The new Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC will have its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March 2016.
First high-performance variant of the new E-Class
March 10, 2016 – Affalterbach — Hot on the heels of the world premiere for the new Mercedes-Benz E-Class at the North American International Auto Show this January, the first high-performance variant of the new E-Class is already on the way from Mercedes-AMG. The Mercedes-AMG E43, boasting a 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine, will represent the most powerful variant of the luxury sedan when it hits dealerships by early 2017. This high-powered six-cylinder engine delivers an output of 396 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive combines optimum traction with high agility on the AMG E43, thanks to rear-biased torque distribution with a front-to-rear ratio of 31:69 percent. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times, AMG AIRMATIC Adaptive Sport Suspension and the more direct steering ratio also provide for signature AMG Driving Performance.
“The new AMG E43 offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging, features adopted from motorsport and characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E-Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology and intense emotion,” notes Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
On the AMG E43, Mercedes-AMG has upgraded the six-cylinder engine’s output by 34 hp to 396 hp with the aid of two larger turbochargers and sophisticated AMG software. The ample peak torque of 384 lb-ft is available from a low engine speed of 2,500 rpms all the way through 5,000 rpms.
This package guarantees performance on par with many a sports car: the new AMG E43 achieves a 0-60 time in just 4.5 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph.
The data at a glance:
| Mercedes-AMG E43 | |
| Engine | V6 Biturbo |
| Displacement | 2996 cc |
| Output | 396 hp at 6100 rpm |
| Peak torque | 384 lb-ft at 2500-5000 rpm |
| Curb Weight | 4,145 lbs |
| Acceleration 0-60 mph | 4.5 s |
| Top speed | 155 mph (electronically limited) |
Sporty and distinctive: the exterior design
The looks of the AMG E43 render it immediately recognizable as a member of the AMG family. Apart from underscoring a powerful appearance, three large openings in the front bumper also ensure an optimum flow of air to the coolers. Two elegant cross fins on the outer cooling openings enhance the vehicle’s visual presence. The diamond grille with chromed pins, a louver in high-gloss black and AMG lettering represent further hallmarks of the AMG 43 models.
The side view of the AMG E43 is dominated by high-sheen 19-inch AMG five-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in high-gloss black. The rear end features characteristic highlights including two chrome-plated quad-flow exhaust tailpipes conveying a particularly sporty aesthetic. The rear diffusor comes in silver chrome, while the standard-specification spoiler lip on the trunk lid is painted body color.
Sporty look with model-specific details: the interior design
The interior reinforces the dynamic caliber of the new AMG E43 with numerous individual details. The driver and front passenger find a secure position in the sport seats even when driving at top speed, thanks to the improved lateral support. The upholstery in MB-Tex/DINAMICA (optional: nappa leather) features a distinctive layout and red topstitching. To match the seat design, the door center panels and dashboard are finished in MB-Tex with red topstitching. Exclusive pedals, a black roof lining and red seat belts add further sporty highlights.
The multifunction sports steering wheel with Touch Control in black nappa leather with red contrasting topstitching and a flattened bottom section is ideally suited for sporty driving. The AMG instrument cluster delivers all relevant information in a clearly arranged layout optimized for a dynamic driving style on the available fully-digital, high-resolution 12.3” instrument screen.
High on power, low on consumption: the AMG 3.0-liter V6 Biturbo engine
The V6 Biturbo engine boasts a high power output combined with low fuel consumption and emissions. The high power output of 396 hp is attributable, among other things, to new, larger turbochargers and the higher charge-air pressure of 16 psi. Installed close to the engine, the two turbochargers provide near-instantaneous power.
The NANOSLIDE® coating on the cylinder liners has also undergone further development in the Formula 1 V6 hybrid turbo engines from Mercedes-Benz. Especially tough and wear-resistant, this coating reduces friction, thereby contributing to higher efficiency. The same applies to the spray-guided fuel injection, with up to 2900 psi of pressure.
The AMG powerplant can be identified by the red aluminum insert in the engine cover.
Short shift times and high efficiency: the 9G-TRONIC
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is specially matched to the requirements of the new AMG E43. The multiple downshift function enables more spontaneous short bursts of speed, while the double-declutching function in “Sport” and “Sport Plus” transmission modes makes for an even more emotional driving experience. Defined ignition intervention additionally enables faster gear shifting than in “Eco” and “Comfort” modes.
“Manual” mode can be selected using a separate button in the center console. The gear changes are based on the selected transmission mode and the driver can now change gear using the paddles on the steering wheel. Moreover, the transmission stays in the selected gear and does not automatically shift up when the engine speed reaches the limit.
More agility: AMG AIRMATIC Adaptive Sport Suspension
For added agility, more neutral cornering behavior and higher traction even when driving at high speeds, engineers in Affalterbach have designed a dedicated sports suspension on the basis of the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension system. The Adaptive Damping System offers a choice of three modes – “Comfort,” “Sport” and “Sport Plus.” This provides for broader scope between a high level of comfort for longer journeys and sporty driving dynamics.
The four-link front axle is fitted with special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints; all components have been optimized in terms of rigidity. A more negative camber on the front axle and on the multi-link rear axle enhances lateral dynamics. The elastokinematics of both axles have been designed to be more rigid in general. All these measures improve agility and boost the dynamics.
Rear-biased and agile: AMG Performance 4MATIC
The AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive system features rear-biased torque distribution with a front/rear axle split of 31 to 69 percent. This configuration provides for enhanced driving dynamics and higher lateral acceleration on the road as well as improved traction when accelerating.
In combining the permanent four-wheel drive with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the engineers have opted for a change of concept: the single-stage transfer case of the four-wheel drive is flange-mounted on the 9G-TRONIC as a separate system. On earlier generations of vehicles, the transfer case was integrated into the 7G-TRONIC PLUS. The new add-on solution makes it easier to modify torque distribution according to the model, thus enabling even more individual characteristics for the respective model series.
The new system is also more effective than the earlier concept by virtue of improved efficiency, reduced friction and lower weight. Its compact design does not restrict space for either passengers or luggage.
Characteristics at the tap of a finger: AMG DYNAMIC SELECT
With the five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes “Eco,” “Comfort,” “Sport,” “Sport Plus” and “Individual,” the driver can tailor the characteristics of the AMG E43 to individual preferences at the tap of a finger. The available range extends from efficient and comfortable to extremely sporty and modifies key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering. Independently of the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes, the driver has the option of pressing the “M” button to switch directly to manual mode, in which gearshifts are executed exclusively using the shift paddles on the steering wheel. The suspension set-ups can also be selected as necessary.
The AMG DYNAMIC SELECT “Sport” and “Sport Plus” transmission modes are configured with a clear emphasis on driving dynamics on the new AMG E43. This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic with direct set-up and emotional gear shifting with reduced shift times and double declutching. The increased idling speed additionally enables the vehicle to move off quickly and provides for faster acceleration from a standing start.
In order to increase efficiency, in “Eco” mode the ECO start/stop function and the gliding function reduce fuel consumption: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range between 31 and 99 mph, the clutch is disengaged and the engine is decoupled from the powertrain. The electronics reduce the engine speed to idling level, and the driving resistance is reduced by the compression and frictional forces of the engine in overrun mode.
Direct and with clear feedback: speed-sensitive sports steering
The speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable ratio on the AMG E43. It stands out with its precise, highly authentic feedback. Steering power assistance is available in a choice of two modes – “Comfort” or “Sport.” The relevant characteristics are automatically activated depending on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission mode or can be personalized in Individual mode. Manual torque is increased in “Sport” mode, providing more feedback on driving conditions.
The large braking system with internally ventilated compound brake discs ensures reliable and quick deceleration of the sedan.
Optional features with a sporty emphasis
The optionally available features also emphasize the sporty character of the AMG E43. These range from AMG seats with increased lateral support to nappa leather upholstery to 20-inch wheels.
The new Mercedes-AMG E43 will have its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show in March 2016 and will be in US dealers by early 2017.
EUROPE – Performance of the new E-Class
Affalterbach. Hot on the heels of the world premiere for the new Mercedes‑Benz E-Class, its first high-performance variant is on the way from Mercedes-AMG. The E 43 4MATIC with the 3.0-litre V6 biturbo engine on board will represent the most powerful variant of the executive saloon when it is introduced in September 2016. With two new turbochargers and corresponding software applications, the supercharged six-cylinder engine delivers an output of 295 kW (401 hp). As ever, the standard-specification AMG Performance 4MATIC four-wheel drive combines optimum traction with high agility on the E 43, thanks to rear-biased torque distribution with a front-to-rear ratio of 31:69 percent. The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with shorter shift times, the retuned sports suspension based on the AIR BODY CONTROL air suspension and the more direct steering ratio also provide for signature AMG Driving Performance.
“The new E 43 4MATIC offers impressive driving dynamics coupled with cutting-edge efficiency. Twin turbocharging, features adopted from motorsport and the characteristic AMG design immediately indicate to our customers that the new E‑Class from AMG offers pure Driving Performance coupled with cutting-edge technology and intense emotion,” notes Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
On the E 43 4MATIC, Mercedes-AMG has upgraded the six-cylinder engine’s output by 25 kW (34 hp) to 295 kW (401 hp) with the aid of two larger turbochargers and sophisticated software applications. The ample peak torque of 520 Newton metres is available right from a low engine speed of 2500 rpm.
This package guarantees performance on a par with many a sports car: the new E 43 4MATIC reaches a speed of 100 km/h from a standing start in 4.6 seconds, while its top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h.
The data at a glance:
| Mercedes-AMG E 43 4MATIC | |
| Engine | V6 biturbo |
| Displacement | 2996 cc |
| Output | 295 kW (401 hp) at 6100 rpm |
| Peak torque | 520 Nm at 2500-5000 rpm |
| Fuel consumption, combined | 8.3 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions, combined | 189 g/km |
| Efficiency class | D |
| Kerb weight (according to DIN/EC) | 1765 kg*/1840 kg** |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 4.6 s |
| Top speed | 250 km/h*** |
* ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, without driver and luggage); ** ready-to-drive condition (fuel tank 90 % full, with driver (68 kg) and luggage (7 kg); *** electronically limited
NEW MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS INTERIOR DESIGN
December 09, 2015 – Stuttgart — Mercedes-Benz is taking a big step into the future by numerous innovations with the new E-Class, including in terms of the design of the interior, which features a wide high-resolution next-generation dual display (12.3 inches per display) that appears to hover in space. In addition, touch-sensitive control buttons on the steering wheel make their first appearance in a car. They allow the driver to control the entire infotainment system using finger swipes without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. The all-new experience is rounded off by a novel, intelligent graphic design with high-resolution visualisations and animations as well as simplified control logic. At the same time, the occupants enjoy a sensual interior with spacious architecture and high-quality materials.
“With the interior of the new E-Class, we are giving a new interpretation to the concept of contemporary luxury,” says Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of Interior Design. “We have designed a spacious and intelligent interior. True to Mercedes-Benz’s design philosophy of sensual purity, it employs technological innovation and high-grade equipment to create an exceptionally emotive experience for driver and front passenger. The E-Class thus not only sets a new standard in the business class. Alongside a workplace and private environment, it also becomes a “third place” – a living area in which passengers are able to enjoy contemporary luxury.”
Wide dual display can be configured to suit personal preferences
The eye-catcher in the comfort-oriented, luxurious interior of the new E-Class is
two displays each with a 31.2 cm (12.3-inch) screen diagonal and a resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels. These merge visually to form a wide-screen cockpit, thus acting as a central element to emphasise the horizontal bias of the interior design of the new E-Class. As the instrument cluster, this wide-screen cockpit contains a large display with virtual instruments in the direct field of vision of the driver as well as a central display above the centre console. A common glass cover results in a modern flat-screen look. The driver can choose between three different styles to select their preferred screen design for the wide-screen instrument cluster: “Classic”, “Sport” and “Progressive”.
The wide-screen instrument cluster is optionally available with COMAND Online. Instead, the entry-level model of the new E-Class combines two tube-type round dials and a 17.8 cm colour display cluster (1000 x 600-pixel resolution) with a central display with a 21.3 cm screen diagonal (960 x 540-pixel resolution). The round dials, instrument cluster and central display are installed in a single frame with a high-gloss piano-lacquer look.
The driver can adapt the content of the central display to suit their personal preferences. With the exception of the navigation map (which always fills the complete display area), the graphic content of the central display of COMAND Online is divided into a main area for informative graphics and animations (2/3 on the right side of the display) and a supplementary area (1/3 on the left side of the display).
The display can be backlit at night with multicolour ambience lighting – which then makes the wide-screen cockpit appear to float in space.
Touch control: finger swipes
In a further innovation, the new E-Class is the first ever car to integrate touch control buttons in the spokes of the multifunction steering wheel. Like the surface of a smartphone, the buttons are touch-sensitive and therefore respond precisely to horizontal and vertical finger swipes. This enables the driver to control every function of the infotainment system in the same simple, logical and intuitive manner as with a smartphone without having to take their hands off the steering wheel. Having selected the desired function with a swipe, the driver presses the appropriate touch control button to trigger the function. Another four buttons in each switch panel are provided with the familiar functions, such as for volume control and telephone control.
A further input option, familiar from the C-Class, is offered by the touchpad on the centre console. This, too, allows all functions to be controlled by single or multi-finger gestures (multitouch). The touchpad also permits letters, numbers and special characters to be entered in handwriting. Having recognised the handwritten characters, the system reads them out to enable blind operation without the driver having to divert their attention from what is happening on the road. A handrest detection feature makes for added operating safety while helping to prevent incorrect inputs. Three touch-sensitive buttons are arranged behind the touchpad and can be used to operate key functions quickly and directly (back function, switch to favourites menu, audio quick menu).
In addition to the touch control buttons and the touchpad, the driver can use the COMAND controller and LINGUATRONIC voice control to control the infotainment system. They can choose at any time which input method they prefer.
The new E-Class can also be controlled by direct buttons, such as for controlling the air-conditioning system or – in another first – for simple activation/deactivation of certain driver assistance systems.
In designing the control and display elements, the aim was not only to logically group the vehicle’s controls and display functions in terms of form and content, but also to upgrade and emphasise them. Metallised switch surfaces and genuine-metal controls are used to special high-value effect. Thanks to finely textured, metallic-looking surfaces, some of them in a special finish, each individual control in the vehicle radiates an attention to detail in terms of both touch and sound.
New control experience
The goal in developing the all-new control and display concept was to closely unite intuitiveness of use with functionally expressive yet attractive design. The result is that passengers in the E-Class can enjoy a new control experience with high-resolution visualisations and animations. The developers have focused on the use of newly implemented presentation and display techniques to make it easier – i.e. more intuitive – for the driver to register and experience information. For example, animated displays are used to show the mode of action of assistance systems, or of DYNAMIC SELECT. The likewise animated ECO display in the instrument cluster helps the driver to adopt an economical driving style in an easily understandable manner.
The new look also comes with a novel, clearer menu structure that makes functions easier to select and which, in many cases, leads efficiently to the desired outcome in a manner appropriate to the situation. Ergonomics and intuitiveness of use were key criteria for the developers.
With user experience and connectivity ever more in the spotlight, Mercedes-Benz has set up two new departments to address the digital future: “Digital Graphic & Corporate Design” and “User Interaction”. These centres are closely networked for designing the control and display concepts, i.e. the user interface, for current and future vehicles. This is because, alongside a workplace and private environment, the vehicle interior is increasingly becoming a “third place”, a living area in which passengers wish to enjoy contemporary luxury. With the new department, Daimler is responding to the global trend of “Digital & Connected Life” and thus the rapid advance of digitalisation in all areas of life.
The interior as an expression of emotion and intelligence
With its design bias towards a sense of space, the interior of the new E-Class combines the elegance of the luxury class with the cultivated sportiness of the C‑Class. The design idiom of the new business saloon is characterised by an interplay of strong solid bodies with sculptural surfaces and an avant-garde clarity and extensiveness of control and display zones. This gives form to an expression of emotion & intelligence, a wholly unique, contrast-rich Mercedes-Benz design language that optimally reflects the design philosophy of “Sensual Purity”.
The horizontal, low-lying trim part of the instrument panel with its elegantly sweeping form and flowing lines creates a visual sense of space with a formal calm. The wrap-around of the wave motion into the door linings provides a continuation of the horizontal emphasis on width with timeless sweeping forms. This is typical of the design of Mercedes-Benz saloons from the C-Class to the S-Class. Four circular air vents as in the S-Class make it additionally clear that the new E-Class is closely focused on the luxury segment.
Above the low-lying trim part is a formally coherent and separate solid body, which is forceful and sporty in appearance, as if the upper part of the instrument panel is floating in space. Free-standing yet successfully integrated, the wide-screen display stands in front of the upper part of the instrument panel. Ultra-flat and smoothly glazed across its entire area, the high-resolution screen is of a uniquely superior quality of manufacture. It lends the interior an avant-garde quality that forms a contrast between the cutting-edge design of state-of-the-art consumer electronics and the classically elegant automotive design of the passenger compartment. With its emotional design idiom on the one side and intelligent interior architecture as well as highly advanced control and display elements on the other, the interior of the new E-Class perfectly embodies the synthesis of the two opposite poles of emotion and intelligence.
Depending on the transmission variant, the new E-Class comes with two differently designed centre consoles. Models with automatic transmission have a straight-through centre console, with dynamically rising, sportily high connection to the cockpit, by a control panel in a “Black Panel” glass look. Other controls, such as in the doors, also feature the “Black Panel” look. Conversely, models with manual transmission are provided with a centre console in the form of two separate trim parts.
Intelligent material design
High-grade materials define the both sporty and elegant style of the interior. They include open-pore woods, wood in a yachting look with flowing lines as a contemporary interpretation of inlaid wood and a novel metal fabric. The use of authentic materials is continued in the leather-covered doors and the beltline for selected lines. Typical of Mercedes is the high-quality look and feel thanks to meticulous detail design and craftsmanship.
Just as carefully composed is the material/colour concept with various shades of brown, including new attractive colour combinations such as brown/macchiato and saddle brown/macchiato. This allows a personalised interior design.
Lighting atmosphere with 64 colours
The interior lighting makes exclusive use of durable, energy-saving LED technology. The same applies to the optionally available enhanced ambience lighting. With
64 colours, it offers a host of possibilities for personalisation. It adds touches of light, for example, to the trim parts, central display, front stowage facility on the centre console, handle recesses, door pockets, front and rear footwells, overhead console, mirror triangle and tweeters (if the vehicle is equipped with the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system).
Seat design: first class
A further highlight of the new E-Class is its seats, which create an ergonomic, sculptural impression with their torso form, uniting Mercedes-Benz’s typical suitability for long journeys with a refined, sporty look. The seats are differently designed depending on the line:
- Even the basic fabric version emphasises the luxurious ambience of the new E-Class.
- The sporty bias and adapted contours of the seats for the AVANTGARDE line, the centre sections of which are transversely tacked, put the accent on sportiness with good lateral support and back-ventilation.
- The newly developed seat for the AMG line impresses with a sportier form of the backrest with extremely sporty side bolsters and wide shoulder section for added lateral support.
- The EXCLUSIVE line comes with longitudinally tacked centre sections, colour-matched to the overall seat sculpture in fabric/leather combination or nappa leather.
Also available is a diamond-patterned designo seat with perforations similar to an S-Class seat combined with the enhanced lateral support of the sports seat.
3D sound with concert hall experience
The Frontbass system in the new E-Class delivers a special listening experience as standard. It uses the space in the cross-member and side member of the body structure as a resonance chamber for the bass speakers. If the vehicle is additionally equipped with the optionally available Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system, the occupants are treated to a listening experience reminiscent of the acoustics in a concert hall. This is because the new second-generation Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system (the first generation is available for the S-Class) uses four roof speakers – two in the front of the roof and two in the rear. The effect: reflections, which come off the ceiling in a concert hall, are incorporated in the same authentic manner into the sound design of the E‑Class. By contrast, other 3D sound systems dispense with roof speakers and merely use appropriate algorithms to simulate a 3D sound.
Apart from 3D Surround, four other preset sound modes can be selected to suit every taste and audio source:
- Pure: audiophile sound reproduction with no additional effects, for unadulterated musical enjoyment
- Live: appealing, dynamic sound background akin to live music
- Easy Listening: milder sound background for relaxed listening over longer periods
- Surround: virtual surround sound
- 3D Surround: three-dimensional listening experience provided by the roof speakers
The technical specification of the Burmester® high-end 3D surround sound system employs 23 high-end speakers with diaphragms of glass-fibre fabric for high level stability, low weight and higher power. Specially developed for their task, the roof speakers are extremely small and flat and radiate sound in all directions. The speaker package includes a 25-litre bass box with its own 400 W amplifier in the boot, two woofer/mid-range speakers in the front doors as well as seven mid-range speakers and ring radiator tweeters of aluminium for precise sound resolution. The tweeters in the front mirror triangle not only fulfil their sound function, but are also fascinating design objects: when the sound system is turned on, they revolve out from the mirror triangle into the optimal radiation position. The ambience lighting also transforms them into a visual highlight. Two amplifiers with a total power of 1450 W drive all the speakers individually via separate channels and active crossovers.
A combination of digital and analogue amplifiers also contributes to the special listening experience. The analogue technology ensures a warm, round and full sound, while the digital technology uses a separate power supply to produce high peaks in order to enable a high dynamic between the quietest and loudest tones.
As in the S-Class, the sound can be optimally adjusted for every seat position using the so-called VIP setting.
New headlamps
The intelligence of the new E-Class is reflected also in the headlamps. A characteristic element is the double eyebrow of the reinterpreted front lights. The face of the vehicle is shaped by distinctive headlamps with a clear-lens design. The optional LED High Performance headlamps give the saloon a majestically focused look while featuring an unmistakable design, also by day, with double torch and high-quality modelled details.
A striking feature is the integration of the brand-typical corporate design in the MULTIBEAM LED headlamps. Following the inner contour, it gives a distinctive note to the direction indicators, Coming Home lights, side lights and daytime running lamps. The result is that, in both their night and day design, the Mercedes-Benz models are uniquely identifiable, clearly standing apart from other vehicles at the visual level.
All the headlamp functions are grouped under a lens of clear polycarbonate with scratch-resistant coating. Like various other design elements, the edging is in black, giving an impression of quality and depth.
High-resolution MULTIBEAM LED technology
The E-Class is optionally available with a MULTIBEAM LED headlamp system with ILS (Intelligent Light System) and Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus. The MULTIBEAM LED headlamps are immediately identifiable. They provide new, visual highlights with passively illuminated, blue light surfaces. These outline the hallmark E-Class “torch effect” of the daytime running lamps and side lights and, even when low beam or high beam is switched on, create a blue setting for a fascinating look. This lends an unmistakable character to the light design of E-Class models with MULTIBEAM LED headlamps.
This characteristic look also points to a new dimension in headlamp technology, because MULTIBEAM LED headlamps use 84 individually controlled high-power LEDs in each headlamp. This makes them bright and precise, as they automatically illuminate the road surface with a previously unsurpassed, precision-controlled distribution of light – without dazzling other road users.
When it comes to the number of pixels, the same is true of an LED headlamp as of a monitor: the higher the number of individually controllable pixels, the higher the resolution and the more detailed the image. A high number of pixels also allows greater dynamism in the display. In terms of perception, this leads to a clear increase in precision and brilliance.
This new dimension of precision in light distribution also allows longer use of the partial main-beam lights for added safety, because the driver benefits from better illumination of the road. Compared with conventional systems, MULTIBEAM LED headlamps have up to 2.5 times the partial high-beam light output.
New safety-enhancing functions
Thanks to the totally freely configurable, high-resolution light distribution, it is possible to implement all high- and low-beam functions of the Intelligent Light System by all-digital means. In a world first, the dynamic cornering light function is implemented purely by electronic means. In addition, a host of new, adaptive light functions are possible that make night-time driving safer for both the driver and other road users. These include newly developed bad-weather lights, a City light and a navigation-based junction light.
Stardust at the rear
Another visual characteristic of the new member of the family of Mercedes saloons is the one-part rear lights. The tail lamp in torch design takes up the contour of the rear light not only to emphasise – also in the night design – the characteristic form of the rear light, but also to improve safety.
Optionally available rear lights provide an additional highlight reminiscent of stardust, the Milky Way or the glow of a jet engine. This “stardust” effect is due to many minute and irregular reflectors in the lens of the tail lamp. These so-called Lambert reflectors ensure an extensive, highly homogeneous and brilliant appearance. The optionally available rear light uses all-LED technology.
The newly designed rear lights are also brilliant in terms of safety. The light intensity of the brake lamp varies between daytime and night-time within the legally permissible limits (multi-level functionality). In addition, the direction indicator, which also has multi-level functionality, extends across the entire width in the lower region of the rear light.