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September 05 News

Fishtail buster
Driving with a trailer is set to become safer thanks to Trailer Stability Assist from Mercedes. The new system is able to detect the dreaded fishtailing quickly and take corrective action. This extra safety function has its roots in the ESP® Electronic Stability Program. A trailer swerving from side to side can quickly upset the car/trailer combination. Fishtailing, can build up to reach a critical level where car and trailer can no longer be brought under control, and the outfit enters a skid that can result in a serious accident. This makes it all the more important to detect this oscillating motion as early as possible and counteract it.

Another fishy story
Mercedes has based its latest concept car on a tropical fish and has achieved impressive results for fuel consumption and emissions. Despite its cube-shaped body, the boxfish is outstandingly streamlined and represents an aerodynamic ideal. With an accurately constructed model of the boxfish, Mercedes engineers were able to achieve a wind drag coefficient of just 0.06 in the wind tunnel. The boxfish is also a prime example of rigidity and light weight. Its skin consists of numerous hexagonal, bony plates that provide maximum strength with minimal weight and effectively protect the animal from injury.

iPod mixed tape
Mercedes offers free music downloads on the internet as an additional service for MP3 owners. Every eight weeks, 15 specially selected songs are made available as a compilation at www.mercedes-benz.com/mixedtape . The songs can be accessed using data streaming or downloaded in the usual way, and they can be burned onto a CD-ROM free of charge or transferred to an MP3 player. Mercedes is using its Mixed Tape to promote musical talent. Up-and- coming musicians who submit their songs online, are rated by a music panel. Every artist or band whose song makes the final cut is profiled online in an illustrated feature. The download service also offers a wealth of additional functions such as a cover or title generator, an email newsletter with details of each compilation and an eCard facility.;

Keen B-Class prices
Mercedes has unveiled UK prices and specification for its B-Class multi-activity vehicle, which goes on sale on September 15. Starting at £16,995 on the road, prices have significantly undercut the proposed pricing announced earlier in the year, particularly as a result of media reports suggesting the pricing looked optimistic. Five-speed manual transmission is standard on B 150, B 170 and B 200 models, with six-speeds featuring on the B180 CDI, B 200 CDI and B 200 Turbo. AUTOTRONIC continuously variable automatic transmission is available for £1,390 on every model. Luxury climate control, which gives separate temperature settings for the front seat occupants, is a £410 upgrade. Among other notable options, satellite navigation is available in two guises, both of which can direct drivers across Europe. The audio 50 system comes with turn-by-turn directions at £900 whilst COMAND APS, which uses DVD technology to map the EU, will cost £1,665. For more entertainment on the move, an optional iPod integration kit can be fitted by your local retailer for £172 (plus fitting). Available for £950 is an SE upgrade. Standard on B 200 SE and B 200 CDI SE, a number of cosmetic and equipment enhancements are added, including: 16-inch alloy wheels with locking nuts; chrome exterior trimmings; colour-coded side skirts, mirrors and door handles.

Armani CLK
Renowned Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani received a Mercedes-Benz CLK 500 Cabriolet bearing his own personalised design signature. The CLK designo by Armani is described as an enticing blend of refinement and sporty, masculine aesthetics. Finished in a unique matt sand colour, a classic Armani trademark, bodywork matches the quality materials used in the interior. Mercedes is offering only 100 examples as part of its exclusive designo range. Originally introduced ten years ago, the designo range allows discerning customers to personalise their Mercedes using a selection of exclusive material and paint finish options.