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Two new models are enhancing the Mercedes-Benz model port-folio in spring
2010. The new-generation R-Class can be ordered now, with an entry-level
price of Euro 42,100*. With a total of nine basic versions, this attractive,
multi-talented series offers the widest model range in the premium touring
saloon segment. The M-Class Grand Edition is entering model year 2011 with a
price advantage of up to Euro 2670*. This exclusive variant of the company's
bestselling premium SUV, more than 1 million of which have been sold to
date, has a number of attractive, additional features which make this model
even more desirable.

* excl. VAT

The new-generation R-Class has the appearance of being cast from a single
mould. The completely redesigned front end with its restyled bonnet, wings,
radiator grille, headlamps and bumper gives the entire vehicle a harmonious,
dynamic and powerful presence. On request, the front end of the R-Class can
be further enhanced by a chrome clasp with integrated daytime driving lights
in conjunction with bi-xenon headlamps. Light-alloy wheels in a 5-spoke,
5-twin-spoke or 10-spoke design with sizes from 43.2 to 53.3 centimetres (17
to 21 inches) and the revised rear end with its new bumper cladding,
modified tail lights and integrated exhaust tailpipes likewise increase the
attractiveness of the model-year 2010 R-Class. In addition to the fresher
exterior, it is the inner values of the R?Class that impress. These include
the economy of space of modern MPVs combined with the high quality and
prestige of classic Mercedes-Benz saloon cars. At the same time the latest
generation offers the interior variability of its predecessor, while scoring
with the robustness and all-wheel drive attributes of the Mercedes-Benz
SUVs.

Drive system with a high economy and fun factor

In addition to the smooth, powerful and comfort-enhancing petrol engines
adopted from the preceding model, optimised diesel units increase the
attractiveness of the R-Class. The basic R 300 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY model
impresses with its harmonious power delivery and consumes only 7.6 l/100
km**. The R 350 CDI 4MATIC combines the performance of a V8 model with the
fuel economy of a V6 variant, and is happy with 8.5 litres** of diesel per
100 kilometres. The diesel engine developing 195 kW (265 hp) and a torque of
620 newton metres catapults the most sporty of the diesel R-Class models
from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds, with a top speed of 235 km/h. And
the R 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC is one of the cleanest diesel ­models worldwide.
This model with AdBlue© emissions control consumes 8.4 litres** of diesel
per 100 kilo­metres, and has emissions at the same, low level as a
comparable of a petrol model. As a result, this model already meets the EU-6
exhaust emission standard envisaged for 2014. All the other petrol and
diesel versions of the R-Class comply with the EU-5 standard.

** combined NEDC consumption

All R-Class models are equipped with the latest-generation 7G-TRONIC
automatic transmission. This fuel-efficiency transmission has bearings and
clutches designed for minimum friction. Modified oil pressures and a new
low-friction oil reduce friction and churning losses. The new torque
converter operates particularly efficiently, and therefore saves fuel,
thanks to its slip-reduced lockup clutch. In addition, the power decoupling
function at standstill in D reduces fuel consumption. This technical feature
reduces the transmission's input torque when the car is stationary, for
example at traffic lights.

Extensive model range with nine basic versions

With a total of nine basic versions, the R-Class offers the widest model
range in the premium touring saloon segment. Thanks to its attractive body
design, comprehensive standard features and numerous individualisation
options, the R-Class can be tailored to suit individual preferences. The
seating variants provide a particularly wide scope: specifically designed
for comfortable and safe touring, the saloon has five seats in both the
standard and long-wheelbase versions, but configurations with four, six or
seven seats are also possible. The R-Class offers a further advantage in the
form of a large, flexibly usable luggage compartment: luggage capacity is up
to 1950 litres in the versions with the standard wheelbase, and the
long-wheelbase version provides 2385 litres. The optional EASY PACK tailgate
with switch or key-operated remote control allows easier access to the
luggage compartment. All this makes the R-Class the most variable and
spacious model in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range.

In the airy, high-quality interior, which gives an even more spacious
impression with the optional panoramic glass sunroof, new materials and
colour schemes improve value perception and quality even further. Standard
features include an upholstery combination of Aspen fabric and breathable,
pleasant-feeling ARTICO man-made leather. The interior colour schemes are
new, with almond beige available in combination with mocha brown, or alpaca
grey with basalt grey. Alternatively the interior can be enhanced even
further with a two-tone colour scheme, in which case almond beige and black
or alpaca grey and black form an interesting contrast.

Comprehensive standard equipment, attractive pricing

The price range for the R-Class model series starts at Euro 42,100 for
the R 300. All the models feature numerous details as standard that make for
safe and relaxed driving on both long-distance journeys and on short trips
into town. These include the anticipatory occupant proitection system
PRE-SAFE®, eight airbags, crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints, a tyre
pressure warning system and adaptive brake lights. Safety is also augmented
by efficient, user-friendly telematic systems such as Audio 20, Audio 50 APS
or COMAND APS. THERMATIC automatic climate control is also standard
equipment, as is an AUX-IN connection for external audio or entertainment
devices.

In addition to the extensive standard features, the R-Class has numerous
assistance ­systems which ensure ride comfort and safety at the highest
level, and underline the leading position of the model series in this market
segment. These include DISTRONIC proximity control, AIRMATIC air suspension
with the Adaptive Damping System ADS or Blind Sport Assist, which is
available for this model series for the first time and can make lane-changes
much safer. The LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system makes for easy
and convenient operation of the telematics, while a reversing camera allows
confident parking and manoeuvring in awkward spaces. The rear seat
entertainment system enables passengers in the rear to enjoy their own
onboard entertainment programme.

The prices for the R-Class at a glance:

The M-Class Grand Edition

The exterior of the M-Class Grand Edition is distinguishable by numerous
attractive features. These include 48.3 cm (19-inch) light-alloy wheels in a
Y-spoke design with tyre size 255/50 R19, blue-tinted thermal insulation
glass all-round, dark-tinted headlamps and LED technology for the daytime
driving lights and sporty, darkened tail lights. Aluminium roof rails and an
extensive chrome package with an AMG radiator grille and underguards at the
front and rear round off the additional features. Standard equipment also
includes PARKTRONIC and a metallic paint finish. On request the Grand
Edition can be further enhanced with a paint finish in chromite black or
diamond white, and 50.8 cm (20-inch) bicolor light-alloy wheels with 265/45
R20 tyres, options which are only available for this M-Class model. A bonnet
with the powerdomes typical of sporty Mercedes-Benz models is standard
equipment for the V8 models ML 450 CDI 4MATIC and ML 500 4MATIC, and is
available as an optional extra for the other variants.

Sheer class: the interior of the Grand Edition

The feel-good atmosphere that is the hallmark of any Mercedes-Benz
impresses in the interior of the sporty yet luxurious Grand Edition
interior. The eye is treated to high-grade poplar wood trim and a black roof
lining. At night the ambient lighting creates a pleasant and exclusive Grand
Edition mood. The hard-wearing, breathable and pleasant-feeling ARTICO
man-made leather upholstery with contrasting seams and raised piping is
reserved exclusively for this model series, and ensures outstanding seating
comfort. The dashboard in a 3D-look is also lined with ARTICO, while the
centre door panels are lined with real leather. The sporty nature of this
series is accentuated by an AMG sports steering wheel in leather with shift
paddles, sports pedals of brushed stainless steel with rubber studs and
stainless steel door entry panels. A Grand Edition emblem on the centre
console provides the reference to exclusivity. A full leather interior is
available on request, likewise with contrasting seams and piping. Comfort
head restraints are included as standard.

In 1997 the M-Class was the first premium SUV

The M-Class is seen as the precursor to the modern premium SUVs, and is
one of the most popular SUV models worldwide. Since the world premiere of
the first model generation in 1997, more than one million examples have left
the production lines in Tuscaloosa, USA. Two variants of the M-Class are
available to cater to the different requirements of off-road drivers: in
addition to the basic 4MATIC version with its electronically controlled
off-road driving modes, the "Offroad-Pro Engineering package" can be ordered
to make the M-Class capable of mastering even the most difficult terrain.
Like all 4MATIC models, the M-Class has a special driving mode which
counters critical behaviour when towing a trailer right from the outset,
thereby decisively contributing to handling safety.

Grand Edition equipment package with a price advantage of 40
percent

The new Grand Edition equipment package is available for all models in
the series with the exception of the ML 63 AMG. At the package price of Euro
3990, there is a price advantage of Euro 2670 compared to ordering the
features individually for the variants with a V6 engine. The price advantage
is Euro 2015 for the V8 models ML 500 4MATIC and ML 450 CDI 4MATIC.

The basic prices for the M-Class "Grand Edition" at a glance:

• Volkswagen Presents Golf blue-e-motion Concept to German Chancellor

• Golf powered by zero-emissions electric motor to launch in 2013

• Golf blue-e-motion with 150 km range will also satisfy driving needs
  of commuters

Wolfsburg / Berlin, 03 May 2010 - Today, German Chancellor Dr. Angela
Merkel will have a close look at a concept of the future Golf blue-e-motion
in Berlin. Volkswagen is forging new links to the era of electric mobility
with this pure electric drive version of the most successful European car
ever produced. In 2013, after the debut of the Up blue-e-motion (a new city
specialist), the Golf blue-e-motion and the technically closely-related
Jetta blue-e-motion will launch on the market. In the same timeframe, the
Lavida blue-e-motion will also launch in China. The stated objective:
Volkswagen wants to use bestsellers such as the Golf to take electric
vehicles out of their niche model status and to become the market leader for
a new type of sustainable mobility by 2018. This strategy coincides with
planning by the German federal government, which would like to see about one
million electric vehicles on the streets by 2020.

Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn, Chairman of the Board of Management of
Volkswagen AG: "Future electric cars give us enormous opportunities for
reshaping mobility to be even more sustainable. When it comes to the
environment, however, we must ensure that the energy used to operate these
electric cars is produced from renewable sources. Since automotive
manufacturers do not have any influence on the types of power plants that
are built, the federal government must ensure that eco-friendly energy
sources are utilised. Only then will we experience a genuine transition to a
new era."

In parallel with the electric vehicle offensive, Volkswagen is
accelerating the introduction of new hybrid models as well. The new Touareg
Hybrid is already on the market; in 2012 a hybrid version of the Jetta will
debut, then in 2013 the Golf Hybrid and Passat Hybrid will launch. Just as
methodically, Volkswagen will continue its development work on advanced and
extremely efficient petrol, diesel and natural gas engines (TDI, TSI,
EcoFuel), because it is an indisputable fact that a wide variety of drive
technologies will coexist far into the future. "This makes it all the more
important for the German federal government to proactively support the
introduction of new technologies. With regard to electric mobility, the
current temporary exemption of E-cars from taxes is inadequate," says Prof.
Dr. Winterkorn. The Volkswagen chief continues: "Starting in 2013 - the
launch year for many new electric vehicles - the purchase of cars with
zero-emissions drive systems should be promoted with a sustainability
incentive. France, for example, has already pledged a cash incentive of
several thousand Euros to buyers. We need to send such a signal in Germany
as well. Moreover, and this is no less important, the German federal
government must very quickly make provisions for broad coverage with a
network of recharging stations across the republic, so that the
infrastructure is available at the same time the electric car offensive is
launched. Each new recharging station will also reinforce the public's trust
in the everyday utility of electric vehicles. Both of these components -
state-funded incentives and infrastructure - are crucial and cannot endure
any delay."

Golf blue-e-motion concept car - highly anticipated

The Golf blue-e-motion concept being presented to German Chancellor
Angela Merkel will be powered by an electric motor integrated in the engine
compartment in front, and its power of 85 kW / 115 PS drives the car
silently. Like all electric motors, the motor used in the Golf also outputs
a very high maximum torque (270 Newton-meter) right from a stop. The result:
more fun in zero-emissions driving. The electricity for driving the electric
motor is stored in a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 26.5
kilowatt-hours.

A driving range of up to 150 kilometres can be realised in the Golf
blue-e-motion; the specific range depends on driving style and factors such
as use of the air conditioning and heating system. This range meets the
needs of most German commuters: According to the German Federal Statistical
Office, 6 of every 10 people in the workforce commute by car - on average
45.8 percent drive less than 10 kilometres (one-way commute), another 28.1
percent between 10 and 25 kilometres and 16.2 percent over 25 kilometres.
The Golf blue-e-motion can also handle the driving ranges typically covered
by many service providers. In short-distance driving, the zero-emissions
Golf offers a sustainable solution to private users as well.

More noticeably than on today's modern petrol or diesel engines, the
maximum range of an electric car is severely reduced when its maximum power
is demanded frequently. However, the Golf blue-e-motion - with its top speed
of 140 km/h - provides ample power reserves so that less energy is consumed
while driving, and it can even coast or "sail". "Sailing" occurs whenever
the driver - adopting an anticipatory style of driving - releases the gas
pedal, or more apropos: the electric pedal. As in the drive system of the
Touareg Hybrid, which is being produced today, the motor is then is
disengaged from the drivetrain so that the car can coast with the least
possible drag. The Golf blue-e-motion even recovers kinetically generated
energy by battery regeneration in this mode of driving.

Adapted to the vehicle's architecture, the concept car's battery unit is
located in the bootspace (useful remaining cargo capacity: 237 litres),
under the rear bench seat and in the centre tunnel (between the front
seats). A separate air cooling system ensures a constant thermal environment
in the battery compartment.

As mentioned, all key primary and secondary drive components were
integrated in the engine compartment at the front of the vehicle. In coming
up with this design, developers applied experience they gained in numerous
design studies. As in the E-Up concept car, an integral form of electric
drive is used in the Golf blue-e-motion. Representing the core of the
integral drive are the electric motor together with a transmission and
differential. Energy management is handled by a high-voltage
pulse-controlled inverter, which - along with the 12 Volt electrical
system's DC/DC converter and charging module - is integrated in the compact
integral drive. The entire unit is relatively light and compact. The
five-door and five-seat Golf blue-e-motion, for example, weighs just 205
kilograms more than a comparable Golf BlueMotion TDI with DSG - despite the
fact that electric car batteries are known to be heavy and weigh 1,545
kilograms on the concept car.

Next year, Volkswagen will be testing the drivetrain and energy storage
modules of the future Golf blue-e-motion with a fleet of 500 test cars -
under all conceivable conditions. Essentially, the countdown to production
launch of the future Golf blue-e-motion has already begun. The future is
almost here, especially in Germany, because this is where one million
electric vehicles will be on the roads starting in 2020 - this goal was
resolved by the German federal government on August 2009 and is established
in the "National Development Plan for Electric Mobility." A long road lies
ahead of us until 2020, especially since battery costs certainly need to be
drastically reduced. However, another certainty is that a large number of
the one million electric vehicles of the year 2020 will wear the VW badge.