Mercedes-Benz Debuts New SL Roadster in Los Angeles; All-New Roadster Features Retractable Hardtop and First-Ever Electronic Brakes

LOS ANGELES, Jan. 4 -- A new-generation Mercedes-Benz SL coupe/roadster -- the first in more than 12 years -- is being shown at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show, January 5-13. Perhaps the best-known Mercedes model ever, the new SL convertible will mark the fifth generation of the highly successful series, which began in 1954 with the legendary ``gullwing'' 300SL.

The 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL is a technological tour de force, with ABC active suspension and ESP stability control to the world's first electronic brake system. The new SL also features breathtaking styling, capped by a retractable hardtop that combines the open-air fun of a convertible with the quiet comfort of a coupe.

Faster, Smarter Braking with World's First Electronic Brake System

The company that invented ABS anti-lock brakes, traction control and ESP stability control will launch the world's first production car equipped with an electronic brake system, which provides faster, more sure-footed brake response, especially in emergencies.

The brake pedal on the 2003 Mercedes-Benz SL500 works with a computer that tells four fast-acting valves exactly how hard to apply the brakes on each wheel. A backup hydraulic master cylinder comes into play only if there's a serious problem or electrical failure.

With split-second accuracy, the system can change brake pressure on each wheel over uneven surfaces and can even increase brake pressure on just the outside wheels when braking in turns, taking advantage of the higher loading during cornering. Even ABS anti-lock and ESP stability control work more efficiently since they are more deeply integrated with the brakes, instead of functioning as parallel systems.

A special electrically-driven hydraulic pump and a high-pressure reservoir (or accumulator) provide ``always-on'' full brake pressure at each wheel. The computer-operated modulator valves control how much pressure actually operates the brakes at each wheel. In the new system, the bulky vacuum brake booster is now obsolete.

If the driver switches his foot quickly from accelerator to brake pedal, the electronic brake system recognizes the early signs of an emergency situation and reacts automatically. With the help of the high-pressure reservoir, the system raises the pressure in the brake connectors and instantaneously moves the pads onto the brake discs, which can then spring into action with full force as soon as the brake pedal is pressed. At highway speeds, this pre-loading of the braking system reduces stopping distance by about three percent.

In addition, the system automatically senses when the road is wet and imperceptibly applies the brakes just enough to keep the discs dry, so that brake operation remains fast and consistent in the rain.

From Coupe to Roadster in 16 Seconds

At the push of a button, the new SL500's retractable hardtop can be fully opened or closed in just 16 seconds. (As a comparison, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class' retracting roof takes about 25 seconds.)

As the power roof retracts, the rear window glass also rotates so that its curvature nestles inside the stowed roof panel, providing a surprisingly large cargo area of 6.8 cubic feet. With the top up, the trunk holds 9.7 cubic feet - over 1.8 more than its predecessor.

A hydraulic pump and 11 computer-controlled hydraulic cylinders power the system, and top operation is controlled by a distinctive switch on the center console. When the top is stowed, pressing a red button located inside the trunk raises the folded roof about 20 degrees, making cargo access easier.

Leaner, Cleaner, Stronger and Sleeker

A five-liter V8 engine -- one of the most potent in its class -- produces 302 horsepower, accelerating the new SL500 from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6 seconds. Advanced twin-spark-plug, three-valve-per-cylinder technology also means the new SL500 is a ULEV, or Ultra Low Emission Vehicle.

Sparkling performance is due in part to the SL sports car's sophisticated, lightweight body. The hood, doors, trunk lid and roof are all aluminum, and the front hood alone is 33 pounds lighter than a comparable steel hood.

At the same time, over 30 percent of the body structure is made of high-strength steel, so that the new SL body is 20 percent stiffer than the previous model, even with the top down.

The aerodynamic shape of the SL body contributes its impressive performance and fuel efficiency as well as to a quiet cockpit. The drag coefficient is 0.29 -- greater than nine percent lower than the previous model.

Integrated Safety Includes New Head/Thorax Airbags

The 2003 SL features new head/thorax side airbags in the doors as well as two-stage front airbags that deploy with partial force in less severe collisions and with full force in more serious impacts. The airbags are designed to work in concert with the three-point seatbelts, which are equipped with tensioners that remove belt slack in a collision as well as belt force limiters that help prevent seatbelts injuries in severe impacts.

Mercedes invented the automatic rollbar for the previous SL, and the new car features similar technology -- the bar pops up in 0.3 of a second if it ever senses an impending rollover. In addition, the shoulder belt is anchored directly into the super-strong seatback, ensuring good seatbelt geometry regardless of seat position and providing an extra measure of protection in the event of a rollover.

Stylish Design Mixes Traditional with Contemporary

The best-known Mercedes ever marks an entirely new era with the 2003 model. Its designers have discreetly captured the spirit of the legendary 1954 car in a contemporary sculpture that evokes the passion and pleasure of driving. As a result, the new SL is both an aesthetic and technological showcase.

With its overall design and integrated safety systems, the new SL is likely to set the standard for an entire new generation of sports cars. From active safety systems such as electronic brakes, ABC active suspension and ESP stability control to its high-strength body structure, advanced airbag systems and automatic rollbar, it's clear that the latest SL is the world's safest convertible.

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Responsible for the sales and marketing of all Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles in the U.S., Mercedes-Benz USA is a wholly owned subsidiary of DaimlerChrysler AG. MBUSA is headquartered near New York City in Montvale, New Jersey and employs approximately 1,500 people in 20 locations across the U.S. Through a nationwide network of over 300 retailers, Mercedes-Benz sold 205,612 vehicles in the U.S. during 2000, setting the highest sales volume in its history for the third year in a row.