Daimler Annual Report 2011 - Alle jaarverslagen

The New Compact Cars
Safe and comfortable — but also young and emotional:
Welcome to a new era for the compact class
As the inventor of the automobile, we are updating our model
range in special ways. For example, Mercedes-Benz Cars
began in 2011 by launching a unique offensive in the compact
class with the new B-Class. The preceding A- and B-Class
vehicles successfully paved the way for this development. We
are systematically expanding our presence in this segment by
offering innovative and fascinating compact models.
The pulse of a new generation: the Concept A-CLASS
The expressive design of the Concept A-CLASS symbolizes
focused dynamism. The concept car opens up new possibilities
and is setting the pace for the new Mercedes-Benz compact
class era — in terms of both appearance and technology.
For everything that lies before us: the new B-Class
This new era is being ushered in by the second generation of
the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, which is even more agile, safer
and more efficient than its predecessor — while remaining as
comfortable and roomy as ever. As an all-rounder, it is also an
ideal vehicle for young families. The lower vehicle height and
the characteristic lines of its exterior perfectly express the
dynamic qualities of this premium sports tourer.
The new compact car was presented at the Frankfurt Motor
Show (IAA) in 2011. And thanks to its partial double-floor
concept (Energy Space) for alternative drive systems, the new
compact car is ideally equipped for the future. No Mercedes-
Benz model change has ever produced as many innovations
as the new B-Class. This quantum leap will benefit customers
by offering them the lowest fuel consumption and CO 2 emission
values — combined with driving pleasure, plenty of space
and the utmost safety standards. These developments will
completely redefine this vehicle category in the future.
Premium road safety
The new B-Class and the future new A-Class will have COLLI-
SION PREVENTION ASSIST as standard equipment — an
innovation that is unique in the compact segment. This radarsupported
collision warning system with the adaptive braking
assistant can protect drivers from typical front-end collisions.
That makes the new B-Class the benchmark for safety in its
segment — a feature that makes it especially attractive for
young families. Many additional assistance systems from the
larger models are also continually enhancing the safety of
Mercedes-Benz compact cars.
Fascinating
With its high-quality materials, finely structured
surfaces and elegant details, the Concept A-CLASS
raises the bar for compact cars.
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