Mercedes-Benz’ decision to offer its SLK 350 model in deisgno edition roadster had been a success and so the European automaker announced that its CLS 350 models will also be offered in the same limited edition and will have the designo enhancements as well.

These models can now be seen in Mercedes-Benz showrooms. Upon taking a peep at this new Mercedes beauty, one will be amazed at the beautifully appointed CLS-Class coupes which have been equipped with uniquely crafted and special features from the designo customization facility of Mercedes-Benz in Germany. This only means that the already stylish coupe design of the CLS has been improved and thus taken to a whole new level of style and redefining what style really is all about.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class models which were given the deisgno treatment are only limited in number and have been made really unique. The reasons for its all new uniqueness include special paint finishes, interior timber trims, and upholsteries and roof linings that are not available in the standard Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class vehicles.

Four different combinations for the special designo elements which customers can choose from are available:

1. designo Mocha Black metallic paint with designo Sand single-tone leather, designo Dark Umber Maple wood trim and designo Alcantara roof liner in Anthracite

2. designo Graphite metallic paint with designo Porcelain single-tone leather, designo Dark Umber Maple wood trim and designo Alcantara roof liner in Anthracite.

3. designo Mystic Red metallic paint with designo Marron single-tone leather, designo Natural Oak Grain matt wood trim and designo Alcantara roof liner in Alpaca Grey

4. designo Diamond White metallic paint with designo Cortecchia single-tone leather, designo Piano Lacquer wood trim and designo Alcantara roof liner in Alpaca Grey

Renowned European automaker Mercedes-Benz gets Sirius’ deal as Sirius Canada Inc. has signed an exclusive factory standard agreement with the European automaker. From this point on, Sirius will offer its satellite radio service and will be made as standard option in many of the vehicles of the European automaker.

The Mercedes-Benz models which will have the Sirius satellite radio as standard equipment include all Mercedes-Benz E-Class, S-Class, CL-Class, CLS-Class, SL-Class, ML-Class, R-Class and GL-Class vehicles, and the all new 2008 C350 and C350 4MATIC models as well.

Aside from that, all of the Mercedes-Benz AMG vehicles will also feature the satellite radio from Sirius as standard equipment and this will be available on all the Mercedes-Benz B-Class, C-Class, CLK-Class and SLK-Class models as factory standard equipment.

He Mercedes-Benz models which will have the Sirius satellite radio also come with a six-month subscription to the service offered by Sirius. And Sirius will be a standard equipment complete with a lifetime subscription in all Maybach vehicles.

The President and Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz Canada, Marcus Breitschwerdt, said, “Mercedes-Benz Canada is pleased to make Sirius standard equipment on a wide range of models. For our customers, the Mercedes-Benz experience will be further enhanced by the unique programming and wide range of exclusive content that Sirius offers.”

After which, Mark Redmond, President and CEO of Sirius Canada Inc. added, “With SIRIUS in their vehicle, Mercedes-Benz drivers will be able to experience Canada’s leading satellite radio service for themselves. With unbeatable coverage throughout North America and the best content and programming, Sirius offers drivers and their passengers an unmatched listening experience.”

Trumping other nifty car models by a considerable margin, the Mercedes Benz C-Class scored the largest vote as the most popular car. The “Yellow Angel 2008” award of ADAC, a motoring organization, was thus finally rewarded to this nifty Stuttgart-model

Annually given out by the ADAC to reward exceptional performance in cars, the “Yellow Angel” awards takes its nickname from the phrase coined for the ADAC’s breakdown service personnel—who are among the most friendly in the field—and is one of the few awards in Europe that major players in the motoring industry aspire for.

The awards serve as a credible indicator for consumers who buy cars with an eye for price and performance, along with practicality, economy and safety. Environmental compatibility is a major factor in the selection process as well.

The vote included a total of 36 vehicles introduced into the market in 2007. The count for voters reached around 340,000, with the majority casting their votes and siding with the Mercedes Benz C-Class, allowing it to top the runner up by more than a tier or two. With nearly 16 million members all in all, ADAC is already one of Europe’s largest motoring organizations. Thus, making ADAC’s decision to reward the “Yellow Angel 2008” award to this hunky German sensation a mark of good judgment, if not precisely that of excellent common sense. Packing along a number of standards and advanced features—such as agility control—since it entered the market last March 2007, the Mercedes Benz C-Class unquestionably has more than looks to commend it.

Source: topspeed.com

By donating a $500,000 check to the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) and the Vogue Fashion Fund, American Express has successfully announced its support, jumpstarting the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. As a promise, they said that they want to bring back the thrill of the trendiest event in New York to their card members. Lots of events and initiatives will allow card holders to take on the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week into a whole new level. Because of these initiatives, American Express wishes to establish a certain link between fashion designers and influencers with the fashionista card members.

The Council of Fashion Designers of America and the Vouge Fashion Fund was basically established to help discover American talent in designing. They have been successful so far with this quest, and in supporting the business of fashion. The $500,000 from American Express is another avenue for them to improve their aims and uphold the standing of the Fashion Industry

“At this year’s Fashion Week we are creating extraordinary experiences for our Card members, enabling them to get an up-close, multifaceted look into the world of fashion,” Claire Bennett, Senior Vice President of Advertising, Marketing and Media for American Express was quoted saying in an interview. “Our Card members are passionate about fashion and we are continuously looking at ways to heighten their access to one of the most important industry events and to demonstrate our dedication and support of the industry.”

“The CFDA is proud to partner with American Express as they continue to deepen their presence and influence within the fashion industry,” Diane Von Furstenberg, CFDA President said in the same interview. “Their donation signifies their commitment to the future of this thriving industry.”

According to edubourse.com, here is a preview of Exclusive Card Member Access:American Express® Skybox: American Express will be unveiling a newly enhanced skybox, overlooking both the Main Tent and the Promenade, providing premium access to Gold Card members, Platinum Card® members and Centurion® Card members to experience the shows in a truly unique way. The skybox, a lounge-style viewing room, is undetectable from the runway, however, inside, Card members will enjoy appetizers, cocktails and an up-close view of the runway shows. American Express has numerous surprises in store that will make the once-in-a-lifetime experience extraordinary this year.

Here are some “By Invitation Only” Experiences: In December, the By Invitation Only Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week packages*, available exclusively for Platinum Card and Centurion Card members, were sold out in a matter of days. These packages give Card members full-day access to the Skybox on February 2nd and 3rd, coordinated meet-and-greets with fashion industry insiders, behind-the-scenes tours, and a visit to hair and make-up stylists to perfect their event look.

The American express “Card Member Only” experience in the Fashion Show includes: American Express will be bringing the excitement and passion of Peter Som’s Collection exclusively to an audience of American Express Card members who will be seated as industry insiders “on the floor.” The “Card Member Only” Fashion Show will take place on February 6th at 9 p.m. in the Promenade. Packages* for the Fashion Show will go on sale January 23rd.

Full details of all American Express activities will be announced at the start of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, and the proceeds from the sale of event packages will add up to the donated $500,000 to the CFDA and Vogue Fashion Fund.

Source: edubourse.com 

Capping off the Mercedes Benz Championship, one of the most prestigious Golf tournament sponsored by a major automotive company, it was Daniel Chopra who came out as the victor after topping the play-off. Chopra won over Steve Stricker by a “tap-in birdie on the fourth play-off hole, the par-five ninth.” This win is Chopra’s second time to catch the title for his entire PGA Tour career.

At the 18^th hole, it was Chopra and Stricker who both came out to fight mano-a-mano. Stephen Ames however, was one shot further back. Mike Weir, Canada’s representative, actually came out short carding a 70 to finish fourth at 16 under, despite his one-shot lead.

“It was an unbelievable day,” Chopra was quoted saying in an interview. “I felt very comfortable all week, really.”

Stricker was showed what a good sport he was and was quoted saying: “It was a great start to the year. I can be a little disappointed, I guess, because I didn’t win. But again, it was a good start.”

Catch the PGA Tour next year and see who will inherit Chopra’s title, sponsored again by the makers of quality Mercedes Benz parts.

Source: UK press

Get ready Fashionistas, the biggest fashion event sponsored by Mercedes Benz is only three weeks away—and you are definitely not one to miss it.

As the event’s sponsors, producers, and designers rush around New York to prepare hospitality suites and the production of the show, Bryant Park is getting ready to be the center of fashion attention once again. As February unveils itself up to February 8, all eyes will truly be on the Fall 2008 collections which will be showcased at the prestigious Bryant Park.

There will be an official ribbon cutting ceremony on the morning of February 1, signaling that the Bryant Park Tents is open. Featuring IMG Fashion’s Senior Vice President Fern Mallis together with the cast of the new NBC show Lipstick Jungle, Brooke Shields, Kim Raver, and Lindsay Price. Just as well, Lipstick Jungle’s author and series executive producer Candace Bunshell will be present, together with Mercedes Benz USA Vice President of Marketing Stephen Cannon.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled about the exciting activities planned for Mercedes Benz Fashion Week this season,” Mallis was quoted saying in an interview by Berlinista. “We have one of the best schedules of designers from around the world, coming together in Bryant Park.”

According to the Berlinista, the Mercedes Benz Fashion Week schedule “begins with Nautica and is followed by The Heart Truth’s Red Dress Collection 2008, Perry Ellis, Yigal Azrouël, Duckie Brown, BCBGMAXAZRIA, Yeohlee, Nicole Miller, Erin Fetherston, Venexiana, Lacoste, Academy of Art University, Abaeté, Araks, Mara Hoffman, Alexandre Herchcovitch, Juan Carlos Obando, Z Zegna, Verrier, Sass & Bide, Rock & Republic, Akiko Ogawa., Lela Rose, Hervé Léger by Max Azria, DKNY, Twinkle by Wenlan, Tracy Reese, Diane Von Furstenberg, Y-3, Angel Sanchez, Tuleh, Miss Sixty, Terexov, Peter Som, Carolina Herrera, R. Scott French, Jill Stuart, Betsey Johnson, Luca Luca, Pamella Roland, MAX AZRIA, Ports 1961, Iodice, Tibi, Badgley Mischka, Monique Lhuillier, Cynthia Steffe, Dennis Basso, Diesel, Joanna Mastroianni, Vivienne Tam, Malan Breton, Nanette Lepore, Michael Kors, Milly by Michelle Smith, Carlos Miele, Anna Sui, Richard Chai, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Temperley London, Vera Wang, Naeem Khan, Rebecca Taylor, Bill Blass, Reem Acra, Calvin Klein, Chris Han, Tommy Hilfiger, Custo Barcelona, Zac Posen, Jayson Brunsdon, Project Runway, Ralph Lauren, Tadashi Shoji, Carmen Marc Valvo, Willow, Donna Karan Collection, Zang Toi and Sean John.”

For the eight days of the Fashion event, it is the three Bryant Park Tents that will be the busiest. The three tents are: the Promenade, the Salon, and the largest venue, the Tent. The tents will host more than 100,000 fashionistas, watching the spectacle by attending runway shows, or the press conducting interviews, reviewing and of course, buying collections. Just as well, the said event is aimed for the people to recognize the “importance and economic impact of the city’s prestigious fashion industry,” according to the Berlinista.

When it comes to making the event possible, title sponsor Mercedes Benz will be joined by “DHL, American Express, MAC Cosmetics, LYCRA®, Judith Ripka, YKK, W Hotels Worldwide, The Heart Truth Campaign, Evian, Peroni, Rioja Wines, Imperia Vodka, Chambord, and BAWLS Guarana as well as the following media partners The New York Times, Women’s Wear Daily, Full Frontal Fashion, ULTRA HD, IQONS and Getty Images. Each of these sponsors will be providing hospitality, services and amenities to make the hectic week of shows as effortless and pleasurable as possible for all attendees.”

Source: The Berlinista

Fear not, the Smart Car has reached Stateside.

The small, fuel-efficient and very practical car made by Mercedes Benz is about to make its US debut this 2008, and its site will be constructed at Orlando, making Central Florida the first Smart Car dealer. As of now, there is progress as the site will soon be erected near the Mall at Millenia on Central Florida.

The Orlando dealership will not stand alone however. It will be joined by another name that is familiar in the automotive industry, the Infiniti dealership. Both dealers were scheduled to open by May, while James Bond’s Aston Martin brand will be opening a showroom when fall comes. According to bizjournals.com, “the $14 million project is being developed by TT of I-4 Inc., an entity formed by Terry Taylor, owner of the behemoth Central Florida Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge dealership in south Orlando, and his business partners.” All of a sudden, Central Florida seemed to be the hub of America’s automotive industry.

Together with Smart Watch Co., Mercedes Benz was able to develop the Smart Car which gained popularity in Europe. The cars are now being manufactured in a division of Mercedes Benz, and it will be distributed in America by Bloomfield Hills, a Michigan-based Smart USA Distributor, an arm of Penske Automotive Group.

An official announcement will be made next week by Smart USA, to spread the word about their 74-store dealer network across the States, spokesman Ken Kettenbeil said in an interview. One will be located in Orlando, while eight will be in Florida.

Source: bizjournals.com

Mercedes Benz manufacturer DaimlerChrysler India took the 9^th Auto Expo as an opportunity to launch the latest C-Class sedan to hit the Indian luxury car market, the Mercedes Benz C-Class.

After its launch in Europe in early 2007, the C-Class will finally be debuted in India after such an extensive testing and development work. This is targeted at making some India-specific changes, especially in the face of their automotive market.

As a direct competitor of the BMW 3-Series, the new C-Class sedan is priced by Daimler Chrysler India (DCIL) at Rs 27 lakh for the petrol C200 Kompressor variant, and at Rs 30 lakh for the diesel-engined C220 CDI variant. Competition not only in terms of price tag that is, but also with performance and luxury. The C-Class models will be re-rated for their power output’s improved performance. The two variants of the powerplant were delivered forward from the previous version of the C-Class sedan.

Here’s the inside details about the C-Class sedan launch, care of Auto Expo 2008:

The car is said to be assembled in the company’s Pune plant, and it features some interesting changes in the design layout—inside out. In fact, the new C-Class sedan is notably about seven centimeters longer, and about 4 cms wider than its older version. Just as well, the wheelbase increased notably about 4 cms, and its interiors gets to have a generously sized interiors.

Completely geared with Mercedes Benz’ newly-developed Agility Control package with situation-responsive shock absorber control, Pre-Safe preventive occupant protection system and Adaptive Brakes, the new C-Class is definitely making a good impression on the Indian market.

According to Wilfried G. Aulbur, the CEO and Managing Director of DCIL, the company was setting a new sales record during 2007 just by selling 2,491 cars, with the C-Class and E-Class contributing sales of 779 units and 1,137 units respectively. This statement was captured at the launch conference. Just as well, the sales of the completely built units were 118 cars during the same period.

Aulbur also said that the company was able to strengthen its distribution and after-sales network, and that it is currently represented in 28 cities around the country. In other news, DCIL also launched the new CLK-Class, a sporty and luxurious coupe which toughened the company’s standing as a maker of luxurious, high-quality rides.

Source: sify.com