Like the current version of the SLK, Stuttgart's BMW Z4 rival will feature a two-piece folding metal roof, but it will also receive all of Mercedes' newest gadgets and accessories.
While the heavy camouflage doesn't allow us to get a clear view of the new SLK's looks, it is expected that Mercedes will drop the current model's F1-inspired nose in favor of a much bolder grille and more geometrically shaped headlamps, all themed after the SLS AMG Gullwing model.
No, Mercedes-Benz has yet to reveal the next-generation of its CLS sports sedan. The Germans may have [somewhat] previewed the new CLS through the Shooting BreakConcept, but the actual production model will most likely be unwrapped at this Fall's Paris Motor Show.Nonetheless, Mercedes-Benz tuning specialists Lorinser has published a teaser drawing of the upcoming 2011 CLS all-dressed up in a sporty bodykit that includes a unique grille, hood scoops, modified bumper, chunky side skirts, fender vents and extended wheel arches that house 21-inch light-alloy wheels.
The Mercedes-Benz Gullwing 116 6.9 - we're not entirely sure about the name- is a odd-looking two-door Grand Tourer with gullwing-style doors.
The two companies said that they are planning to invest a total of 600 million yuan (US$87.9 million) in the 50-50 partnership in China.
According to a statement made by Daimler, the German automaker will bring its "know-how in electric vehicle architecture and safety" to the venture, while BYD will contribute "it's excellence in battery technology and e-drive systems".
While you think about it let us tell you that, as with the first installment of the male-snoozefest that is "Sex and the City", the sequel to the movie that hits cinemas on 27 May will see most characters driving or being driven in a bunch of Mercedes-Benz and Maybach models.
Thought up by Siyamak Rouhi Dehkordi, a 35-year-old Mechanical Engineer from Iran, it features an insect-inspired all-wheel-drive platform integrating hydraulic pistons into the frame to help control the car's two halves.
A diesel engine would put power through a "flexible hydraulic power transmission system" to all six wheels.
Instead of the standard SL65 AMG Black Series' 670HP biturbo-V12, it gets the same modded 800-horsepower, 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft) twin-turbo Brabus V12 under the hood. Between the engine and that new hood scoop are four intercoolers while the car also gets a new stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with free-flow metal catalysts.
Also part of the package are Vorsteiner's forged V-308 rims, which have an interesting claim to fame if you take Vorsteiner at their word: they're "the most concave wheel available on the market". Hey, whatever helps you stand out.
Unfortunately, the famous tuning firm is keeping the details to itself for now, but there's a strong possibility that the Hamann-prepped SLS AMG will make its world premiere at next week's Tuning World Bodensee motor show in Germany, so stay... tuned.
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Mercedes-Benz design head Professor h.c. Gorden Wagener explains, "Our unique design expertise is appreciated throughout the world. We have therefore decided to establish the Mercedes-specific styling outside the automotive field too � and so far we have met with a very positive response from a great number of manufacturers in a variety of sectors."
Daimler's latest firm will both take on commissions (where the project originator is sold the styling user rights) and create original work (where the styling rights remain at MBS).
Owners can get new front/rear bumpers (�599 each), side skirts (�349), and roof/trunk spoilers (�199 each) made from Duraflex (other materials optional). Fog lamps for the new front bumper are �249.
The E-Class limo also adopts a 6-door configuration and three rows of seats, increasing passenger capacity to seven (including the driver). In addition, the two individual middle row seats can be placed to face forward or backward.
Only problem is, he was 7 stories up. According to his statement, his foot was caught between the accelerator and brake pedals. Luckily, he wasn't hurt or killed.
The same can't be said for some of the cars below, which got beat up by falling bricks. Ah well, accidents will happen... Video after the break.
The prototype model's heavy disguise and body cladding makes it difficult to distinguish any details, but it's safe to assume that the new SL will carry styling hallmarks from the German firm's "artsy" design language previewed in its most recent concept models such as the CLS Shooting Break and the F800 Style.
In particular, UK drivers be able to choose between the diesel-powered G 350 CDI which produces 221HP and returns 25.7 mpg UK, and the range topping G 55 AMG KOMPRESSOR, which produces 500HP and reaches 0-62 mph (100km/h) in just 5.5 seconds.
Other than that, what do you need to know? Not much, actually. The car's length, wheelbase, and rear legroom have increase by 14 cm (5.5 inches) and the front seats can be controlled from the back (so don't let jerks sit in the back...).
Expected to arrive shortly after the standard M-Class model, which itself, will go on sale in late 2011, the ML 63 AMG will feature the brand's newly developed 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 in place of the outgoing car's naturally aspirated 6.2-liter unit.
