The new Mercedes-Benz SLK: Passion meets efficiency - Daimler

The A-pillar cladding is a good example of meticulous development work. Ittook more than one year to develop a plastic cover that would combine highdesign requirements with exemplary functioning perfection. The result is apillar cover with a fine front edge and a drainage channel on the upper surface.This ensures a very close airflow and therefore a significant reduction in airresistance, as well as very good results in terms of draught protection,aeroacoustics and reduced soiling of the exterior mirrors and side windows.Page 22Innovative draught-stop system AIRGUIDETo reduce draughts when driving with the roof open, the SLK can be fitted witha draught-stop. This consists of a net with a fixed frame which is installedbetween the head restraints. When not in use it can be stowed in the boot,where it occupies little space.A comfortable alternative to the conventional draught-stop is a new pivotingdraught-stop for the new SLK which has been invented by Mercedes-Benzaerodynamics engineers. It consists of pivoting transparent plastic layerswhich are attached to the reverse of the roll-over bars. This is the world's firstdraught protection system that enables different comfort levels to be selectedfor two occupants, as the driver and passenger can individually pivot the unitsto the centre of the vehicle in a flash, thus taming turbulent air flow from therear. Advantage: no installation or removal effort is required.Modern headlamp technology and LED daytime running lampsIn the base version the new Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with single-tubeH7 headlamps. These are combined with round daytime running lamps withchromed surrounds in the bumper. On request, horizontally arranged,elongated LED daytime running lamps with four LEDs can be fitted in a chromeclasp to give the SLK an even more striking front. If the vehicle is equippedwith the Intelligent Light System or the AMG Sports package, these LEDdaytime running lamps are included. A manually operated and electricallyactivated headlight beam control system is standard equipment with halogenheadlamps. The Intelligent Light System has automatic headlight beam control.Alternatively the new SLK can be equipped with the Intelligent Light System(ILS) developed by Mercedes-Benz.The Intelligent Light System provides fivelighting functions (cornering light function, country mode, motorway mode,active light function and enhanced fog lamps), which are activated dependingDaimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/GermanyMercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand