Nissan Extrem Concept, 2012

 

 

 

•  Nissan Extrem Concept, 2012

The vibrancy, color and excitement of Brazil has been captured in Nissan Extrem Concept, a radical concept car aimed squarely at young (and young-at-heart) car enthusiasts keen to make a statement on the roads.

Nissan Extrem Concept has been created especially for Brazil. It has been designed for and built in the country and has its world debut at the 2012 Sao Paulo International Motor Show

Designed by Nissan Design America (NDA) in San Diego, California, in collaboration with Brazilian designers and produced in Brazil, the concept previews a new breed of car. By blending versatility and toughness with the agility of a compact 2+2, Nissan Extrem Concept is a new genre of urban compact sports car.

Its unveiling at the 2012 Sao Paulo Motor Show underscores Nissan's commitment to Brazil. The country is one of the largest new car markets in the world and one in which Nissan enjoys significant sales growth. The company claimed almost two per cent of the 2011 market, doubling its 2010 sales, and aims to account for five per cent of new car sales in Brazil by 2016.

Nissan's investment in Brazil includes an all-new manufacturing facility in Resende in the state of Rio de Janeiro, which is scheduled to start production in the first half of 2014. When operating at its full potential, the plant will produce 200,000 units annually.

Though strictly a concept car with no immediate plans for production, elements of Nissan Extrem Concept's styling offers a glimpse into future Nissan products, for Brazil and beyond.

Nissan Extrem Concept in detail
Right from the early stages of its development, the design team behind Extrem was clear about the direction the concept should take. "We call it Baby Beast," said Robert Bauer, Senior Design Manager for the project at NDA. "We see it as an urban rally car, a tough little street fighter that can handle the urban jungle with agility and confidence."

From the outset it was considered vitally important that design inspiration should come from Brazil itself. Although the NDA design team is based in San Diego, creative time on the project was spent mostly in Sao Paulo. The NDA designers managed the project remotely from San Diego and developed clay and digital models using local resources in Sao Paolo.

The result is an exotic and distinctive concept for a new genre of compact sport vehicle with a unique silhouette. The lower half of the body and raised ground clearance expresses its strength, while the sharply sloping roof line suggests its sporting intention. The combination of innovative elements such as the wraparound glass, floating roof rails and detached C pillars enhance the feeling of an open, airy cabin.

The body's shape and surfaces exude a feeling of strength and agility with muscular fender volume defined by sharp creases. Overlapping panels and unique surface interplays create a feeling of layered armored toughness.

Showing Nissan Extrem Concept also has a practical side to its nature, the roof rails incorporate cleats for load carrying, while the unique see-through A-pillar structure provides enhanced outward visibility.

Both the headlamps and tail lamps feature Nissan's signature graphics and advanced LED technology. Bracketing the glass hatch, the rear lights have high-tech layered fins, showcasing an airy, lightweight structure. A prominent aluminum skid plate, embossed to add strength, houses the centrally mounted exhaust.

Though clearly a tough little street fighter, quality craftsmanship and attention to detail can be found throughout the car. Examples include flush mounted door handles, integrated side marker lamps, lightweight fender-mounted mirrors and the flush A- and B-pillars which create a seamless canopy.

A compact 2+2, Extrem has a dedicated luggage space in the rear. A clever two-tier system provides secure storage, where items can be hidden from prying eyes beneath an exposed and removable cargo bin which is accessed via the rear hatch. The bin is designed for day-to-day items and fits neatly underneath a structural cross brace that adds extra stiffness to the shell and accentuates the sporting nature of the car.

The exclusive Solar Cortex body color, a deep metallic orange with radiant highlights, pays homage to Brazilian nature. Brightly colored accents provide 'pops' of energy and can also be found on the gas cap, tow hook and the wheels, adding to the urban rally car theme.

The roof pattern, a mix of gloss and matte textures, is inspired by iconic Brazilian graphics.

Six-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels are double layered with a dark inner and brushed metal outer and provide enhanced cooling to the brakes.

Showcasing the versatility of Nissan's acclaimed V-platform - used by the Nissan March - dimensionally Nissan Extrem Concept is taller, wider and longer than the global city car.

Extrem's power would be provided by Nissan's advanced direct injection and turbocharged (DIG-T) 1.6-liter gasoline engine which shares its technology concept with the powertrain in the innovative Nissan DeltaWing Le Mans race car. Nissan Extrem Concept could also be offered with a choice of front or four-wheel drive with Torque Vectoring for enhanced handling capabilities.

Nissan Extrem Concept dimensions

•     Wheelbase: 2450mm
•     Height: 1530mm
•     Length: 3850mm
•     Width: 1765mm

Morgan 3 Wheeler, 2012

 

 

 

 

 

•  Morgan 3 Wheeler, 2012

When did you last regard a journey by motor car as an adventure? The Morgan 3 Wheeler is launched to bring the fun and passion back to personal transport. Lift the safety catch from the "bomb release" starter, hear the massive twin cylinders detonate and choose your favourite destination.

The iconic design of the Morgan Threewheeler has been updated with 21st Century technology. The powertrain is a V Twin fuel injected engine mated to a Mazda 5 speed (and reverse) gearbox. This provides smooth "get in and drive" convenience with the thrill of extreme performance. The car is a fusion of old and new.

Safety is paramount with a reinforced tubular chassis and twin rollbars for driver and passenger. A sturdy V belt provides traction to the reinforced rear tyre. Some things have not changed. The Morgan Threewheeler still holds long distance speed records for one litre cars set in the 1930's so why change the shape? The pronounced bullet shape and the exposed chassis and aluminium tub are accompanied by the aeroplane profile of the car's sides. The shape is of a gentle yet powerful missile at the front leading to a beetle back tail at the rear. From the design viewpoint, the focus was set on making the car as close to an aeroplane as possible, while retaining handy extra space for driver, passenger and a holdall in the rear. But above all the Morgan 3 Wheeler is designed for one purpose alone, to make driving fun. A leather padded cockpit complete with aircraft instrumentation adds to the sense of flying on the road. The car is easy to control with compact dimensions offering a perfect view ahead and to the rear. The car seems to respond as much to thought as physical input.

Dynamism is further enhanced by what the Morgan design team calls a sporty "race on Sunday" design philosophy. The car's lines do not end abruptly but instead flow organically and echo the smooth shapes of a racetrack. The smooth profile makes the car look sleeker and lower. The sculpted bonnet and boot enhance the aerodynamic feel and the short overhangs front and rear emphasize the sports car sense of purpose.

CHASSIS AND DRIVING DYNAMICS
Morgan chassis experts have worked on the driving experience of the new Morgan 3 Wheeler with the same passion given to the development of any new Morgan. The result is a driver's car with properties that do the sporting appearance full justice. The weight of the engine is counterbalanced by the mass of the passengers and the car has a planted feel with a very low centre of gravity to ensure it remains glued to the road. During the development process, the chassis team worked on the new Morgan 3 Wheeler in parallel with the forthcoming Morgan EvaGT. The result is a solution that features changes and refinements to virtually every single detail that affects a car's cornering capabilities.

ENGINES
During its first year of production, the new Morgan 3 Wheeler will be available with a V twin from specialist engine builder S & S. The car is approved by US and European road transport authorities for safety and emissions. With an economical 115 horsepower the motor provides maximum power at minimum revs. Big torque spells effortless hill climbing ability. The current focus of the Morgan Motor Company to cut CO2 emissions and low fuel consumption is very much part of the rationale behind the launch of this car. The time is right for Morgan to take a new look at the combination of acceleration, on road performance and economy. The time is right for Morgan to relaunch the 3 Wheeler.

Bespoke extras
Bespoke leather and paint are available at extra cost as on the classic Morgan. A Polished engine, stainless steel tailpipes, cowl, polished cowl,headlamps and roll hoops are also extra cost options for a more classic look.

Exciting graphic packs to compliment the Sport "race on Sunday" philosophy
High quality decals are available to give the owner the opportunity to boost the sporty attitude of the new Morgan 3 Wheeler. These include special designs including US military and British Air Force inspired logos, oval racing numbers and stripes, a fearsome shark nose, chequered winner's bonnet, official national flags and the Morgan wings.

Price: £25,000 (before tax)

Mitsubishi Outlander, 2013

 

 

•  Mitsubishi Outlander, 2013

Eleven years after it first coined the term "crossover", Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) unveiled its third embodiment of this concept with the all-new next generation Mitsubishi Outlander at the 2012 International Geneva Motor Show.

After a total of over 950,000 sales (as of end of December 2011 - including Airtrek - the first generation Mitsubishi Outlander) for the first two generations since June 2001, this all-new mid-size crossover is meant to comply with the times - a strategic and innovative premium vehicle, developed around a versatile global platform and borne of a harmonious balancing of:

•     Low environmental impact
•     Advanced safety
•     Comfortable driving
•     Clever utility
•     Added convenience

The unveiling confirm the start of an all-new generation of global products for Mitsubishi Motors, consistent with the ambitions set in MMC's "Jump 2013" smart business plan for a greener and more global Mitsubishi Motors.

New language
Fittingly, MMC's complete family of Passenger Vehicles / Crossovers / SUVs will also see a gradual transition to a re-focused design language, as seen with the all-new Mitsubishi Outlander. While still being formulated, it is envisaged as an open concept meant to be flexible enough to suit specific vehicle requirements whilst staging Mitsubishi's famous Three Diamond logo accordingly. This new engineering-driven look can be understood as the new expression of Mitsubishi's near century old tradition of technology tailored for today's world.

New shape
Similar in size to the current car, the 4655mm Next Generation Mitsubishi Outlander follows a clear design brief where in true Mitsubishi fashion, key directions were for an "engineer's car" with a "Solid - Safe - Simple" shape, blending substantial look with clean surfaces, as previewed in the Concept PX-MiEV and Concept PX-MiEV II show cars.

Whether its high flanks, raised beltline, uncluttered surfaces, strong shouldering or soft-contoured fenders, the all-new Outlander offers a very comforting sense of quiet protection and safety to its occupants - a quality car of substance devoid of cheap styling thrills and designed for the long-haul travelling its innovative power-train will allow.

Understated yet assertive, Mitsubishi Outlander's exterior design is further enhanced by a slim front aerodynamic grille with stylish hockey-shaped chromed strips seem to be milled directly from solid brass as if to shield the three-diamond logo, in-between the feline look of the sculptured wrap-around headlamps.

This same quality look continues inside the car with high grade premium materials (padded surfaces, soft-touch finish, silver or wood accents, gloss black appliqués) gracing a dashboard designed for better driver concentration, including ergonomic steering wheel controls as well as high-resolution and easy-to-read instrument displays.

New harmony
In keeping with Mitsubishi Outlander's forte, the all-new next generation Outlander will continue to carry five or seven people in comfort and safety, supported by a powerful electronic architecture. The new Outlander now comes with a finer blend of:

Low Impact:

• With a development of our Mitsubishi petrol and Clean Diesel engines. In Europe, the new Outlander will be made available with a choice of two different engines:
• MMC's "4J11" - a 110 kW (150ps) 2.0 l MIVEC petrol now fitted with an all-new valve train
• MMC's "4N14" - a 110 kW (150ps) 2.2 Clean Diesel with many innovative features to include an ultra-low 14.9:1 compression ratio. Further improvements allow for high performance and low emissions.
• With an all-new Automatic Stop & Go system
• With an all-new 6-speed automatic gearbox.
• Through weight reduction (optimisation of the body structure, further use of high-tensile strength steel pressings).

All improvements leading to a much better fuel economy and emissions, down to a minimum target of below 130 g/km.

Advanced Safety:

• With the introduction of Adaptive Cruise Control system. This system maintains a safe distance to the vehicle in front, even at very low speeds when experiencing heavy traffic congestion.
• With the introduction of Forward Collision Mitigation system. This system detects obstacles on the road ahead of the vehicle and automatically applies the brakes to help preventing a collision.
• With the introduction of Lane Departure Warning system. This system warns the driver that their vehicle is about to depart from its lane through a visual warning display and a buzzer.
• With the introduction of Super-HiD "Wide Vision" xenon headlamps. Approximately 1.4 times more powerful than conventional HID headlights, they provide a 1,350-lumen beam that shines over an extremely wide area of 80°x 2 in total, instead of the 42° x 2 of conventional HiDs.

Comfortable Driving:
    With now a dual zone air conditioner.
    A quieter cabin thanks to improved NVH (noise, vibration and harshness).
    A wide and comfortable 3rd row 50/50 split seating, replacing today's jump seats.
    High grade quality materials for a more premium D-Segment look & feel.

Clever Utility:

• With a 1.69m long floor when the 2nd and 3rd seats are folded down (+ 335 mm versus the previous Outlander).
• With a flat floor when all seats are folded down.
• And the adoption of a one-piece power tail gate.

Convenience:
    With a display audio incorporating the rear view monitor system.
    As so often requested - a tilt & telescopic steering column.

After the Geneva unveiling, the all-new next generation Mitsubishi Outlander will be launched first in Russia in summer 2012, prior to European (late summer), Japanese, Oceania, Chinese and North American debuts.

New frontier
During the course of 2012, MMC will also take advantage of the built-in possibilities of Mitsubishi Outlander's versatile platform & powerful electronic architecture to add an EV-based plug-In hybrid power-train to the ICE Outlander range.

This will be a fully integrated solution, based on MMC's EV technology and also, making the best use of MMC's extensive 4-Wheel-Drive expertise, offering a choice of driving modes:

• Pure (Twin Motor 4WD EV).
• Series (Twin Motor 4WD EV supported by ICE generator).
• Parallel (Twin Motor 4WD EV supplemented by ICE at higher speed - Electric motors assist in powerful acceleration without any gear shift).

When fitted to the new Mitsubishi Outlander, the Mitsubishi Plug-in Hybrid EV system will allow for a range and very low CO2 emissions similar to that of MMC's Concept PX-MiEV II (over 800 km and a target of below 50 g/km).

Mini Bayswater, 2012

 

 

 

 

• Mini Bayswater, 2012

The MINI Bayswater wears its inherent sporting élan and extrovert style very much on its sleeve. The Kite Blue metallic exterior paintwork was created exclusively for the special-edition model, as was the interior design and 17-inch light-alloy Sandblast wheels with high-gloss black surfaces and bright machined rim and spoke edges. Midnight Black metallic and Eclipse Grey metallic paint shades can be ordered for the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper SD as an alternative to the new, radiant Blue finish. The sporty appearance of the MINI Bayswater is emphasised by the black contrasting roof and the likewise newly created Sport Stripes for the bonnet, which streak dynamically towards the windscreen. The exterior mirror caps carry an identical stripe design - blue on the right-hand side of the car, grey on the left.

"Bayswater" lettering adorns the side indicator surrounds, door sills and seat tags. The Punch Leather seats come in the exclusive colour variant Rocklite Anthracite and include side bolsters sporting a metallic sheen and blue and grey contrast stitching. Two-tone contrast stitching also adorns the gearshift/selector lever and handbrake gaiters.

Other innovative design features in the interior include Piano Black cockpit trim strips, which continue the path set by the Sport Stripes over the bonnet, and the leather Colour Line elements in Rocklite Anthracite, whose classy character is emphasised by black stitching. The same leather variant is also used for the armrests, while the model-specific floor mats have anthracite-coloured edging and blue contrast stitching.

The MINI Bayswater also comes with stainless steel pedals and the Chrome Line Interior package, and includes the Pepper Pack in its range of equipment. Plus, the new special edition can likewise be specified with a wide variety of items from the optional equipment list if further individual touches are desired.

In keeping with its sporting charisma, the MINI Bayswater lines up for action with powerful engines at its fingertips. Customers can order their MINI Bayswater in MINI Cooper (90 kW/122 hp), MINI Cooper S (135 kW/184 hp), MINI Cooper D (82 kW/112 hp) or MINI Cooper SD (105 kW/143 hp) trim. The special-edition model is also delivered with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed automatic features in the options range.

The MINI Bayswater takes its name from an extremely vibrant area of London. Located to the west of the city centre - halfway between the shopping hot spots of Knightsbridge and Notting Hill - Bayswater is best known for its unusually high density of bars and restaurants, not to mention the adjacent and no less famous Hyde Park. MINI is therefore returning to the London theme to further accentuate the link with both its home country and the fascination surrounding the London lifestyle. Indeed, both the MINI Bayswater and MINI Baker Street are following in the tyre tracks of a naming tradition begun by the classic Mini and reprised more recently with the MINI Camden, MINI Mayfair and MINI Clubman Hampton special editions.

Mercedes-Benz A-Class, 2013

 

 

 

 

 

•  Mercedes-Benz A-Class, 2013

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class is opening up a new chapter in the compact segment: markedly emotive in design, with powerful engines ranging from 80 kW (109 hp) to 155 kW (211 hp), extremely efficient with emissions from just 98 g of CO2/km and a best-in-class drag coefficient of 0.27. At the same time the new model underlines that for Mercedes-Benz, safety is not a question of price - the standard specification includes, amongst other things, the radar-based COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST system. Prices in Germany start at €23,978.50 (incl. 19% VAT) for the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY.

"Mercedes-Benz is becoming the most dynamic premium brand in the world. As part of this development, the A-Class represents an important milestone. The A-Class is completely new, down to the last detail. In automotive development, it's not often you get the chance to start with a clean sheet of paper. Our engineers have made the very most of that opportunity", explains Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars.

Exterior design: The most progressive design in the compact class
Standing as much as 18 centimetres lower on the road than the preceding model, the new A-Class communicates design and dynamism at the very first glance. This radical form language, presented and enthusiastically acclaimed around the world with the A-Class Concept, was consistently implemented in the series production car. The appearance of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class reflects this new Mercedes-Benz design strategy. The result is what is known as a two-box design with a distinct character of its own, a sportily emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.

Defined edges and tautly drawn surfaces mark out the exterior design of the new A-Class. The constant interplay between concave and convex surfaces creates a characteristic play of light, particularly along the sides of the car, which contributes to its unique appearance.

Typical features of the long, sporty front are its pronounced V-shape, the separate headlamps, the radiator grille with central Mercedes star and double slats to either side of the star, as well as the additional air intakes on the sides. The "dropping line" apparent in the side profile dissipates towards the vehicle's front end. The design of the headlamps, together with the configuration of the light functions within them, are a key element of the design concept.

The light modules and LEDs behind the headlamp cover glass have been arranged in such a way as to create the characteristic "flare effect" for the daytime driving lights and indicators. The so-called "flare" is made up of the feature line within the headlamp, the LED modules for the daytime running lamps and the bulb sets for the indicators. This signature effect gives the car its energetic look and so helps to define a new, youthful face for Mercedes.

The perfect interplay of dynamic design and excellent aerodynamics is nowhere more apparent than in the roof, with its smooth surfaces and taut, arcing curve. The silhouette reveals smooth, flowing lines finishing in a flat edge. The roof spoiler, which conveniently hides all the aerials, provides an extra sporty touch and gives structure to the roof assembly. The beltline rises to the rear to form a pronounced wedge-shape. The side view is distinguished by sensuously moulded sculptural side panels and crisp lines. The front structural edge, above the wing, falls in what is known as a "dropping line" in a gentle arc towards the rear. The powerfully-shaped shoulder muscles above the rear axle serve to emphasise the car's coupé-like character. A further line sweeps up from just in front of the rear wheel arch, then gently fades away. All these lines give depth and dynamism to the car's profile. Dynamic side sill panels provide a final finishing touch towards the bottom of the car, enhancing the appearance of elegant light-footedness.

The broad emphasis of the tail end is revealed in an interplay of convex-concave surfaces and edges. The tail lights continue the line of the muscular shoulders back towards the rear, while their horizontal orientation emphasises the car's powerful breadth. The light functions are provided optionally by fibre-optic cables and LED modules. Here, too, the interaction between design and aerodynamics is very clear: the surface finish of the tail lights is not only an interesting design feature, but also improves the airflow around the vehicle thanks to defined airflow break-away edges in the rear section.

Interior design: Extraordinary perceived value
The starting point for the interior design was the interior sculpture "Mercedes-Benz Aesthetics No. 2" presented at the Detroit Motor Show in 2011 and which directed attention to the new Mercedes-Benz design language in the vehicle interior, too. The first concrete implementation of this was shown in April 2011 with the A-Class Concept.
 

The process used for the production of this muscle allows diverse soft surface textures. It is thus possible to create different surface appearances with an attractive play of lights thanks to three-dimensional structures embedded in foil.

"The interior of the A-Class represents a big step forward in terms of quality - both in the materials used and in the consistency of the design" says Kaul. Both objectives have been achieved with the help of a specific design idiom and through the various combination options possible with the high-quality materials selected. All trim elements have been given an electroplated finish, resulting in real metal surfaces with "cool touch" effect. The work has been executed with considerable care and attention to detail, so that they appear to have been moulded in one piece.

The instrument panel incorporates five round vents. "Like brilliant jewels they underscore the superior quality of the vehicle interior", explains Kaul. The outer rings of the round vents have a high-quality electroplated finish. The airflow direction is governed by an insert that is reminiscent of an aircraft turbine and reveals a meticulous attention to detail. This too has an electroplated finish in silver-chrome. The free-standing display screen features a black piano-lacquer-look front panel and a flush-fitting silver frame.

The instrument cluster comprises two large round instruments, each with a small dial set within it. When at rest, the dial needles stand at 6 o'clock. The pointer inlays are in white, although with the sportier design and equipment lines such as Urban and AMG Sport they are in red. The dials on the sporty equipment lines and packages are coloured silver with a chequered flag effect. The 3-spoke steering wheel comes with 12 function buttons and an electroplated bezel.

The centre dome and console, as well as the positioning of the various elements such as the head unit, lower control panel, air conditioning operating unit, stowage compartments, rotary pushbutton and armrest, reflect the findings of the ergonomics experts at Mercedes-Benz.

An extensive range of seat coverings, in terms of material (e.g. leather, fabric, ARTICO/fabric), colour combination and also geometry, provides scope for a broad range of individualisation options. Sports seats with integrated head restraints are available with all optional design and equipment lines. The sporty nature of the seats is emphasised by the opening between the upper edge of the seat backrest and the head restraint. On the back of the front seats this opening is edged with a frame in silver chrome and, in conjunction with the Light and Sight package, can also feature ambient lighting.

Designer Jan Kaul sums up: "If you were to take a seat in the A-Class with your eyes closed - you would never think, upon opening your eyes, that you were sitting in a compact-class vehicle."

The chassis and suspension: Agility and refined sportiness
Refined sportiness means maximum agility combined with the sense of safety, unspoilt driving stability and high levels of ride comfort which are all typical of the brand. The suspension of the new Mercedes-Benz A-Class has a four-link rear axle, electromechanical power steering with assistance functions and ESP® with "Extended Traction Control" (XTC). During development, the suspension experts made intensive use of simulations and the driving simulators at the Mercedes development centre in Sindelfingen as part of the so-called digital ride and handling test.

The preconditions for achieving dynamic handling are excellent in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. This is because compared with its predecessor the centre of gravity (24 mm lower) and seating position (174 mm lower) has been reduced significantly. A new feature is the four-link rear axle: forces are absorbed by three control arms and one trailing arm per wheel. This means that longitudinal and lateral dynamics are virtually independent of one another. Wheel carriers and spring links are made of aluminium to reduce the unsprung masses. The goal was to achieve high lateral agility with high driving stability thanks to small sideslip angle on the rear axle.

Three chassis and suspension set-ups are available: the comfort suspension and optional sports suspension for sporty yet comfortable handling (in conjunction with the Dynamic Handling package or the AMG Sport equipment line). In addition, the A 250 Sport has a sporty, "engineered by AMG" high-performance suspension. Altogether this results in low dynamic rolling behaviour and low start-off pitch angle. Furthermore, the vehicle also has a reduced tendency to understeer in the higher lateral acceleration range: the driver is therefore able to control changes in direction with low steering input but high steering precision. When accelerating out of bends taken at speed, the tendency to understeer is reduced even further by "Extended Traction Control" (XTC): with this function, ESP®provides support in the form of directional stability by generating a yaw moment on the front and rear wheels located on the inside of the bend.

Steering: mechanical with electric assistance
The electromechanical steering of the A-Class has been redesigned. The electric motor of the servo assistance system is now located directly on the steering gear as a dual pinion EPS system. The steering system makes an important contribution to the vehicle's overall efficiency, as the steering assist function only requires energy when steering actually takes place. A Direct-Steer system is available in combination with the Dynamic Handling package or AMG Sport equipment line. This provides a noticeably more direct steering ratio over the turning angle thanks to the variable ratio, and enhances the vehicle's handling and agility substantially. The steering conveys a high sense of safety, as the driver experiences a consistent and precise response to all steering movements.

The electric power steering also enables various steering assistance functions which are activated by the ESP® control unit
    Countersteering in case of oversteering
    Corrective steering when braking on road surfaces offering different levels of grip (split-fraction braking)
    Mitigating the extent to which the front-wheel drive influences the steering
    Compensating crosswind and road gradients
    The electric power steering also makes Active Park Assist possible.

With all engine variants, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class comes with disc brakes on all wheels. The callipers on the rear axle and the brake boosters are made of aluminium. A particularly convenient feature is the HOLD function, which is familiar from the larger model series: when stopping, for example at traffic lights, the driver merely has to press the brake pedal slightly more firmly and the brake will remain engaged until he moves off again. The brake is released automatically when the driver steps on the accelerator. On versions with manual transmission, the Hill Hold function automatically prevents the vehicle from rolling back unintentionally when starting on a slope.

The Mercedes-Benz A-Class is equipped with an electric parking brake, which operates by means of actuator motors acting on the callipers of the rear axle. The parking brake is activated via a button under the light switch on the left of the dashboard. This creates additional space in the centre console, as the handbrake lever is no longer required. When the button is pressed at speeds of over four km/h, the parking brake acts as an emergency brake, activating all four wheel brakes via the ESP®'s hydraulic unit.

In conjunction with the 7G-DCT automatic transmission, the parking brake offers a particularly convenient mode of functioning: when the driver accelerates sufficiently after fastening their seat belt, the parking brake is released automatically.

Aerodynamics: Saving fuel the aerodynamic way
With a drag coefficient (Cd) value of 0.27, the aerodynamic experts at Mercedes-Benz succeeded in creating another masterpiece with the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. And the A 180 BlueEFFICIENCY Edition due to follow later is even able to exceed this record for hatchback vehicles: thanks to a number of aerodynamic enhancements, this beacon of efficiency achieves a Cd value of 0.26.

Countless flow simulation studies on the computer and a great deal of fine tuning in the wind tunnel resulted in a clear goal: to enhance the basic shape of the A-Class design further, with a view to achieving an exceptional drag coefficient. This is no easy task, particularly for a hatchback model with a short rear overhang. But an improvement in the Cd value of just one hundredth will reduce fuel consumption by one tenth of a litre per 100 km when driving on the motorway at approx. 120 km/h. Based on NEDC figures, this corresponds to a CO2 reduction of one gram per kilometre.

With a Cd value of 0.27 and a frontal area of 2.20 m2, the drag area (CdA) is less than 0.6 m2 - a benchmark figure for hatchback vehicles in this segment.

The detailed work behind this development is highlighted by the following examples:
    The distinctive side spoilers next to the rear window ("finlets") help to create a run-on design which significantly reduces the disruptive longitudinal vortices generated at the D-pillars.
    Flow losses at the front wheel arches have been reduced substantially with the aid of patented serrated wheel spoilers at front and rear, slots in the wheel arches and optimised hub caps. These measures result in improved wind flow around the wheel arches.
    The Mercedes-Benz A-Class has an adjustable radiator shutter, already familiar in larger model series. The louvres behind the radiator grille are for the most part closed when there is no specific need for cooling air.
    The underbody has also been aerodynamically enhanced: the main floor panel features extensive cladding up to the rear wheel arch, followed by additional cladding of the rear axle. The rear silencer has also undergone aerodynamic optimisation.
    The new A-Class features exterior mirrors which have been optimised in terms of a number of details and already proven their excellent aerodynamic properties in large model series such as the S, E and C-Class, and also the B-Class. The position of the exterior mirror is adjusted in respect of the A-pillar in such a way that the airflow is directed along the side window without any significant interference or disruption.

The exterior mirrors and the low stepped height of the A-pillars reflect the fact that the work conducted in the wind tunnel was not just about optimising the flow conditions, but also about minimising wind noise. And in addition to aerodynamics and aeroacoustics, there is often another discipline to consider: in terms of water management too, the flow around the exterior mirrors and the A-pillars also has to be optimised in the wind tunnel in order to guarantee good visibility is maintained towards the rear and at the sides during wet weather.

More than with previous model series, in the case of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class the aerodynamics experts at Mercedes-Benz made particular use of flow simulation (CFD, Computational Fluid Dynamics): each component was first improved over several cycles using flow simulation before having its aerodynamic properties put to the test in the wind tunnel.

Digital flow simulation is based on so-called finite volumes as a mathematical model. A volume net is formed from around 60 million hexahedrons, or cubes, and is based around the CAD data of the new A-Class. This enables the driving cycle to be simulated over a free area in a large virtual wind tunnel. The Mercedes engineers generate the airflow using a predetermined turbulence level.

Setting new standards in terms of Cd value and consumption: BlueEFFICIENCY Edition

Due to follow later is the A 180 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Edition boasting even better consumption levels. It is among the most efficient vehicles of its class: thanks to a series of additional aerodynamic optimisation measures, it has been possible to reduce its Cd value from 0.27 (standard model) to 0.26.

These measures:
    partially covering the upper part of the radiator grille
    aerodynamically shaped spring link coverings to improve the underbody airflow at the rear axle
    lowering of the suspension by 15 mm

Diesel engines: three efficient power bands
The new basic engine in the OM 607 series develops 80 kW (109 hp), delivers 260 Nm to the crankshaft and with a manual transmission consumes 3.8 litres per 100 km, corresponding to 98 g of CO2/km. This is a 22-percent improvement over the only 60 kW (82 hp) preceding model, the A 160 CDI, which consumed 4.9 litres. The new top diesel, the A 220 CDI, is no less than 25 percent better than its predecessor: it develops an output of 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm of torque, and in combination with the 7G-DCT automatic dual clutch transmission it consumes only 4.3 litres/100 km (provisional figure). The figures for the preceding A 200 CDI were 103 kW(140 hp), 5.7 litres, and 149 g of CO2/km.

Petrol engines: turbocharging and direct injection for all
A comparison between the new and previous A 200 demonstrates what has been achieved with the petrol engines: with 115 kW(156 hp) and 250 Nm of torque, the new engine delivers superior performance but consumes only 5.4 litres/100 km (127g CO2/km - figures for the 7G-DCT), which is 26 percent less than its predecessor (100 kW, 185 Nm, 7.4 l/100 km, 174 g CO2/km). Even the new top model with the 7G-DCT and producing 155 kW(211 hp) and 350 Nm is considerably more efficient with a consumption of 6.1 litres and CO2 emissions of 143 g.

The completely new engines and transmissions are not the only decisive factors in this exemplary efficiency. Thanks to the modular system it has been possible to select the optimally designed transmission for each diesel and petrol engine. The overall package is rounded off perfectly with progressive aerodynamics with a Cd figure of only 0.27, as well as a number of other improvements.

"The new four-cylinder models from Mercedes-Benz occupy a leading position by virtue of their performance, high efficiency and very low emissions. They impress with their smooth, superior power delivery and offer customers refinement at the highest level," says Professor Dr Thomas Weber, Daimler Board Member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

The 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission: Dynamic and efficient
Drawing on over 50 years of experience in the development and production of automatic transmissions, Mercedes-Benz ventured into new technical territory with the 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission: the new system is an automated three-shaft manual transmission consisting of two subtransmissions, each with its own clutch. Both actuation of the clutches and gear shifting take place fully automatically and without any interruption in tractive power. This allows a particularly comfortable but nevertheless dynamic mode of driving.

Thanks to its seven gears it offers an exceptionally large spread of up to 7.99. This means that a very short transmission ratio is available when moving off on an uphill slope with a high payload, for example, while during cruising the engine speed can be lowered considerably. The efficiency of this transmission leads to a nine percent improvement in fuel consumption compared to the CVT employed in the Mercedes-Benz A-Class to date, and betters the consumption with a manual transmission.

At a length of 367 millimetres and a weight of 86 kilograms, the 7G-DCT is more compact and lighter than the transmissions in this torque class which have been available on the market to date. The clutches take the form of oil-cooled multi-disc clutches. The specially developed hydraulic fluid is actively cooled, thus ensuring correct functioning of the transmission even under extreme conditions, despite the comparatively low filling level of six litres. Excess engine heat can also be transferred to the transmission, which improves its efficiency.

For the first time on this type of unit, the transmission is supplied with oil by two oil pumps - one mechanical and one electric. The electric pump maintains the oil pressure when the engine is switched off via the start/stop function. This means that the transmission is immediately operational when the engine is restarted and the vehicle can move off again without any delay. In addition, the electric pump is able to support the mechanical pump when peak loads apply, enabling a more compact and efficient design for the mechanical pump.

Another new feature is electric activation of the hydraulics for the parking lock, which is locked by mechanical means. This "park by wire" function enables the transmission selector lever to be positioned as desired: it is located in the form of a steering column lever on the right behind the steering wheel in the A-Class. In combination with the electric parking brake, additional space has thus been created in the centre console for additional stowage facilities.

Three gearshift modes are available to the driver:
    ECONOMY: in this mode, the transmission performs gearshifts fully automatically and particularly comfortably. The gears are selected with due regard to a particularly economical style of driving at low revs
    SPORT: the transmission performs gearshifts fully automatically. The shift and response times are shorter, with gearshifts at higher engine speeds
    MANUAL: in this mode, the driver operates the transmission manually via shift paddles behind the steering wheel. The engine speeds at which the gears are shifted can therefore be freely chosen

In ECO or Sport mode, the driver is still able to intervene manually in the gear-shifting process via the shift paddles. The transmission reverts to the selected automatic mode after the paddles have remained inactive for twelve seconds, or after a longer delay when driving downhill or on winding roads.

A key factor contributing to the overall efficiency and dynamism of the A-Class is the closely coordinated operation of the transmissions and engines. A continuous exchange of data between the control units ensures that the engines run at the ideal operating point at all times. The 7G -DCT transmission is manufactured at Daimler's Stuttgart-Hedelfingen plant.

The six-speed manual transmission: Comfortable manual gearshifts
The new six-speed manual transmission was developed in parallel with 7G-DCT. It is extremely compact and shares a number of common parts.

The three-shaft transmission is also very compact (length 345 mm) and light (dry weight 46 kg) and incorporates a number of special features for particularly pleasant gearshifting. An integrated magnet on the gearshift shaft is detected by a Hall sensor. The idle position is identified in this way, making the start/stop function possible. The signal for reverse gear activates the reversing lights.

The large spread of 6.7 allows a reduction in engine speed while at the same time ensuring that sufficient tractive power is available when moving off with a fully laden Mercedes-Benz A-Class and trailer up to a gross weight of 3.4 tonnes. The clutch is operated hydraulically and the gears are actuated via cables.

The overhead camshaft with third and fourth gears and the reverse gear do not run in the oil bath. This reduces drag torque, thus facilitating gear shifting at low temperatures in particular. The three-cone synchronisation of the first two gears serves the same purpose, while the following gears are provided with two-cone synchronisation. The weight-optimised cast aluminium shift forks are installed on anti-friction bearings on the shift rods, in order to reduce the shift forces.