Mercedes-Benz Vehicles, Concept Cars, and the Mercedes Lifestyle

Mercedes-Benz recently announced that Professor Peter Pfeiffer will retire later this year, following a 40 year career with the company that included 30 years as Design Chief. Pfeiffer’s tenure with Mercedes-Benz began in 1968, when he was just 25 years old. Only a decade later, he had risen through the ranks.

Pfeiffer is credited with the sophisticated trends of recent Mercedes, and some of his designs have become classics. His work includes the S-Class and the CL-Coupe as well as the highly popular new C-Class and the acclaimed new SL sports cars. Pfeiffer can also claim credit for Mercedes’ branching out into the SUV market, in the form of the M, G, and R-Class vehicles, as well as the tiny car craze in the form of the Smart Fortwo.

Pfeiffer will long be remembered by Mercedes buffs for his creativity and style, as well as his knack for blending the best traditions with new technologies and styles. He is, in part, responsible for Mercedes’ current positioning as a trend-setter.

Pfeiffer will be replaced by long-time Mercedes-Benz veteran Gordon Wagener. Wagener has been with Mercedes since 1997 and has worked his way up in the company. He is currently head of Advanced Design for North America.

Insiders are eager to see whether this change in design chief will lead to dramatic changes in the design of Mercedes cars. However, given Wagener’s extensive experience in the design department, this seems unlikely. What is more likely is a smooth changeover.

Pfeiffer’s official retirement date has not yet been announced, but is expected to occur sometime this summer. If you would like to test drive one Pfeiffer’s trendsetting Mercedes-Benz vehicles for yourself, why not drop by our convenient local dealership? From the popular C-Class to the luxury SL sports cars, there is sure to be a Mercedes that is right for you.

The Orlando area is a very popular tourist destination. However, it is surprisingly lacking in decent public transportation. If your summer travels will take you to the Orlando area, you will probably want to bring your Certified Mercedes along. Driving in Orlando takes some adjustment, as lost tourists share the highways with speeding commuters along the I-4 corridor. Provided here are some tongue-in-cheek tips on how not to drive like a tourist in Orlando.

1. Do not open a map across the steering wheel – Yes, people actually do this. At 70 miles per hour. Seriously, if you don’t know where you’re going, pull over to read the map or ask for directions.

2. Do not stop or slow to a crawl during rainstorms – If you are in Florida, it will rain, especially during the summer. Floridians are used to it and keep right on going. If visibility is literally zero, they may slow down by a few miles per hour. Tourists have a tendency to stop or nearly stop, right in the middle of a traffic lane. This is highly dangerous. If you must stop, pull well off onto the shoulder of the road.

3. Do not treat a car accident on the side of the road as another tourist attraction – For some reason, Florida tourists tend to slow and almost stop for anything that is happening well off the side of the road, even if it is just someone getting a ticket. Floridians tend to shrug and keep going.

4. Do not drive on I-4 during rush hour. No matter what. – Interstate 4 is the highway that runs from Daytona Beach diagonally to Tampa Bay. The road is woefully inadequate for the amount of traffic it carries. Locals tend to commute long distances and drive in a way that would be unsafe for a tourist to keep up with. From 6 am to 9 am and 4 pm to 7 pm, let the locals have I-4. There are many routes that are safer and more scenic anyway.

5. Whatever you do, don’t stop in the middle of I-4 to watch a shuttle launch – The space shuttle launches on a semi-regular basis from nearby Kennedy Space Center. Launches can be seen from all over Central Florida and are spectacular to see, especially at night. However, some tourists somehow forget where they are when mesmerized by a shuttle launch. Stopping and getting out of your car in the middle of a 70 mph lane on I-4 is a bad idea. Always. Yes, people really do this, more frequently than you could imagine. Shuttle launches are announced far in advance, making it simple to arrange a safe viewing location.

If you will load up the Certified Mercedes and head to Orlando this summer, you will find friendly locals, a laid-back attitude and world-class entertainment. But please, follow the simple tips above to avoid driving like a tourist!

At last, the Mercedes-Benz SL appears to have come full circle. The line debuted in 1957 as an offshoot of the sporty and unique Gullwing coupe. The first generation of SL roadsters remained largely the same until its first redesign in 1963. These roadsters set a standard that many believe later models simply did not achieve.

The vehicles continued to be powerful, performance-driven machines. However, Mercedes chose a design trend that was intended to be sophisticated, but some drivers felt was unnecessarily wimpy. By the mid-1980s, the SL was going through an identity crisis, providing the power and handling of a sports car but the body of a more sedate model.

In 1989, Mercedes-Benz began working to rectify the SL’s image. After a major redesign, the 1989 SLs were hefty vehicles. The new bulky, rugged look was designed to correspond to the roadster’s power. Many critics agreed that the design was an improvement over its predecessors, but did not feel that the heavy, squared off body was the best choice. Over the next several cycles, the design was tweaked and improved.

In 2002, a new, more sensuous version of the SL was released. The vehicle utilized curves and sleek, rounded shapes in place of the sharp angles of its predecessor. Meanwhile, the power and technology continued to improve.

The 2009 Mercedes SL has finally come full circle. The latest version is largely the same as the most recent cycle inside and out. However, the body design has been tweaked. Today’s SL has finally returned to its sporty roots.

If you are a fan of classic Mercedes, why not stop by our convenient local dealership to test drive the new SL for yourself? These Mercedes-Benz vehicles blend the best of old and new into a sporty and exciting driving experience.

For a look at the Mercedes SL, stop by our Philadelphia Mercedes dealer, Mercedes – Fort Washington, PA, or Mercedes – Wilmington, DE.

Spring is in the air, and many people’s thoughts are on their summer vacations. Before you load up your Certified Mercedes and head out on the open road, however, it is important to make sure that you have everything in order. If your travels will take you to Canada or Mexico, there is some information that you should know regarding tightened border security.

Current Regulations
No longer may travelers to Mexico or Canada cross the border simply on the strength of a state-issued driver license. Federal law now requires United States citizens to demonstrate proof of citizenship when re-entering the United States. At this time, a state-issued driver license may be presented in conjunction with a birth certificate or other official proof of citizenship when crossing the border by car or ship. Air passengers must present a valid passport or other official travel document.

The Future
As early as June 1, 2009, all US citizens who intend to cross the border by any mode of transit must present a passport or other fully compliant document. Compliant documents include some specific enhanced state-issued driver licenses (these are being gradually phased in but will take time in most states). In practice, it will be best for most travelers to simply obtain a passport book or passport card.

Passport Book
This is a traditional passport. It can be used for international travel around the world. Newly issued passport books contain an electronic chip, but travelers may continue to use their old non-chipped passports until they expire, or until a future law prohibits their use.

Passport Card
These are expected to be released in the spring. A passport card will be a wallet-size plastic card that serves as an official travel document for travel to and from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda by land or sea (not air).

Citizens will be able to possess both a passport book and a passport card simultaneously, although the main advantage would be convenience. The card is not required if the traveler possesses a passport book.

The Bottom Line
If you intend to take a road trip in your Certified Mercedes, decide in advance whether you will cross a border. If so, you need to be prepared. It is recommended that you go ahead and apply for at least a passport card, which will cost only $45 for a first card or $20 for a renewal, as you will need it eventually anyway. If you plan to travel beyond North America, or by air across any border, then it is worth the additional investment in a traditional passport book.

Before you load up your Certified Mercedes and head out on the open road, take a moment to assess your emergency roadside needs. While we all hope that an emergency will never happen to us, it is always best to be prepared.

Your personal emergency kit will be based on your own unique needs and concerns, as well as some general items that are right for everyone. Provided here is a short list of the basics. Adapt or add to this list as needed.

Roadside Assistance Card – Auto club memberships are inexpensive and can save you a great deal of money. Many auto clubs offer numerous benefits, but roadside assistance is one of the most valuable. Make sure you know how many free calls you have per year.

Battery Charger – Newer models plug in to the car’s 12 volt outlet, allowing you to sit in comfort while your battery recharges. Just remember to charge the battery charger after each use. Also carry 12 foot jumper cables in case the battery fails to charge.

Flashlight – If you have ever tried to change a tire in the dark, you know how essential a flashlight can be.

Two Quarts of Oil – Make sure you know how to check the oil level and add oil if needed before heading out on a trip.

One Gallon of Antifreeze – Make sure you know where to pour it before your trip.

Screwdrivers/Pliers/Wrenches/Vise Grips – Exactly how many and which ones depends on how handy you are at making small repairs.

Fuses – Fuses are extremely easy to change, as long as you know where they are. Take a moment to look over the fuse diagram in your car’s owners manual.

Duct Tape/Rags/Paper Towels/Ice Scraper – Assemble a collection of small items that can make things easier in an emergency.

First Aid Kit – It is easiest to buy a ready-made kit.

Blanket/Snacks – Having a few basic survival items can make a huge difference if your car breaks down in an isolated area, particularly during cold weather.

You can purchase a pre-assembled auto emergency kit or create your own. Whatever you decide, make sure that is complete and all items are in working order before your next road trip. The peace of mind is well worth the trouble.

The design team for the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG was headed by Wolf Zimmerman, who had great success with the design of the 6.3 liter AMG V8. It looks like Mr. Zimmerman has scored another slam-dunk with the new SL63 AMG, according to Auto123’s Amyot Bachand, who recently took the new vehicle for a spin.

The vehicle has received the same updates as the rest of the SL class, including Airscarf neck heating, an upgraded stereo and navigation system and heated/cooled seats. In addition, the SL63 AMG provides the luxury performance upgrades that AMG buyers expect.

The engine has been fine tuned to deliver an imposing 465 pound feet of torque and 518 horsepower. A brand new dual clutch seven speed automatic transmission, the AMG Speedshift MTC, debuts in this vehicle.

The gearbox offers a stunning six choices in shifting. Race Start, which provides explosive power when taking off from a stop; Comfort Mode, which provides a sleek and smooth driving experience; Sport Mode, offering 20 percent faster acceleration; and Super Sport Mode, which offers 20 percent faster shifting, are all powered by the automatic transmission. However, drivers who prefer to shift gears manually may place the vehicle into Manual Mode. In Manual Mode, drivers may shift gears using either the stick or the steering wheel-mounted paddles.

Of course, this much power must be tightly controlled for safety reasons, and the Mercedes SL63 AMG delivers admirably. The active suspension and powerful brakes ensure that the driver remains in control of the vehicle.

If you would like to learn more about the new SL63 AMG, why not stop by our convenient local dealership? Experience for yourself the power and luxury of this and other top Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

For a look at the Mercedes SL63AMG stop by Mercedes Benz of Fort Washington, your Philadelphia Mercedes dealership, or Mercedes Wilmington.

Teens and cars have gone hand in hand since at least the car culture of the 1950s. However, many parents are unsure whether buying their teens a car is the best idea. Concerned over issues ranging from teen drinking to highway deaths, many parents feel that is best for teens not to own their own cars. Ultimately, whether your teen gets a car is a decision that only you can make. If you are on the fence, consider these factors to help you decide.

Responsibility
Age truly is just a number. Teenagers mature at different rates. When deciding whether your teen should own a car, it is important to consider whether he or she will be a responsible car owner. Signs of responsibility in teenagers include maintaining a good grade point average, helping around the house and making good decisions.

Some parents decide to test their teens’ responsibility by having the teenager get a job. Requiring the teen to make payments toward the car, or at least the car’s upkeep, can help drive home the connection between responsible behavior and car ownership. However, some parents feel that school should be the teenager’s full time job. These parents look at other factors when deciding whether the teen is responsible.

Driving Ability
If your teen owns his or her own car, it will be quite difficult for you to restrict the places that he or she goes in that car. A driver license test covers only the most basic driving skills. Before buying your teen a car, it is important for you to be sure that he or she is competent at driving on the interstate, in heavy traffic and in unusual situations.

Safety
While it is important that your teen driver display excellent driving skills, they are not enough to prevent all accidents. The car that your teen owns should also be highly rated for safety features. A Certified Mercedes is an excellent choice, as Mercedes is known as a market leader in a variety of safety ratings.

Whether or not to buy your teen a car is a personal decision for parents to make. Consider the child’s responsibility and maturity, as well as his or her driving ability and the safety of the car in question. If these factors are all in place, then a car can be a great way for a teenager to begin the transition into adulthood.

Thanks to the pioneering new BlueTEC technology, Mercedes-Benz has become the first auto manufacturer to become licensed to sell diesel SUVs in all 50 states. According to an article in The Financial, Mercedes plans to launch three new BlueTEC SUVs in the United States later this year. The ML320 BlueTEC, the R320 BlueTEC and the GL320 BlueTEC have all met or exceeded the stringent American Bin 5 and ULEV standards for emissions.

BlueTEC was first launched in October 2006. The technology is based on treating exhaust gas with a variety of tightly synchronized measures. Although all exhaust elements are treated, the focus is on nitrogen-oxide emissions, which are much stronger in diesel fuel vehicles than those that are powered by gasoline.

The original BlueTEC technology, which is still in use in both the United States and the European markets, uses a particulate filter and oxidizing catalytic converter in conjunction with a long-lasting nitrogen oxide storage catalytic converter and a secondary selective catalytic reduction catalytic converter. This process is highly effective in reducing both overall emissions and nitrogen-oxide emissions.

The new BlueTEC SUVs will go one step further in reducing nitrogen-oxide emissions by injecting AdBlue into the exhaust stream. AdBlue is a safe urea solution that releases ammonia. The ammonia then converts an estimated 80 percent of the nitrogen-oxide emissions to a harmless mix of nitrogen and water.

The new BlueTEC SUVs will be released first to the American market, and then later released in Europe. If you would like to learn more about BlueTEC or Mercedes’ continued commitment to environmental concerns, why not drop by our convenient local dealership? We would be happy to provide more information, or have you test-drive one of our Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

If you have ever traveled with your kids, you are familiar with the ongoing refrain, “Are we there yet?” While cute at first, the refrain can start to drive parents crazy after a few hundred miles. Beyond giving my father’s favorite response, “Yes. Get out!” you may wonder how to keep your kids entertained. Before you load up the Certified Mercedes for your next trip, take a look at this list of easy to play family car games. Some of these games may work for you.

Family Games
My childhood was filled with frequent road trips. My parents always kept me entertained with timeless family games such as the Alphabet Game and I Am Going on a Picnic. As an adult, my roommates and I passed the hours from Orlando to New Orleans with the License Plate Game.

The Alphabet Game is quite simple. The goal is to find each letter in the alphabet in order on billboards, road signs and other vehicles. It can be played competitively, with each player keeping up with his or her own tally, or cooperatively, with all players working together to find each letter.

I Am Going on a Picnic is also based on the alphabet. The first player recites, “I am going on a picnic, and I am going to take…” and then selects an item that starts with “A.” The next player repeats the phrase, the first player’s item and then an item that starts with “B.” The game goes on until the players reach “Z” or someone forgets the list.

The License Plate Game is especially nice for children who are learning state names, although as mentioned above, it can be fun for adults as well. Before you leave, make a list of all the state names. Then watch the other cars go by. Mark down each state whose license plate you see. The goal is to find as many state license plates as possible. This can also be played either cooperatively or competitively.

These are just a few of the family car games that I loved as a kid. If you know of others, we would love to hear about them!

When you think of Mercedes-Benz, buses may not be the first vehicles that come to mind. However, the Mercedes Citaro bus is a standard bearer in the European market. According to The Financial, the Citaro recently produced its 20,000th unit in just ten years.

Part of the magic of Citaro is its endless flexibility. Citaros are regularly pressed into service on regular routes as well as a variety of touring and specialty needs. These varied needs are addressed with 12 basic models and seemingly endless customization opportunities.

The Citaro debuted in 1997/1998 and was an immediate success. The buses have been continually updated throughout the years in response to consumer needs. Citaros are leaders in design, comfort, environmental sensitivity and safety. The buses were completely redesigned just two years ago to incorporate newer and more environmentally friendly technologies.

Design options range from low-floor rural service buses to the new Capa-City, a high capacity new model that was designed for the unique challenges of urban crowding. The flexibility of the buses led to their use in large-scale testing of developing fuel cell technology.

The current buses operate on natural gas or diesel, depending on design. These vehicles already exceed the Euro 5 emissions standards that will soon be launched across Europe. Nonetheless, Mercedes’ commitment to excellence ensures that the Citaro will continue its development. Field testing is now taking place on the Citaro hybrids, which are expected to launch in 2009.

The Mercedes Citaro buses are powerful, safe and environmentally friendly. They are also endlessly customizable, making them a great choice for markets around the world. If your tastes run to slightly smaller vehicles, however, why not stop by our convenient local dealership? With so many Mercedes-Benz vehicles to choose from, there is sure to be one that is right for you.