Technology transfer

Mercedes-AMG has developed an uncompromisingly sporty SLK 55 AMG for an Asian investor. The two-seater includes suspension, brakes and a cooling system that were specifically tuned for the 'AMG Ultimate Experience Asia' lifestyle event; plus lightweight construction features for exhilarating handling. The design of the 265-kW/360-hp eight-cylinder roadster is based on the SLK 55 AMG F1 safety car. The Ultimate Experience Asia is an exclusive series of events, aimed at sports car enthusiasts in the Far East. Motorsports enthusiasts and clients of large corporations compete at the wheel of the 35 sports cars at events that are being staged by an Asian investor in countries such as China, Indonesia and Thailand. Mercedes plans to launch a limited-edition roadgoing model based on the SLK 55 'AMG Ultimate Experience Asia' in the near future. The customdesigned vehicles are not registered for road use so far and will only be driven on private racing tracks. The most striking aspect of the Ultimate Experience SLK is its hardtop made from carbonfibre composite, a high-tech material commonly used in Formula 1 and the German Touring Car Championship (DTM). The unpainted, silk matt black roof with its visible carbon-fibre structure is a highly attractive feature that appears to change colours, depending on which angle it is viewed from and how the light strikes it. This special SLK 55 AMG also provides visual clues to its motor racing genes with, for example, new 19- inch AMG forged light-alloy wheels featuring multi-spoke styling. The interior has the practical look and feel of a racing car with fibreglassreinforced bucket seat with six-point belt together

New sector

Following the introduction of right hand drive models, Mercedes is confident that the R-Class will create a brand new niche in the market. In the UK new car sales sector where cars cost over £30,000, Mercedes said that 40 per cent of sales are for SUVs, 25 per cent are saloons, 7 per cent are estates and MPVs account for just 1 per cent of the market. The new R-Class combines all the features offered by these vehicles in their new model. Mercedes believe that in the UK the majority of customers buying the new R-Class will be conquest sales. They do not think their existing customers will be moving from other models in their range, a lineup of vehicles that now has 21 different styles and types of bodyshells. Although Mercedes were being coy when it came to the number of expected R-Class sales in the UK it is thought that around 2,500 units will be sold this year. The new R-Class completes the 'Sports Tourer' family that includes A- and B-Class, and our picture shows it with the German national football team, though it is doubtful that they will all get in at once!

Double celebration

Mercedes-Benz of Bishop's Stortford recently took the wraps off its extended retail outlet with the launch of a pair of sensational new models. The luxurious S-Class and dynamic R-Class Sports Tourer were unveiled for the first time at the event, which gave many visitors their first opportunity to look around the new-look Stansted Road site. What's more, everyone purchasing a new or used Mercedes at the event received a complimentary first service. Members of sales team are pictured with the new S-Class flagship (left to right): Mark Terry, Nigel Dunne, Fraser Pullen, Cliff Trayler, Lee Taylor and Jeff King.