Paris Preview: 2010 Renault DeZir concept [Video]

Renault has released details on its upcoming concept vehicle called DeZir. The DeZir is the first major project under new design vice president Laurens van den Acker and according to Renault, it represents the vision of 'simple', 'sensuous' and 'warm.' From where we sit, the shape certainly fulfills the first two elements and the bright red finish is downright hot.

The new DeZir concept features a new front-end design that previews the new front-end identity of the next Renault models: the headlights take the form of backlit prisms, the perforated ’eyelids’ add to this high-tech feel and contribute to DeZir’s specific lighting signature; rear lighting is provided by an illuminated, seemingly floating strip and the Renault logo is highlighted by backlighting through the fins of the grille and consequently appears to hover in the middle of this space.

The car is powered by an 110 kW (150 PS) and 226 Nm (167 lb-ft) of torque producing mid-mounted electric motor fed by a vertically-placed 24 kWh lithium-ion battery behind the bench seat. The car is said to have a range of 160 km (100 miles).

The motor of the rear drive DeZir is mounted in a mid-rear position to optimize weight distribution. The DeZir's vertically mounted 24kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located behind the seat. Renault says the DeZir can shoot from 0 to 62 mph in 5 seconds flat onto a top speed of 112 mph. The 1830-pound car's range is pegged at 100 miles and charge times vary depending on connection.

The public will get its first opportunity to see DeZir at the 2010 Paris Motor Show this fall.




Press Release

FROM DEZIR TO REALITY

Renault has provided a first glimpse of its latest concept car, DeZir, ahead of this year's Paris Motor Show. DeZir stands out as an illustration of the brand's commitment to more emotional styling.

DeZir's sensuous lines and bright red finish express passion. Powered by an electric motor, DeZir is proof that electric vehicles and a love of cars are by no means incompatible.

The DeZir project is the first to have been led by Laurens van den Acker and marks the start of a sequence of concept cars that will provide an insight into Renault Design's new vision for the future. It also lays the foundations for the styling cues of Renault's forthcoming vehicles.

The public will get its first opportunity to see DeZir at the 2010 Paris Motor Show.

DEZIR: THE FIRST EVIDENCE OF RENAULT DESIGN'S NEW VISION FOR THE FUTURE

Under the leadership of Laurens van den Acker, Renault's Design Department has taken its inspiration from the brand's new signature 'Drive the Change' and explores Renault's styling roots to express the company's powerful human dimension via a new strategy founded on the notion of the 'life cycle'. This vision also builds on the bonds that are gradually forged between the brand and its customers at watershed moments of their lives, such as when they fall inlove, begin to explore the world, start a family, begin work, take time out to play and gain wisdom.

This approach coincides with the introduction of a new Renault design language that takes its inspiration from the three keywords which communicate the brand's vision, namely 'simple', 'sensuous' and 'warm'.

In keeping with this strategy, Renault's concept cars will progressively express this vision, paving the way for a product plan based on a range of rational, user-friendly cars.

To implement this, Renault Design has revised its methodology, and a single team of designers will now be responsible for each new concept car and for the subsequent production model it previews.

FALLING IN LOVE

DeZir is the first project to be led by Laurens van den Acker and exemplifies the brand's new philosophy with regard to design. It also marks the implementation of the strategy based on the notion of a 'life cycle'. The first step involves falling in love, an experience that is perfectly illustrated by DeZir's powerful, sensuous styling and bright red finish; red being the colour associated with passion.

"DeZir is a statement of our new formal design language which conveys notions such as movement, sensuality and emotion through ideal proportions, in much the same way as an object whose forms have been honed by nature. The result is a warm, stimulating design that says 'Renault'," explains Axel Breun, Renault's Director of Concept Car and Show Car Design.

Fluidity was an overriding theme from the initial preliminary sketches, and was expressed by a blend of simple forms and generous volumes. "My early source of inspiration stemmed from the liquid sensation, wave-like movement and contrasts in light associated with certain rippled surfaces," observes Yann Jarsalle, who was in charge of DeZir's exterior styling. "By directly laying out volumes and not just joining together a number of surfaces by lines, I felt more in tune with the world of sculpture than with that of architecture."

The result is a two-seater coupé which is both sculptural in spirit yet perfectly harmonious.

DeZir's shape features prominent wheel arches that accommodate 21-inch wheels, the design of which took its inspiration from the notion of movement.

Meanwhile, the sides feature a combination of flush and recessed forms that play on contrasting light patterns.

Behind the beauty, an electric car

The 'Z' in the name DeZir is a direct reference to Renault's zero-emission Z.E. signature, and several features of its design are suggestive of two qualities readily associated with electric mobility, namely advanced technology and light weight. Indeed, the recessed, linear styling of the front air intake and the entire rear-end convey an impression of lightness in addition to efficiently channelling battery-cooling air from the front to the rear.

To provide rhythm and balance to the overall package, this smooth, fluid skin contrasts with the ripple effect seen on the aluminium side panels, roof and headlight 'eyelids'. The design of these features alludes to the ripples which can form when a breeze blows over water, while the geometric pattern adds an unmistakable high-tech feel. The prevailing bright red colour of the body interacts with the graphical forms of the cross-drilled aluminium side panels which equally exude a sense of light weight and technology.

The geometric forms of the glazed areas also contribute to DeZir's overall design and are reminiscent of a fighter-plane cockpit or certain endurance racing prototypes. The absence of a rear window is overcome by the fitment of two rear-facing cameras which provide the driver with a panoramic view of what is happening behind the car.

The creative thinking behind the design of the front end was aimed at recalling Renault's styling heritage, while at the same time paving the way for the design trends of the brand's forthcoming models.

DeZir's front end features a full-width air-intake which strikes out either side of a large, vertically-positioned Renault logo that proudly displays the car's brand pedigree. Meanwhile, the chrome finish of the lozenge contrasts with the dark aspect of the grille to express the statement still further. The air scoops situated at the outer extremities of the front air intake are a legacy of Renault's formal styling language and form an integral part of the air intake's design, as do the headlights which sit above these scoops.

The front-end design previews the new front-end identity that is poised to become a feature of all Renault models in the future.

The headlights take the form of backlit prisms, which make them a highly graphic feature. The perforated 'eyelids' add to this high-tech feel and contribute to DeZir's specific lighting signature. Rear lighting is provided by an illuminated, seemingly floating strip that extends across the full width of the car. The Renault logo is highlighted by backlighting through the fins of the grille and consequently appears to hover in the middle of this space.

The gull-wing doors are another feature that embody automotive passion and reveal a refined interior, while the fact that the left- and right-hand doors open in opposite directions symbolises a ying and yang-style amorous harmony.

The interior design also suggests lightness. "Love is a sentiment that lifts you; gives you wings," says Stéphane Maïore, who was in charge of DeZir's interior styling. "Inside DeZir, you feel like you're floating on a cloud," adds Stéphanie Petit, Colours and Materials Designer.

The forms are soft and light, while the predominant colour is white, although there are also echoes of the same passionate red used for the exterior. The materials employed for the interior, like the senses they awaken, are precious, with white leather upholstery and trimming for the seats, dashboard and floor, along with a red lacquered finish for the console and accessories.

The one-piece, two-seater front benchseat provides cocoon-like comfort. To emphasise the sensation of shared passion and lightness, it comprises a number of interlocking elements trimmed in white leather, with a quilted pattern on the passenger's side, and a contrasting uniform finish on the driver's side, as if to suggest an inexorable attraction between the two.

The embroidered pattern on the leather is based on a graphical representation of the Renault logo and is an example of refined of couture a la française. This technique also provides an indication of the forthcoming trend for future production models.

The interior styling takes its inspiration from the idea of an amorous encounter and is based on a coming together of opposites:

• the cockpit-style driver's environment contrasts with the ethereal lightness of the dashboard and the feel of the white leather bench seat

• the driver's door features a bright red lacquered finish, while the panel of the passenger-side door is trimmed in white leather

• the dashboard, too, features contrasting finishes, with one part trimmed in white leather and another which exudes a more high-tech feel, with a rippled effect

• the white benchseat seems to float on a red-hued bed of light which, once again, symbolises passion. This lighting gently pulses to a rhythm that suggests a beating heart

But couples also seek to protect one another, and the forms of the interior are suggestive of this notion of protection:

• the centre console houses the transmission-mode selection lever

• the housing of the transmission-mode selection lever reveals luminous petals which indicate the selected mode

• the steering column is shrouded in a red housing that extends up to the steering wheel hub itself

AN ELECTRIC BEAUTY

DeZir is powered by an electric motor mounted in a mid-rear position to optimise weight distribution over the front and rear wheels. The vertically-mounted 24kWh lithium-ion battery is located behind the benchseat and provides the car with a range of 100 miles.

Batterycooling is ensured not only by the air channelled from the front to the back of the car, but also - and above all - by the flow of air that enters through the lateral scoops concealed behind the aluminium panels on either side of the body.

The basic motor is the same as the unit used for Renault's production electric cars, although an evolution has enabled its power and torque to be uprated to 110kW (150ch) and 226Nm respectively.

Three battery-charging methods can be employed:

• a standard charge using a conventional household plug (fully charges the battery in eight hours)

• a fast charge using a 400V three-phase current (charges the battery to 80 per cent of its capacity in 20 minutes)

• a fast battery exchange thanks to Renault's Quick Drop technology

In order to optimise range and dynamic performance, Renault Design's technical teams have kept DeZir's weight to a minimum: its body is made from Kevlar, while its tubular steel frame is similar to that employed for the Mégane Trophy race car.

DeZir's suspension also shares certain features with that of Mégane Trophy - including a double wishbone arrangement - to deliver a particularly high standard of handling precision.

DeZir's aerodynamics have been carefully honed, too, thanks to full underbody fairing and a rear diffuser. The result of this work is a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.25, as well as outstanding acceleration, with DeZir capable of accelerating from rest to 62mph in just five seconds.

DeZir's energy efficiency package also includes the recovery of deceleration energy. The technology it employs is based on the same principles as the KERS (Kinetic Energy Recovery System) seen in Formula 1. When the car decelerates, kinetic energy is recovered and stored in the battery. In the case of DeZir, this energy can then be employed by the driver to provide a temporary power boost at the moment he or she chooses, using a button located on the steering wheel.

Driving pleasure is further enhanced by the design of the driver interface. The dashboard visually mirrors the sensations felt at the wheel by means of a graphic display of data received from the accelerometer and speed sensors.

The central touchscreen display incorporates a smart navigation system that synchronises journey information with the driver's diary in order to optimise task management and itineraries. Software incorporated in the dashboard provides drivers with a real-time indication of their energy management ability via a fun interface that uses video-game style graphics.

A DeZir for music

Within the framework of the creation of an audio signature for the brand's upcoming electric vehicles, Renault has been working closely with the highly-regarded IRCAM (Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique/Musique, founded by Pierre Boulez in 1969) to define the sound that best reflects DeZir's personality.

Dimensions - mm

Length	4,225
Width	1,986
Height	1,163
Height – with doors open	2,256
Width – with doors open	2,682
Ground clearance	110
Wheelbase	2,582
Front track	1,600
Rear track	1,705

Technical data

Motor	Electric synchronous motor
Maximum power	110kW c/ 150hp
Maximum torque	226Nm
Top speed	112mph
0-62mph	5 seconds
Battery	Lithium-ion (24 kW/h)
Range	100 miles
Transmission	Rear wheel drive
Drive	Electric with active differential
Chassis	Tubular steel frame
Tyres	245/35 R 21
Brakes	356mm ventilated discs
Cd	0.25
Kerb weight	830kg

Partners

Body	G Studio
Tyres	Michelin
Acoustics	IRCAM

2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class With Video

The 2011 CL-Class made its public debut today at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, and though they still refuse to call it the S-Class Coupe, it clearly has the sumptuous interior and the power under the hood to carry that name.



Powered by a 429-horsepower twin-turbo V-8 engine in CL550 4MATIC trim, the new car cuts fuel use by 10-15 percent, according to Mercedes, while at the same time reducing CO2 emissions by up to 23 percent over the naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter engine it replaces. The jump comes largely from the use of their new BlueDIRECT direct injection system. Acceleration is brisk, cutting to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds--half a second quicker than its predecessor.



The 2011 CL-Class features new headlights and some LEDs in the bumper, a revised grille, new tail lights, and a sportier exhaust system. The interiors too remain more or less the same except some addition of wood trim above the COMAND controller.



Additional upgrades to the CL include new safety technologies including Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Adaptive High Beam Assist, Night View Assist and more. The Mercedes-Benz COMAND system comes standard, featuring USB and SD card interfaces mated to a 7.2 GB hard drive.















Press Release



The epitome of luxury coupes



With stylish, eye-catching design, exclusive appointments and cutting-edge technology, the extensively updated 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class underscores its flagship position in the world of refined automobiles. Powered by a new 429-hp V8 biturbo engine which achieves a 10-15% improvement in fuel economy and 23% improvement in CO2 emissions, the CL550 4MATIC opens a new dimension of efficiency in the luxury coupe segment. This significant reduction is achieved thanks to the newly-developed BlueDIRECT technology with third-generation spray-guided direct injection, energy-efficient control of alternator, fuel pump, air-conditioning compressor and power-assisted steering system. It also features the use of low rolling resistance tires and, on the CL600, the energy-optimized Active Body Control system. In addition, the Mercedes-Benz developers equipped the CL-Class with state-of-the-art multimedia technology, thus helping this model retain its position as the epitome of quality in its class. The 2011MY CL-Class will make its U.S. debut in Autumn of 2010.



With the new generation of the CL-Class, Mercedes-Benz is emphasizing fuel consumption and exhaust gas emissions in this exclusive high-end segment. According to Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG: "The CL is the ideal ambassador for our brand. It combines in a particular degree those things that characterize Mercedes-Benz: fascination, perfection and responsibility. And with the new generation we have gone a step further, too – especially in the realm of efficiency. But in terms of design, safety, comfort and output, too – the CL shows the way forward: simply follow Mercedes."



In the realm of safety, a combination of cutting-edge camera and radar-based assistance systems - unique in the luxury coupe segment - including the innovation of the Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist systems, makes the CL-Class a "thinking" partner of the driver. The modified Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilization system and the Direct-Steer system also contribute to enhancing safety and driving enjoyment.



Design: a muscular, confident presence



The exterior appearance of the new CL-Class is characterized by the taught profile of the hood, the dynamic V-shape radiator grille and the curving headlamps – design details that discreetly but effectively emphasize the car's elegant yet powerful lines.



The front bumper presents a new three air intake design accented with a prominent chrome trim strip. An LED strip with chrome surround for the daytime running lights is elegantly integrated in the side openings for the brake cooling air. With standard Bi-Xenon Headlamps with active curve illumination and Adaptive Highbeam Assist, the headlamps offer state-of-the-art illumination. LED turn indicators and position marker lamps round off the car's advanced image while the rear of the vehicle is characterized by the newly-designed tail lamps.



New V8 bi-turbo engine with innovative technology



The new-generation CL-Class also assumes a pioneering role with its drivetrain. Under the hood of the CL550 4MATIC a new V8 biturbo engine with BlueDIRECT technology delivers impressive power. With its 4663 cc displacement, the eight-cylinder engine produces 429 hp so that despite 0.8 liters less displacement, it is still around 12 percent more powerful than its predecessor, which had an output of 382 hp. At the same time, torque was raised from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft – an increase of 32 percent. The new engine achieves a 10-15% improvement in fuel economy and 23% improvement in CO2 emissions. The CL5550 4MATIC requires a mere 4.9 seconds to accelerate from a standstill to 60 mph (previous model: 5.4 seconds). Summing up: the CL550 4MATIC is significantly more agile, torquey and thriftier than its predecessor.



The BlueDIRECT technology package of the V8 biturbo includes a series of new developments, unique in their combination. Worthy of mention among these is the third-generation spray-guided direct gasoline injection with piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition with up to four ignition sparks within a millisecond. Together both enable an innovative combustion process called "homogenous split". Other factors contributing to the exemplary low fuel consumption continue to be the consistent use of friction-optimized pistons, piston rings and cylinder barrels, the on-demand control of oil pump and the new three-phase thermal management in the coolant circuit. The luxury coupes also controls the alternator depending on the type of driving and on-board voltage. Kinetic energy is recuperated in the overrun mode.



The CL600, with its 510 hp 12-cylinder biturbo engine and 612 lb-ft. of torque remains the top-of-the-line model: it accelerates the luxury coupé from a standstill to 60 mph in a breathtaking 4.5 seconds.



A unique combination of driver-assistance systems



The 2011 CL-Class further enforces its position as an automotive masterwork and a technology platform with the most advanced assistance and protection systems. These highly perceptive assistants convert the coupe into a "thinking" partner that can see, feel and react instantly if it detects a hazard, acting autonomously to prevent accidents or to mitigate their effects. The trailblazing driver assistance systems in the CL-Class are based on state-of-the-art radar, camera and sensor technology.



Active Lane Keeping Assist is a new safety feature making its debut on the CL-Class as part of the optional Driver Assistance Package. If the vehicle threatens to cross a continuous lane marking line, the system actuates an electric motor in the steering wheel, causing it to vibrate briefly – giving the driver a discreet but effective warning hint to countersteer immediately. The active system springs into action if the Mercedes coupe unintentionally crosses a continuous lane marking line to the right or to the left. In this case, the car intervenes by gently braking the wheels on the opposite side of the car, helping the driver to stay in the lane. Active Lane Keeping Assist is built upon the existing ESP® Electronic Stability Program.



Active Lane-Keeping Assist evaluates information provided by a camera mounted on the inside of the windshield. It identifies the contrast between the road surface and the lane markings. In addition, the optional radar system scans the side of the roadway for dividers and other roadway edge markings. The system also evaluates the driver's actions and can reliably determine whether the car is departing from the lane intentionally or not. For instance, there is no warning if the driver accelerates hard just before passing or when accelerating onto a highway, or if he brakes hard or steers into a curve.



Targeted brake actuation: Active Blind Spot Assist



Another innovation Mercedes-Benz offers for the CL-Class is Active Blind Spot Assist, a system that makes use of a multi-stage warning concept. If the system detects that a lane change would be too dangerous, it warns the driver by displaying a red triangle in the glass of the exterior mirror. Close-range radar sensors monitor the area immediately to the side and to the rear of the car. If the driver disregards this warning and, for example, uses the turn indicator, an audible warning also sounds. If the driver continues to ignore the warnings and comes dangerously close to a vehicle in the neighboring lane, the system acts: a corrective braking intervention via ESP® is applied to the wheels of the opposite side of the vehicle. This causes a yaw movement about the car's vertical axis due to the unequal distribution of the braking forces. If an accident still cannot be avoided, the active Blind Spot Assist system can reduce the consequences of a collision through the brake actuation.





Assistants to see and be seen better



The Adaptive High Beam Assist system is now offered as standard equipment on the CL-Class. This camera-based system can recognize oncoming vehicles or vehicles ahead with their lights on, and then softly transitions from high-beam to low beam to create the best possible lighting conditions without dazzling other drivers. In addition, Mercedes-Benz offers the optional Night View Assist PLUS system for the CL-Class, featuring a special infra-red camera for pedestrian detection: pedestrians are now specifically highlighted in the display, to help alert the drivers in low light conditions.



On European models, the images supplied by the windshield-mounted camera are also used by the new, optional Speed Limit Assist (not available in the U.S.), which recognizes speed limit signs in passing and shows the relevant speed limit in the central display and on the navigation system's map display.

For the new-generation CL-Class, Mercedes-Benz has also improved the long and medium-range radar used by Brake Assist (BAS PLUS) and DISTRONIC PLUS proximity cruise control.



An "electronic crumple zone": the PRE-SAFE® Brake



Mercedes-Benz offers another radar based system for the luxury coupé as a component of the Driver Assistance Package: PRE-SAFE® Brake with automatic emergency braking. If the driver is distracted and fails to recognize the imminent danger of a rear-end collision or the warning signal of an assistance system, PRE-SAFE Brake can intervene and autonomously apply partial braking. If the driver fails to react even after automatic, partial braking action, this new version of PRE-SAFE® Brake activates maximum braking pressure around 0.6 seconds before an unavoidable collision – this emergency braking action can significantly mitigate the severity of the impact. The PRE-SAFE® Brake thus acts as a kind of "electronic crumple zone".



ATTENTION ASSIST Warns Drowsy Drivers:



Drowsiness is one of the most common causes of accidents. This is why Mercedes experts have developed the ATTENTION ASSIST system which forms part of the standard equipment of the new CL-Class. The system continuously monitors more than 70 different parameters in order to identify driver drowsiness and provides a warning before the dangerous microsleep phase begins. Observing the driver's steering behavior has proved to be a particularly strong indicator: several years of practical research by Mercedes-Benz have shown that drowsy drivers make minor steering errors which they often correct very rapidly in a characteristic way. This steering behavior is recognized by a special steering angle sensor. Observing the driver's eyes cannot always provide conclusive evidence of sleep since many drivers can experience micro-sleep with their eyes open.



Active Body Control reduces the effect of a crosswind



The CL-Class also meets the highest standards in terms of driving dynamics and agility. This is in part thanks to Direct-Steer, which can vary the steering ratio based on the steering angle, and modified Active Body Control (ABC) with crosswind stabilization (standard on the CL600, CL63 and CL65 AMG). This latest stage in active body development modifies the wheel load distribution via the ABC spring struts within milliseconds (depending on crosswind direction and intensity) to help compensate for crosswind forces.



The Active Body Control suspension system – which ushered in new dimensions of driving dynamics in the preceding CL-Class in 1999 - is unique worldwide as it not only regulates roll, but pitching and squatting movements as well, ensuring a perfect harmony of comfort and handling stability. Since the introduction of this innovative system, engineers in Sindelfingen have continuously refined it, so that eleven years later it still marks the pinnacle of automotive engineering. In addition to crosswind stabilization, the new suspension features an energy-optimized hydraulic pump that takes part of the burden off the engine, contributing towards reducing fuel consumption.



Additional safety and agility during spirited driving is provided by the standard Torque Vectoring Brake in the new CL-Class – targeted, one-sided braking intervention at the inside rear wheel when cornering. This enables the luxury coupe to turn into the bend under precise control with even greater agility.



On-board infotainment: the most advanced multimedia technology



In line with its serene character and sophisticated technology, the CL-Class also sets standards for onboard infotainment. The latest innovation, SPLITVIEW technology, is optionally available for the COMAND system centrally located in the center console. This innovative display concept allows the driver and front passenger to view different contents simultaneously on the same screen. For example, while the driver uses the map-based navigation system, the front passenger can watch a DVD.



The standard COMAND control and display system with Bluetooth®, USB and SD card interfaces offers customers the possibility of exporting their stored data to other vehicles and multimedia devices. It is also possible to transfer and update navigation data. Mercedes-Benz integrates the Media Interface – an interface for mobile audio and video devices – via an auxiliary cable located in the glovebox. Standard audio equipment also includes radio, a 6-disc CD/DVD player with MP3 function, an equalizer with speed-dependent volume control and the 7.2 GB MUSIC REGISTER which stores around 2,500 digital music files in MP3, AAC or WMA format. The system recognizes music files played on CD, DVD or from the MUSIC REGISTER using its stored Gracenote® database, and shows the title, album and performer in the color display. The new Music Search function enables passengers to search SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music titles and performers.



The standard Navigation system features a nationwide map system stored on a 40-Gigabyte hard disk, enabling extremely rapid route calculation. Another factor contributing to a high level of navigation ease is the detailed 3-D map display with SIRIUS real-time traffic information.



The standard Voice Control system allows the driver to operate the navigation, telephone and audio devices via whole-word input -- meaning the driver no longer needs to spell out his commands but simply speaks whole words when entering the destination, choosing a radio station or a music title from the Music Register, or when calling up a name from the phone book.



Co-developed by Mercedes-Benz and Harman Kardon® surround sound system with Discrete Logic7® technology delivers an outstanding performance with three-dimensional sound.



Interior: carefully selected materials and first-class finish



In the interior, too, Mercedes-Benz developers and designers perfected the

CL-Class, paying careful attention to detail. A total of four different kinds of fine wood open up the possibilities for perfectly matched material and color concepts: a choice of light or dark high-gloss burl walnut, black ash and high-gloss brown poplar on the CL600. Important to note: in accordance with Mercedes-Benz' corporate philosophy of sustainability, the CL-Class uses only European wood from renewable forestry sources. Most of the wood components are hand-made and matched individually for color and grain by experienced craftsmen.



The seating materials found in the new CL-Class are of the most exquisite quality. There is a choice of four tasteful color combinations for the vehicle interior: black premium leather, savanna/cashmere premium leather, ash/grey premium leather, sahara beige/black premium leather.



The multifunction wood/leather steering wheel of the CL-Class has also been modified by the Mercedes-Benz designers: the rim and airbag module are lined with soft nappa leather as standard. The new, flatter airbag module also lends a sporty touch to the multifunction wood/leather steering wheel sewn with sophisticated double stitching.



Apart from this, Mercedes-Benz makes more use of light as a styling element in the vehicle interior. Standard ambient lighting provides a choice between three lighting moods: solar (amber), neutral (white) and polar (ice blue).



Tradition: an exclusive line of ancestors



The new generation CL-Class continues the great tradition of Mercedes-Benz coupes, which reaches back to the legendary supercharged cars of the 1920s and '30s. Since the 1950s Mercedes-Benz has produced an uninterrupted series of exclusive two-door cars which combine sophisticated design with trailblazing technology – every model an automotive classic. The W 188 model series 300 S Coupé -- which entered series production in 1952 -- marked the beginning. A contemporary report called it the "measure of what it is possible to achieve in automotive engineering".



This statement has remained true for all subsequent models, right down to the current CL-Class, because the luxury coupes from Mercedes-Benz featured - apart from their timeless design and the highest level of comfort - trailblazing innovations in automotive technology. Thus it was that in 1961 the 220 SE Coupé was the first series-production Mercedes-Benz to be equipped with disc brakes. In 1995 the ESP Electronic Stability Program celebrated its world premiere in the S 600 Coupé of the C140 model series, and in 1999 the Active Body Control suspension system was introduced for the first time in the C215 model series CL-Class. The technological innovation PRE-SAFE® brake made its debut in a large Mercedes-Benz coupé. Now two new developments in the 2011 CL-Class, Active Lane Keeping Assist and the Active Blind Spot Assist, will help prevent accidents or reduce their severity.