylinders, 2.6-liter displacement,

143 kW [194 hp], front-wheel drive, three-speed automatic transmission

050 051 F 100   Unbridled technologymercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Mercedes-Benz F 100 gave tangible expression to engineers’ vision for the automobile of the future.

Gas-discharge headlights

under the name xenon headlights in the

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Rain sensor

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

1995

1995

CENTRAL DRIVER’s sEAT In the F 100 the driver sits in the

middle. This puts the results of accident and social research

resolutely into practice. Statistically, a car is occupied by 1.2

to 1.7 persons – driver included. So the driver deserves the

safest place, which is the center position, with its large dis-

tances to car body parts. Furthermore, the driver can always

get out of the car on the off-traffic side. Passengers also

benefit from the concept. The two seats behind the driver are

offset, rather than fixed in a row, so that the passengers are

a considerable distance from the dashboard, which likewise

improves safety. Two more passengers are seated towards the

middle of the vehicle between the sturdy rear wheel houses.

COmFORTABLE INNOVATIONs The body of the F 100, with

its prominent tail end, anticipated the customer demand of

later years – vehicles that afford more than ample space on

four wheels have become more and more popular. The vehicle

is unlocked with a chip card, instead of a key. It is inserted

into a reading slot and electronically controls and adjusts the

seat and steering positions as required. A new door concept

eases access to the F 100: the hinged and swiveling doors

for the driver take away a bit of the vehicle floor and roof

when opened. When closed, the doors overlap at three points

and fully compensate for the disadvantage of the slim-line

floor. The rear-seat passengers get into the F 100 via space-

saving, swiveling and sliding doors; the B-pillar was dispensed

with to allow easy access without impairing crashworthiness.

Instead of having to close the doors, they can all be left

slightly ajar – servomotors then pull them into their locks.

LOGICAL PRIORITIEs The gauges are arranged around the

driver. A screen moves the crucial information into the center

of attention at all times. A distinction is made between three

logical priorities – ranging from speedometer to warnings –

for the forthcoming, safe journey. The F 100 used a conven-

tional cathode ray tube, which has long since been replaced

by silicon-based displays in present-day cars. A forward-look-

ing feature was the use of optical fibers instead of copper

sCREEN AND DAsHBOARD The driver sits in the middle of

the F 100. The central screen always places the focus on the most

important driver information at any one time.

The vehicle has front-wheel drive – an entirely new feature

for Mercedes-Benz at the time. It rolls on CTS [Continental

Tire System] tires with flat-running properties, and the tire

pressure is electronically monitored. The suspension features

hydropneumatic auxiliary spring elements, enhancing com-

fort and handling safety. The first sandwich floor was realized

in the F 100. This feature subsequently made it to large-scale

production in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. In the event of a

crash, the engine slides downwards underneath the passen-

gers, so that they are protected.

mORE THAN AN AUTOmOBILE With all its qualities, the

Mercedes-Benz F 100 was not simply a test mule for the

engineers – it represented a new type of automobile. It

anticipated the future of mobility, which has partly become

reality since the car made its debut in 1991. At the same

time, it emphasized the fact that the customer is the focus

of technical progress when a research vehicle is designed.

wires for signal transmission. The steering wheel had a fixed

impact absorber and integral controls for activating the car

phone and voice control.

NOVEL AssIsTANCE sysTEms Numerous electronic units

assist the driver and enhance safety, one of these being the

distance warning radar. Another radar system monitors traf-

fic behind the car and warns the driver if there is a vehicle

in the blind spot when changing lanes. It can also be used

for automatic lane holding. When the driver puts the car into

reverse, a camera is extended from the rear spoiler, and im-

ages are displayed on the monitor.

LIGHTING sysTEm AND RAIN sENsOR The front headlights

are very compact thanks to the first-time use of gas-discharge

lamps, today known as xenon lamps and a common feature

on cars. The rear lights consist of transparent prismatic rods,

which serve as light-wave conductors and take their energy

from a central light source in the color required for the im-

mediate function. The windscreen is cleaned by a linear wiper,

which is guided across the entire width of the windscreen

at top and bottom and thus sweeps almost the entire glazed

area. A sensor in the windscreen ensures that the wiper is

automatically switched on when it rains. Solar cells are inte-

grated in the roof to support the batteries. Almost two square

meters in area, they generate an output of 100 watts, which,

among other things, provides power for the ventilation when

the car is stationary, thus keeping temperatures at a pleasant

level.

mOBILE WORKsPACE By way of its car phone, including

voice control, mobile fax and a personal computer, the F 100

anticipated the communication and work options of later

production vehicles.

FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE AND sANDWICH FLOOR Different

engine concepts were examined in the F 100, including a

modified internal combustion engine operating on hydrogen.

PIONEER North American International Auto Show, Detroit,

1991 – the first major trade show of the year. Daimler-Benz

deliberately chose this as the forum for presenting a very

special automobile: the Mercedes-Benz F 100. This research

car gave tangible expression to the vision of engineers and

market strategists for the automobile of the future. Never

before had so many ideas and innovative technologies been

realized in a fully operational car.

innoVAtionS in SerieS ProdUction

Telephone voice recognition under the name

LINGUATRONIC in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

sandwich floor

in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Telephone operation by means of steering wheel

buttons in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Autonomous intelligent cruise control under the

name DISTRONIC in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Electronic tire pressure monitoring

in the Mercedes-Benz CL

Chip card

instead of car keys in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Electric parking brake under the name

ADAPTIVE BRAKE in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Proximity warning radar under the name DISTRONIC

PLUS/Brake Assist PLUS in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Radar system under the name Active Blind Spot Assist

and Active Lane Keeping Assist in the Mercedes-Benz

CL- and S-Class

Lane Keeping Assist

in the Mercedes-Benz S- and E-Class

solar cell roof

in the panoramic roof of the Maybach 62

1996

1997

1998

1998

1999

1999

2005

2005

2010

2009

2002

052 053 F 100   Unbridled technologymercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

future are derived from them. The knowledge forms a basis for

creative processes with experts within the company, so as to

configure automotive solutions. The technological innovations

– such as the electrification of the drive system – play one

of the most significant roles here. For this reason, in the field

of individual mobility, the transition from the internal com-

bustion engine to the electrified drive system with zero local

emissions – which is unavoidable in the long term and also

desirable in the sense of conservation of the environment

and resources – will trigger substantial changes. Renewably

produced power and hydrogen will be the energy sources of

the future.

DIGITAL LIFESTYLE Today everyone is talking about the

topic of digitization and the vision of the “internet of things”.

From the smartphone to the energy-efficient washing ma-

chine of the future which obtains information on the optimum

operating timeframe from the “smart grid” – the intelligently

networked power system – digitally connected items of

equipment are here to stay in everyday life. The automobile

plays a special role in this digital network. It will no longer be

the single machine in the anonymous flow of traffic, but an

active element in the smart city and will take on the function

of a network node which supplies or receives and processes

information. This function will relieve the vehicle occupant

of many of their tasks and ease the burden on them: for ex-

ample the vehicle can be proactive in helping when it comes

to coordinating appointments – after all the vehicle does

know best when it has to be at its destination. For the urban

mobility world the vehicles – functioning as network nodes –

will facilitate smoother traffic.

What will the car of tomorrow look like? What types of drive

systems will they use? And how will the mobility requirements

of our customers develop? To find the answers to these such

elementary questions and deliver needs-based solutions for

the mobility of tomorrow, for over 30 years now Daimler has

been carrying out systematic futurology research on a scien-

tific basis. The goal is to identify and anticipate long-term

overall trends at an early stage.

GLOBAL MEGATRENDS Megatrends develop within the

framework of social changes – such as digitization, demograph-

ic change, climate change, globalization and urbanization.

This also includes developments in the areas of urban plan-

ning, architecture or design. But these megatrends do not

create themselves – it is forward-thinking people, artists,

inventors – in short, the vanguard – who point the way. It is

only when these paths have been trodden by the majority

that we can speak of a megatrend. In order to discover mega-

trends as they arise, new solutions from all areas of life and

industry are sought. The answers to the challenges of the

a high quality of life. Resources which are becoming ever

scarcer are reinforcing this trend. For the mobility of the

future Daimler is not concentrating on one solitary form of

drive system, but on the coexistence of various technologies

which are optimally tailored to the respective customer re-

quirements and vehicle models. This is why the company is

following a three-lane route to the future with an intelligent

mix of innovative, highly efficient internal combustion engines

and hybrid drives plus emission-free electric vehicles with a

battery or fuel cell. It is the fuel cell technology with hydro-

gen as an energy carrier which offers the greatest potential

for the zero-emission mobility of the future. A conscious

decision has been made in favor of this multi-track strategy,

with which all mobility scenarios can be covered. Alternative

fuels also play an important role here. Alongside the use of

biofuels, the use of hydrogen is set to pave the way to a

society which does without fossil fuels. Selective lightweight

construction and optimized aerodynamics will also make a

considerable contribution to reducing the consumption of

future automobiles.

INDIVIDUALIZATION The current move towards networked,

intermodal and sustainable mobility offers immense potential.

This includes not only the demand for efficient vehicles, but

also for ever-increasing individualization. The need for indi-

vidual mobility solutions from the compact city runabout to

the large touring sedan will continue to increase. At the same

time the automobile, alongside the bicycle, represents the

most powerful expression of the freedom of individual mo-

bility. As people are spending more and more time out and

about and thus also in the automobile, it is increasingly being

used as a living space. The consequence of this is that auto-

mobiles will focus even more on mobile quality of life, privacy

and urban comfort. In addition, in view of the aestheticization

of the environment, customers’ desires for highly emotive and

attractive vehicle design which allows clear brand differenti-

ations will increase yet further.

SUSTAINABILITY When it comes to purchasing decisions,

the aspect of sustainability is gaining in importance for the

customers and in a way it is becoming synonymous with

The automobile will increasingly be used as a living space and will therefore be even more focused on mobile quality of life, privacy and urban comfort.

Mobility trends

SEARCHING FOR THE FUTURE

For over 30 years Daimler has been carrying out futurology research on a scientific basis.

054 055 Mobility trends Searching for the futureMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

very first long-distance drive. In the heavy traffic of the 21st

century the self-driving S-Class had to deal autonomously

with a number of highly complex situations – traffic lights,

roundabouts, pedestrians, cyclists and trams. This ground-

breaking achievement was realized not through the applica-

tion of extremely expensive special technology, but by means

of standard or near-production-standard technology of the

kind already available today in Mercedes-Benz S-, E- and C-

Class vehicles, as well as in the new CLS-Class. The project

thus marks a milestone along the way that leads from the

self-propelled (automobile) to the self-driving (autonomous)

vehicle, delivering important findings that will help with the

development of further technologies and products.

NEAR-PRODUCTION-STANDARD SENSOR TECHNOLOGY

Based on a further development of the sensor technologies

already in use in the various production vehicles, the devel-

opers have taught the technology platform to know where it

is, what it sees and how to react autonomously: with the aid

of its highly automated “Route Pilot”, the vehicle is able to

negotiate its own way through dense urban and interurban

traffic. Unnoticed by the public, yet authorized by appropriate

official exemptions and certificates from the TÜV (German

Technical Inspection Agency), testing of the “Route Pilot”

on the Bertha Benz route began in early 2012 with a total

of three technology platforms based on the E- and S-Class, THE VISION OF AUTONOMOUS DRIVING Autonomous

driving functions are set to change the future of mobility radi-

cally, making it safer, more comfortable and more sustainable.

The advantages are clear: computer-based systems don’t get

tired, don’t let themselves be distracted and can keep track

of what’s going on within the 360-degree surrounds of the

vehicle. This allows them to react far more quickly and more

precisely than a human being can to potential danger. Drivers

reach their destination in a far more relaxed state of mind

and in better comfort, which means that, at the same time, the

safety of all road users is improved. Furthermore, the highly

efficient and anticipatory style of driving practiced by autono-

mous vehicles enables them to reduce fuel consumption and

to partly, or even fully, relieve the driver of the monotonous,

difficult or unwelcome aspects of driving.

PIONEERING AUTONOMOUS JOURNEY When it sent its

S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE research vehicle along a historic

route in August 2013, Mercedes-Benz became the first motor

manufacturer to demonstrate the feasibility of autonomous

driving on both interurban and urban routes. The route in

question, covering the 100 kilometers or so from Mannheim

to Pforzheim, retraced that taken by motoring pioneer Bertha

Benz exactly 125 years before when she boldly set off on the

which are equipped with all available active and passive

safety systems. These are technologies that are already both

affordable and viable for everyday use, thus facilitating the

transfer to subsequent standard-production models.

However, changes were made to the number and arrange-

ment of the sensors in order to achieve comprehensive

coverage of the vehicle’s surroundings in every direction,

and to obtain additional information on the area around the

vehicle. An additional camera was installed to read the

information from traffic lights. The base width (distance

between the eyes) of the stereo camera was increased

to allow objects further away to be detected not only by

the radar, but also by the camera. Localization, using the

features of the surrounding area, was improved by adding

a further mono-camera directed backwards through the

rear windscreen.

HIGH-DETAIL DIGITAL MAPS Based on these sensor data,

an identification of the vehicle’s own position and informa-

tion from a digital map, an autonomously driving vehicle

analyses the available free area for driving and plans its own

route. The required algorithms were developed by the

Mercedes-Benz research team in collaboration with the Insti-

tute for Measuring and Control Technology at the Karlsruhe

Institute of Technology (KIT). For the trip along the Bertha

Benz route, Mercedes-Benz collaborated with KIT and HERE,

a division of Nokia specialized in the production of digital

maps and location-specific services, to produce a 3D digital

map of the route between Mannheim and Pforzheim that was

specifically adapted to the requirements of an autonomous

vehicle. In addition to the road layout, traffic signs and infor-

mation on the number and direction of traffic lanes, this map

includes the precise locations of traffic lights. Digital maps

of this kind are a key prerequisite for autonomous driving.

One way of ensuring that map data and route information are

always kept up to date is to use what is known as “Car-to-X

The groundbreaking success of the S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE was achieved with the help of standard and near-series-standard technology.

A VISION BECOMES REALITY The S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE demonstrates the feasibility

of autonomous driving in dense interurban and urban traffic.

HISTORIC ROUTE Autonomous test drive in the S 500 INTELLIGENT

DRIVE research vehicle, following in the tracks of Bertha Benz.

S 500The age of autonomous driving has dawned

INTELLIGENTDRIVE

056 057 S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE The age of autonomous driving has dawnedMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

project was DISTRONIC adaptive cruise control, which

went into production in the S-Class in 1998. Based on

DISTRONIC, Mercedes-Benz has developed a succession

of assistance systems capable of detecting hazardous

situations, warning the driver and, ever more frequently, also

automatically intervening. The project also resulted in Speed

Limit Assist, which has been in series production since 2005.

Continual further advances in environment detection using

stereo cameras, also first tested as part of PROMETHEUS,

created the foundation for the “6D Vision” stereo camera,

Communication”. This could enable future vehicles to help

each other to generate real-time maps, because, theoreti-

cally, every car is capable of recording the route it has driven

and entering it in a database. Information on a red traffic

light could be relayed from a waiting car to other road users.

Alternatively, the traffic light itself could send a signal to

nearby vehicles.

PRECISE SITUATIONAL ANALYSIS A particular challenge

for autonomous vehicles is the way in which they communi-

cate and interact with other road users. Reaching agreement

with an oncoming vehicle, for example about who should

proceed first through a narrow section of road, is something

that requires a high degree of situational analysis. To enable

the developers to reconstruct the decisions made by the

autonomous S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE research vehicle in

individual driving situations, the car records all its sensor

data. Images from the stereo camera alone generate some

300 gigabytes of data every hour. Also in later standard

now found in the S-, E- and C-Class as well as in the new

CLS-Class. Patented by Daimler, this technology makes

it possible to anticipate the real-time movements of other

nearby road users. The Mercedes-Benz F 125! research

vehicle of 2011, too, demonstrated partially autonomous

driving functions with its Advanced Driving Assist system.

At the touch of a button, frequently occurring driving maneu-

vers such as lane changes or overtaking can be carried out

automatically.

operation, some of these data will continue to be stored. This

is because if, for example, an autonomous vehicle is involved

in an accident, this information will make it possible to

establish exactly what happened.

EARLY MILESTONES Mercedes-Benz’s success on the

Bertha Benz route is the latest result of years of research in

the field of autonomous driving. One early milestone in this

respect was the EUREKA PROMETHEUS (“PROgraMme for

European Traffic with Highest Efficiency and Unprecedented

Safety”) research project initiated by Daimler-Benz in 1986.

The test vehicles made newspaper headlines in 1994, when

they covered around 1000 kilometers mainly autonomously

on a multi-lane expressway in the greater Paris area, and in

1995 when they drove from Munich to Copenhagen. Conse-

quently, almost 20 years ago, Mercedes-Benz demonstrated

that automated driving on expressways, including lane-

changing, overtaking and keeping a safe distance, is techni-

cally feasible. One of the outcomes of the PROMETHEUS

INCONSPICUOUS PIONEER Thanks to its near-series-standard technology,

there is very little to distinguish the S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE research vehicle

externally from a standard-model Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

NETWORKED SENSOR SYSTEMS The technical basis of the Mercedes-Benz S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE research vehicle is the

series technology of the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class, supplemented with near-production-standard sensor systems. Additions included,

for example, a color camera for monitoring traffic lights.

The pioneering achievements of Mercedes-Benz in the field of autonomous driving are the outcome of years of research work.

SHORT-RANGE RADAR SYSTEMS

CAMERASTEREO CAMERA

LONG-RANGE RADAR SYSTEMS

200 m

200 m

200 m130 m80 m 60 m

60 m40 m

80 m

80 m

with additional medium-range detection

Vehicle not to scale in relation to sensor ranges. Overlap of sensor ranges much larger in reality.

058 059Mercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations S 500 INTELLIGENT DRIVE The age of autonomous driving has dawned

The future of driving dynamics

Mercedes-Benz C 112

Mercedes-Benz C 112

With actively controlled spoilers, 1991

1991

SAFETY Also new in the C 112 were the electronic tire

pressure monitoring, which immediately warns the driver in

case of pressure loss, and the autonomous intelligent cruise

control, which maintains a constant distance to the vehicle

in front. Both innovations are milestones in safety engineer-

ing which were to enter series production in the years that

followed. The high-performance sports car features active

rear-wheel steering. It corrects directional deviation which

can be caused, for instance, by ruts and side wind.

SYMBIOSIS With the C 112 the Mercedes-Benz developers

traveled forward through time in 1991 to the future of driving

dynamics. The visual symbiosis of Silver Arrow and super

sports car boasts an actively adjustable spoiler at the front

and rear which are adapted to the particular driving situation.

When taking a corner at high speed or when braking from a

high speed it extends within a tenth of a second and ensures

more stable handling or increases the braking forces.

FoCus: ACTIVE DYNAMIC HANDLING sYsTEMs

Technology at the limits of feasibility.

PErFOrMAnCE The underside of the C 112 is shaped like

the upturned wing of an airplane and presses it firmly to

the road in the airflow. The gullwing model is driven by a

12-cylinder spark-ignition engine with an output of 300 kW

[408 hp]. The combination of performance with innovative

comfort and safety technologies at the limits of feasibility

make the C 112 a dream of a sports car which anticipates

the driving dynamics of series-production models to follow

in later years.

STATE OF ThE ArT The actively controlled suspension

Active Body Control [ABC] in the C 112 minimizes the body

movements with the aid of an electrohydraulic system – a

quantum leap in chassis engineering, which was more than

just state of the art in 1991. On the basis of detailed sensor

data the suspension at every individual wheel is controlled in

fractions of seconds.

With its gullwing doors – now operated via infrared remote control – the C 112 ties in with the C 111 series vehicles.

060 061 Mercedes-Benz C 112 The future of driving dynamicsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

The “short-distance vehicle”

Mercedes-Benz NAFA 1981

IDEAL FOr ThE CITY Its four-wheel steering even allowed

the car to be parked forwards into tight spaces. Its turning

circle was all of 5.7 meters. Even if the distance from other

parked vehicles on each side was small, two sliding doors

permitted convenient entry and exit. They opened forwards,

and the side mirror folded in automatically. The car had front-

wheel drive and an automatic transmission. Its equipment

also included air conditioning, power steering and seat belt

tensioners.

nEW QUESTIOnS In VEhICLE rESEArCh Congested

streets, a lack of parking space, and long tailbacks raised

new questions in motor vehicle research. Mercedes-Benz

answered them in 1981 with a concept study labeled “Nah-

verkehrsfahrzeug” or NAFA for short – the short-distance

vehicle. With an overall length of 2.50 meters and an overall

height and width of 1.50 meters, the innovative two-seater

contradicted everything the company had been known to

stand for to date.

FoCus: CoMPACT uRBAN VEHICLE CoNCEPTs

A look ahead at the urban mobility of the future.

FUTUrE COnCEPT The comparatively high seating position,

low waistline and large glazed surfaces each contributed

to superb all-round vision. The NAFA study did not fall into

oblivion. The insights it produced were incorporated into the

design of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the prototype of which

made its debut in 1996. In the smart city coupé, introduced

in 1997, the concept of the compact urban car celebrated its

coming of age. It has been manufactured in large numbers

ever since. Mercedes-Benz nAFA

with front wheel drive and automatic transmission, 1981

Pioneer in city traffic – at the beginning of the 1980s the NAFA laid the foundations for the A-Class and smart.

062 063 Mercedes-Benz nAFA The “short-distance vehicle”Mercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Testing different drive systems

Mercedes-Benz Auto 2000

SOLUTIOn Mercedes-Benz met the requirements. The Auto

2000, first presented to the public at the 1981 Frankfurt

International Motor Show, had an aerodynamically optimized

body with a very low Cd [drag coefficient] of 0.28. As many

as three different engine concepts were tested in this ve-

hicle: a 3.8-liter V8 gasoline engine, 3.3-liter diesel engine

and the gas turbine. All engines were harnessed to a four-

speed automatic transmission.

TASK In the late 1970s the Federal German Ministry for Re-

search and Technology launched the Auto 2000 project, in

which several carmakers participated. Fuel consumption

was not to exceed eleven liters per 100 km [21.3 mpg] for a

vehicle with a curb weight of up to 2150 kilograms – a very

ambitious target in those days – and the maximum for vehi-

cles weighing 1250 to 1700 kilograms was 9.5 liters/100 km

[24.7 mpg]. In addition, the car was supposed to accommo-

date four occupants and provide a payload capacity of more

than 400 kilograms.

FoCus: NEW ENGINE CoNCEPTs WITH REDuCED FuEL CoNsuMPTIoN

nEW PAThS With the gas turbine in the automobile the

engineers realized an ambitious project. It had several

qualities, including low-pollutant combustion, low weight,

compact dimensions, favorable torque characteristics, and

the elimination of water cooling. Integral seats for the driver

and front passenger, with all the belt mounts on the seat

itself, along with integral child restraint systems in the rear

and pedestrian-friendly bumpers, were also tested in the

Auto 2000.

EFFICIEnCY GAInS The automatic cylinder cut-off system was

premiered in the 3.8-liter V8 gasoline engine. When only little

power was required, four of the eight combustion chambers

were temporarily shut down – today this is a feature of several

large-displacement gasoline engines built by Mercedes-Benz.

The 3.3-liter diesel engine tested in the Auto 2000 had exem-

plary accelerating power thanks to its six cylinders and two

turbochargers; it offered an excellent range of 7.5 liters per

100 kilometers [about 31.3 mpg] at a speed of 120 km/h.

The “Auto 2000” has an aerodynamically optimized body with a very low Cd value.

1981

V8 gasoline engine with automatic cylinder cut-off, six-cylinder diesel engine with turbocharger or gas turbine.

Mercedes-Benz “Auto 2000”

for testing new engine concepts, 1981

064 065 Mercedes-Benz “Auto 2000” Testing different drive systemsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

High-speed car with Wankel engine

Mercedes-Benz C 111

rESEArCh InTO DIFFErEnT DrIVE SYSTEMS The C 111

was a test bed for the Wankel engine. The three-rotor unit,

developing 206 kW [280 hp], provided the propulsion power

and permitted a top speed of 260 km/h – quite remarkable

for its time.

rECOrDS Just a few months later, a thoroughly revised ver-

sion of the C 111 was shown at the Geneva Motor Show. It

featured a four-rotor Wankel engine with an output of 257 kW

[350 hp]. The car accelerated from standstill to 100 km/h

in 4.8 seconds and attained a top speed of 300 km/h. Little

more was heard about the Wankel engine; diesel technology

now became the focus of research. And record-breaking

versions of the C 111 again captured public interest: between

1976 and 1979, the C 111 completed runs on the high-speed

test track in Nardo in southern Italy, and produced several

absolute world records over various distances. On the first

record-breaking run, the C 111-IID was powered by a thor-

oughly revised five-cylinder diesel engine with a displacement

of 3.0 liters. Instead of the 59 kW [80 hp] of the production

car, it now achieved 140 kW [190 hp]. In 1978 the C 111-III,

fitted with an additional intercooler, achieved an output of

169 kW [230 hp]. By this time, the record-breaking car had

little in common with the original C 111. Mounted on a floor

unit and now with revised dimensions, the body boasted an

even more streamlined shape. The record-breaking C 111- IV

of 1979 came with further aerodynamic refinements. Its

propulsion unit was a series-production 4.5-liter V8 engine,

enlarged to displace 4.8 liters and to develop 367 kW

[500 hp]. This version of the C 111- IV was no longer purely

a research vehicle, but one that achieved top-class sporting

performance. Nevertheless, it provided many insights that

benefited series production.

TEST LAB At the Frankfurt International Motor Show [IAA]

in September 1969 Mercedes-Benz presented an exceptional

car: the C 111. The world queued up to see this “test lab on

wheels” with its upward-opening gullwing doors. No less

unusual were its technical innovations: the wedge-shaped

body consisted of fiber-glass reinforced plastic [FRP] and was

riveted and bonded to the steel frame-floor unit.

FoCus: NEW ENGINEs AND MATERIALs

Mercedes-Benz C 111-II

with a four-rotor Wankel engine, 1970

1969—1979

Three generations – C 111, C 111-II D and C 111-III

The first C 111 with its wedge-shaped lightweight-construction body served to test the Wankel engine in 1969.

066 067 Mercedes-Benz C 111 High-speed car with Wankel engineMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

research vehicle of 2010. Whilst on the one hand this involved

building on what had already been achieved, on the other hand

there was more of a focus on a further “dimension”: comfort

and style. One example of these are the lightweight construc-

tion seats. They consist of a magnesium shell with a back

panel made of carbon-fiber laminate. A highly hard-wearing

netting fabric is stretched over this. And in the F 800 Style

all the wood components have a stable aluminum core. They

thus not only meet the brand’s trademark standards when it

comes to crashworthiness – they also exude a homely flair.

INTELLIGENT MATERIAL MIX Like no other vehicle the

F 125! stands for the Mercedes-Benz philosophy “the right

material in the right place”. With a high proportion of fiber-

reinforced plastics [FRP] and an intelligent mix of carbon

fibers, alloy and high-strength steels plus hybrid materials

Mercedes-Benz continued the idea of a light and simultane-

ously safe design. This means, for instance, that for the first

time it was possible to take the doors into account too – but

they did not have to relinquish their important contribution

to occupant protection in the event of an accident. Through

improvements in virtually all areas the bodyshell weight of

the research vehicle fell by around 250 kilograms. This is

some 40 percent less than a comparable series-production

vehicle. All this with a further considerable improvement in

stability and safety.

FORMATIVE FOR THE FUTURE The F 125! is – as is the

case with all the other research vehicles before it – a decisive

“supplier” of know-how for processes and material designs

for further systematically improving aerodynamics, light-

weight construction and safety. Many of the ideas realized in

the F 125! will be sustainable formative influences on gen-

erations of Mercedes-Benz vehicles to come.

LIGHTWEIGHT FOR EFFICIENCY In the case of the

Mercedes-Benz Vario Research Car [VRC] the body attach-

ments are made of CRP. This carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic

has already revolutionized aircraft and racing car construc-

tion, for it is not only characterized by its tremendous rigidity.

It is around another 25 percent lighter than aluminum. The

following calculation show the importance of this: for every

100 kilograms which can be saved when it comes to the

weight of a vehicle, the consumption falls by up to 0.5 liters

– with increased dynamism. This means that the bodies

for the VRC tip the scales at just 30 to a maximum of 50 kilo-

grams and in spite of this lightness they ensure maximum

stability and crashworthiness. And in the case of the

F 400 Carving the components of the prominent space-frame

chassis were also made of aluminum and CRP and thus facil-

itate additional weight savings.

AERODYNAMIC IDEAL A real driving force behind the

themes of lightweight construction and aerodynamics came

in the form of the Mercedes-Benz bionic car, which was

presented in June 2005 and whose shape is modeled on the

boxfish, which lives in tropical waters. The fish has excellent

hydrodynamic properties and is “aerodynamically ideal”. In

cooperation with bionics experts, the Mercedes researchers

also developed a special computer-aided process for trans-

ferring the principle of growth from the world of nature to

automotive engineering. This process is based on the SKO

[Soft Kill Option] method. By applying the SKO method to the

entire body-in-white structure, weight is reduced by some

30 percent and thus facilitates a fuel saving of 20 percent

over a comparable series-production model.

COMFORT WITH STYLE The systematic further develop-

ment of these successes can be seen in the F 800 Style

tail end – not also influence the body design and the weight?

And do vehicles designed in this way also still meet our high

demands in terms of safety? The answers to these questions

plus an example of the intelligent linking of these three

dimensions are given by the new Mercedes-Benz SL.

MINUS TIMES MINUS EQUALS PLUS The cd value of the

new Mercedes-Benz SL is 0.27 – an improvement of around

ten percent compared with the predecessor model, which

itself was already very good. Through the use of the right

material in the right place and an intelligent mix of aluminum,

magnesium, steel, plastic and – in the case of AMG – even

carbon, the vehicle is up to 140 kilograms lighter than its

predecessor, whilst at the same time being some 20 percent

more rigid and thus more crashworthy. In combination with

standard-specification PRE-SAFE® and numerous assistance

systems the new SL offers the highest level of safety in its

class and is the safest roadster in the world.

EARLY MILESTONES The potential to be found in the dimen-

sions of aerodynamics, intelligent lightweight construction and

safety was recognized at an early stage by Mercedes-Benz

and implemented and tested in research vehicles. In the

C 112, for example, which was unveiled back in 1991, the

“active aerodynamics” was tested, whereby the front spoiler

and rear aerofoil can be steplessly adapted to the respective

driving situation. At the latest with the development of the

Vario Research Car four years later and the F 400 Carving

in 2001 extensive innovations in the field of lightweight

construction are also some of the most striking features of

the research vehicles.

THREE DIMENSIONS We are investigating all the levers to

design vehicles efficiently. This concept for comprehensively

increasing efficiency is known by us as “3D Body Engineering”

and – alongside highly efficient drive systems – it forms the

focal point of the Mercedes-Benz strategy for comprehen-

sively increasing efficiency. The holistic concept comprises

all three relevant dimensions of body construction – aero-

dynamics, intelligent lightweight construction and safety –

with the aim of further reducing CO2 emissions. Without

compromising on driving pleasure and with more safety at

the same time.

Aero engineering: virtually all Mercedes-Benz passen-

ger car model series today already post an extremely low

cd value. Not only does this make a significant contribution

towards reducing standard consumption; it also contributes

considerably towards lowering the real-world consumption.

Hybrid body engineering: comprises intelligent light-

weight construction according to the principle “The right

material in the right place” – including aluminum, magnesium

and carbon.

SAfety engineering: enjoys at least equal status to the

other two. As optimum safety traditionally has the highest

priority at Mercedes-Benz.

But how can these three dimensions be reconciled with one

another? Which materials are suitable for which application?

Does the search for the lowest coefficient of drag – for instance

in the aerodynamically critical areas of the wheels or the

3D Body Engineering

THE FORMULA FOR MORE EFFICIENCY

Aerodynamics, lightweight construction, safety: “3D Body Engineering” is a focal point of the Mercedes-Benz strategy for increasing efficiency.

068 069 3d body engineering The formula for more efficiencyMercedes-benz Evolution of Innovations

›› Interactive vehicle communication radio-based communication system for exchanging

safety-relevant information between vehicles

›› Braking bag is deployed shortly before the collision, stabilizes the car

on the road surface and also brakes it

›› Partial main beam automatically adjusts the light distribution when

there is oncoming traffic and specifically illuminates

potential hazards

›› PRE-SAFE® Structure crash-responsive metal side impact protection which

unfolds at lightning speed in an impact

originates in the early 1970s and was instigated against the

background of dramatic developments in accident statistics

in the USA. Between 1970 and 1974 the then Daimler-Benz

AG took part in this scheme with a total of 24 vehicles and

test models. This resulted in innovations for safety which are

taken as givens in virtually all passenger cars. They include

ABS, belt tensioners and belt force limiters, airbag and side

protection.

EXPERIMENTS FOR SAFETY For Mercedes-Benz safety

means responsibility towards all road users. This is why it has

always been and still is its objective not only to build vehicles

but also to work continuously on the further development

and improvement of safety systems. With the Experimental

Safety Vehicles ESF Mercedes-Benz has for more than 40

years been demonstrating innovative, sometimes unconven-

tional ways of further improving vehicle safety. The ESF range

ESF 2009

›› Side reflect

reflecting material improves visibility of the

vehicle in darkness

›› Belt bag

doubles the belt width in fractions of

seconds in an accident and thus reduces

the risk of injury

›› Child protection system

can be individually adapted to the

stature and improves the protective

effect in case of a crash

›› PRE-SAFE® 360°

monitors the area to the side and rear of

the vehicle and in critical situations activates

preventive protection measures

›› Rear seat camera

for monitoring the rear without having

to change the direction of vision

›› Interseat Protection

protective system for separating the occupants in case of a crash

›› Hybrid battery shield

for maximum safety of electrical components

in the hybrid drive system

›› PRE-SAFE® Pulse reduces the forces acting on the torsos of the occupants during a lateral collision

›› Size adaptive airbags

steplessly adapt their volume to the seat position

and stature of the front passenger

The ESF 2009 experimental vehicle demonstrates pioneering innovations in the field of safety.

070 071 ESF 2009 Innovations for safetyMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

LED PIXEL HEADLAMPS With the LED array in the main headlamp,

new light functions such as the “hazard light” are possible.

BRAKING BAG The airbag in the vehicle underbody is activated before

an imminent frontal crash and doubles the braking power.

SIDE REFLEcT Reflecting contours make the vehicle much more

visible – at an earlier stage – at night.

NEW PASSIVE SAFETY Conventional restraint systems are

reactive. The build-up of force and the concomitant energy

conversion only happens after the occupant has moved along

a necessary path following a certain amount of time. An

accelerating occupant protection system, as shown in the

example of the “side impact” in the ESF 2009, uses the early

information on the avoidable impact for the preparatory con-

version of energy around the occupant. PRE-SAFE® Pulse

accelerates the occupant near the time of the actual accident

in the direction of travel created by the kinetic energy. For

this to happen the upholstery of the multicontour seat with

modified filling characteristics is used. The reversible pulse-

like filling of the upholstery makes the occupant move towards

the center of the vehicle – and thus in the direction of the

impact force. This means that the contact between the door

and the occupant occurs significantly later and with less

intrusion speed. Simulations demonstrate on average 30 per-

cent less rib intrusion.

BRAKING BAG DOUBLES BRAKING POWER Contempo-

rary emergency braking systems such as that in the current

E-Class decelerate the vehicle during an imminent front

impact after various warning stages – right up to a full brake

application at the slip limit. So a system with additional

potential has to increase the deceleration energy over and

above that of the wheel brake. In order to achieve this

Mercedes-Benz developed the concept of the Braking Bag

and extended the front underbody paneling of a standard-

specification S-Class to include a special airbag. With the

activation of the airbag this expands and is supported on the

upper side of the front subframe. The underside is fitted with

HOLISTIc SAFETY PHILOSOPHY In 2009 Mercedes-Benz

picked up the ESF idea again and with a new, highly complex

test vehicle it gave an insight into the further safety develop-

ment of the near future: the ESF 2009 illustrates the holistic

approach of the Mercedes-Benz safety philosophy: firstly it

is about avoiding accidents. If this is not possible, the aim

is to mitigate the consequences of an accident. Accordingly

Mercedes-Benz structured the “Route to accident-free driving”

on three pillars: permanently relieving the burden on the

driver, actively supporting the driver in difficult situations and

optimally protecting all road users. Six topics represent the

comprehensive technological approach in the ESF 2009:

a friction lining which facilitates optimum deceleration. If the

Braking Bag is activated prior to an imminent front impact,

this results in a doubling of the braking effect compared with

that of a normal wheel brake. The positive side effect of this

is that through the raising of the vehicle performing a full

brake application the brake dive movement is compensated

and the crash-compatibility improved.

SIDE REFLEcT IMPROVES VISIBILITY With SIDE REFLECT

abandoned non-illuminated vehicles on a rural road or traffic

suddenly crossing at junctions can be better detected. Side

diffused light increases the reflective properties, meaning

that other road users recognize the vehicle much more

quickly. One possibility is to fit a reflective strip to the tires,

as in the case of a bicycle. The ESF 2009 also has door seals

with a reflective effect. The door seal rubbers are coated

with a special foil in the outer area, which integrates perfectly

into the design of the vehicle. This emphasizes the vehicle

contour, and it is easier to see the vehicle at night.

NEW LIGHT FUNcTIONS VIA LED PIXEL HEADLAMPS

Progress made in camera technology and in image process-

ing now makes it possible for drivers to detect potential

dangers in the area of the road surface. A display is one way

of warning the driver. The ESF 2009 with its “hazard light”

function demonstrates how the driver can be notified of a

potential danger directly in the traffic area. In order to do

this it has main headlamps from an electronically address-

able LED array with 96 pixels arranged in four rows. Each of

these pixels is dimmable in 256 steps and can be switched

on within a few milliseconds. Alongside the “hazard light”,

this LED array can also be used to create adaptive light func-

tions such as the active light function and partial main beam.

And with upstream image processing the headlamp can also

highlight pedestrians without any glare up to the waistline or

project a “light pointer” onto the road surface.

PRE-SAFE® STRUcTURE ABSORBS IMPAcT ENERGY

Inflatable structures are tasked with selectively changing the

properties of small and light structural elements in the vehicle

in case of an accident. In addition to this a gas generator in-

flates these elements. The cross-section of these structures

also enlarges in previously non-usable areas of the vehicle

body. This makes it possible, for instance, for the room needed

for the window inside the side door to be used if necessary.

MONITORING OF THE REAR VEHIcLE SURROUNDINGS

PRE-SAFE® 360° monitors the vehicle surroundings in a

range of up to 60 meters to the rear. If the early accident

detection system registers that a collision is unavoidable,

around 600 milliseconds before the impact the brakes are

activated. If the brakes in the already stationary vehicle are

applied during a rear impact, not only can secondary acci-

dents be avoided; the severity of potential injuries to the

cervical vertebrae of the occupants can be reduced through

this locking, because the vehicle and thus the bodies of the

occupants are accelerated less powerfully. But the driver

always remains in command with PRE-SAFE 360°: for

example if they accelerate because they can evade the ap-

proaching vehicle, the brake is immediately released.

ESF 2009 – Outlook for further safety development.Spotlight lighting function

as Night View Assist PLUS with a spotlight function

in the Mercedes-Benz CL-Class

PRE-SAFE® Pulse

as PRE-SAFE® Impulse for reducing the risk of injury in

a front impact in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

PRE-SAFE® Brake

with pedestrian recognition in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

PRE-SAFE® 360°

extended occupant protection as PRE-SAFE® PLUS

with a radar sensor in the rear bumper in the

Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Night View Assist PLUS

for warning of danger due to people or animals

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Partial main beam

as Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

DISTRONIc PLUS with Steering Assist

supports the driver in lateral guidance of the vehicle

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Attention Assist drowsiness detection

in a much extended speed range with adjustable

sensitivity in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Active Lane Keeping Assist

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Brake Assist BAS PLUS

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Beltbag

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2011

2013

2013

2013

2013

2013

2013

2013

2013

2013

2013

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

072 073 ESF 2009 Innovations for safetyMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

MEETING OF THE GENERATIONS ESF vehicles from around forty years of safety research at Mercedes-Benz.

Driver’s airbag in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Belt tensioners in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

ESF 05 ESF 13 ESF 22 ESF 24

INTRODUcTION 1971

LOcATION International ESV Conference, Sindelfingen, Germany

INTRODUcTION 1972

LOcATION International ESV Conference, Washington, USA

INTRODUcTION 1973

LOcATION ESV Conference, Kyoto, Japan

INTRODUcTION 1974

LOcATION ESV Conference, London, United Kingdom

The experimental safety vehicles of the 1970s

›› Developed on the basis of the W 114 Stroke/8 [“Strich-Acht”]

model series

›› Designed for an impact speed of 80 km/h

›› Five three-point seat belts, each with three force limiters,

front seat belts self-fitting

›› Driver and front passenger airbag, also an airbag in each of the front

seat backrests for rear passengers on the outer seats. This increased

the weight of the front seats to 63 kg each [standard: 16 kg]

›› Extensive structural modifications in the front end and sides

›› Curb weight: 2,060 kg [665 kg more than standard]

›› Overall length: 5,340 mm [655 mm more than standard]

›› Wheelbase increased by 100 mm, so as to maintain spaciousness

in the rear despite the larger seats

›› Front-end extension incl. hydraulic impact absorber: 370 mm

›› Experimental V6 engine to gain deformation space at the front

›› Dashboard with impact-absorbing metal structure

on the front passenger side

›› All relevant impact areas in the interior were padded with

polyurethane foam, especially the doors, pillars and roof frame

›› Doors without quarterlights, power windows

›› Headlamp wipers, beam range control, parallel rear window wipers

›› Side marker lights, taillights with standstill relay and control function

›› Windscreen and rear window of laminated glass, bonded in place

›› Pedals with rounded-off lower section

›› ABS brakes

›› Stylistically revised variant of the ESF 05

›› Restraint systems and other features adopted from the ESF 05

›› Curb weight: 2,100 kg [705 kg more than standard]

›› Overall length: 5,235 mm [550 mm more than standard]

›› Front-end extension incl. hydraulic impact absorber: 420 mm

›› The changes to the external dimensions were primarily the result

of the redesigned front and rear ends. The bumpers were now

designed to be underrun, while the deformation path remained

the same. The front and rear were extended to reduce the bumper

overhang to an acceptable level.

›› Based on the W 116 series [1971 S-Class]

›› Designed for an impact speed of 65 km/h

›› Four three-point belts, each with three force limiters

and a belt tensioner

›› Airbag instead of belt tensioner

›› Curb weight: 2,025 kg [287 kg more than standard]

›› Overall length: 5,240 mm [280 mm more than standard]

›› Front-end extension incl. hydraulic impact absorber: 245 mm

›› ABS brakes

›› Modified S-Class

›› Restraint systems identical to ESF 22

›› Curb weight: 1,930 kg [192 kg more than standard]

›› Overall length: 5,225 mm [265 mm more than standard]

›› Front-end extension incl. hydraulic impact absorber: 150 mm

›› ABS brakes

Anti-lock braking system [ABS]

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Side airbags [sidebags]

as an optional extra in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Belt-force limiters in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

1978

1980

1995

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

074 075 ESF 2009 Innovations for safetyMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Comfort

MORE THAN JUST COMFORTABLE

RELAXED EXIT It is true to say that when it comes to

comfort, most drivers focus on the interior of a vehicle. But

equally important comfort factors are optimally tuned sus-

pensions and innovative assistance systems for relieving the

burden on the driver. The aim is always the same: what is

known as energizing comfort, which is a fixed component of

the Mercedes-Benz brand values. In other words: the driver

and passengers of a Mercedes-Benz should alight from

the automobile as relaxed and contented as possible, even

after a long journey. This is why aspects of comfort are

always the focus of systematic research and development

at Mercedes-Benz. The objective is to recognize comfort-

determining trends at an early stage, develop new ideas for

promoting holistic comfort in the automobile and demonstrate

visionary solutions for this which are ahead of their time

HOLISTIC COMFORT You can rely on how you feel. Comfort

does not have to be explained – it is tangible. And this applies

in the automobile too. Knowing this is enough for most people,

but the Mercedes-Benz engineers want to go even further.

They know that a multitude of factors determines the feeling

of being comfortable when out on the road in the automobile.

Ride comfort, seating comfort, climate comfort and quiet-

running characteristics, but also the simple and clear

operation of the vehicle are also part of the equation. The

Mercedes-Benz brand’s understanding of comfort is accor-

dingly multifaceted, with the aim of offering holistic comfort.

Because for Mercedes-Benz, maximum comfort means far

more than homeliness and high-quality equipment and ap-

pointments. It is also about minimizing stress at the wheel

and preventing it wherever possible.

concentration-promoting measures are the focus of the

comfort researchers and developers at Mercedes-Benz.

They flow into what is known as the Active Comfort range.

DRIVER-FITNESS SAFETY WITHOUT STRESS With

“natural handling” – natural control via speech and gestures –

Mercedes-Benz implements knowledge gained from its in-

house research, for example that cumbersome operation is

just as much a stress factor as a high noise level and uncom-

fortable seats. They all restrict the directly felt comfort and

over and above that the attention and thus the fitness safety

of the driver – for only a relaxed driver is also a safe driver.

Therefore holistic comfort also always means supporting and

maintaining the performance of the driver as much as pos-

sible through comfortable surroundings. This understanding

is a constant in the company history spanning more than 125

years – different though the respective requirements regard-

ing automotive comfort have been in different eras.

COMFORT ZONE AND LIVING SPACE Those researching

and developing the vehicle of the future must not forget the

classic virtues of automotive comfort. Innovative develop-

ments rich in ideas in the traditional comfort fields like ergo-

nomics are as much a part of the contemporary understand-

ing of the automobile as the mobile comfort zone and living

space. A living space which is increasingly geared towards

the well-being of its inhabitants – to well-being in a complete-

ly holistic sense.

but which could later on often be launched in series-produc-

tion models. For the first steps to practical implementation

Mercedes-Benz above all uses research vehicles. Alongside

other visions for automobiles of tomorrow and the more dis-

tant future, time and again they present innovative ideas for

new comfort-promoting technology – long before its produc-

tion maturity. In this way Mercedes-Benz has always set stan-

dards for vehicle comfort in future automobile generations.

ACTIVE COMFORT Whilst in the early days of the automo-

bile it was mostly all about protecting the chauffeur and

passengers from the physical effects of the environment, ex-

pectations grew into more complex requirements, influenced

as they were by both technical and social factors. After the

term comfort was initially shaped by the maximum reduction

of irritants such as vibrations and noise sources in the ve-

hicle, today it additionally encompasses a supporting, active

component. To this end a whole package of technologies

was developed, with the aim of “encouraging” the occupants

to relax and concentrate: from the continual improvement

of the air quality and a stimulating scent for the interior,

enlivening lighting moods and a soundscape to an individually

coordinated ergonomic seating position. Initial successful

tests in a Mercedes-Benz Actros – what is known as the

TopFit Truck – prove that such measures for promoting the

driver’s concentration result in an anticipatory and economi-

cal driving style, and thus also in a significant saving on fuel

consumption. For passenger cars, too, performance- and

FOR MANY MERCEDES-BENZ CUSTOMERS MOBILITY IS PART OF THEIR ACTIVE LIFESTYLE. THEY OFTEN WORK

LONG AND HARD – AND SPEND LOTS OF TIME IN THE CAR. THIS TIME SHOULDN’T MEAN ADDITIONAL STRESS

AND EFFORT – IT SHOULD OFFER PEACE AND REGENERATION. THIS IS WHY RELAXING AND ENERGIZING

COMFORT IS INEXTRICABLY LINKED WITH THE MERCEDES-BENZ BRAND IDENTITY.

A multitude of factors determines the feeling of being comfortable when out on the road in the automobile.

Holistic comfort always means also supporting and retaining the driver’s performance as much as possible through comfortable surroundings.

076 077 Comfort More than just comfortableMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

conceptS-claSS coupÉ

motion, as habits, social trends and values are changing all

the time. This shapes new expectations of the automobile:

something that is current today can already be in the past

tomorrow. At the same time Mercedes-Benz enters into a

dialogue with the customers about the concept vehicles,

for it is, after all, their opinion that decides on the success

or failure of every new automobile.

NEW IMPETUS At what are practically regular intervals

Mercedes-Benz presents concept vehicles which inject new

impetus into the market and aim to gauge customer interest.

They are equipped with innovative technology which is

already present in series-production vehicles or will shortly

be reaching production maturity. In this way new sector

trends are set, and from time to time a new type of vehicle

concept enters the market. The latter is constantly in

Pioneers of the future

andVisions

Concept vehiclesMercedes-Benz

INTRODUCTION 2013

LOCATION International Motor Show [IAA],

Frankfurt am Main, Germany

OBJECTIVE Large coupé as design icon at the top of the

Mercedes-Benz model range and byword for modern luxury

DRIVE V8 biturbo engine with displacement of 4.6 liters, 335 kW

[455 hp], maximum torque of 700 Nm

Concept s-Class Coupé

Series production as Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupé2014

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

›› INTELLIGENT DRIVE technology: The stereo camera can see in three

dimensions up to a distance of around 50 meters in front of the

vehicle and perceive objects’ spatial location and movement

›› ROAD SURFACE SCAN recognizes surface undulations

with the aid of a stereo camera; MAGIC BODY CONTROL adjusts

the suspension in advance to prepare it for uneven surfaces

›› Navigation system in modern design with 3D perspective

›› Full LED headlamps with integrated LED daytime running lamps

›› Touch display with personalizable world clock in the center console

078 079 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

SlkViSionSla

SlkViSionSlr StuDY StuDY

Chassis from a combination of compound fibers and

aluminum in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Bucket seats from carbon fiber

in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Front headlamps with adaptive light system as

bi-xenon headlamps with active cornering light in the

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Bi-function xenon projection-beam headlamps for low and

main beam in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Rear lighting units in LED technology

in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Brake discs from fiber-reinforced ceramic

in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Production launch as the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Vision sLa

›› Developed on the basis of the A-Class with a compact length of only

3.77 meters and thus more maneuverable than the Mercedes-Benz

SLK [model series R 170] which is some 20 centimeters longer

›› Lightweight-construction body with a hybrid design from aluminum

profiles, aluminum sheet metal panels and high-quality plastics

›› Roll-over protection through solid bars behind the seats and the

reinforced windscreen frame

›› Through its angled installation position the engine slides

downwards at the stable front floor panel in the event of a severe

frontal collision and therefore does not penetrate the interior.

sLK study i and ii

›› Instrument panel support from carbon-fiber material

›› Full-size airbags in the carbon-fiber steering wheel and in the

instrument panel support on the front-passenger side plus belt

tensioners

›› Maximum passive occupant protection through solid windscreen

frame and roll-over protection plus the extremely rigid body structure

Vision sLR

INTRODUCTION 1999

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

OBJECTIVE High-performance sports car

DRIVE Four-stroke spark-ignition engine with 8 cylinders, 5.5-liter

displacement, compressor, 410 kW [557 hp], rear-wheel drive,

five-speed automatic transmission with Touchshift

INTRODUCTION 2000

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

OBJECTIVE Compact roadster

DRIVE Four-stroke spark-ignition engine with 4 cylinders, 1.9-liter

displacement, 92 kW [125 hp], front-wheel drive, 5-speed manual

transmission

INTRODUCTION 1994

LOCATION Turin Motor Show, Italy [Study I]

Paris Motor Show, France [Study II]

OBJECTIVE Sporty and compact roadster with a new roof design

DRIVE Four-stroke spark-ignition engine with 4 cylinders, rear-wheel

drive, 5-speed automatic transmission

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

Rear lighting units in LED technology in the

Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

LED indicators in the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Bucket seats from carbon fiber in the Mercedes-Benz SLR

McLaren

The electrohydraulic vario-roof made of steel from the

SLK Study II in the Mercedes-Benz SLK turns the vehicle

from a convertible to a winter-hardy coupé within

25 seconds at the touch of a button – and vice versa

Production launch as the Mercedes-Benz SLK

2003

2003

2003

2003

2003

2003

2003

2003

2003

2003

1996

1996

080 081 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

concepta-claSSViSion a 93

2012 Direct injection through quick-acting piezo injectors plus

turbocharging in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Dashboard in the form of an airplane wing

in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

2012

17.8-centimeter display for showing all the smartphone

functions in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Diamond radiator grille in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class2012

Multimedia system COMAND Online with smartphone

interface in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

2012

Vision a 93 and study a

INTRODUCTION 1993, 1994

LOCATION International Motor Show [IAA],

Frankfurt am Main, Germany [Vision A 93] and

Geneva Motor Show, Switzerland [Study A]

OBJECTIVE Compact vehicle with low-emission and particularly

low-consumption engines plus the possibility of realizing alternative

drive configurations

DRIVE 1: Four-stroke spark-ignition engine with 3 cylinders,

1.2-liter displacement, 55 kW [75 hp], front-wheel drive, CVT

2: Diesel engine with 3 cylinders, 1.2-liter displacement,

44 kW [60 hp], front-wheel drive, CVT

3: Electric asynchronous motor with 40 kW [54 hp]

›› Sandwich-floor concept ensures increased crashworthiness, a large

interior and suitability for alternative drive systems.

›› Mercedes-Benz also presented the Vision A 93 as an electric

vehicle with an asynchronous motor [40 kW/54 hp], whose battery

is sufficient for a range of up to 150 km in urban traffic.

›› Testing of the alloy aluminum as a material: the body is completely

comprised of aluminum with a structure of high-tensile extruded

sections and is thus around 70 kilograms lighter than a comparable

body made of sheet steel.

›› From 1997 the A-Class is used for testing the fuel cell –

Mercedes-Benz had already thought of this, too, when designing

the Vision A 93.

›› Use of natural materials such as flax and wool in the interior plus

novel materials which can later be recycled

Concept a-Class

INTRODUCTION 2011

LOCATION Auto Shanghai, China

OBJECTIVE Concept vehicle for the new sporty, dynamic compact

class from Mercedes-Benz

DRIVE Four-cylinder spark-ignition engine with 2-liter displacement,

155 kW [210 hp] and 7-speed dual clutch transmission

Navigation system in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Three-cylinder engines in the smart city coupé

Production launch as Mercedes-Benz A-Class

Automatic emergency call system ARTHUR as TELEAID

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

1995

1995

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

Production launch as Mercedes-Benz A-Class

COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST: radar-based collision

warning with Adaptive Brake Assist for protection

against rear-end collisions in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class

and B-Class

1997

2012

1998

2012

2012

082 083 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

concepte-cell F-cell e-cell pluS

BlueZero

Concept BlueZeRo

›› Modular drive configuration based on the Mercedes-Benz

sandwich-floor architecture

›› Systematic integration of drive and energy storage technology as a

constructive advantage over other electric automobiles

›› Continuation of the bionic design line; similar to the

Mercedes-Benz bionic car

›› Many structures from nature, which are modeled on organic

growth, are to be found in trim parts – such as in the cockpit and

the center console.

›› Translucent areas in lightweight-construction components, for

example the tailgate, allow the aluminum structure to be seen

DRIVE SOLUTIONS

›› BlueZERO E-Cell: electric motor, 100 kW [70 kW continuous output],

energy supply via lithium-ion battery, range of up to 200 kilometers

›› BlueZERO E-Cell PLUS: electric motor, 100 kW

[70 kW continuous output], energy supply via lithium-ion battery

and three-cylinder spark-ignition engine [50 kW/68 hp] as a range

extender, up to a range of 600 kilometers in total, up to a range of

100 kilometers purely electrically

›› BlueZERO F-Cell: electric motor, 100 kW [70 kW continuous output],

energy supply via a fuel cell powered with hydrogen, range up to

400 kilometers

INTRODUCTION 2009

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

OBJECTIVE A modular system for electric automobiles which facilitates

tailor-made drive solutions for individual requirements

084 085 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

conceptShooting Brake

conceptFaScination

conceptocean DriVe

Concept Fascination

Concept shooting Brake

Concept ocean drive

INTRODUCTION 2007

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

OBJECTIVE Four-door luxury convertible

DRIVE Four-stroke spark-ignition engine with 12 cylinders,

5.5-liter displacement, 380 kW [517 hp], rear-wheel drive,

five-speed automatic transmission

INTRODUCTION 2008

LOCATION Paris Motor Show, France

OBJECTIVE The emotive appeal of a coupé in combination

with stylish functionality

DRIVE Four-cylinder diesel engine, 2.2-liter displacement,

150 kW [204 hp], BlueTEC emission control technology,

5-speed automatic transmission 5G-TRONIC

›› Spacious and intricately designed rear compartment

with wood, brushed aluminum and a smoked-glass elevating table,

an electrically pivoting refrigerator and humidor

›› Reinterpretation of the trademark Mercedes twin-headlamp face and

bulb filaments on the basis of state-of-the-art LED technology

›› Panoramic glass sunroof

›› Fourth-generation common-rail injection with 2000 bar and

a two-stage turbocharging system

›› Smoother-running engine through a new piezo injector design

with direct nozzle needle control

›› V6 engine as a preview of the upcoming V-engine generation from

Mercedes-Benz: the spray-guided direct-injection model facilitates

multiple injections and extended lean-burn operation.

›› Headlamps and taillights in LED technology

›› Innovative soft-top mechanism, which facilitates a harmonious

sequence and rapid opening and closing

Visionary internet-based infotainment system myCOMAND as

COMAND Online in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class

LED High Performance headlamps, which for the first

time offer all the familiar dynamic light functions in LED

technology, in the Mercedes-Benz CLS

Exclusive wood load compartment floor in the

Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake

Production launch as the Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake

2011

2010

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

2012

2012

INTRODUCTION 2010

LOCATION Auto China, Beijing, China

OBJECTIVE Four-door coupé with a hatchback

DRIVE V6 spark-ignition engine with 60-degree cylinder angle

and 3.5-liter displacement, 225 kW [306 hp], maximum torque

370 newton-meters

086 087 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

concept

StYle coupÉ ViSion clScoupÉ-StuDY

›› Step-in-Light

›› Front seats with asymmetrical head restraint connection

[“Ergo-Wing seats”]

›› Unique body design of a coupé with four doors and

a generous amount of space

›› Cornering light function

Coupé-study

Concept style Coupé

Vision CLs

INTRODUCTION 1993

LOCATION Geneva Motor Show, Switzerland

OBJECTIVE Four-seater coupé with new Mercedes-Benz face and

fastback tail

DRIVE Four-stroke spark-ignition engine with 8 cylinders,

5.0-liter displacement, 235 kW [320 hp], rear-wheel drive,

automatic transmission

INTRODUCTION 2012

LOCATION Auto China, Beijing, China

OBJECTIVE Compact four-door coupé in an avant-garde design in the

medium-size category segment

DRIVE Four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline model, 155 kW [211 hp]

INTRODUCTION 2003

LOCATION International Motor Show [IAA],

Frankfurt am Main, Germany

OBJECTIVE Spacious coupé with four doors

DRIVE Diesel engine with 6 cylinders, 195 kW [265 hp],

rear-wheel drive, 7-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC

›› All-wheel drive system 4MATIC and dual clutch automatic

transmission 7G-DCT

›› Direct injection with exhaust-gas turbocharging, further developed

combustion system and extended stratified areas for lean-burn

operation through quick-acting injectors

›› Distinctive headlamp design with innovative sequential indicators

›› 21-inch wheels in turbine design

›› With the Cloud-based multimedia system COMAND Online with

Mercedes-Benz apps specially developed for use and operation

during the journey and with free internet surfing when the vehicle

is at a standstill the passengers in the Concept Style Coupé are

“always on”, in keeping with their digital lifestyle.

The new Mercedes-Benz twin-headlamp face

in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Production launch as Mercedes-Benz CLK Coupé

Fastback tail end with inclined tail end line and

a tailgate which stretches to the bumper,

in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Sports Coupé

All-glass roof with gray tint in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Electrohydraulic braking system as Sensotronic Brake

Control in the Mercedes-Benz SL

Active light function as bi-xenon headlamps with

active light function in the Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Production launch as the Mercedes-Benz CLS

1995

2001INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

2000

2003

2002

1997

2004

088 089 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

ViSion glkFreeSiDe

ViSion glktownSiDe aa

ViSion

INTRODUCTION 2008

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

OBJECTIVE Compact Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV]

DRIVE 4-cylinder diesel engine with 2.2-liter displacement,

125 kW [170 hp], 7-speed automatic transmission 7G-TRONIC

›› Multimedia system COMAND APS with intuitive operation and

a Rear Seat Entertainment system with two screens

›› With the Vision GLK TOWNSIDE and the Vision GLK FREESIDE

there are no less than two variants of the SUV study with a focus on

urban/off-road driving.

›› AGILITY CONTROL suspension with adaptive shock absorbers

›› For the first time Mercedes-Benz presents the innovative emission

control technology BlueTEC in conjunction with a four-cylinder engine.

›› Fourth-generation common-rail injection with 2,000 bar

and a two-stage turbocharging system

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

Production launch as Mercedes-Benz GLK2008

Vision GLK FReeside and Vision GLK ToWnside

aa Vision

INTRODUCTION 1996

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

OBJECTIVE Sport Utility Vehicle [SUV] with generous ride comfort

for discerning customers

DRIVE Electronically controlled all-wheel drive

›› AA stands for “All Activity” and encompasses the broad application

spectrum from town to country, asphalt to off-road, work or leisure.

›› The body design on a fixed frame protects the occupants and is

configured to be compatible with other road users.

›› Two front- and two side airbags, anti-lock braking system for

safe braking plus the Electronic Stability Program ESP® for more

directional stability in critical situations

›› Navigation system

›› Individual wheel location for enhanced springing

›› Car phone with hands-free system and operation via

steering-wheel buttons

›› Variable interior equipment

›› Two sunroofs

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

Production launch as Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Electronically controlled all-wheel drive as 4ETS in the

Mercedes-Benz M-Class

1997

1997

090 091 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

concept glaconceptcoupÉ SuV

›› Four-point seat belt buckle designed for helicopters

›› Completely retractable door handles can be extended at the touch

of a button

›› Laser beamers in the front headlamps for projecting images and

films via COMAND Online

›› Two portable HD cameras for 3D shooting in the roof rails

›› Headlamps with “Coming Home” function

›› Indicators with digital flashing light that also illuminates

the change of direction

›› Variable Dynamic Select Control with four different transmission

modes and an individually programmable set-up

›› Multibeam headlamp in full LED technology

Concept GLa Concept Coupé sUV

INTRODUCTION 2013

LOCATION Auto Shanghai, China

OBJECTIVE Premium-class compact sport utility vehicle [SUV]

DRIVE Four-cylinder turbo-gasoline engine with displacement

of 2 liters, 155 kW [211 hp], 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission,

4MATIC all-wheel drive

INTRODUCTION 2014

LOCATION Auto China, Beijing, China

OBJECTIVE Four-door, sporty SUV coupé

DRIVE V6 turbo all-wheel drive with displacement of 3 liters,

245 kW [333 hp], maximum torque of 480 Nm, 9G-TRONIC nine-speed

automatic transmission

Series production as Mercedes-Benz GLA2014

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

092 093 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

ViSionViSion

ViSion r ViSion BgSt 2gSt

Vision GsT and Vision GsT 2 Vision R

INTRODUCTION 2002

LOCATION North American International Auto Show, Detroit, USA

OBJECTIVE Large, comfortable, six-seater long-distance vehicle with

elements of a sedan, estate car, MPV and Sport Utility Vehicle

DRIVE Vision GST: spark-ignition engine with 8 cylinders, 5.5-liter

displacement, 265 kW [360 hp], all-wheel drive, six-speed automatic

transmission

Vision GST 2: diesel engine with 8 cylinders, 4.0-liter displacement,

184 kW [250 hp], coupled with a 50 kW electric motor, all-wheel drive,

six-speed automatic transmission

›› The abbreviation GST stands for “Grand Sports Tourer”.

›› Vision GST: butterfly doors with 90-degree opening angle

›› Vision GST 2: hybrid drive

›› All-wheel drive with electronically controlled traction system 4ETS

›› Double xenon projection-beam headlamps with Fresnel lenses

for combining low and main beam

›› European variant of the “Grand Sports Tourer” with

a shorter wheelbase

›› Prototype of a new V6 diesel engine for vehicles in this category

Vision B

›› The Vision B demonstrates the idea launched with the

Grand Sports Tourer of the long-distance vehicle concept in a new

compact variant.

›› Prototype of a novel and powerful four-cylinder diesel engine

›› Newly developed AUTOTRONIC continuously variable

automatic transmission

›› Interior trim partially in a light, airy fabric of high-tech material

›› Gears are changed via steering wheel buttons as is the case

in a contemporary sports car

›› Spaciousness in spite of compact dimensions comparable with

estate cars or larger sedans

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

Vision GST: electro-transparent roof in the Maybach

Novel, anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®,

which can detect an impending collision in advance and can

activate special protection systems – such as belt tensioners

and an automatically adjustable seat which places the front

passenger in a safe position, enabling the belt and airbag to

deploy with the optimum protective effect. Production launch

in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Production launch as Mercedes-Benz R-Class

2002

2003

2004

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

Electrohydraulic braking system Sensotronic Brake Control

in the Mercedes-Benz SL

Production launch as the Mercedes-Benz R-Class

Production launch as Mercedes-Benz B-Class

2011

2005

2004

INTRODUCTION 2004

LOCATION Paris Motor Show, France

OBJECTIVE Near-series development of the Vision GST and

Vision GST 2 vehicle concepts for the European market

DRIVE V6 diesel engine with six cylinders, 3.0-liter displacement,

160 kW [218 hp], all-wheel drive, seven-speed automatic transmission

7G-TRONIC

INTRODUCTION 2004

LOCATION Paris Motor Show, France

OBJECTIVE Comfortable five-seater long-distance vehicle with

elements of a sedan, estate car, MPV and Sport Utility Vehicle

DRIVE Four-cylinder diesel engine, 103 kW [140 hp], front-wheel drive,

AUTOTRONIC continuously variable automatic transmission

094 095 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

MerceDeS-BenZ

bionic carAerodynamically efficient and light as a fish in water – economical and environmentally compatible thanks to state-of-the-art diesel technology.

Mercedes-Benz bionic car

LOCATION DaimlerChrysler Innovation Symposium, Washington, USA

INTRODUCTION 2005

OBJECTIVE Investigation into the potential of bionics for automotive

development, testing trend-setting diesel-engine technology with a

novel emission control system

DRIVE Turbodiesel engine with common-rail direct injection,

2.0-liter displacement, 103 kW [140 hp]

›› Excellent aerodynamics [coefficient of drag cd = 0.19] with a body

shape similar to the boxfish

›› Body-in-white structure according to the SKO method [Soft Kill Option]

›› State-of-the-art diesel engine with direct injection

›› Maintenance-free diesel particulate filter

›› Flush door handles which fold out when touched via an electric motor

›› Front indicators as prismatic fiber-optic cables

›› High-performance LEDs as position lights

›› Taillights with high-performance LEDs and prism rods

›› Rear-view cameras instead of exterior mirrors

investigations to develop the Mercedes-Benz bionic car, a

fully operational and ready-to-drive compact car. In terms of

safety, comfort and everyday practicality, it incorporates

qualities that are typical for Mercedes-Benz. With a cd value

of 0.19 the Mercedes-Benz bionic car ranks among the most

aerodynamically efficient automobiles in this size category.

The advanced turbodiesel engine with common-rail direct

injection and novel SCR [Selective Catalytic Reduction] tech-

nology contributes significantly to reductions in fuel consump-

tion and pollutant emissions: In the EU driving cycle, the

concept car consumes 4.3 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers

[54.7 mpg] – 20 percent less than a comparable production

model. In cooperation with bionics experts, the company’s

researchers have developed a computer-based process for

transferring the growth principles in nature to automotive en-

gineering. This process is based on the SKO [Soft Kill Option]

method. The body and chassis components are dimensioned

by means of computer simulation; the material is made ever

thinner and finally cut away completely in low-load areas,

while highly stressed areas are reinforced. By applying the

SKO method to the entire body-in-white structure, weight is

reduced by some 30 percent, while the high levels of stability,

crashworthiness and driving dynamics remain unchanged.

This reduction in weight makes an important contribution to

further improving fuel economy.

With the bionic car Mercedes-Benz is investigating the

great potential of bionics [the combination of biology and

technics] for automotive development. The combination

of forward-looking diesel engine technology and innovative

emission control has achieved outstanding results in fuel

economy and in reducing pollutant emissions. For the first

time, the engineers specifically looked for a role model in

nature, one that lends itself to an aerodynamically efficient,

safe, comfortable and environmentally compatible automo-

bile – not just in detail features, but also in its overall shape

and structure. Their search led them to the boxfish.

This fish has excellent hydrodynamic properties, so its shape

is aerodynamically ideal. In order to tap into this huge poten-

tial, initially a clay model is produced – it has a shape largely

identical to that of the boxfish. Using this clay model, a drag

coefficient of cd = 0.095 – an extremely low value in automo-

tive engineering – was measured in tests in the wind tunnel.

The scientists and engineers drew on the findings from these

INNOVATIONS IN SERIES PRODUCTION

AUTOTRONIC continuously variable automatic transmission

in the Mercedes-Benz B-Class

Emission control with the aid of SCR technology with

“AdBlue” for nitrogen oxide emissions reduced by up to

80 percent [2005 in the Mercedes-Benz Actros, 2006 in the

USA in the Mercedes-Benz E 320 BLUETEC plus 2007 in

Europe in the Mercedes-Benz E 300 BLUETEC]

2005

2005

2006

2007

TAKING ITS CLUES FROM NATURE The body of the Mercedes-Benz

bionic car was created on the basis of the SKO method and is remini-

scent of the skeletal structure of the boxfish. A true-to-the-original

model reconstruction of the boxfish was also produced for tests in the

wind tunnel.

AERODYNAMICALLY EFFICIENT A clay model of the Mercedes-Benz

bionic car was surveyed in a flow tunnel filled with water.

biology and technics

096 097 Concept vehicles and visionsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

of Interest, friends, pedestrians and on other vehicles is

presented and a natural interaction facilitated via gestures.

One of the world premieres is the context-dependent and

location-specific depiction of the infotainment system’s

menu contents “Media”, “Social” and “Places” as an infor-

mation swarm. For example, under the menu item “Social”

the respective friends from users’ own social networks

are shown in the 3D city arranged beneath it. The same

applies to “Places”, where personal “Points of Interest”,

such as restaurants or cinemas, can be saved. 3D special

gestures and the swarm enable highly dynamic and

intuitive operation.

SHARED KNOWLEDGE Detecting obstacles on the road

before they are seen, perceiving dangers before they become

a threat. Car-to-X communication puts intelligent mobility

into practice and facilitates the exchange of information both

between vehicles themselves and also between vehicles

and traffic control centers. This means that following and

oncoming road users are informed about potential hazards

and can react to the situation in good time and in an ap-

propriate manner. And connectivity not only ensures more

safety on the roads: in the future vehicles will be able to warn

each other about road works, roads packed with ice and

traffic jams. A further fundamental aspect are novel driving

assistance systems, which use sensor fusion to intelligently

process the information from radars, stereo camera, infrared,

ultrasound plus the connecting of the vehicles with one

another and with the infrastructure, and also enable the

vehicle to move completely autonomously in road traffic if

the driver so wishes.

fundamental aspect are the novel driving assistance systems,

which can ease the burden on the driver to an even greater

extent and make driving an even more comfortable and

safe experience on the basis of complex sensor data and

the connecting of vehicles with one another and with the

infrastructure.

MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS HEADQUARTERS As early

as 1997 Mercedes-Benz was the first automotive manufac-

turer to put the internet into the vehicle – with its “Internet

on Wheels” concept. Now the car is becoming an integral

component of the Cloud. Amongst other things, this means

that online services can also be used comfortably and safely

“on board”, because the vehicle has access to current

information on the net. With the launch of the COMAND

Online multimedia system in March 2011 Mercedes-Benz

turned the car into a mobile, easy-to-operate communica-

tions headquarters which facilitates access to data from the

Cloud and from online services. The required data, such as

weather forecasts or share prices, are shown in the vehicle

display, whilst operation is safe and convenient, via the

COMAND Controller in the center console. Smartphones can

also be extensively integrated into the vehicle architecture.

THE CAR AS YOUR COMpANION Being connected and

able to access information from the internet everywhere and

at any time has become an essential part of daily life. This

also applies to the time spent in the car. And in combination

with state-of-the-art Human Machine Interfaces the vehicle

is increasingly becoming a “real” interaction partner that

receives any instructions relating to the journey, comfort and

safety and supplies the occupants with information when

required or necessary. “Natural” Human Machine Interfaces

is what engineers call the input and control concepts which

aim to enable the driver and passenger to communicate in a

way which is very close to human behavior – for example

voice and gesture control instead of operating buttons and

switches.

The vision of the networked automobile is about far more

than the interaction between the driver and vehicle. The con-

cept of a “connected car” also encompasses, for instance,

calling up and configuring load statuses or the interior tempe-

rature remotely, information on the next maintenance date

or displaying the consumption and of course also using the

extensive opportunities provided by the internet right through

to Augmented Reality, i.e. the projection of additional

information from the internet about the real world. A further

OUR INFOTAINMENT STRATEGY IS CALLED

@yourCOMAND AND IS BASED ON FOUR KEY ELEMENTS:

Holistic experience Systems, services and apps are

interlinked with each other and are context-sensitive,

socially interactive and self-learning.

Remote convenience The vehicle and its data

enable full remote interaction. Seamless integration into

B2B processes is possible.

Sensory perfection Displays, controls and audio systems

are pioneering and perfectly integrated.

Natural interaction Based on touch, language and

gestures, the control and display concepts are emotionally

presented and intuitive with personalisation options.

NOVEL OpERATING EXpERIENCE In 2012 Mercedes-Benz

provided a further visionary look ahead to the interactive,

intuitive and safe operating experience in premium cars of

the future in the form of DICE [Dynamic & Intuitive Control

Experience]. It demonstrates how the vehicle is becoming a

thinking, intelligent mobility partner through bidirectional

interaction. The intelligent car communicates not just with

the driver but with other road users and its entire surround-

ings too, so as to be able to evaluate and implement all the

relevant information for the journey instantaneously.

The entire windscreen becomes a brilliant Head-up Display

and the dashboard a display band. This is where digital

information on the real-life vehicle surroundings, Points

Connected car

AUTOMOBILITY 2.0

The car is increasingly becoming a “real” interaction partner that receives instructions and supplies information.

098 099 Connected car Automobility 2.0Mercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

A “NEW ELECTRIC VEHICLE” The developmental history

of this technology at Mercedes-Benz stretches back to the

1980s. With the NECAR 1 [New Electric Car] already in

1994 the company unveiled the first automobile in the world

to have a fuel cell drive system. This was proof from the

research engineers that in principle the technology is suit-

able for driving a car. The entire load capacity of the vehicle

on the basis of a Mercedes MB 100 van is taken up by the

components required for producing energy, weighing 800

kilograms; only the seats for the driver and co-driver remain

free. This makes the test vehicle resemble a laboratory on

wheels. It is fueled with pressurized hydrogen. The advan-

tage of the drive configuration is clear: through the high

efficiency, fuel cells driven with hydrogen produce no harmful

emissions: only pure water vapor. Starting with the Necar 1,

the aim was now mainly to reduce the weight of the drive

unit and at the same time improve the output.

DRIVE SYSTEM OF THE FUTURE The future of mobility lies

in the electrification of the drive system. Together with the

optimization of vehicles through the use of the latest internal

combustion engines and further increasing the efficiency

through hybridization as needed, completely emission-free

driving with electric drive systems on the basis of the battery

and fuel cell is one of the central development focal points

of the Daimler Initiative “The road to emission-free mobility”.

In the opinion of the experts at Mercedes-Benz this will not

involve just one technology alone forming the ideal solution

for sustainable mobility. Instead, drive systems tailor-made

according to requirements will gain acceptance. The

Mercedes-Benz F 125! research vehicle demonstrates just

what an important role the enhancement of fuel cell tech-

nology plays. Fitted with an F-CELL Plug-in HYBRID drive

system, it is once again demonstrating that electric vehicles

with a fuel cell are completely suitable for everyday use –

delivering effortlessly superior performance with no harmful

emissions.

LIGHTER, SMALLER, MORE POWERFUL As early as two

years following the presentation of the first fuel cell vehicle,

the NECAR 2 was on wheels by 1996. Here the fuel cell is

hidden beneath the rear bench seat of a Mercedes-Benz

V-Class. The hydrogen tanks are installed on the roof of the

vehicle. The NECAR 2 offers seats for six passengers and has

a range of 250 kilometers. With the NECAR 3 the engineers

succeeded in transferring the technology to a passenger car

for the first time in 1997. The groundbreaking innovation in

this vehicle is the world’s first fuel cell system with integral

on-board hydrogen production using liquid methanol. Along-

side the fuel cell system, complete with a substantial refor-

mer which transforms the methanol into hydrogen, there is

room for two passengers in the test vehicle based on the

Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

DRIVE SYSTEM IN THE UNDERBODY In 1999 the engi-

neers at Mercedes-Benz succeeded for the first time in

housing the compact fuel cell drive system with an output of

70 kilowatts entirely in the specially designed sandwich floor

of an A-Class – in the NECAR 4. This vehicle drives with liquid

hydrogen, which it uses to clock up a top speed of 145 km/h,

and has a range of 450 kilometers. It offers sufficient room

NECar 1 In the NECAR 1 of 1994 the fuel cell system still takes up

the entire load compartment of the MB 100 van.

NECar 2 The fuel cell system is located beneath the rear bench

seat of a Mercedes-Benz V-Class.

The evolution of fuel cell technology

FROM THE NECAR 1 TO THE B-CLASS F-CELL

NECar 1 1994

[130 km reach ]

B-Class F-CEll 2009

[ 400 km reach ]

F 125! ≈ 2025

[ 1,000 km reach ]

for five people and their luggage. The successor vehicle,

the NECAR 4a, is built for use in the fleet test as part of the

“California Fuel Cell Partnership” demonstration project.

The enhanced powertrain system is based on the NECAR 4,

but instead uses pressurized hydrogen and is considerably

more compact. A further fuel cell vehicle powered by the

hydrogen carrier methanol was unveiled by Mercedes-Benz in

November 2000 in the form of the NECAR 5. The techno-

logical successor to the NECAR 3 achieves speeds of over

150 km/h. Here too the complete drive system including

the methanol reformer is located in the underbody of the

Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Compared with the NECAR 3 its

output is some 50 percent higher, yet it is half the size and

300 kilograms lighter. But the substantial technical effort

involved in converting methanol to hydrogen, plus the desire

to offer a completely emission-free vehicle, resulted in the

decision in favor of gaseous hydrogen as a fuel for the new

generations of electric vehicles with a fuel cell.

NECar 4 The drive system of the NECAR 4 is completely installed in

the sandwich floor of a Mercedes-Benz A-Class.

NECar 5 The NECAR 5 is a fully usable fuel cell automobile

based on the Mercedes-Benz A-Class and fueled with the hydrogen

carrier methanol.

100 101 The evolution of fuel cell technology From the NECAR 1 to the B-Class F-CELLMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

FROM PRACTICAL TESTING TO SERIES PRODUCTION

From 2002 extensive fleet tests took place. A test fleet of

60 vehicles of what has since been named the “F-CELL”

A-Class featuring fuel cell technology, fueled with gaseous

hydrogen at a storage pressure of 350 bar, covered hundreds

of thousands of kilometers in practical operation. In 2005

the engineers at Mercedes-Benz realized a further enhanced

fuel cell drive system in the form of the research vehicle

F 600 HYGENIUS. Alongside hugely improved output values the

F 600 HYGENIUS is also characterized by the ability to store

energy which is not required in a powerful lithium-ion bat-

tery and to access it on demand. Then, four years later,

Mercedes-Benz put its first electric vehicle with a fuel cell

produced in series-production conditions on the road in

the form of the B-Class F-CELL. Its fuel cell module is char-

acterized by a very good cold-start capability to minus

25 degrees Celsius – an important technological milestone

on the route to market maturity. The entire drive system is

around 40 percent smaller than in the A-Class F-CELL of

2004, but develops 30 percent more output with 30 percent

less consumption. The F-CELL concept is again realized on

the basis of the unique sandwich floor architecture, which

Mercedes-Benz had launched more than ten years previously

in the first A-Class generation – also with a view to integrat-

ing alternative drive systems – and which it had been system-

atically enhancing ever since. The B-Class F-CELL achieves a

range of approximately 400 km. The electric motor achieves

100 kW [136 hp], delivers a torque of 290 Nm and output-

wise is thus at the same level of a two-liter gasoline engine.

Since 2010 nearly 200 B-Class F-CELL vehicles have been

with customers in Europe and the USA.

MODULAR CONSTRUCTION KIT SYSTEM For electric

vehicles with batteries and fuel cells the engineers at

Mercedes-Benz have developed a modular construction kit

system. One of its advantages is that it facilitates the efficient

use of shared parts in all electric vehicles. All the main com-

ponents are suitable for modularization: from the electric

motor and the transmission through the battery and the

high-voltage safety concept to high-voltage cabling and soft-

ware modules. In the case of fuel cell vehicles the specific

components – for example stacks and hydrogen tanks –

can be used uniformly for totally different vehicles. For

instance, in the fuel cell bus Citaro FuelCELL-Hybrid stacks

which are also utilized in the B-Class F-CELL are used;

simply multiplied.

AMBASSADOR FOR EMISSION-FREE MOBILITY Electric

cars with a fuel cell can revolutionize our mobility yet again.

Whilst the vehicle technology of the B-Class F-CELL is already

matured to a great extent, the filling station infrastructure

and the development of a competitive supplier landscape still

represent limiting factors. In order to corroborate the per-

formance and suitability for everyday use of this pioneering

technology and at the same time accelerate the construction

of a global hydrogen filling station network, three B-Class

F-CELL vehicles circumnavigated the world in 2011, each

successfully covering more than 30,000 kilometers, through

the most diverse climate zones and on the most diverse

routes – as the global ambassador for a new mobility with

zero local emissions. The aim is that in the future, car drivers

all over the world should be able to fill up with hydrogen –

as they do today with gasoline and diesel.

THE FUNDAMENTAL DRIVE SYSTEM COMPONENTS

plus the hydrogen tanks are housed in the sandwich floor

beneath the passenger cell of the B-Class F-CELL. The addi-

tional high-voltage battery is located in the trunk, the electric

motor and cooling system in the engine compartment.

HYDrOGEN TaNKS store the

hydrogen in special compressed-gas

tanks at around 700 bar

FUEl CEll STaCK contains fuel cells arranged

in stacks. In each individual one hydrogen reacts

with air and thus produces electricity.

ElECTrIC MOTOr drives the vehicle via the

front axle, draws its energy from the fuel cell

stack and the battery.

The B-Class F-CELL marks the arrival on the streets of an electric vehicle with a fuel cell produced in series-production conditions.

MERCEDES-BENz B-CLASS F-CELL

FUEL CELL SYSTEM

DATA AND FACTS

F-CEll WOrlD DrIVE Three B-Class F-CELL models

circumnavigate the world.

MaXIMUM OUTPUT 100 kW

TOrQUE 290 Nm

raNGE aPPrOX. 400 km

CONSUMPTION [DIESEl EQUIValENT] 3.3 l/100 km

lITHIUM-ION BaTTErY stores electrical energy from the fuel system

and from recovered kinetic energy [recuperation], supports the vehicle

when accelerating.

102 103 The evolution of fuel cell technology From the NECAR 1 to the B-Class F-CELLMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

The designers can make full use of their wealth of ideas and

break through conventional patterns of thought. The current

technical feasibility plays a subordinate role here. But the

designers take social, aesthetic and technological trends and

over and again they deliver fresh impetus for vehicle concepts

which no-one has previously thought of.

POOLS OF IDEAS At the Los Angeles Design Challenge in

the run-up to the Los Angeles Auto Show the designers from

the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studio in Carlsbad,

California, have since 2005 presented seven revolutionary

visions of Mercedes-Benz. The only specification at the

Design Challenge comes in the form of the themes, with no

limits to creativity.

LOCATION Los Angeles, USA

INTRODUCTION LA Auto Show, Design Challenge 2010

THEME Extremely lightweight construction

BIOME

• SYMBIOSIS WITH THE ECOSYSTEM •

in the Mercedes-Benz nursery. It consists of an ultralight

material called BioFibre. The interior of the BIOME grows

from the DNA of the Mercedes star at the front of the

vehicle, the outer form from the star at the tail end.

On the road the BIOME emits pure oxygen and at the end

of its life it can be fully composted or used as building

material.

A small car of the future, which is created and driven in

perfect symbiosis with nature: the 394-kilogram light

BIOME grows organically from genetically modified seeds

Mercedes-Benz

Design studiesCREATIVE

AUTOMOTIVE WORLDS

Design for innovations.

104 105 Design studies Creative automotive worldsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Silver Arrow

The Sci-Fi Silver Arrow is a hollywoodesque homage to

the legendary racing cars of the 1930s and 1950s.

One of its technical highlights is the diagonal, hubless roller

• RECYCLABLE ROADSTER •

Characterized by fine woods, its design is a nod to the

famous Riva motor boats of the 1970s. It has as its

drive system a four-cylinder biodiesel engine with environ-

mentally friendly BlueTEC emission control technology.

A stable alu-minum tubular frame lends the vehicle the

requisite rigidity. In case of damage the outer wood panels

can be easily exchanged and recycled.

The Mercedes-Benz ReCy is a 100-percent recyclable road-

ster, which is produced completely on the basis of sustain-

able resources such as wood, glass, aluminum and rubber.

ReCy

• RACING CAR FOR SCI-FI THRILLERS •

LOCATION Los Angeles, USA LOCATION Los Angeles, USA

INTRODUCTION LA Auto Show, Design Challenge 2011 INTRODUCTION LA Auto Show, Design Challenge 2006

THEME The movie automobile of the future THEME Environmental awareness

which facilitates steering in all directions. In the

accompanying animated movie “Silver Lightning” the

Silver Arrow is driven by two smart crash-test dummies,

which – thanks to artificial intelligence – decide

to break out of boring everyday crash-test life, always

fleeing from the security forces of a futuristic

metropolis.

106 107 Design studies Creative automotive worldsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

LOCATION Sunnyvale, USALOCATION Beijing, China

SUBJECT A super sports car for the virtual race trackSUBJECT A versatile SUC for town and country driving

INTRODUCTION Opening of the Mercedes-Benz

Research & Development Center 2013

INTRODUCTION Grand opening of the new Mercedes-Benz

Development Center, 2014

• VIRTUAL SUpER SpORTS CAR •

• VISIONARY ALL-ROUNDER •

Vision G-Codeengine that drives the front wheels only, and an electric

motor for the rear wheels. The high-tech “multi-voltaic silver”

paintwork works like a giant solar cell to generate

additional energy and can also be electrostatically charged

by the wind. There is a full-surface display in place of

the conventional louvered radiator grille: this shows the

current operating mode of the vehicle through the use of

different colors.

A both sporty and energy-efficient Sports Utility Coupé

(SUC), inspired by the urban lifestyle in Asian megacities:

the compact G-Code comprises both a combustion

AMG Vision Gran Turismothe Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design Studios in Sindelfingen,

Carlsbad and Como for the Gran Turismo® 6 racing game. The

AMG Vision GT has a V8 biturbo engine with 430 kW (585 hp)

and maximum torque of 800 newton-meters. With its alumin -

um spaceframe body and carbon components – a material

that plays a central role in motorsports – it weighs in at a mere

1,385 kilograms. This works out at just 2.4 kilograms per hp

– a highly impressive figure in the super sports car segment.

The visionary concept of a super sports car with typical

Mercedes-Benz gullwing doors is a virtual vehicle, but one that

functions like a real automobile. It was originally designed by

108 109 Design studies Creative automotive worldsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Formula ZeroSilverFlow

The vision of a vehicle which adapts its shape to the current

mobility requirements in seconds: the SilverFlow is com-

prised of billions of microscopically minute metal particles

which can be reshaped through magnetic fields to become

the desired predefined model. An aerodynamic sports car

becomes a compact city runabout. Through the same

ferromagnetically produced morphing effect, damage to

the vehicle is automatically repaired. Instead of being parked

the SilverFlow is reduced at the touch of a button to a

particulate pool which is easy to store.

drive energy at its disposal – the winner is then determined

from the best values achieved in terms of driving time and

energy efficiency. The ecological racing car achieves its

maximum efficiency through the combination of electric

wheel hub motors, an aerodynamically shaped outer skin

with solar-cell elements and its high-tech sail with bending

resistance.

• MICRO-METALLIC TRANSFORMER •

• CLEAN RACER •

Formula Zero is the vision the Mercedes-Benz designers have

of the environmentally friendly racing event in the year 2025.

At the start every team has a precisely defined quantity of

LOCATION Los Angeles, USA LOCATION Los Angeles, USA

INTRODUCTION LA Auto Show, Design Challenge 2007 INTRODUCTION LA Auto Show, Design Challenge 2008

THEME Robocar 2057 THEME Motorsport 2025

110 111 Design studies Creative automotive worldsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Vision Ener-G-ForceMojave Runner

Extreme heat and rough terrain are not a problem for the

extremely resilient rescue and exploration vehicle for the

Californian desert. The exoskeleton body consists of carbon

fiber and aluminum tubes, which store compressed air for

operating pneumatic instruments. The gas/electric hybrid

drive is supplemented by a fuel cell. Optimum on- and off-

road capabilities are ensured by intelligent tires which adapt

their profile to suit the ground surface. Sensors on the roof

supply the data for the night vision unit, sandstorm radar

and GPS positioning.

The draft of a police car for the year 2025 which the design-

ers have enhanced to become a civilian variant demonstrates

just how the genes of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class may

prevail in the distant future. The future SUV is completely

off-roadable and emits nothing but water. Its “Hydro Tech

Converter” takes recycled water from the roof tanks and

turns it into hydrogen for operating the fuel cell drive system.

The topographical all-round scanner “Terra-Scan” constantly

registers the surroundings and regulates the suspension

parameters for optimum traction.

• HIGH-TECH ADVENTURE IN THE DESERT •

• OFF-ROAD FOR THE FUTURE •

LOCATION Los Angeles, USA

INTRODUCTION LA Auto Show, Design Challenge 2005

THEME An adventure in L.A.

LOCATION Los Angeles, USA

INTRODUCTION LA Auto Show, Design Challenge 2012

THEME Highway Patrol Vehicle 2025

112 113 Design studies Creative automotive worldsMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

The Benz Patent Motor Car with a single-cylinder four-stroke engine.

1886

Benz Patent Motor Car

The world’s first automobile

Pioneer of all motor vehicles

Benz Patent Motor Car

FASCINATED BY TECHNICAL THINGS As early as 1877,

Carl Benz applied himself to designing stationary internal

combustion engines as a substitute for the steam engine.

He soon discovered that these drives were suited for more

than just stationary use. The idea of the self-propelled

vehicle – the automobile – took shape. Before long, Benz

realized that it was not enough simply to install an engine

in a horse-drawn carriage and declare it an automobile.

PIONEERING ACHIEVEMENT Carl Benz registered the

patent for his “vehicle with gas-engine drive” on January 29,

1886. This motor car was the first automobile in the history

of Daimler AG, and it was sold in small numbers. This pion-

eering effort was the start of the successful history of the au-

tomobile, which Daimler has continued to dominate for more

than 126 years. At the same time, it was the first research

car in corporate history.

INNOVATIONS Carl Benz created innovative technology:

a horizontal, gasoline-powered, single-cylinder four-stroke

engine, electric ignition, a clutch, carburetor, radiator, a

means of gearing, and a differential for the two drive wheels.

Equipped with these items, the first motor car rolled out in

1885. It was not merely a modified carriage, but a wholly

new design.

The patent specification of 1886 is the automobile’s birth certificate.

FUTURE THINKING The motives that incited Carl Benz to

build his car remain unchanged for every present-day research

car from Mercedes-Benz. Each represents bold thinking far

ahead into the future, combining several innovative technolo-

gies and making them something that can be experienced. At

the same time the technologies are tested and introduced to

the public. This was true for the Benz Patent Motor Car, and

still holds true for the latest research car.

FoCus: a » vehiCle with gas-engine drive «

114 115 Benz Patent Motor Car Pioneer of all motor vehiclesMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Utopias that shape tomorrow

the mobility of tomorrow

ONE THING IS CLEAR: whether they are short- or long-term,

innovations are the key to success. Here at Mercedes-Benz,

we have developed our own “creative culture” and devised

effective processes to sift out the best ideas and achieve the

highest possible strike rate. Our sources of innovation are

at an all-time high. With patents pending for more than 2000

inventions, our company was the undisputed number one

among German automakers last year. More than half of these

patents are for “green technologies”, highlighting the fact

that Mercedes-Benz is also ideally equipped to meet the el-

ementary requirements of the car of the future.

In future visions of mobility, the barriers between road users

are lifted, and traffic signs are almost unnecessary. Based on

the idea of schools of fish or flocks of flying birds, collisions

are prevented thanks to information, efficiency increases,

the space required for infrastructure is reduced and mobility

becomes less stressful. Then there are the many positive

side effects of zero-emission vehicles, which will change the

world we live in. Traffic-clogged boulevards in cities will once

again become pleasant places to live and shop, since the

noise and exhaust fumes will disappear. Beltways will be de-

constructed. The current stark division between living and

recreation on the one hand and thoroughfares on the other

will cease to exist. Urban planning will be all about new,

revolutionary architecture.

JOIN US IN LOOKING FORwARD TO THE FUTURE!

the love oF invention never wanes

116 117 Utopias that shape tomorrow The mobility of tomorrowMercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations

Daimler AG

Global Communications Mercedes-Benz Cars

Research, Development and Environmental Communications

D-70546 Stuttgart, Germany

www.daimler.com

PuBlisher

118 Mercedes-Benz Evolution of Innovations