Mercedes-Benz unveils the new C-Class at Auto Expo 2008

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class was launched at the Auto Expo by Dr. Joachim Schmidt (President & CEO Daimler Central/Eastern Europe, Africa & Asia) and Dr. Wilfried Aulbur (Managing Director and CEO, DaimlerChrysler India) in presence of Dr. Martin Zimmermann (Vice President, Strategy, Alliances &Business Development, Daimler) and Prof. Dr. Eberhard Haller (Vice President, Plant Manager, Sindelfingen).

Speaking on the occasion Dr. Schmidt commented: “25 years ago, Mercedes-Benz introduced the Model 190 and laid the foundations for what has become the bestselling model series in the history of the brand: the C-Class. To date around six million C-Class vehicles have been sold all around the globe. In fact, the C-Class is the world wide leader in its segment and has been an immensely popular vehicle since it was first launched. In India as in all parts of the globe, the C-Class has been an immensely popular vehicle. Just like the Mercedes-Benz 190 introduced 25 years ago, the new C-Class has set new trends in design and technology or driving pleasure. Ladies and gentlemen, here’s Agility at your Command: the new C-Class.”

During his speech, Dr. Aulbur underscored the presence of the Mercedes-brand in India for over 50 years. As pioneers of the luxury car segment in India, Mercedes-Benz has the widest product range and the most extensive sales and support network spread across 28 Indian cities. The company is also the first automobile manufacturer in India to have completed ISO 9001: 2000 certification. “The result of close and continuous engagement with customers is reflected through our growing sales figures as well. This year, we achieved record sales of 2491 units from Jan-Dec 2007. This marks a growth of 18% over 2007.”

The event also witnessed the India-debut of the Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class. This breathtaking vehicle is a sheer experience in luxury and is a Coupe offering from the Mercedes-Benz stable. From its spectacular sporty look, this super luxury car is truly a dream machine. The CLK 350 version features powerful 6 cylinder V-6 engine; the torque is 350 Nm at 2400 - 5000 rpm, and delivers an output of 272 hp at 6000 rpm. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km in only 6.4 secs!With a length of 4596 millimetres, the new C-Class is 68 millimetres longer than its predecessor. The body width has increased by 42 mm to 1770 millimetres, and the wheelbase by 45 mm to 2760 millimetres. These dimensions create the conditions for a generously sized interior, and therefore more comfort. The front shoulder room has increased by 40 millimetres, for example. The design of the new C-Class is based on the modern Mercedes idiom, which reflects the technical superiority of automobiles bearing the star with taut lines and large, tranquil surfaces. The pronounced wedge-shape of the front end serves to emphasise attributes such as agility and performance.