The Star at Auto Shanghai 2019: Mercedes
Having achieved its best quarter sales and its best January sales ever in China, Mercedes is collecting the fruits from its “Made in China, for China” strategy. Over 70% of all vehicles delivered in China, are produced in China. Adding on to its success, the German carmaker has announced some exciting new cars at Shanghai’s motor show.
AMG A35L 4MATIC
It’s the first time an AMG model will be produced in the Beijing Benz factories and the first time the high-performance 2.0-litre, 306 hp engine makes its appearance in China. The car comes with all of the AMG bells and whistles: an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G dual-clutch transmission, the AMG suspension and the variable AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive with electromechanical rear differential, the AMG Line front skirt with air-intake flics, the front splitter and trim elements in silver chrome set characteristic AMG design accents.
This A-Class is also an “L”, which means that it is about 6 cm longer than the A-Class cars available in the rest of the world. Most of the European brands prepare a long-wheel basis version for China, initially to cater for the chauffeur-driven customer, but ultimately because the Chinese prefer to have more space at the back of the car.
Concept GLB
This compact SUV celebrates its global debut in Shanghai. A true 7-seater, the new model aims to charm the Chinese SUV-loving client, looking for a high-end car without breaking the bank. As the Chinese consumer is becoming more than ever aware about the concept of residual value and reselling value – arguments in favour of Mercedes – this type of modest, but luxurious vehicle is truly compatible with the market trends.
EQC
Surprisingly, this is the first time that Mercedes’ 4-wheel drive E-SUV makes its appearance in front of a Chinese audience. Especially due to registration restrictions and subvention strategy, the EQC, with its 445 kilometre range is a guaranteed challenger in the high-end EV market. Mercedes plays the premium quality card, setting itself apart from competition with less experience in building EVs.
GLE
Also for the first time in China, is the new GLE. With its long-wheel base and sleek silhouette, it’s a good fit with young professionals, looking for a car that sets themselves apart from the masses. In addition, the GLE is packed with technology and offers connectivity with the MBUX system; Mercedes knows that the Chinese clients love some tech in their cars.
And much more…
In addition to the models mentioned above, Mercedes is showcasing 6 other vehicles, new to the Chinese market:
- The A 220 4MATICas both standard and longwheelbase variants;
- The MercedesAMG GT C Roadster
- The MercedesAMG E 53 Coupé
- The longwheelbase variant of the Mercedes-Benz S 560e