Mercedes-Benz previews its CES plans

[-=Hot|Ice=-]

Mercedes-Benz is gearing up for its first showing at CES, and in addition to building a sizable booth to highlight its range of new and updated products, M-B head Dr. Dieter Zetsche will be keynoting the event on Tuesday.

We expect Zetsche to detail the automaker's plans for its infotainment systems going forward, including a comprehensive update of COMAND and new connected and app-driven features.

On the floor, Mercedes will be showing off mbrace2, it's revamped communications and connectivity platform, which will include new safety features, speech recognition, traffic and navigation information, vehicle care and personal assistance functionalities, along with a new concierge service and internet browsing. A complimentary smartphone app will link up with the system, allowing drivers to lock and unlock their vehicles, set up geo-fence alerts and include a new social functionality dubbed Send2Benz.

Additionally, Mercedes will preview its new DriveStyle iPhone app that integrates much of the phone's functionality into the central display to limit driver distraction, along with new safety systems, both of which will debut later this year.

Mercedes-Benz previews its CES plans