Mercedes 2019

2019 No. 7 MERCEDES 2019

Pursuit of Perfection P ursuit of Perfection: Roger Federer DUBAI, 28 MARCH 2018 Roger Federer headed to Dubai just weeks after clinching his 20th Grand Slam title. Why? For a film shoot with Mercedes-Benz and an exclusive interview with CIRCLE magazine. There he also drew his perfectly imperfect circle for the cover of this issue and wrote a personal comment for each of his Grand Slam wins – with the same hand that made him a tennis legend. MERCEDES

CIRCLE No. 7 DEAR READERS, Particularly when it comes to human interaction, it’s the qualities Welcome to the new issue of CIRCLE magazine! that make us unique that enable us to establish connections with friends, family members and partners. We all have our very At Mercedes-Benz, every day is about meeting your high demands. own character. After all, it is often these very aspects of our Exemplary of our efforts is the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, personalities that endear us to others. which, with its superior technology and sublime fittings, is rightfully considered one of the world’s foremost luxury cars. Character can also be found in abundance in Mercedes-Benz cars. Or the new Mercedes-Benz EQC. The EQC isn’t just the first And developing this character – guided by your needs and fully electric vehicle by Mercedes-Benz, it is also an important our ideas – to make it ever more unique, ever more unmistakable, milestone for our EQ brand, and indeed for mobility of the future. is a mission we dedicate ourselves to each and every day. To put it another way: »Electric now has a Mercedes«. We thank you for your trust and wish you an enjoyable read! Because living up to the highest expectations is what drives us, we have made it the focus of this issue. The first stop on our quest for perfection is a feature on the phenomenal Roger Federer. Boasting an incredible 20 Grand Slam titles, the Swiss world star is the most successful tennis player in history. For each of

his victories, we have selected a photo showing Federer at the Dr Dieter Zetsche Britta Seeger moment of his respective triumph.

Exclusively for CIRCLE magazine, Federer included a personal, hand-written statement for each image. We also chatted to the sports star at length, gaining some unusually candid glimpses into his life and mindset. Is he the perfect sportsman? »Nobody is perfect forever,« responded Federer. This modesty makes him extremely likeable, of course. But, essentially, he is simply being truthful. DAIMLER AG DAIMLER PHOTOS ANNA MARIA NIELSEN PHOTO COVER

CIRCLE 4 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 5 Editorial 72 IT’S ALL IN THE DETAILS 94 DESTINATIONS How the Travelling around the Mercedes-Maybach 82 122 world with Mercedes-Benz S-Class is setting the Historic icons Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton is in awe of the Mercedes-AMG ONE Circle of Excellence Pursuit of perfection standard for luxury cars 96 PEBBLE BEACH 78 WONDERFULLY Every car-lover ought to IMPERFECT experience at least once Why it’s the little flaws the Concours d’Elegance that make us lovable. at California’s Pebble An essay Beach. We took a look around on your behalf 82 C 111 OR 300 SLR? Rudolf Uhlenhaut 102 HIDDEN TREASURES 12 developed two of the most Crossing Europe Paying homage: Roger Federer’s triumphant career legendary Mercedes-Benz in 48 hours: travelling sports cars. The super to breathtaking latives compared Mercedes-Benz collections Brilliant: Rudolf Uhlenhaut with son by private jet 90 THE MAGIC OF A BRAND A new brand space 106 IRELAND explains the allure of A road trip Mercedes-Benz along Ireland’s spectacular coast VISIT US ONLINE AT: 112 ICE DRIVE circle.mercedes-benz.com The most stylish way to drift around the polar circle: in a very cool Mercedes-AMG

116 MILLE MIGLIA How the Swiss tennis player made sport history Circle members tell us about standout 72 132 moments at the famous Even more elegant: the Mercedes-Maybach gets a new look Emissaries from the future open-road race

12 »I FEEL FREE« 54 ULTIMATE LUXURY 122 SPEED DREAMS An emotional conversa- Welcome to the world of Close-up: tion with the Swiss tennis Mercedes-Maybach! the Mercedes-AMG ONE player Roger Federer about his eventful 56 EXPERIENCING 132 THE NEW FREEDOM tennis career THE SUBLIME EQ Marketing Director Gorden Wagener, chief Jörg Heinermann on the 20 STRIVING FOR design officer at first all-electric car from PERFECTION Daimler AG, on the future The EQC marks a new era. Mercedes-Benz and the Federer comments for of the Mercedes-Maybach revolutionary concept CIRCLE on his greatest luxury brand behind the new EQ brand Grand Slam moments – in the international star’s 64 EXQUISITE 116 04 EDITORIAL

own handwritten notes CRAFTSMANSHIP (2), AG RICHTER/DAIMLER MAKS AG, DAIMLER The Mille Miglia: 08 CONTRIBUTORS How is a Italy at its finest 10 IMPRINT PHOTOS Mercedes-Maybach made? The new models at the Center of Excellence in Sindelfingen, Germany GETTY IMAGES REGINA RECHT, GLYNN-SMITH, JONATHAN Pure passion: Mille Miglia fans 138 TOUCHPOINTS

CIRCLE 6 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 7 Contents THE CONTRIBUTORS TO THIS ISSUE Our reporters and photographers have been on the road in Germany, the U.K., Italy and Dubai for CIRCLE

1 2 4 5 An intense day: for the commercial, Roger Federer has been hooked up to motion capture tech- 3 nology, which precisely records his every move. Later on, he puts pen to paper exclusively for CIRCLE and Sindelfingen, Brackley, Italy, – unusually candidly – Munich and Dubai answers the questions posed by our reporter Alexandros Stefanidis (bottom right).

1 REGINA RECHT 3 MAKS RICHTER 4 TOBIAS HABERL The Munich photographer The versatile photographer The editor of Süddeutsche spent a whole day revelling has become a familiar Zeitung Magazin describes in luxury: taking photos at face at our Circle events, the flip side to perfection the Mercedes-Benz Center of where he captures all in an emotional essay, Excellence in Sindelfingen, the special moments. for once true perfection Germany in the morning, Richter, a native of Stuttgart, has been achieved, there visiting the Maybach manu Germany, specialises in is no need for further factory just a few hundred striking car photography development. And according metres away in the afternoon. and haunting portraits. to the award-winning Her thoughts in a nutshell? His work this year included journalist, people are only »Really photogenic locations photographing the really unique due to their with really great people.« classic Mille Miglia. minor imperfections.

2 LEWIS HAMILTON 5 ROGER FEDERER The editorial team of CIRCLE feels honoured to have The Swiss tennis ace is universally regarded as being polite – and worked with Lewis Hamilton. not even his rivals begrudge him his triumphs. But is it all just The Formula 1 champion and driver paid homage to a facade? Our author Alexandros Stefanidis met the global star in a vehicle that allowed Dubai to see for himself what a nice, friendly person he really is. Mercedes-AMG to set new technological standards and While at a shoot for a Mercedes-Benz advert, Federer donated Hamilton himself to drive several hours of his time to comment on great moments throughout

an almost identical replica GLYNN-SMITH (3), JONATHAN (2), ANNA MARIA NIELSEN GINA BOLLE, PRIVATE his career and to draw a, well, perfect circle for the cover page – of his Formula 1 engine

on the road. PHOTOS exclusively for the readers of CIRCLE.

CIRCLE 8 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 9 Contributors Pursuit of Perfection

IMPRINT PRODUCTION INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLES*: Laudert GmbH + Co. KG, Mercedes-Maybach S 560 4Matic: fuel PUBLISHER Magellanstraße 1, 70771 consumption (urban/extra-urban/com- Daimler AG, Mercedesstraße 137, Leinfelden-Echterdingen, Germany bined): 15.0–14.6/7.6–7.6/10.4–10.3 l/ 1 DRUCK 100 km ; CO2 emissions combined: 237– 70327 Stuttgart, Germany 1 Optimal Media GmbH, Glienholz- 234 g/km . Mercedes-Maybach S 650: ADDRESS fuel consumption (urban/extra-urban/ weg 7, 17207 Röbel/Müritz, Germany Daimler AG, HPC 0930, combined): 20.3–20.3/10.4–10.4/ 1 70546 Stuttgart, Germany COPYRIGHT 14.0–14.0 l/100 km ; CO2 emissions com- RESPONSIBLE ON BEHALF Copyright on all articles vests in bined: 320–320 g/km1. OF THE PUBLISHER CIRCLE c/o Daimler AG. Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Pullman: Raimund Dornburg, All rights reserved. fuel consumption (urban/extra-urban/ Silke von Homeyer The magazine and all articles and combined): 21.3/10.5/14.6 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 330 g/km. www.circle.mercedes-benz.com pictures contained within it are Mercedes-AMG G 63: fuel consumption CONCEPT AND REALISTION protected by copyright. Export and (urban/extra-urban/combined): Olando GmbH, Prannerstraße 11, distribution of CIRCLE abroad are 16.5/11.1/13.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions To be awarded for excellence, you don’t necessarily 80333 München, Germany permitted only with prior authorisati- combined: 299 g/km. on. We assume no liability for textual Mercedes-AMG GT-Family: fuel consump- MANAGING DIRECTORS or photo-graphic material submitted tion (urban/extra-urban/combined): need to have more than 428 years of experience. 1 Dr. Robin Houcken, to us on an unsolicited basis. 15.6–11.71/1.0–7.7/12.5–9.1 l/100 km ; Dr. Dominik Wichmann Note: Despite careful scrutiny in CO2 emissions combined: the selection of our sources, 284–209 g/km1. Mercedes-AMG C 63: fuel consumption HEAD OF CONTENT (PRINT) we can assume no liability for the But it is quite useful. accuracy of our content. (urban/extra-urban/combined): 1 Rüdiger Barth (V. i. S. d. P.) 13.5–13.5/7.8–7.8/9.9–9.9 l/100 km ; CO2 EDITORS IN-CHIEF Art.-Nr. 1731 2169 02 emissions combined: Hendrik Lakeberg, Printed on chlorine-free bleached paper 227–227 g/km1. Printed in Germany Alexandros Stefanidis Mercedes-AMG C 63 S: fuel consumption ART DIRECTOR ADVERTISING (urban/extra-urban/combined): A business with rich traditions needs to keep creating new ones: 13.5–13.5/7.8–7.8/9.9–9.9 l/100 km1; CO Johannes Erler [email protected] 2 emissions combined: 227–227 g/km1. MANAGING EDITORS Tel. +49 40 3280-345 Best Asset Manager 2010-2018 Mercedes-AMG E 63 4Matic: fuel Stefan Vitti, Sally Johnson LIFESTYLE consumption (urban/extra-urban/ Report: “The Elite of Asset Managers” (Handelsblatt) [email protected] combined): 14.5–14.5/8.6–8.6/10.8–10.8 EDITORIAL TEAM [email protected] l/100 km1; CO emissions combined: 245– All informations about the entire program 2 Tel. +49 89 545907-29 1 Best Private Bank in Germany 2011-2017 of Mercedes-Benz Circle of Excellence: Martin Breuninger, Ina Brzoska, 245 g/km . www.circle.mercedes-benz.de Jochen Fischer, Dr. Thomas Giesefeld, INTERNATIONAL SALES Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4Matic: fuel Global Private Banking Awards (Financial Times Group) Tobias Haberl, Jörg Heuer, Dawn Parisi [email protected] consumption (urban/extra-urban/ Tel. +49 211 887-2347 combined): 14.5–14.5/8.6–8.6/10.8–10.8 1 Best Investment Bank in Germany 2018 FINANCES l/100 km ; CO2 emissions combined: 245– GRAPHIC DESIGNERS 245 g/km1. Karsten Henning, [email protected] Euromoney Awards for Excellence Tel. +49 211 887-2325 Jason-Jeremy K. Schmid SALES OFFICES FINAL GRAPHIC DESIGN We are proud of our 428 year history and continue unabated. Berlin/Hamburg, Germany Dominik Leiner *The values specified were determined on [email protected] Owing to our clients and our conviction. PHOTOGRAPHY EDITORS the basis of the testing procedures stipula- Tel. +49 40 30183-102 ted. They are “measured NEDC CO Anna Simdon, Isabella Hager 2 Düsseldorf, Germany values” as defined in Art. 2 No. 1 and 2 of FINAL COPY EDITING [email protected] Commission Implementing Regulation www.berenberg.de wordinc GmbH, Eiffestraße 426, Tel. +49 211 887-255 (EU) 2017/1153. The information provided 20537 Hamburg, Germany Frankfurt, Germany does not relate to one individual vehicle [email protected] and does not form part of our offer, but is ADDRESS MANAGEMENT Tel. +49 69 2424-4510 intended to facilitate comparison between different vehicle types. Star Distribution GmbH, München/Stuttgart, Germany 1 Otto-Lilienthal-Straße 5, [email protected] These values may vary depending on the 71034 Böblingen, Germany Tel. +49 89 545907-29 wheels/tyres. WEALTH MANAGEMENT · ASSET MANAGEMENT · INVESTMENT BANKING · CORPORATE BANKING

CIRCLE 10 Imprint

gürtlerbachmann Berenberg Motiv: Auszeichnungen Mercedes Circle (Englisch) Format: 215 X 270 mm + 5 mm STRIVING FOR PERFECTION In 2018, Roger Federer won his 20th Grand Slam title. A unique achievement in the annals of tennis. This issue of CIRCLE magazine dedicates an entire dossier to the international star Roger Federer. It includes an exclusive, unusually personal interview with the exceptional sportsman, as well as Federer’s own comments on the greatest moments of his career

Handwritten by Unwavering and resolute: Roger Federer in Dubai in the spring of 2018, on a film shoot for Mercedes-Benz

CIRCLE 12 Roger Federer 1

»I FEEL FREE« I was just a normal boy, recounts Federer in this interview with CIRCLE magazine. There is one distinctive difference though: even as a young boy, he always dreamt of winning Wimbledon. A feat the 37-year-old has since achieved eight times, turning the young boy from back then into a living legend who, fans say, has perfected the game

CIRCLE: Mr Federer, is it possible to stant process of learning – as a ten- 1 uuHmm. I see what you’re getting draw a perfect circle by hand? nis player, husband, father and A portrait of Roger Federer at. I’ve certainly had a couple of in 1998. The determined ROGER FEDERER: No, only a com- person. I’m not qualified to speak look already back then perfect shots, and some wins have puter can do that. with you about perfection because gave a glimpse of the felt perfect. But back to your ques- eeWhen we requested this inter- I haven’t yet reached it myself. successes to come. tion: It is possible to draw a perfect view, we told you we wanted to talk eeYou’re just being modest. You’re circle by hand? Am I really a per- to you about perfection. But you the best tennis player in the world, fect tennis player? Obviously not. said: »Let’s talk about the pursuit of a living legend. eeSo nobody’s perfect? perfection instead.« Why? uuNo, I’m being completely uuWell, lots of people achieve a uuIs perfection actually attainable? serious. certain degree of perfection in eeThat’s what we’re asking you! eeSo you don’t believe that a whatever it is they’re good at. uuI think we all continually strive person can ever truly perfect a eeOkay. So perfection isn’t a per- to be perfect. But let’s be honest, craft, draw a perfect circle, even if manent state but rather something nobody is perfect forever. that person strives for more than that can be achieved occasionally. eeNot even you? 30 years to do so, trains tirelessly, Is that how you would define it? uuNot even me. Even I am in a con- puts his lifeblood into it? uuYes, exactly.

CIRCLE 14 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 15 Roger Federer 1 2 3

eeA dream that many girls and against your grandparents’ garage you almost wish you were the other »We played shown on the jumbotron. I looked boys have. door? Or your parents’ wooden kid, that you’d been there yourself. up and couldn’t believe what I was uuRight, but never in my wildest cupboards? How important was winning to you into the seeing. Instead of showing our best dreams did I think I would win uuOf course! back then? night! We rallies, they were showing a compi- Wimbledon eight times, take home eeWho did you annoy more? Your uuOh, losing always made me re- could hardly lation of our worst outbursts. They 20 Grand Slam titles or be the best parents or your grandparents? ally angry! were showing clips of Marat and in the world. uuDefinitely my parents, even eeWould you shout down the entire see the ball. myself throwing our rackets to the eeThat would have been a bit though I did more damage to my neighbourhood? The street ground, yelling in fits of rage or overconfident. grandparents’ garage door. There uuSometimes, yes. lamps didn’t desperation, destroying our rack- uuDo you know that feeling of wak- was this transparent plastic win- eeDuring your early tour years, you ets. When I saw that, I thought to ing up in the morning and think- dow up high that was quite easy to were known to have the occasional give off much myself on the court, »Man, that’s ing, »Wow, that was a great dream! break. But my grandparents never temper tantrum if things weren’t light and our really ugly. I don’t want people to I saw myself winning, achieving complained. They were just happy going your way. You would yell, toss mums would see me like that!« what I had wanted for so long ...« to have me there with them. My your racket on the ground, criticise eeWas that a key moment in your eeYes, and then you try to fall back parents, on the other hand, were every rally. be calling career? to sleep as soon as possible, before constantly worried about the noise uuYeah, I would get angry be- for us ...« uuYes, absolutely. Although, at reality catches up with you, so that the tennis ball made when it hit cause, back then, I still thought the beginning of my career I you can continue dreaming ... the doors or cupboards. They didn’t that perfection was obtainable, and did think, »Hey, McEnroe did it, uu... exactly, but it never works! want to upset the neighbours. We I wanted to be perfect at all costs! Ivaniševi´c did it, others have done ee [laughs] Would you say that, lived in a flat at the time and they I hadn’t yet realised that the only it.« I thought it was cool, in a way. today, your dreams are trying to would yell, »Roger, play with a thing I could ever do was strive for I even told myself that it would catch up with reality? softer ball, not that hard felt one!« I perfection. So I would quickly be- help me to let off some steam in- uuYes, I’ve surpassed my own remember it like it was yesterday. come frustrated and doubt myself. stead of letting it eat away at me. dreams. Doesn’t that sound crazy? eeWhat else comes to mind when Why can’t I hit three decent back- But on that day it became clear to eeWell, some might say it sounds you think back to this formative hand volleys in a row? Why can’t me that it doesn’t really help, that »perfect«. period in your life? I make this simple volley over the it actually does more harm than uuTouché! You’re right, it feels uuI played a lot of tennis in the net? Why am I playing so damn good. This realisation during the really good. But in a way, it also street. poorly? I was constantly criticising match against Marat was just the feels strange. Sometimes I ask my- eeIn the street? my performance and was caught end of a long process, though. I self, »Why me? Why was it me who uuYes! But we’re talking about up in a lot of negativity. A bad was 22 years old at the time and eeLooking back, can you think of a tional season of my life. Especially 1 achieved all of this? Why am I the Switzerland here: everything is a match would utterly devastate me; it had taken me at least two years particular moment that felt perfect? considering I had my wife and kids Roger Federer’s parents one who won 20 Grand Slams?« bit calmer there. And we lived in I would just sit in the locker room to make any real improvements to u have always been a e uMy comeback in 2017. I don’t with me on the road. pillar of support. eAnd how do you answer these a very quiet neighbourhood. We and cry afterwards. my attitude. Now I know that this think I could have pulled it off eeThinking about it still seems to questions? used to draw tennis courts on the eeWhat would go through your emotional roller coaster can really any better. Returning to the sport make you sentimental. 2 uuIt’s hard to explain. I don’t have street in chalk. My parents even mind in the locker room at times take a person down. If you let it at age 35, 36 after back surgery, uuYes, I’m incredibly thankful for Even as a small boy, Roger any big secret. I don’t have any bought me a net that was around like these? get to you, you’ll never survive 10, Federer had big goals. without any warm-up matches, this time. I feel free. It’s simply tricks up my sleeve that have al- six metres wide. We would set it up uuYou leave the court and think, 15 years on tour. and then winning the Australian wonderful. 3 lowed me to win Wimbledon eight in the middle of the road. »Man, you need to get a better at- eeWhat was your biggest revelation Open and Wimbledon – that was a eeTwenty Grand Slam titles. An Federer had a tendency times. The only thing that comes eeYou shut down the road to play titude or there’s no hope for you! during this process? wonderful, perfect comeback for me. impressive number. It must be hard for tantrums during to mind is that I come from a very tennis? You’re too emotional!« After a bad uuEverybody makes mistakes in e his early years on tour u eNobody was expecting you to to find the words for something that (in Halle in 2003). down-to-earth family. I have won- uYeah. If a car came, we would match, I would sit in the locker a match, and you have to accept win. Everyone thought your time nobody has ever achieved before. derful parents and grandparents quickly move the net to the side room and swear to myself that the fact that you might fail. But had passed. What comes to mind when you who have always supported me. It to let it pass. Those were the days! I would change. But a few days failing is a complicated matter uuBetween you and me: if you had think of this number? may sound a bit boring, but I feel We played into the night. We could later, it would start over again. I when you’re a young, aspiring told me in 2016 that I would win uu»Wow!« or »Unbelievable!« »Be- like a very normal person. hardly see the ball. The street would swear on the court, get frus- player caught in the belief that two Grand Slam tournaments in yond expectations.« eeMaybe that’s your secret? lamps didn’t give off much light trated and throw my racket on the the only way is up. I had to make 2017, I would have thought you eeEven your own? uu[ponders briefly] Yeah, it could and our mums would be calling ground, fail. And I would do this it clear to myself that, if I had any were nuts. uuYes, by far! I was just a nor- be. The one thing I know for sure for us. over and over. hope of achieving what I wanted eeYou had hit the bottom. mal boy who grew up in a normal is that my background keeps me eeYou can see the joy in your eyes. eeAnd then there was the infamous to achieve, what my heroes have uuI had no expectations, I just neighbourhood, who cycled to rooted, gives me humility. Some- uuTo be perfectly honest, these are match against Marat Safin in 2004 achieved, then I had to accept that wanted to stay healthy. But what school in the morning and dreamt times, when I doubt myself, it some of my fondest memories. in Rome. I wasn’t perfect. happened next? I had some of the of some day becoming a pro ten- gives me the confidence boost I eeIt’s not always easy to imagine uuWe were playing on Centre eeYou mentioned McEnroe and best matches of my career, and nis player. I used to joke with my need to win. what a world superstar was like as Court and it was one set all. The Ivaniševi´c. Who are your other without a doubt the most emo- friends about winning Wimbledon. eeDo you remember playing tennis a kid. But listening to you speak, highlights of the match were being heroes?

CIRCLE 16 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 17 Roger Federer 1 2 3

didn’t change me. But I was happy in a long time. More than 20 years particularly for my game. I strongly »I could stay whenever we get together. At one when I was simply a boyfriend, of professional sport will do that to believe that training camps are of point, he looked at me and, in an and now I’m happy to be a hus- you. But at the same time, I some- critical importance for every tennis true to my- earnest tone, asked, »How is it pos- band. Becoming a father is a huge times feel that my body is younger pro. And I always look for the best self. If you sible that you’re still playing? How responsibility that sticks with you than I am. sparring partners to train with in were to ask can you still enjoy all the travelling every day. If I look at my watch and eeWhy do you say that? order to optimise my game as well even after all this time?« see that it’s coming up to 6 p.m., uuI’m not on crutches yet! No, in as I can. As a tennis player, you any of my old eeAre you saying that Pete Sampras the first thing I think is, »OK, all seriousness, I take breaks when have to constantly develop because friends, I’m asked Roger Federer what his it’s time for my kids to eat.« As a I need them, but I also put a lot of everything changes: your body sure they secret is? parent, you live according to two time into taking care of my body. I changes, your mind changes, your uuYes, isn’t that funny? I an- clocks: yours and your children’s. stretch, get massages. experience changes. I’ve had to would say the swered, »Well, the truth is, I don’t But still, being a father is a won- eeHans-Wilhelm Müller-Wohlfahrt, adjust to a new wave of young, tal- same thing« really know, Pete. I just like to derful experience. I have four kids, the former German national football ented players many times through- travel.« He just shook his head. so for me it’s four times as fun! team doctor and one of the highest- out my career. I’m thankful that I Why? Because his experience was They’re always with me, and it just profile sports doctors in the world, got to experience the sport in the different. The constant travelling doesn’t get any better than that. coined the phrase ›to listen to your ’90s, when serve-and-volley was was quite hard on him, as it is on eeYou celebrated your 37th birth- body‹. He claims to be able to listen popular and the surfaces made the many players. Many are happier at day this year. The question of when to the knuckles, muscles and even balls fly faster. I learned a lot back home. it’s time to stop has probably been single fibres. Have you mastered the then that I can apply to my current eeYou are currently in a very posed to you many times. But we’d art of listening to your body? game. special phase of your career. In like to pose it in a slightly different uuThis may surprise you, but yes, eeAdapting successfully to new the first phase, your focus was on way: What would it actually take absolutely! I would even go as far things requires a great deal of ef- winning and getting better. In the for you to stop? as to say that it’s one of my strong- fort. Where do you get the strength second phase, you were under con- uuFirst and foremost, it would be est skills. to face these changes? stant pressure: everyone expected for my family. If my wife didn’t eeCan you tell us a little more uuIf I arrive somewhere and lots you to win. Now, in the third phase, like being on tour any more, for in- about that? of people are there waiting for me, every additional day you get to play stance. But she used to be a tennis uuIt’s the ability to understand I want to give something back to seems like a bonus. Is that how you pro as well, so she knows what it’s pain. How dangerous is a certain them. And not just 93 or 94 per see it? like. Another reason for stopping kind of pain? Is it a type of pain cent. It has to be 100 per cent. So uuIt may sound a bit cliché, but would be if I were to start losing I can continue playing with? Is it I chat with them, sign autographs, that’s exactly right. Of course I uuStefan Edberg, Pete Sampras I’m very proud of. 1 match after match. just temporary pain that will go take selfies, joke with the press, always do my best. Of course I’m e Roger Federer always e and Boris Becker. eWhat would that be? takes his wife and four eAnd barring these two things, away in a few days? Or will the patiently fulfil my sponsoring ob- sad when I lose. But I also know eeBecker? uuI haven’t changed very much children with him to you’ll continue to play? pain stay, become more intense ligations – all of these things are that I can leave the court at any uuYes. Boris was definitely more throughout my career. I haven’t let tournaments. Their pres- uuFrom the outside looking in, yes. even? Those are crucial questions part of playing in a tournament. time with my head held high. As emotional than players like the success get to my head. ence turned an already Of course I ask myself every now that will determine a professional And you know what? I love it! I en- a young lad, I sometimes left the e extraordinary 2017 into Sampras and Edberg, but he was eReally? I’m not sure I believe the most emotional and again, »Is it all still worth it? tennis player’s career. If you aren’t joy the chaos, but I also need time court feeling that I hadn’t given it nevertheless a true gentleman on that entirely. With all the hype season of his career. Am I happy? Is my wife happy? Are able to understand pain, you run away from it to spend with my my all. That was frustrating. Now the court. And I wanted to be a gen- surrounding you, there must have my kids? Do we want to continue to the risk of not only seriously injur- friends and family. When you’re I know that, when I lose, it might tleman, not some rowdy hooligan. been a point when you had to carry 2 raise our family on the road? Am I ing yourself but also cutting your no longer the centre of attention, have just not been my best day Federer and his wife, eeAre you happy with the way you yourself differently. Mirka Vavrinec, at Pippa in shape?« career short. all of the pressure simply washes or my opponent might have just are perceived by the public today? uuTo be honest, no. I’ve adapted to Middleton’s wedding eeAre you? eeSo someone might think they’re away. I think that’s one of the rea- played better and the match was uuA lot of people think that I’m many things – to new situations, uuI’d say so, wouldn’t you? injured even though they’re fine? sons why I’m still on tour: I’m good a close call. I’m grateful for every the best in everything I do. I don’t to fame, money, social media, dif- 3 eeA British TV reporter once said, uuExactly. I’ve finished many at flipping this switch. single match I get to play. And I’m Federer chats to know where that comes from. Peo- ferent kinds of phones, lack of former top tennis »Someone must oil Roger Federer’s matches with injuries because I eeDoes it ever surprise you that grateful that I fought so hard and ple often expect that of me, but it’s privacy – but I’ve never let myself star Pete Sampras. skeleton every night, because he felt or knew that I could see them you’ve managed to cope with all of made a career for myself that I can just not the way things are. change. I think I’ve done a good job moves across the stage without through and be OK. I understand this better than most of your rivals look back on with joy. eeWhat do you take from that? of getting used to these fundamen- mechanical effort.« pain, and I understand my body. on the court? eeYou appear to be satisfied with uuI’ve learned two fundamental tal changes in my life while stay- uu[laughs] Someone who oils my And by the way, never in my career uuAm I really better than the oth- every other aspect of your life. You things in my career. The first thing ing true to myself. If you were to skeleton? That’d be nice! The sad have I stopped a match because of ers? I’m not so sure. I recently met seem composed, relaxed. is that you can’t please everybody. ask any of my old friends, I’m sure truth is that I feel pain every morn- an injury. with Pete [Sampras]. He’s one of uuYes, life is currently treating me If you try, you’ll be unhappy. they would say the same thing. ing. I’ll definitely feel it in every eeYou said that you’ve adapted to the few people in the world who very kindly. [laughs loudly] I’m at eeAnd the second? eeAnd what about becoming a muscle tomorrow after working out many things on and off the court. really know what it’s like to be a an age where all of my old friends uuYou have to go your own way father? today. I just came back from holi- Does that go for your game as well? professional tennis player. Pete and are getting married and having and be yourself. There’s one thing uuObviously, I wouldn’t say that it day and haven’t properly exercised uuMore than that, I’d say it goes I always talk about different things kids. It’s a wonderful, exciting time

CIRCLE 18 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 19 Roger Federer 1 2 4 3

1 and I’m very happy. And make no champion, as the best in the world. A happy champion: mistake about it, I’m enjoying the But to be honest, I think I’ll know Federer’s game seemed success on the court as well. when it’s time. It will be the mo- more liberated than ever eeHow difficult has it been to ment I realise that I can no longer after his comeback. During the 2017 Wimble- maintain these old friendships be the best, that I’m not capable of don final, for example throughout the years? winning any more major tourna- uuIt hasn’t been easy. I’ve basically ments. That will be the moment I 2 been on tour and travelling for more step down. And you know what? It Roger Federer’s interview with CIRCLE in Dubai was than half of my life. But during this will be an easy decision. accompanied by a film time I was able to maintain these eeMr Federer, for all of the tennis shoot for Mercedes-Benz. friendships and make new ones. fans out there who will never have That’s why I’m not afraid to retire. I the pleasure of finding out for them- 3 The Swiss tennis player certainly won’t fall into a rut. There selves, I have one last question: has always had a knack are so many friends I haven’t seen What does the grass smell like at for staying on the ball in a long time who I’d like to spend Wimbledon upon turning a match with elegance and grace. a little more time with. And my kids point into a win? 4 – wow, there are so many things I uu[laughs] Good question. I have The five-time winner want to show them! no idea. What I can tell you is that of the Laureus World eeDo you think there’s such a thing it feels very soft when you fall to Sports Award in Dubai, as the perfect moment to end a your knees after a match point. leaning nonchalantly on a Mercedes-Benz C-Class career like yours? The pressure falls off your shoul- uuNo, I’ve stopped thinking about ders, you’re filled with joy, you it. I think a lot of people would like want to hug the world! I love this to see me retire as a Wimbledon feeling. It’s pretty perfect.

CIRCLE 20 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 21 Roger Federer 20 Roger Federer’s tennis career has peaked multiple times. No other player in tennis history has won 20 Grand Slam titles. In an exclusive interview with CIRCLE magazine the Swiss tennis star recounts his victories, dedicating a personal, handwritten note to each of them. Some full of poise and confidence, some euphoric, some introspective, these notes provide us with a glimpse of the person behind the persona. What makes this bona fide superstar so likeable is the fact that he

Australian OpenFrench OpenWimbledonUS Open sometimes still seems surprised by his own success. Federer still loves his sport dearly. This is palpable early on in our foray into his life, when he recalls winning Wimbledon for the first time and fulfilling his long-held childhood dream

CIRCLE Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 23 Roger Federer Wimbledon / London / 6 July 2003 / Mark Philippoussis / 7–6, 6–2, 7–6 Following a confident three-set win, 21-year-old Federer achieves his first Grand Slam title.

CIRCLE Roger Federer Australian Open / Melbourne / 1 February 2004 / Marat Safin / 7–6, 6–4, 6–2 Wimbledon / London / 4 July 2004 / Andy Roddick / 4–6, 7–5, 7–6, 6–4 Federer wins the Australian Open following another three-set match that clearly exhausted his opponent. Initially falling behind, Federer soon recovers to win his second Wimbledon title. The beginning of a winning streak

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CIRCLE Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 Roger Federer US Open / New York / 12 September 2004 / Lleyton Hewitt / 6–0, 7–6, 6–0 All good things come in threes: Roger Federer wins his first US Open, notching up three Grand Slam titles in one year.

Issue 2019 Roger Federer 5 6 7 8 5 6 Wimbledon / London / US Open / New York / Australian Open / Wimbledon / 7 8 3 July 2005 / 11 September 2005 / Melbourne / London / Andy Roddick / Andre Agassi / 29 January 2006 / 9 July 2006 / 6–2, 7–6, 6–4 6–3, 2–6, 7–6, 6–1 Marcos Baghdatis / 5–7, Rafael Nadal / Federer successfully In 2005, Federer becomes 7–5, 6–0, 6–2 6–0, 7–6, 6–7, 6–3 defends his title against the first-ever player After a wobbly start What initially looks set to Andy Roddick once again – in the Open Era to Federer finds his be an easy win over Nadal but this time without win both Wimbledon flow, winning in four turns into a hard-fought losing a single set. and the US Open. sets. Tears of joy match. But Federer wins through in the end.

The first years of his professional career were trailblazing, with Federer storming to victory in match after match, setting record after record. Reminiscing about the 2005 US Open and his 35 victorious hard-court matches, Federer writes: »I’m pleased to still be a record-holder. It makes things a bit more exciting. It means that, sometimes, I’m not just playing against the other guys, I’m playing against history«

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CIRCLE Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 31 Roger Federer US Open / New York / 10 September 2006 / Andy Roddick / 6–2, 4–6, 7–5, 6–1 Australian Open / Melbourne / 28 January 2007 / Fernando González / 7–6, 6–4, 6–4 On winning his third US Open and competing in his fourth final in 2006 alone, Federer falls to his knees. Federer storms to his 10th Grand Slam victory, having not lost a single set throughout the entire tournament. What a remarkable achievement!

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CIRCLE Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 Roger Federer Wimbledon / London / 8 July 2007 / Rafael Nadal / 7–6, 4–6, 7–6, 2–6, 6–2 11 A fifth win after five sets: Federer equals Björn Borg’s record of five consecutive Wimbledon wins.

CIRCLE Roger Federer US Open / New York / 9 September 2007 / Novak Ðokovi´c / 7–6, 7–6, 6–4 US Open / New York / 8 September 2008 / Andy Murray / 6–2, 7–5, 6–2 After three tight sets, Roger Federer prevails to claim his fourth US Open title. To some, 13 is an unlucky number. Not to Federer. His 13th Grand Slam victory is not set to be his last.

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CIRCLE Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 Roger Federer French Open / Paris / 7 June 2009 / Robin Söderling / 6–1, 7–6, 6–4 At long last! Federer wins the French Open. The French celebrate him with standing ovations.

CIRCLE Roger Federer Wimbledon / London / 5 July 2009 / Andy Roddick / 5–7, 7–6, 7–6, 3–6, 16–14 A truly historic match: after four and a half hours, Federer triumphs over his rival Andy Roddick.

»Tennis can be cruel« is Federer’s somewhat ironic comment on the 2009 Wimbledon final – the most spectacular match of his career so far. The last set alone lasted 95 minutes! 2009, it seems, is Federer’s career zenith. Not only has he won Wimbledon, he has also, at long last, won the French Open after having lost in the final three times previously. His new nickname: »El Maestro«

Issue 2019 Roger Federer Australian Open / Melbourne / 31 January 2010 / Andy Murray / 6–3, 6–4, 7–6 Wimbledon / London / 8 July 2012 / Andy Murray / 4–6, 7–5, 6–3, 6–4 The Brit hardly stood a chance: Roger Federer triumphs over Murray in three sets. Federer clinches Pete Sampras’ record: his seventh Wimbledon victory sees yet another of the American’s records broken.

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CIRCLE Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 Roger Federer Australian Open / Melbourne / 29 January 2017 / Rafael Nadal / 6–4, 3–6, 6–1, 3–6, 6–3 He’s back: after five nail-biting sets, Roger Federer wins his 100th match at the Australian Open.

It is an unbelievable comeback – one nobody could have foreseen. Aged 35 and returning from a long period of injury, Federer seems stronger than ever at the 2017 Australian Open. Writing for CIRCLE about his Melbourne win, he states: »We all say of ourselves that we work hard. I say it too. I don’t want to boast about my achievements. I’d rather thank my team. I never would have thought this victory possible«

CIRCLE Roger Federer Wimbledon / London / 16 July 2017 / Marin Cˇili´c / 6–3, 6–1, 6–4 2017 sees Federer not only chock up a record eight Wimbledon titles, but also become the oldest-ever Wimbledon champion at 35.

CIRCLE Roger Federer Australian Open / Melbourne / 28 January 2018 / Marin Cˇili´c / 6–2, 6–7, 6–3, 3–6, 6–1 Federer claims his 20th Grand Slam title. Unbelievable!

CIRCLE Roger Federer Epilogue

No matter where you are, Roger Federer received the adulation you will always be at the centre of the action. Welcome on board a cruise ship fleet without compare – of the tennis world after his Australian with small, individual ships and a high degree of personal freedom. Find out more about our luxury and expedition cruises at Open victory. The sheer agility and www.the-world-ahead-of-us.com joy he brought to the game in 2018 make clear: Roger Federer will continue to make tennis history. Both on the court and in the hearts of the fans

THE WORLD AHEAD OF US ANNA MARIA NIELSEN (4), HARCOURT (4), PRIVATE, GETTY IMAGES (21), REUTERS REUTERS GETTY (21), IMAGES (4), PRIVATE, (4), HARCOURT ANNA MARIA NIELSEN PHOTOS

CIRCLE 50 Mercedes-Benz Dreams sound good. Especially when they come true.

The Hommage Minute Repeater with its acoustic time signal is the most exclusive and demanding watch that Tutima has ever built.

Hommage Minute Repeater In rose gold or platinum.

TUTIMA UHRENFABRIK GMBH NDL. GLASHÜTTE 01768 Glashütte/Sa. · Deutschland · Tel. +49 35053 320 20 · [email protected] · www.tutima.com ULTIMATE LUXURY Mercedes-Maybach redefines luxury for our times, combining utmost elegance, ultimate comfort, sophisticated details and an air of grandeur. Welcome to the world of Maybach REGINA RECHT PHOTO

CIRCLE 54 Mercedes-Maybach Design DESIGNING GRANDEUR Defining luxury in this digital age: Gorden Wagener, chief design officer at Daimler AG, sees Mercedes-Maybach as a wonderful challenge. As the new Vision Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury concept car proves, the brand has never been more vibrant

Interview: Hendrik Lakeberg, photos: Daimler AG

Inspiring aesthetics: eeMr Wagener, the philosophy of sensual purity asserts that the various eeMercedes-Maybach stands for absolute luxury. How are people’s a sculpture that Mercedes-Benz brands are all positioned on a spectrum between ›hot‹ perceptions and demands changing in that respect? embodies the spirit of Mercedes-Maybach and ›cool‹. Where would you put Mercedes-Maybach on that spectrum? uu Luxury evolves over time. That is why we like to keep abreast of uu If I lined up all the Mercedes-Benz brands by their position on changes in the notion of luxury around the world – one trend that we the spectrum, Mercedes-AMG would doubtless be at the ›very hot‹ are currently observing is the dematerialisation of luxury. And indeed, end, with Mercedes-Maybach right next to it with Mercedes-Maybach the core of our work is less about material value than creating authen- would be right next to it. We see Mercedes-Maybach as the definition tic, emotional experiences and supreme aesthetics. Which is precisely of ultimate luxury. The brand’s distinctive style combines opulent what the Mercedes-Maybach brand offers. beauty, striking aesthetics and grace: it presents the exceptional to eeYou recently presented a sculpture for Mercedes-Maybach, e create sublimity. explaining that the piece symbolised the future direction of the eeWhat do you personally find so fascinating about Mercedes-Maybach? brand’s design language. Can you explain how it does this? uuAt Maybach, we designers have more free rein: Mercedes-Maybach uu We’ve created individual sculptures as a way of illustrating the is about precision and an eye for detail, offering a prestigious design diverse aesthetic approach of each brand. For the team, this task was that can be customised in various ways. This is achieved through all about our sources of inspiration. We based our ideas on the hu- a considered combination of familiar elements, renowned for their man body and the beauty of organic forms – two areas that always quality, with new features as well as an exclusive design. serve to inspire us and which invariably find their way into our car

CIRCLE 56 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 57 Mercedes-Maybach Design » Aesthetics and The focus of our work is on designing and creating elegance: the Vision authentic, emotional experiences and supreme aesthetics. Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury This is precisely what the Mercedes-Maybach brand offers« atthe Valencia Opera House, designed by Gorden Wagener Santiago Calatrava

CIRCLE 58 Mercedes-Maybach Design In keeping with the maxim, ›the best made from the best‹, our show cars combine Mercedes-Benz perfection with Maybach exclusivity.

Gorden Wagener

Dream-like luxury: the interior of the Vision Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury

Issue 2019 61 Mercedes-Maybach Design OUR CHIEF DESIGN OFFICER It was under the leadership of Gorden Wagener that the new Mercedes-Benz design philosophy, known as »sensual purity«, was developed in 2009. This philosophy positions Mercedes-Benz car brands along a spectrum from hot to cool – and in doing so, encapsulates a key characteristic of the Mercedes-Benz brand, namely its existence between the two poles of emotion and intelligence. Wagener joined Mercedes-Benz in 1997 and has headed Daimler AG’s Global Design unit since 2008. In 2016, he was appointed chief design officer.

designs. At Mercedes-Maybach, we have given ultimate luxury perfection with Maybach exclusivity to stay true to the maxim a highly modern form. When I look at our Mercedes-Maybach ›The best made from the best‹. They also point to some specific sculpture, I am instantly struck by the elegance and grandeur that trends. The radiator grille, for example, is a standard feature today. she exudes. eeYou have designed a living space intended to offer a glimpse eeWhich of these qualities are apparent in the new Vision into the future of the Maybach brand. Can you imagine Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury concept car ? Mercedes-Maybach branching out beyond the automobile into the uu The Vision Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury is the result of realm of home design? mixing all the Maybach ingredients. Its exterior features smooth, uu As with the sculptures, our furniture designs prove that we are extravagant surfaces, perfect saloon proportions and harmonious able to transpose each brand into areas outside the world of the car. dimensions: a true Maybach. Inside, every aspect exudes maximum Our unique, highly sophisticated furniture pieces have been creat- refinement: rose gold and leather, back-lit carved wooden panels. ed to meet the highest demands in terms of design, material and Here, you can experience true exclusivity as you travel. The user craftsmanship, and as such they set new standards in the luxury experience is all you would expect from a dream luxury car. furniture segment. Since 2010, we have been expanding our reper- eeWhich of the concept car’s details do you consider especially impor- toire to include not only classic automobile designs, but also designs tant? And which are your personal favourites? for other products. We create these in collaboration with selected uu Customers at the trade fair were fascinated by the car, and I partners under the Mercedes-Benz Style label. Our objective here is heard many of them say that they felt it was like a convergence of to transfer our exceedingly high standards for luxury and aesthetics all things Maybach. This fascination is precisely what they value in into other areas of life. their own Mercedes-Maybach – the sense of confirmation that they eeHow do you combine the fast-paced digital world with the timeless feel whenever they are stopped by an admirer. Maybach is a highly luxury of the Mercedes-Maybach brand? What challenges does align- coveted luxury brand. ing these two poles pose? eeThe predecessors to the Ultimate Luxury concept car were uu It is a huge challenge. Clearly, we don’t want the Mercedes-Maybach the spectacular Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 concept cars, from brand to wallow in the past, as the UX design in our Vision coupé to SUV. Those concept cars look so good, it really makes Mercedes-Maybach Ultimate Luxury makes apparent. On its hyper- one wish the Mercedes-Maybach brand would expand its range of analogue instrument panel, for instance, needles glide across round vehicles. To what extent is there a common design thread running screens featuring a crystal look: it’s a perfect fusion of the digital and through them, and what developments do these cars indicate for analogue worlds. Mercedes-Maybach? eeYou once said: »Design not only expresses the soul of a brand, it uu Not only do the concept cars epitomise our design language, but also reflects our inspirations and the feedback we receive from our Opulent: the interior features rose gold, also the brand’s traditional values. All three compellingly continue customers.« What is the soul of Mercedes-Maybach? leather and back-lit Mercedes-Maybach’s successful history, combining Mercedes-Benz uu Maybach is solely about perfection, exclusivity and individuality. carved wooden panels.

CIRCLE 62 Mercedes-Maybach Design ALEXANDER HAID, A qualified vehicle interior trim engineer, Alexander Haid works as a laminator at the Mercedes-Maybach LAMINATOR works. The 55-year-old is currently working on the interior panelling of a Mercedes-Maybach. He carefully puts the stitched covering onto its base. His tools? A keen eye for detail, his two hands, a laminating iron, a small panelling tool – and a wealth of experience.

CRAFTSMANSHIP At the Mercedes-Maybach works in Sindelfingen, workers painstakingly tailor cars to meet customers’ individual wants and needs. A visit to the people that make the brand so unique

CIRCLE 64 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 65 Mercedes-Maybach Works UTE HOCKER, TAILOR

As a qualified leather tailor for Mercedes-Maybach, Ute Hocker over 20 years. Like her colleagues, the 50-year-old is accustomed works on 32 different sewing machines manufactured by various to delivering nothing but flawless accuracy. With her many years of companies: Adler, Dürkopp, MType and Pfaff. All of these precision experience and perfect craftsmanship, she ensures that the owners of machines were made in Germany, and some have been in use for Mercedes-Maybach cars are entirely ensconced in tailor-made quality.

Sven Kovac is a qualified master tradesman specialising in interior outfitting. He is currently deputy fore- man at the Sindelfingen works. The 37-year-old carefully upholsters the two-tone (silk beige and espresso SVEN KOVAC, brown) leather steering wheel for a Mercedes-Maybach saloon, which will later be delivered to Australia. INTERIOR TRIM ENGINEER

CIRCLE 66 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 67 Mercedes-Maybach Works ROXANNA QUIRAM, CUTTER

Roxanna Quiram is a qualified master tradeswoman specialising in will be covering, which is to say she processes the selected cowhides, vehicle interior outfitting. Her job in the cutting unit entails a number primarily making them thinner and smoother to render them better of special tasks, and the 27-year-old has worked in this role for more to work with. Where does the leather come from? Mostly from young than four years. She prepares the leather for the specific base that it bullocks from the region, in the south of Germany.

CIRCLE 68 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 69 Mercedes-Maybach Works ANDREAS DOELLE, TEAM LEADER

Andreas Doelle has led the team at the Mercedes-Maybach works in Sindelfingen for almost eight years.» Some of our customers don’t want any plastic whatsoever in their car’s interior; others don’t want any leather or wood; others still are only interested in the very finest of the finest materials. And of course, we always try to fulfil our customers’ wishes, be they related to colour, leather or stitching. We can also embroider company logos or coats of arms for royal houses and incorporate these into the car’s interior. Every single day brings us new challenges to master.« As an optional extra that matches the interior, this hand- made suitcase also packs every bit of exclusivity.

Text: Jörg Heuer, photos: Regina Recht

Spacious rooms redolent of leather, with an array of muted sounds facturers offer. In 2017 alone, over 70,000 square metres of cowhide filling the air: the whirr of sewing machines, the soft noise of leather were processed and incorporated into luxury car interiors at the being burnished, the faint swish of hands sweeping over leather … Mercedes-Maybach works. Leather-covered window frames? Practi- All of the employees working here are engrossed in their tasks. In cally old hat for Mercedes-Maybach. total, 420 hands work in two shifts at Daimler’s Mercedes-Maybach The leather for the entire interior of a Maybach is sourced works in Sindelfingen. All of them are exceptionally adept at what exclusively from young bullocks raised in the southern German they do. Walking through these work areas, you are immediately region around the works, keeping travel distances short and quality struck by the passion in the air; these people really put their heart high. If a flaw in the leather is found during »qualifying« – the and soul into their work, and they are all committed to delivering top technical term for processing leather – the entire piece is immedi- quality. There are 210 well-qualified specialists toiling away with a ately rejected, no matter how small the fault. Is it then processed near-equal ratio of men to women. They plan and arrange; develop elsewhere? »It might be,« Andreas Doelle replies, smiling. »After all, and laminate; cut and stitch; always with a specific customisation pieces that don’t meet our stringent standards may well still qualify in mind, never series production. Because the Mercedes-Maybach as prime quality elsewhere.« He has around 3,500 cowhides in the works – just a few hundred metres from the Center of Excellence, warehouse in every conceivable colour and finish. The leather for where these special orders are placed – is where the often-ambitious steering wheels needs to be able to cope with sweaty hands, while specifications of Mercedes-Maybach customers become reality. And the leather for seats must be highly resistant to wear from abrasion. every one of the employees – many of whom hold specialist ad- Integrating coats of arms, logos and initials into interiors; ensuring ditional qualifications – knows that Mercedes-Maybach customers, that the dog basket is upholstered in the same fabric as used for no matter their country of origin, are among the most demanding the seats; sewing Swarovski crystals into the headrests – it’s all clientele in the world. been done before. »That’s absolutely right,« confirms Andreas Doelle, head of the And if the Mercedes-Maybach customer is vegan? »We have a Mercedes-Maybach works. »Our customers’ demands are undeniably range of alternative solutions available for that eventuality too, so exceedingly high, but only because they are aligned with our own. we can be very flexible,« says cutter Roxanna Quiram. Leather is There’s no other way it would work. And then there is our guiding not mandatory. The works offers myriad alternative fabrics to meet WHAT MATTERS TO YOU IS ALL THAT MATTERS maxim: nothing is impossible.« the needs of new generations. This is inevitable in light of the fact If customers wish, Doelle or one of his deputies can give them that, in the luxury segment, the level of individualisation typified by Our clients can rely on access to the largest private fleet in the world. Every day, we make the impossible possible. a tour of the works and advise them of the many options available. Maybach is set to continue unabated. And this individual customisa- That’s why at NetJets, with minimal notice, you can be on your way, wherever you’re needed most. This way customers can smell, touch and experience the various tion is only possible with highly specialised craftspeople. They make materials and features – it’s not a service many luxury car manu- Mercedes-Maybach as unique as the cars’ drivers. Call +44 (0)203 811 7234 or visit netjets.com

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CIRCLE 70 Mercedes-Maybach Works DETAILS THAT MAKE A DEEP Setting new standards in the luxury seg AND LASTING IMPACT ment, the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class offers utmost exclusivity and an elegant design. Glimpses into a new world of luxury

CIRCLE 72 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 73 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Sheer luxury: the finest leather, in the highly exclusive colour combi nation of savannah beige and black. Contrast stitching can be ordered in copper, gold or platinum.

CIRCLE 74 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class 1 2 5 Mercedes-Maybach S 560 4Matic 3 4 Fuel consumption(l/100 km)* urban: 15.0-14.6 extra-urban: 7.6-7.6 combined: 10.4-10.31

CO2 emissions combined (g/km)*: 320-3201

Mercedes-Maybach S 650: Fuel consumption(l/100 km) urban: 20.3-20.3 extra-urban: 10.4-10.4 combined: 14.0-14.01

CO2 emissions com- Text: Hendrik Lakeberg, photos: Regina Recht bined (g/km)*: 320-3201 The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is truly a sight to behold. But Mercedes-Maybach it is the exacting details that make this car so unique – elements S 650 Pullman like the newly interpreted radiator grille, which has fine vertical Fuel consump- struts that serve to accentuate the car’s front end. This feature was tion(l/100 km) inspired by a classic men’s fashion piece: the pinstripe suit. Another urban: 21.3 historically motivated design feature is the car’s two-tone exterior 1 extra-urban: 10.5 paintwork, reminiscent of the two-tone men’s shoes which have been The two-tone paintwork combined: 14.6 accentuates the elegance CO emissions com- creating an elegant impression even since before the founding of 2 of the Mercedes-Maybach bined (g/km)*: 330 Maybach-Motorenbau GmbH in 1918. The paintwork is available in S-Class. nine different combinations. Another new option is the double layer 1 of clear lacquer for all dark colours. It gives the paint a glossy finish 2 The given values will The quilted padding vary depending on much like that of piano lacquer, as well as an enhanced sense of and luxurious leather the combination of wheels and tyres fitted depth. The second layer of clear lacquer is meticulously burnished on the steering wheel by hand at the Mercedes-Maybach plant. The interior now comes are hand-sewn. with two new and exclusive colour combinations too: armagnac * For more information on 3 the measurement procedure, brown/black and savannah beige/black. Raimund Dornburg, head please see page 10 At a length of 5,462 millimetres and with a 3,365-millimetre of Circle and the Center of wheelbase, the new Mercedes-Benz flagship outstrips the new Excellence in Sindelfingen, with a Mercedes-Maybach S‑Class saloon with a long wheelbase by 20 centimetres in both S 650 featuring the iconic dimensions. This is not only a benefit for the passengers in the back, two-tone paintwork but also for those sitting in the executive seats on the left and right. The car’s innovative voice amplification system makes communi- 4 Specially trained cation with the driver even easier – unless the owner prefers to do painters apply the their own driving, that is. paint by hand, and in After all, the unique sensation of driving a Mercedes-Maybach painstaking detail. is one of the many reasons for the brand’s remarkable success. In 5 2017, for example, more than a tenth of the S-Class vehicles sold Parked next to two were Maybach models. Mercedes-Maybach S-Class models is an impressive S 650 Pullman, the luxury brand’s top model, with Visit the Center of Excellence in Sindelfingen or another of the Maybach Centers the Center of Excellence around the world to find out more about the exclusive world of Mercedes-Maybach. in the background.

Issue 2019 77 Mercedes-Maybach S-Class Essay: Tobias Haberl IRRESISTIBLY IMPERFECT The motor of our lives: we strive for perfection, yet never seem able to achieve it. Only imperfection confronts us with challenges that give us purpose

It is an all-too-common phenomenon: the gorgeous best reinforcing: the more we appear to be on top of things, Beautiful patina: friend with a gap between her teeth, the one-eyed teddy the better we are able to plan and predict the course of the iconic grille of a bear you needed when you were young to get to sleep, our lives and the more we appreciate the minor imper- rare Mercedes-Benz 300 SL that won the the old rocking chair of granddad’s that is all scratched fections, the exceptions, the surprising twists and turns, 1952 Panamericana and squeaks but can never be stored away, the lovable that one old coat between all the fancy designer clothes pal who is guaranteed to be far too loud after their that still fits us best. third drink. As paradoxical as it may sound, in a world where Homage to the weak everyone is constantly striving to be the best at the There are almost too many pop songs about perfectly office, in their relationship, at the gym, on Facebook, imperfect people to count. All you have to do is Google or on holiday, we like to hang our hearts on people and it. I’m Not Perfect (But I’m Perfect for You) was the name things that are flawed, that are not as polished as our of the song confidently sung by Grace Jones in the ’80s. touchscreens, not as shiny as our Instagram pictures, It’s an anthem about not being perfect, paying homage not as efficient as our algorithms – in other words, to amiable weaknesses that were once irritating but IGOR PANITZ

not everything needs to be perfect. It almost seems at some point became endearing and ultimately in-

like both tendencies are interdependent yet mutually dispensable, because it is they that make a person so PH OTO

CIRCLE 78 Essay Perfection can only develop into something less perfect and thus merely causes stagnation or regression, never progress

unique – a person with a facade not so polished that the fact that there is nothing more for us to do or, meta Japanese tradition: we glide over it, but one which displays inconsistent physically speaking, that we are superfluous. the wabi-sabi cul characteristics that both fascinate and irritate, excite ture believes that flawed objects are and exhaust, which can only be defined as love itself. I have lived! beautiful. The cracks You could well ask whether Cindy Crawford Unlike the teddy bear that lost an eye on the drive to in this piece of would have been a supermodel if not for the mole to Tuscany 30 years ago, or the historic Mercedes-Benz ceramic have been the left of her top lip. Or whether actor Woody Harrel- 300 SL with a touch of patina that makes us dream patched with gold. son would be one of the most sought-after actors in of the legendary Mercedes-Benz victory at the Hollywood if not for the gap in his teeth. Or whether 1952 Panamericana, or – slightly less dangerous – of Zinédine Zidane would have become a cult figure in a glamorous life on the Côte d’Azur in the same era. world football if not for his angry outbursts in front We look at these things and are touched by them pre- of the camera. It is the irregularities that we recall, cisely because they are flawed. They whisper in our ear: that stick in our mind and become small myths I have lived. because they stand out from everyday life like daisies Worn, battered and tarnished things tell a story. on tarmac. And because we can often relate to that story or that story is part of our lifelong fantasies, it is the scars Fantasy and motivation that make us realise that we, too, have lived. We look But why is that so? Why do we often find people so at them and think back to good or bad days, successes irresistible in their weakest moments? And why do we and failures, joy and pain. And for a split second, we like the little pizzeria in Naples with the rustic chairs, feel what it is like to be part of this world. the old cashmere jumper with the worn elbows, the Michael Jackson record with the scratch three minutes The role of imperfection into Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin’? For years art, architecture and fashion have all deliber- As the designer Maik Alwin once said: »Perfec- ately incorporated disturbing and distorting elements tion is the biggest flaw: those who are everything can to make the result appear as imperfect as possible: be nothing more.« Perfection is, by its very nature, representative rooms with partly exposed brickwork, thinking something through to the end. It can only expensive designer clothes that appear to be fraying develop into something less perfect and thus merely at the seams. Dating back over a thousand years, the causes stagnation or regression, never progress. The Japanese wabi-sabi tradition believes that tea bowls Uhlenhaut Coupé is a few decades old now, yet still are all the more beautiful if visible cracks can be seen one of the most sought-after vehicles of all time. In to have been glued together – partly with gold. People retrospect, what makes it so attractive is the fact that and things that are imperfect are attractive, fascinating. Rudolph Uhlenhaut dared to be adventurous – that Imperfections challenge us to fill our life with a sense he dared not to fulfil all expectations to perfection, in- of purpose. To never give up on our constant pursuit of stead playing by a new rulebook altogether and being perfection, which will inevitably fail. SHUTTERSTOCK

more innovative than was common at the time. When You could say that those who are far from perfect

something is perfect, we have to come to terms with are the ones who really live. PH OTO

CIRCLE 80 Essay The 300 SLR – two legendary gull-wing doors and an auto motive genius. A culmination of superlatives: the C 111

CIRCLE 82 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 83 300 SLR vs C 111 THE CELESTIAL — it started with the 1955 300 SLR. Commonly known amongst fans as THE IMPERFECT — almost 15 years later, Rudolf Uhlenhaut made another attempt to turn the »Uhlenhaut Coupé«, the high-performance sports car bore the name of its developer. the automotive world upside down with a sports car. The C 111 was the name given to Yet Rudolf Uhlenhaut was more than just that. The engineer took one of the two models the avant-garde test vehicle driven by a light and powerful Wankel engine. Despite being built on the spot as a company car. Classic car expert Thomas Giesefeld on a legendary a promising development at the time, it was to be another expensive and rare dream car. vehicle deemed unaffordable – if it were available for purchase Jochen Fischer explains why

Future board member With a top speed of over Rudolf Uhlenhaut 300 km/h at 350 hp, the C 111 pursued ambitious goals was considered a sports car with the 300 SLR. sensation at the time.

CIRCLE 84 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 85 300 SLR vs C 111 Daimler withdrew from Mercedes-Benz produced 13 the world of motorsports C 111s. Here is the C 111/III, shortly before the 300 SLR a five-cylinder turbo diesel. was able to cause a sensation on the racetrack.

CIRCLE 86 300 SLR vs C 111 Both 300 SLRs are in the The C 111 was ready possession of Mercedes-Benz. for series production. Their market value is Unfortunately, fuel con- estimated between 65 sumption and emissions and 70 million euros. were too high, causing the idea to be rejected.

The 300 SLR – the celestial The C 111 – the imperfect

Rarely do prominent figures immortal- as a company car. Otherwise, the 300 SLR maximum safety. According to an endur- As my colleague Thomas Giesefeld, out innovative technology. Having said that, technology, hoping for a miracle similar ise themselves in automotive history from 1955 had little in common with the ance test performed in 1956 by the Swiss historical and journalistic advisor for it could have been series produced at any to today’s electric engine. The four-rotor by lending their name to a vehicle. Yet gull-winged 300 SL for the road. The closed car magazine Automobil Revue, a drive at Mercedes-Benz Classic magazine, wrote in time. It was a Gran Turismo-calibre super Wankel engine in the C 111/II, which was during the 1950s, this happened twice version of the racing car represented the maximum velocity in an Uhlenhaut car was his review of the Uhlenhaut Coupé at the sports car: two passengers seats, comfort- unveiled in the spring of 1970, weighed at Mercedes-Benz: with the Adenauer final stage in the expansion of an entire dy- »unspectacular to the excess.« very beginning, rarely do prominent figures able enough for long-distance journeys and just 180 kg yet generated 350 horsepower Mercedes 300, the long-serving official nasty of successful Silver Arrows, launched Today, this solid, high-performance lend their name to a vehicle. It is equally (virtually) endless engine power. (257 kW) and allowed the super sports car car of the first chancellor of the Federal onto the world’s racetracks as rather soberly silver superlative is probably the most val- rare for a prominent figure such as the very Parallel to unveiling it at the Frankfurt to reach a top speed of 300 km/h. This was Republic of Germany, and with the Uhlen- named W 196s. These included Grand Prix uable automobile classic of all time: auction same Rudolf Uhlenhaut to define an auto- Motor Show, journalists were able to expe- nothing short of phenomenal at the time. haut Coupé 300 SLR racing car, only two of stars with and without streamlined bodies houses estimate the price per model to be motive brand for such a long and sustained rience the vehicle on the nearby Hocken- However, extensive tests carried out in which were ever built for the road. as well as an open sports car version. The around 100 million euros. period of time. The engineer managed to heimring in 1969, with the likes of Rudolf the following years showed that the Wankel In the ’50s, Rudolf Uhlenhaut was head latter was to lead Moss/Jenkinson to overall It is reported that Thomas Aquinas in apply the same dedication to designing and Uhlenhaut, among others, playing taxi engine would never fulfil such high expecta- of the Test Department at Daimler-Benz. victory in the 1955 Mille Miglia. the 13th century supposedly said, »The fine-tuning the triumphant Silver Arrows driver. Witnesses recall some representa- tions: fuel consumption and emission levels Just ten years after the end of the Second The stunning appearance of the 300 quality of a thing that comes into human as to developing series-produced passenger tives of the press climbing into the passen- were so high that series production was World War, Mercedes-Benz was hugely suc- SLR Coupé, its extremely aerodynamic and use is measured by the price given for it.« cars for the road. Rudolf Uhlenhaut was not ger seat with serious expressions on their out of the question. This marked the end cessful both as a car manufacturer and as a lightweight overall design and its primitive In the case of the 300 SLR Coupés, however, only a dab hand with any type of automo- faces, only to climb out again a lap later of project C 111. Some of the experimental motorsports company thanks to outstanding performance characteristics set the bench- this is purely theoretical. Apart from certain bile, he was also a strong hand at the wheel. looking rather green around the gills. Ru- vehicles were fitted with diesel engines to all-rounders such as Rudolf Uhlenhaut. Born mark in the mid ’50s for automotive con- classic car events or photo shoots, they do Could you imagine the boss of a Formula 1 dolf Uhlenhaut, on the other hand, revelled prove the advantages of a new generation in London in 1906 to a banker, he had the struction. With speeds of up to 290 km/h, not come into human use, for both models team today notching up similar lap times on in driving this sporty baby. Knowing of their of turbo diesel engines. idea of using the 1951 engine of the 300 the Uhlenhaut Coupé may have seemed are part of the Mercedes-Benz Classic collec- the Grand Prix circuits as his handsomely boss’s passion, the design team gave him a But truthfully: Would a C 111 with a in a racing car. Daimler-Benz was to hit just as alien and celestial on the roads at tion. One model is permanently on display paid drivers? very special gift for his 63rd birthday: on mass-produced diesel engine ever really be the racetrack in 1952, winning virtually the time as the sound of the engine being in the museum, while the various stages of But I suppose you are wondering what 15 July 1969, the first C 111 was completed an object of desire? Would a sexy-looking everything there was to win internationally started up for work every morning by its evolution of the 1969 C 111 research vehicle all this has to do with the C 111. Well, quite and ready to be test-driven. Uhlenhaut drove diva really get along with a practically in 1954/55. For the benefit of future series owner on an otherwise quiet hillside loca- are kept right next to the other. simply, the C 111 was also a project headed and drove until the tank was empty, with minded bookkeeper? No, the potential development and based on the experience tion in Stuttgart. Even the sleek orange C 111 had no by Rudolph Uhlenhaut, one of his last major ever-growing enthusiasm. thrill of the C 111 has always lain in its un- gained, the decision was made to withdraw An eight-cylinder, 2,982 cc engine price tag. At first glance, it looks like a projects in fact. As head of Passenger Car The technology to be tested in the C 111 attainability. No one could ever own it. In from motorsports at the end of the 1955 sea- generated 302 horsepower (222 kW) at rebellious antithesis of the 300 SLR – but Development at Daimler-Benz, he was the was essentially weight-saving plastics for all, Mercedes-Benz built 13 of these exper- son. Since the original decision to use the an engine speed of 7,500 rpm, making the that’s another story. first person to drive the finished prototype, building the body, optimised aerodynamics imental vehicles in various configurations. 300 SLR in 1956 for long-distance races was Uhlenhaut Coupé the fastest road-legal car Jochen Fischer, long-time editor-in-chief in 1969. Expert opinions on the C 111 con- for reducing fuel consumption and, above Some, although it pains to write this, were scrapped, the future board member decided of its time. But for all its power, even the of Mercedes-Benz Classic magazine, tells tinue to be divided to this day. Officially, it all, a new engine design: the Wankel. Ex- unceremoniously scrapped at the end of

to take his self-designed gull-winged coupé testers back then had to admit that it offered this story on the next page ... AG DAIMLER PHOTOS was an experimental vehicle used to test perts had high expectations for this engine their useful life.

CIRCLE 88 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 89 300 SLR vs C 111 THE MAGIC OF A BRAND In the Mercedes-Benz Museum, surrounded by more than 130 years of motoring history, a new Brand Space chronicles how Mercedes-Benz

An interactive went from inventor of the automobile Mercedes-Benz experience at the Brand Space to a globally renowned brand

CIRCLE 90 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 91 Brand Space CIRCLE 92 Mercedes-Benz

PHOTOS DAIMLER AG (5), MAURITIUS IMAGES/WERNER DIETERICH Issue 2019 ble way usingamodel. is explained inapalpa- The designphilosophy 5 Museum. Mercedes-Benz is housedinthe The Brand Space 4 from the Brand Space. an employee to learn You don’t have to be 3 Museum the Mercedes-Benz bouring exhibit at The opulentneigh- 2 of Mercedes-Benz An in-depth history 1 tured the interesttured the – and – hearts of its fans and custom haveaspects what cap cultivated,and been has image feature the can explore brand’sthe development, how its enhance appeal the of further Mercedes-Benz. Visitors to howtoon ideas numerous alongside Space, Brand the in detailed is history.long that a rootedhistory in is A success This Interbrand. consultancy brand by Brand architecture aninternational prize. guished with Museum’s new Brand Space, which has just been distin Mercedes-Benz the behind brains the of one also is He Mercedes-Maybach brand. the managing for sponsible re Academyperson and Brand Mercedes-Benz the of company’s the value, on have will positiveeffect a this then with, toidentify » and staymoments memories that us forwith a lifetime. We makepromise. with attitude, a an brands associate represent they logo; distinctive a or service popular a product, successful a just than more are Brands Text: Hendrik Lakeberg If a brand has a high recall value and is easy for people 2 1 4 In 2017, Mercedes-Benz was ranked Bestninth Global 3 5 « explains Matthias Schröer, explainsMatthias head 93 - - - -

a brand, you need to intensively convey that brand’s conveyintensivelythat to need you brand, a ployees and fans alike.fans ployeesand design. as the sound engine of the – the all is of justthis as important car, of response the exquisitefeel of the the upholstery, interior,Schröer. Mercedes a the Matthias of scent The alwaysis emotionalexperience, an brand a that brands that will brands that one day be as iconic as Mercedes-Benz. perhaps it will inspire some of its visitors to create new knows: who And be. to place the is this branding, of versal If purpose. you want to understand mechanicsthe authentically.more Space also has a Brand uni But the will where it they be comes able from, then to convey it and is brand Mercedes-Benz the of magic the what value, interactively experienced. be can that concept a but theory, a just longer no is philo Mercedes-Benz the Space, Brand the In ers. many layers and their effects to Mercedes-Benz em Mercedes-Benz to effects their and layersmany The goal of the Brand Space is to elucidate these these elucidate to is Space Brand the of goal The « explainsSchröer. eachemployeeIf understood » To make people identify with Towith identify makepeople » It is important to understand Brand Space Brand « sophy says says - - DESTINATION WORLD

DESTINATIONS Sweden Italy Hidden Treasures From road tripping in California to ice driving in Lapland and touring Europe in a private jet, Circle of Excellence offers members travel packages to the world’s Ireland most fascinating destinations. The goal: to USA make lasting memories

CIRCLE 94 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 95 World DESTINATION USA

PEBBLE BEACH

Breathtaking: a Mercedes-Benz 500 K Spezial-Roadster from 1934 travelling along Bixby Bridge on California’s Highway

CIRCLE 96 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 97 Pebble Beach DESTINATION USA

THE STAGES AN ICONIC CAR EXTRAVAGANZA A Every year, California becomes B

C a veritable Shangri-La for car enthusiasts. With A San Francisco B Pebble Beach C Los Angeles Monterey Car Week, the Concours d’Elegance brings the world’s most valuable cars together on Pebble Beach Golf Links’ 18th hole

1 2 1 3 Birds of a feather flocking Panoramic view: 3 together at Pebble Beach – Pebble Beach 4 united by their love Golf Links on the of the automobile Pacific coast

2 4 Phenomenal: Sport legend Edwin an imposing Maybach Moses standing before Zeppelin on the a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Pebble Beach green up for auction

CIRCLE 98 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 99 Pebble Beach DESTINATION USA

1 The aerodynamic shape of the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQ Silver Arrow is based on that of the Mercedes-Benz Silver Arrows.

2 The show car features a combination of luxurious leather and high-tech.

3 Daimler’s chief design officer Gorden Wagener presents the visionary vehicle at Pebble Beach.

4 In keeping with the new EQ brand philosophy, the Mercedes-Benz Vision EQ Silver Arrow combines motor sport with electric mobility.

1 2 3

Text: Hendrik Lakeberg, photos: Tom Koenig/Daimler AG

Not many places can claim to be on every car enthusiast’s bucket were also treated to a fascinating world premiere when Gorden list. »But Pebble Beach during the Concours d’Elegance is definitely Wagener, chief design officer at Daimler AG, unveiled the Vision EQ one such place,« gushes Koen Van Hout, head of Customer Events at Silver Arrow. A futuristic homage to the legendary Silver Arrows, Mercedes-Benz, describing the event held at the iconic, cliff-top golf it was the ideal car for an event celebrating mobility of the past, club. Rare, beautiful and exceptionally valuable: these are the traits present and future. shared by all the cars on show – cars that guests from all around the Koen Van Hout considers Bixby Bridge on Highway 1 to be one world travel to California to see. of his fondest memories of his trip to Monterey Car Week, an event The Concours is the principal event during Monterey Car Week. that counts among the top highlights in our Circle calendar. As part The areas in and around Pebble Beach transform into an exclu- of the Concours d’Elegance, all of the vehicles to be shown at the sive motorcar cosmos in which large auction houses sell cars at event cross this bridge as they cruise along the spectacular Pacific record prices. The Concours’ most prestigious event, The Quail, coastline. »Early on Thursday morning, our photographer and I stood showcases vehicles ranging from classic cars to super sports at the edge of the bridge, mouths agape, as we watched the convoy cars, and is one of the world’s most exclusive automobile market- of iconic motorcars cruise past us. It is a memory that I will treasure places. These are only two highlights of the events offered during for the rest of my life.« Monterey Car Week. Mercedes-Benz is among the distinguished brands represented here. In fact, a unique, entirely chrome-plated Mercedes-AMG GT3 For more information on Pebble Beach and on travel packages was auctioned for 800,000 dollars by Sotheby’s – with the pro- offered by Mercedes-Benz Circle of Excellence, go to ceeds going to the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. Visitors shop.mercedes-benz.com/en-de/circle-of-excellence/ 4

CIRCLE 100 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 101 Pebble Beach DESTINATION EUROPE

HIDDEN TREASURES

Perfect modes of travel: the G-Class by Mercedes-Benz and a NetJets private jet

CIRCLE 102 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 103 Hidden Treasures DESTINATION EUROPE

THE STAGES YOU CAN HARDLY GET ANY MORE EXCLUSIVE:

A two days of Europe’s most B C D spectacular car collections

A Southern England by way of private jet – made B Germany C Stuttgart D Bucharest possible by Hidden Treasures!

Text: Hendrik Lakeberg, photos: Tom Koenig/Daimler AG

Generally closed to the public, these automobile treasure troves 1 2 are home to numerous top-class vehicles, many of them lovingly 1 3 restored vintage cars, some of them even entirely unique models. 4 NetJets offers all the With Hidden Treasures, a small group of Circle members was benefits of having your 5 6 very own private jet. allowed access to these exceptionally exclusive collections. The incredible trip took them around Europe in 48 hours, flying them 2 from one highlight to the next in NetJets private jets. Car aristocracy: the Classic Collection of We do not mention all of the collectors by name here as, for Mercedes-Benz some of them, discretion is paramount. »Although some of them don’t like to be in the public eye,« explains Koen Van Hout, head of 3 customer events at Mercedes-Benz, »they are keen to share their The spectacular collection of sports manager Ion passion with a small group of like-minded individuals. And many Tiriac in Bucharest of our participants are themselves passionate collectors.« Thanks to a varied programme of supplementary events and 4 the exceptional service provided by the NetJets crew, even the The exclusive trip included a variety of attractive journeys between the various collections were turned into highly supplementary events. relaxing and enjoyable parts of the trip. Indeed, on completing the trip, the participants invariably described it as an incomparable 5 experience. Forty-eight hours of automobile extravagance, enjoyed NetJets facilitates unusually flexible, highly indi- in an entirely private setting. vidualised travel routes.

6 Have we piqued your interest? Then visit our website at Legendary racing cars, www.circle.mercedes-benz.com normally kept under lock For more information of the wide range of services provided and key at Mercedes-Benz by NetJets, go to www.netjets.com

CIRCLE 104 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 105 Hidden Treasures DESTINATION IRELAND

IRELAND

The splendid interior of a typical manor house on the Wild Atlantic Way

CIRCLE 106 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 107 Ireland DESTINATION IRELAND

THE STAGES MYSTICAL IRELAND

D Boasting a length of E F C 2,600 kilometres, the A Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland B

A Cork is one of the world’s longest B Bantry C Ballyvaughan D Ballina coastal routes. As part of a E Longford F Dublin Circle of Excellence travel package, members were able to enjoy its stunning roads and explore its most spectacular parts – parts largely unknown to most

1 2 1 3 5 7 Bantry House only Champagne and The Merrion not only The drawing room 3 4 5 has six guest rooms. sandwiches are offers five-star com- at Enniscoe Estate, Evenings around the served for high tea fort, it is also home where guests can 6 7 8 fire therefore tend to be at The Merrion to Ireland’s largest experience tradi- quite intimate affairs. patisserie. private art collection. tional Ireland.

2 4 6 8 Perfect for a road trip: The route includes Ireland’s spectacular A marble monument to Mercedes-Benz G-Class little-used roads that get coastline was formed by the author Oscar Wilde on and GLE models flooded at high tide. the phenomenal natural Dublin’s Merrion Square forces of the Atlantic.

CIRCLE 108 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 109 Ireland DESTINATION IRELAND

1 3 British Prime Minister Lord Palmerston had Classiebawn Castle built for his daughter.

2 Stylish: the drawing room and fireplace at Bantry House

3 The principal goal of any Circle of Excel- lence trip: making lasting memories

1 2

Text: Martin Breuninger, photos: Tom Koenig/Daimler AG

Eight days of driving pleasure: the Wild Atlantic Way is a route to the owner, who then tells us that the original fabric wallpaper in the be savoured. Creating a calm and relaxing atmosphere is the Gulf drawing room we’re standing in dates from 1850. Stream, which warms the rugged Irish coast in the summer. The Stays here are much more memorable than stays in five-star route still caters, though, to drivers with a sense of adventure: luxury hotels. As on the previous evening in Bantry House, a fire the wild Atlantic shoreline and jagged mountain passes along the spits and crackles in the huge hearth, lighting up the glasses of way are sure to set pulses racing. The trip begins at Cork Airport’s golden yellow Irish whisky that have been served to the guests. And VIP area. Out front are the G-Classes and GLE SUVs – parked in a because Enniscoe Estate only has six rooms, those guests are very semi-circle and draped in fabric – waiting for their drivers. Some of much among themselves. the rougher stretches the trip will cover in the next few days would The journey here is breathtaking, passing majestic cliffs, remote be too tall an order for saloon cars, let alone SLRs. coves, and mystical islands such as Skellig Michael, where the ruins During a road trip on the Wild Atlantic Way, the meditative power of Ireland’s most well-known, yet hardest-to-reach monastery are of the scenery, of sheep grazing on lush green pastures, is compro- found. It was built in the seventh century on a crag 12 kilometres off mised only by the sheer driving enjoyment to be had – whether on the coast. The small beehive structures in which the monks used to the narrow country lanes or the stunning mountain roads. Enjoyment live can only be reached from the shore by climbing approximately that is heightened by the Mercedes-Benz models provided. Their 600 steps cut into the rock and with no railings. higher ground clearance and elevated sitting positions are especially During the trip, which covers Healy Pass, the Gap of Dunloe, well-suited to these roads, enabling drivers to see over the ubiquitous parts of the Ring of Kerry, Loop Head Drive and much more, partic- stone walls and witness the passing landscapes. ipants can drive on their own, guided by the daily routes stored in If the journey itself is the goal, and the aim to travel through their navigation systems and a detailed roadbook, or follow the lead fascinating, remote regions, then it is only right that the accommo- vehicle. Opting for the latter gives them more capacity to marvel at dation should also vary. Trip participants stay in a range of lodgings, the scenery: the rugged coasts shaped by the Atlantic, the pictur- from traditional manor houses to the famous The Merrion in Dublin. esque villages and the ancient monuments – relics that are as much »In my view, it’s one of the 10 best hotels in the world and one of the a part of Ireland as the constant changing of the tides. five best in Europe,« claims a well-travelled trip participant. Another one-of-a-kind stop is at Enniscoe House. Run by Susan and her son DJ, the magnificent guest house has been in the family Have we piqued your interest? since 1650. »Staying here isn’t like a conventional hotel stay, but Find out more about Circle travel offers at rather an opportunity to experience life in a heritage house,« says www.circle.mercedes-benz.com

CIRCLE 110 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 111 Ireland DESTINATION SWEDEN

ICE DRIVE

Sliding at speed: a Mercedes-AMG in its element

CIRCLE 112 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 113 Ice Drive DESTINATION SWEDEN

THE STAGES DRIFTING TOWARD A BRIGHTER FUTURE A Laureus Sport for Good Ice Driving: powerful AMG B engines versus icy Lapland tracks. With support

A Arjeplog B Stockholm from some familiar faces, the 32 participants drive for a good cause

Text: Hendrik Lakeberg, photos: Oskar Bakke/Daimler AG

1 2 What an exceptional combination: a dream car, clear blue skies, and 3 4 1 a challenging circuit made of snow and ice. David Coulthard was 5 Team spirit: the partici- thrilled to have taken part in the AMG Winter Sporting event in 6 7 pants all pulled together. Arjeplog, Sweden: »This unique and fantastic driving experience with 2 Mercedes-AMG in Lapland for the benefit of Laureus Sport for Good Make way: Lapland’s has been one of my most memorable driving experiences.« The spectacular scenery Formula 1 legend was especially impressed with the spirit of the

3 group, which collected a total of 225,000 euros for the foundation. Challenging: drifting Thirty-two participants took part, which saw them driving on on ice and snow the ice in Mercedes-AMG models. They were guided by Coulthard and by Karl Wendlinger, also a former Formula 1 driver, and by 4 At the AMG Driving Formula 1 safety car driver Bernd Mayländer. Supporting the Academy the quality of event alongside Mercedes-AMG were Maybach Haus AG and its Mercedes-AMG vehicles sponsors IWC Schaffhausen and Caviar House & Prunier. was made apparent. Hollywood actor Ralf Möller was proud to see such a generous 5 sum raised to help children build better lives through sport. At the The group collected close of the event, David Coulthard emphasised how the Laureus 225,000 euros for the Sport for Good Ice Driving session was very much in the spirit of Laureus Foundation. Nelson Mandela, one of Laureus’ founding fathers: sport has the 6 power to change the world. In great spirits: Ralf Möller (left) and David Coulthard If you would like to find out more, please visit us at 7 www.circle.mercedes-benz.com The ice tracks are elegant For more information on the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation, circuits carved into snow. go to www.laureus.de

CIRCLE 114 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 115 Ice Drive DESTINATION ITALY

MILLE MIGLIA

Circle member Ronald Hölling and his Mercedes-AMG GT took second in the legendary race.

CIRCLE 116 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 117 Mille Miglia DESTINATION ITALY

THE STAGES 1,000 MILES OF PURE PASSION A Following in the footsteps of B the great Stirling Moss, who 60 years ago won the classic C

A Brescia Mille Miglia car race in world- B Pesaro C Rome record time – a time unbeaten to this day. His car back then: a Mercedes-Benz 300 SLR

1 1 3 5 Villagers cheer on Puppy love: even the Participants and their 2 3 4 competitors from the pets were enthusias- cars take a rest after a side of the road. tic and hospitable. long day of driving. 5 6

2 4 6 Hommage to A Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Street racing: Stirling Moss: a brings to mind true Circle spirit special-edition a legendary period of especially emerges on Mercedes-Benz SLR 722 the Mille Miglia. challenging roads.

CIRCLE 118 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 119 Mille Miglia DESTINATION ITALY

1 A short break before PERFECT MOMENTS AT THE MILLE MIGLIA an opulent, typical Circle members describe their favourite Italian palazzo moments at the world-famous road race 2 At the heart of every Mille Miglia is the pure joy of driving.

1 RONALD HÖLLING We’ve been taking part in the main Mille Miglia race for four years. Sitting behind the steering wheel day in, day 1 2 out, from early until late – it’s pure driving enjoyment. Three years ago, we came in third; two years ago, we came in second. This year, we wanted to win, but unfortunately were pipped at the post. Our car, the Green Tiger, has its own fan community; we even have some Italian fans. Their racing cars tend to be red, and that gets boring after a while. Maybe in 2019, it will be a green car’s turn to win.

2 KURT KATZENMEIER One challenge involved driving up a mountain. On the way back, I was taking my time, enjoying the scenery when, suddenly, I was overtaken by a Mercedes-AMG SLS Black Series. I wasn’t going to stand for that. To keep up, I put the pedal to the metal and gripped the steering wheel with both hands. The guy in front, on the other hand, was Text: Hendrik Lakeberg, photos: Maks Richter/Daimler AG casually leaning his left arm out of the window. I couldn’t believe his nonchalance, until I saw the English number Steeped in history, the Mille Miglia is still guaranteed to set car too are simple and traditional, which in Italy is a quality guarantee. plate. It wasn’t the driver’s left arm, it was the co-driver’s. enthusiasts’ pulses racing. Italian flare, fired-up crowds, stunning With day one dedicated to registration, the full extent of Mille flair landscapes and an impressive line-up of powerful sports cars. It’s and Circle spirit can be felt no later than day two, especially thanks 3 BRUNO GÖGGEL the stuff dreams are made of. Today’s ›Mercedes-Benz 1000 Miglia to the crowds cheering at the roadsides. Everyone along the route, Participating in the Mille Miglia has been a dream of Challenge‹ is held on the very roads where racing greats like Sir even the residents of the tiniest villages, comes out to celebrate mine for 15 years. This year, it came true, and there 1 Stirling Moss achieved stunning victories and set records. For Circle the automotive spectacle, infusing the air with their infectious en- Ronald Hölling came was nothing about this tour that wasn’t excellent. members, to participate is to follow in legendary footsteps. thusiasm. Indeed, all of the participants CIRCLE asked to describe in second at the 2018 Mille Everything was perfectly organised and driving on these What makes this regularity race so special is the fact that its their perfect Mille Miglia moment cite the enthusiasm of the host Miglia. His Mercedes-AMG roads was, of course, a truly incredible experience. The field includes not only sports cars (primarily by Mercedes-AMG), population, not least that of the Italian policemen and -women is nicknamed »Green Tiger«. route takes you along country roads and through many but also classic cars not officially admitted to the Mille Miglia. working tirelessly to keep the route clear, always on the side of the 2 small villages, and you have crowds cheering you on While the route is the same as the original Mille Miglia, the race race contestants. Among the special highlights was the police escort Ready to go: from the side of the road. Whenever a Ferrari sidled itself is a much more relaxed affair. This is especially true for Circle through the streets of Rome. Bella Italia – Italy during the Mille Miglia Kurt Katzenmeier with up alongside us, we happily took up the challenge. members, who can avail of a comprehensive range of associated is Italy at its best. his Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster. services during the event. After all, we don’t want anything to get The participants get three days of high emotions on the streets in 4 XAVIER BELTRÁN in the way of their driving enjoyment. That said, the Mercedes-Benz their own cars, in dialogue with their co-drivers, and in the evenings 3 For the Italians the Mille Miglia is a big party all along its 1000 Miglia Challenge is anything but a casual Sunday jaunt, and talking shop and discussing the day with other Circle members. But Dreams do come true: route. Whether in a city or a small town, people always requires excellent driving skills, boldness and stamina from its the most memorable part of the trip is invariably the sheer joy of Bruno Göggel at his first- come to cheer the cars passing by. Even the police ever Mille Miglia in his participants. driving along the route’s iconic roads. Mercedes-Benz SLR 722. were accommodating. Once, we got stuck in gridlock Day one of the trip is taken up with the formalities of race regis- traffic just as we were about to enter Rome. Suddenly, tration. On day two, the real fun begins, with the first leg taking par- 4 a policewoman appeared on a motorbike to help us. ticipants from Brescia to Rome via Pesaro, then back to Brescia. The Teamspirit: Xavier She waved and told us to follow her. We happily obliged, Have we piqued your interest? For more information on the Beltrán (below left) race legs all start in the early morning and finish around dusk, with Mille Miglia and all other Mercedes-Benz Circle of Excellence travel celebrates a successful using the shoulder to drive past the traffic and into accommodation provided in simple hotels along the route. The meals offers, go to www.circle.mercedes-benz.de Mille Miglia 2018. Rome’s city centre, where cheering crowds awaited us.

CIRCLE 120 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 121 Mille Miglia SPEED DREAMS Lewis Hamilton raves exclusively in CIRCLE about the new Mercedes-AMG ONE: a hypercar that will take Formula 1 technology to the streets. The show car, Project ONE, offers a glimpse of this The record-breaking hypercar will achieve an incredible top speed automobile dream. of more than 350 km/h.

CIRCLE 122 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 123 Mercedes-AMG ONE The combustion engine is supported by four The Mercedes-AMG ONE will be electric motors. Energy the first to bring Formula 1 technology is recuperated when the to normal roads. brakes are applied.

CIRCLE 124 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 125 Mercedes-AMG ONE Starting with the roof’s shark-like fin, everything about the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE radiates aerodynamic efficiency.

CIRCLE 126 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 127 Mercedes-AMG ONE The Formula 1- The seamlessly approved powertrain sleek exterior design will provide more belies its immensely than 1,000 hp. powerful engine.

CIRCLE 128 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 129 Mercedes-AMG ONE Photos BY LEWIS HAMILTON Benjamin Pichelmann

Lewis Hamilton Portrait »When I first saw the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE, I was blown Jonathan Glynn-Smith away. Hearing from Tobias (Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG) Mercedes-AMG Project ONE that there were plans to build a car like this got me immediately (The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE presented excited. I have always been saying that we should build a here is a show car with the car like this. One that takes the company into the stratosphere. following vehicle data.) Quantity 275 units

I have only driven the Project ONE onto a stage in Frankfurt so far, Top speed but I think it’s going to be breathtaking when you start to hit the Over 350 km/h Acceleration from throttle. First there will be the sound – revving the engine hard, 0 to 200 km/h and shifting up through the gears. And then the performance that Under 6 seconds comes from using the real F1 hybrid technology. It will blow System output More than 740 kW people’s minds. (1 combustion engine + 4 electric motors)

Price Technically the motor is the closest you can get to my original €2,275,000 (plus VAT)

racing engine. As drivers, we work so closely with the engineers Link to develop not just the race car but also the powertrain – improv- mbmag.me/amgone ing the power delivery, throttle response, getting the characteristics exactly right for how we want to drive. Mercedes makes the best F1 car and now we are taking this category of car on the road as well. It’s something I’m very proud of.

Nothing in the world will ever really be like an F1 car in terms of the weight, aerodynamics and the driving position. But this will certainly come close. Is it a dream come true? Absolutely. One thing I’ve learned in my 20 years with Mercedes is that they try to be the best in what they do. So if they build a hypercar, it will be the best hypercar out there.«

Born in 1985, Lewis Hamilton made his Formula 1 debut in 2007. He became the youngest World Champion in history in 2008, as a member of the McLaren team. Since switching to Mercedes-AMG Petronas in 2013, he has taken home three more titles. Stay up to date on his races and get a glimpse of his life off the track under: lewishamilton.com

CIRCLE 130 Mercedes-Benz Issue 2019 131 Mercedes-AMG ONE NEW FREEDOM The fully electric EQC comes with a whole new range of comprehensive services. What can customers expect? An interview with Jörg Heinermann, head of EQ Sales & Marketing Mercedes-Benz at Daimler AG

An electrifying sight: the new EQC in Stockholm city centre

Issue 2019 133 EQ Interview: Hendrik Lakeberg, photos: Daimler AG ee2019 is set to be a big year for he built the first automobile in 1886 and Mercedes-Benz – a year in which all the plan- initiated the first mobility revolution. For ning and theorising of the last few years will the first time ever, people were able to buy become reality. What can we expect to see? a product that offered almost limitless geo- uuThe EQC will enable people to finally ex- graphical mobility, one that you didn’t need perience first-hand what electromobility by to take care of every day, but only when you Mercedes-Benz feels like, with all the qual- used it. Horses, in contrast, which preced- ity standards that the brand is renowned ed the car as a means of transport, needed for. And that’s not all. EQ, which is our new to be fed and taken care of even when not product and technology brand, also seeks to Jörg Heinermann, head of in use. The only regularly occurring tasks EQ Sales & Marketing make e-mobility as easy as possible for our Jörg Heinermann began his career for car owners were to fill the car with fuel customers. Essentially, this means that we in 1993 at the company known and to drive it. Whenever it wasn’t in use, it don’t just want to offer exceptional cars, but today as Daimler AG. After holding could be parked in the garage. This came as also comprehensive service packages to go a number of management roles a huge relief to many people. with them. abroad, including in Latin America eeAnd these are the advantages you want to eeWhat will this look like? and Portugal, Heinermann is today pick up on with EQ? uuWe’ve developed a number of offers among the Mercedes-Benz execu- uuPrecisely. Firstly, by offering to take over tives responsible for advancing the based on thorough analyses of the types any residual aspects of car care, like service new EQ brand. of service that will improve our custom- and maintenance. Secondly, by exploiting ers’ e-mobility experiences. One such offer the technical possibilities of autonomous involves general agreements that greatly driving, which will soon enable us to achieve simplify the process of charging your car at another level of freedom. After all, in an different charging stations. Moreover, cus- autonomous car, I don’t even have to take tomers who buy an EQC get direct access care of driving if I don’t want to. So, with to the ultra-fast European charging net- the time I would otherwise have spent driv- work IONITY. We provide customers with ing, I can do something else of my choosing. one interface by which to select a station, This, we believe, is the beginning of the sec- charge the car, pay and receive the corre- ond revolution in personal mobility. sponding invoice. This does away with the eeDo these plans currently only apply need to interact with numerous different to EQ? Or do they apply to all other operators and conclude various contracts. Mercedes-Benz cars, too? And we have more ideas for services be- uuWe see our new EQ product and techno yond car charging – which is obviously the logy brand as a harbinger, as a means of main priority when it comes to e-mobility introducing people to the changes that – that will make car usage itself much eas- 1 are to come. In particular because electric ier. Services such as parking, for example. 2 3 fuelling immediately raises a new set of We also plan to offer customised packages questions. And we naturally want to take that include scheduling and performing all these changes into account on all other maintenance and service tasks as well as Mercedes-Benz vehicles, too. a monthly full-service car wash, including 1 eeNonetheless, people still have a lot of car collection and return. We want to offer A strong character: the black inhibitions when it comes to electromobility. panel radiator grille gives the EQC car owners the option of entrusting us with a highly distinctive front end. How do you plan to convince customers to all aspects of vehicle care. choose an electric car? eeI’m sure this will be a great relief for 2 uuWhat our customers want to know, more many car owners. A car you can rely on: the EQC than anything else, is whether the range of- fulfils the highest safety stand- uuAnd that’s exactly what we are aiming fered by an electric car will limit their mobil- ards, even in terms of passive » for. We at Mercedes-Benz don’t just sell su- safety. Typical Mercedes-Benz ity in any way. In this respect, it is important At Mercedes-Benz, we don’t just sell cars: perlative cars, but also the option of unlimit- to know that the average distance travelled we sell unlimited personal mobility. ed personal mobility. Philosophically speak- 3 per day in Europe is around 50 kilometres. Captivating technology: the inte- Philosophically speaking, we sell freedom« ing, we sell freedom. Personal freedom. This rior of the EQC reflects the car’s If you compare that with the EQC’s range was precisely what Carl Benz offered when comprehensive connectivity. of 450 kilometres, determined according to Jörg Heinermann

CIRCLE 134 EQ the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC), that, is ownership set to become increasingly it is clear that our car is already more than »premium«? suitable for everyday use. Nevertheless, we uuAbsolutely. If I own a car, I can have it must still provide our customers with full configured according to my own person- transparency in this regard. So we ena- al tastes. And when you think about how ble them to find out what their individual much time you spend in your car, it makes mobility needs are, not only during every- sense to tailor its design, materials, safety, day commutes but also over a whole year. comfort and quality so as to best suit your We do this via our EQ Ready app, which, needs and wants. And, of course, there are among other things, helps our customers to many other advantages to ownership. If I analyse their own mobility behaviour. With own a car, I can use it as my own extend- the app, they can run analyses of how they ed living space and leave my sunglasses, use their conventionally fuelled cars at the jacket or other items inside whenever I touch of a button. The app then shows them want. This in itself is a form of luxury, espe- how many of their trips would have been cially when supplemented by the services possible without recharging the car, where mentioned. And when autonomous driving charging stations would have been located, arrives, my car will also probably be able 1 and even which vehicle would be best suit- 3 to park on its own, and come to collect me ed to their individual mobility needs. This is 2 whenever I need it. Or I can have it pick up emissions and range are preliminary. They were determined by the technical service unit for the certification the for serviceunit technical the by determined were They preliminary. are range and emissions

where our extended service package comes a family member. These developments open 2 in. Let’s say a customer covers fewer than up a wealth of amazing possibilities. 1 e 50 kilometres per day on 340 days of the Are you ready for electromo- eAnd who do you see as EQ’s target group? year; once a year, though, he or she uses bility? The EQ Ready app analy- uuInitially, it will appeal primarily to peo- the car to go on a family holiday, travelling ses your mobility behaviour to ple interested in new technology. This ap- 2,000 kilometres each way. In these cir- provide you with the answer. peal will be based not only on the car’s cumstances, it would make sense to have 2 drivetrain, but also on its connectivity an EQC to cover all daily travel needs, but EQC owners get access to and sustainability. Protecting the environ- another vehicle from our broad portfolio for the ultra-fast European charg- ment without compromising on personal the big three-week holiday. Our mobility ing network IONITY. mobility is very important to this group. package makes this possible. It would also 3 And, of course, EQ invariably comes with offer the option of swapping your car for a To Mercedes-Benz, the EQC all the classic attributes associated with a cabriolet for the weekend. These types of heralds the onset of a second Mercedes-Benz in terms of quality, comfort, flexible models are set to prove very pop- mobility revolution. safety and design. Or, as we put it: »Electric ular, I believe. now has a Mercedes«. eeAre there other areas in which mobility eeWhat do you personally find especially can be developed further? attractive about the EQC? emissions combined (g/km): 0 / electric range (km): >450. All data on power consumption, CO consumption, power on data All >450. (km): range electric / 0 (g/km): combined emissions uuAbsolutely. And the company is hard at uuTo me, the most important aspect is sim- 2 work on them. One is ›shared mobility‹, ply that it is a Mercedes-Benz through and where customers don’t actually own a ve- through. That it comes with all the virtues hicle at all. An established example of this for which Mercedes-Benz has come to be model is car2go. Mobility on demand is an known. Second on my list is the feel of driv- extremely exciting trend. Imagine that you ing it. I would recommend everyone give own a Mercedes-Benz in Hamburg, but trav- an electric car a try. The feeling of gliding »The EQC will come with all the el quite a lot by plane. So, to ensure your More about EQ by Mercedes-Benz: through the countryside, windows down, classic attributes associated with a mobility elsewhere, you have incorporated ›EQC Registration‹ is an exclusive and hearing the sounds of nature as op- into your leasing fee a flat fee for, for exam- online registration service offered by posed to the sounds of the car, is wonderful. Mercedes-Benz in terms of quality, Mercedes-Benz. It offers potential ple, car2go mobility in all European capital I am entirely convinced that electric driving customers a continual stream of in- comfort, safety and design. Or, as we cities. These sorts of combinations are cur- formation on the EQC, the EQ brand is the future. Why should everyone try it put it: ›Electric now has a Mercedes‹« rently being actively developed. and the topic of electromobility. out? To play a part in shaping the future, Disclaimer: Max.–min. power consumption combined (kWh/100 km): 22.2 / CO / 22.2 km): (kWh/100 combined consumption power Max.–min. Disclaimer: eeIf you can get mobility on demand like www.mercedes-benz.com/eqc and to experience the future today. test WLTP the once change will values These occur. may values official the and data the between Divergences issued. been has values official with conformity of certificate or approval type EC no yet, As values. NEDC in correlated and procedure test WLTP the on based is which procedure, specified. that from diverge therefore may and etc., heating, and/or conditioning air of use temperature, outside conditions, traffic and roads style, driving on depend will range actual car’s a Moreover, adopted. been has procedure Jörg Heinermann

CIRCLE 136 EQ WELCOME! The Circle Community offers you exclusive access to the world of Mercedes-Benz. Here, members gain insight into the brand as well as access to extraordinary events, breathtaking holidays and personal Mercedes-Benz service for their vehicle. Experience unforgettable moments with the Mercedes-Benz Circle of Excellence

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