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Extensively updated, the Mercedes-Benz S-Class kicks off its new model year. The latest versions of the S-Class are available to order from the end of April 2024. There is a choice of two new exterior paint finishes: verde silver metallic and velvet brown metallic.
- Latest vintage: visually and technically upgraded S-Class models
- Intelligent assistance: Automatic Lane Change (ALC) installed ex-factory
- Craftsmanship: extensive MANUFAKTUR customisation range
- The very highest level of civilian protection: changes to the GUARD model, too
The Mercedes-Benz Automatic Lane Change (ALC) function now offers an intelligent development of the SAE Level 2[1] driving assistance systems also in Europe. Automatic Lane Change is supported on motorway-like roads (for example with structural separation between traffic travelling in opposite directions). The function is installed ex-factory in the 2024 model year S-Class.
All updates also apply to the armoured version of the special-protection version of the luxury model, the S 680 GUARD 4MATIC (energy consumption combined: 20.0 l/100 km | CO₂ emissions combined: 453 g/km | CO₂ class: D)[2]. Its protection class of VPAM VR10 all-round fulfils the highest ballistic test level for civilian vehicles and is furthermore exceptionally resistant to explosives.
MANUFAKTUR: extensive programme and handcrafted production
MANUFAKTUR is the customisation programme at Mercedes-Benz and its offerings range from exclusive exterior paint finishes to extensive interior equipment options. A particularly large number of MANUFAKTUR options are available for the S-Class – its portfolio includes a total of 12 MANUFAKTUR paint finishes and five MANUFAKTUR interior colour combinations. The Mercedes-Benz MANUFAKTUR in Sindelfingen is responsible for carrying out the work, which is done by hand using only the highest quality materials. As a result, customers receive an automobile of special value which is built according to their personal tastes and wishes.
The Mercedes-Benz MANUFAKTUR workshop in Sindelfingen makes exclusive customised and individual interior components that meet the highest standards. There is no traditional assembly-line production; the components are mostly handmade.
In addition to the defined MANUFAKTUR programme for the individual model series and special editions, personalised customer requirements can also be realised on request.
Factory 56 – a template for all Mercedes-Benz passenger car plants
All variants of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, including the hybrid and Mercedes-Maybach S-Class as well as the EQS, roll off the production line at Factory 56. Being flexible, digital and efficient, Factory 56 epitomises the future of production at Mercedes-Benz.
New models and drivetrain variants are quickly integrated into the current production line – proof of the high level of flexibility and efficiency of Factory 56. Forming the basis of production is its MO360 digital ecosystem, the digitalisation strategy of which focuses on people and seeks to provide the more than 1,500 employees at Factory 56 with the best possible support in their day-to-day work.
[1] Mercedes-Benz driving assistance and safety systems are aids and do not release the driver from their responsibility. They should observe the instructions provided in the user manual and the system limitations described.
[2] The stated values were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement procedure. The ranges given refer to the German market. The energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a car depend not only on the car’s efficient use of the fuel or energy source, but also on driving style and other non-technical factors.
What’s new for the latest S-Class model year
Mercedes-Benz is enhancing its video streaming offering by an integration of Sony Pictures Entertainment's (SPE) cutting-edge RIDEVU service. RIDEVU gives customers access to a diverse range of video entertainment directly in their vehicle. It provides users with advanced controls and features designed specifically for the car. These enable consumers to conveniently stream SPE content on demand, directly from their vehicles. It includes a curated library of films available for streaming, enriching the Mercedes-Benz entertainment bundle.
Mercedes-Benz has further optimised the MBUX user interface: suggestions for assisted parking are now located more intuitively in the menu and therefore easier for the customer to use. The ‘pre-installation for the Digital Vehicle Key’ service from Mercedes me, which is already available in Europe, will in future also be available in the U.S. and Canada. In addition, the pre-installation will be usable with compatible Android devices.
Another new feature in the S-Class is the occupant presence reminder. It can help draw attention to people that may have been left in the rear of the vehicle. It activates and deactivates automatically by opening a rear door for a longer period of time on the assumption that people have entered the vehicle and are in the backseat.
The Mercedes-Benz Automatic Lane Change (ALC) function now offers an intelligent development of the SAE Level 2[1] driving assistance systems also in Europe. Automatic Lane Change is supported on motorway-like roads (for example with structural separation between traffic travelling in opposite directions). The function is installed ex-factory in the 2024 model year S-Class.
Automatic Lane Change is part of Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Active Steering Assist. If a slower vehicle is travelling ahead, the car can initiate a lane change itself. If the radar recognises sufficient open space and lane markings are detected, it can overtake the slower vehicle in front fully automatically. The prerequisites are a motorway-like road with at least two lanes and a speed limit as well as a vehicle equipped with MBUX Navigation. The system does not require any further input from the driver to carry out the automatic lane change. Responsibility for controlling the vehicle remains with the driver. Therefore, they must monitor the lane-change process throughout. Mercedes-Benz already offers Automatic Lane Change for some models in the U.S. and Canada.
Since the launch of the current generation in December 2020, Mercedes-Benz has continuously developed the S-Class and expanded the customisation options as part of the MANUFAKTUR programme. Previous product upgrades include, for example, the clearly laid out MBUX Zero Layer user interface and the ultimate sound experience with Dolby Atmos. The OLED centre display is also now standard, as is MBUX Entertainment Plus. In addition to music streaming services and Internet radio, MBUX also offers video streaming via YouTube and RIDEVU. The customisation package[2] includes entertaining mini-games such as Sudoku, atmospheric modes that adjust the interior settings and displays to selected themes, and extended projection functions for vehicles with DIGITAL LIGHT.
Special-protection version with unique integrated concept
All updates also apply to the armoured version of the special-protection version of the luxury model, the S 680 GUARD 4MATIC (energy consumption combined: 20.0 l/100 km | CO₂ emissions combined: 453 g/km | CO₂ class: D)[3]. This special-protection version is powered by the V12 (M279) engine with 450 kW/612 hp.
The S 680 GUARD’s protection class of VPAM VR10 fulfils the highest ballistic test level for civilian vehicles in transparent as well as non-transparent areas in accordance with applicable VPAM (Association of test centres for attack-resistant materials and structures) ERV (Explosive Resistant Vehicles) and BRV (Bullet Resistant Vehicles) guidelines. The S-GUARD has been certified with three out of three stars in the ERV test involving the biofidelic dummy.
The integrated protection system (iPS) includes a dedicated body-in-white made from protective elements. The (aluminium) outer skin serves as a design shell and ensures an inconspicuous appearance. As well as armour plating, the iPS also incorporates adaptations to the chassis, engine and transmission. This ensures handling as close as possible to that of the regular production variant. Thanks to this concept, the occupants of an S-GUARD enjoy the comfort and conveniences of a series-production S-Class as well as an almost identical sense of spaciousness. The lifecycle of the GUARD vehicles is also on par with series-production. Because they are developed in parallel with the high-volume models, the process takes into account the extensive adaptations necessary for the very special demands made of the S-GUARD.
The highlights of the current S-Class generation at a glance
The S-Class is the Mercedes-Benz flagship and a technological pioneer in many areas. Here are the most important innovations of the 223 model series:
[2] The content of the customisation package is subject to change. The availability of the content depends on the software version and equipment of the respective vehicle. The availability of the projection animation for DIGITAL LIGHT headlights also depends on the country.
[3] The stated values were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement procedure. The ranges given refer to the German market. The energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a car depend not only on the car’s efficient use of the fuel or energy source, but also on driving style and other non-technical factors.
[4] The following Mercedes me connect services are required for the DRIVE PILOT to function: Intelligent Drive Online Service and Live Traffic Information with Car-to-X communication. These services can be used free of charge for three years from activation. At the end of this initial term, the services can be extended for a fee, provided they are still offered for the corresponding vehicle. Registration in the Mercedes me portal, agreement to the Mercedes me connect terms of use and linking the respective vehicle to the user account are required for use. The services can be activated for the first time within one year of initial registration or commissioning by the customer – whichever comes first.
[5] The availability and use of the DRIVE PILOT functions on the motorway depend on the equipment, countries and applicable laws. Which secondary activities of the driver are legally permissible depends on the respective road-traffic regulations.
- RIDEVU from Sony Pictures Entertainment expands video-streaming offering
- Comfort front head restraints with additional cushions now standard
- Special-protection version of the luxury model likewise benefits from updates
Mercedes-Benz is enhancing its video streaming offering by an integration of Sony Pictures Entertainment's (SPE) cutting-edge RIDEVU service. RIDEVU gives customers access to a diverse range of video entertainment directly in their vehicle. It provides users with advanced controls and features designed specifically for the car. These enable consumers to conveniently stream SPE content on demand, directly from their vehicles. It includes a curated library of films available for streaming, enriching the Mercedes-Benz entertainment bundle.
Mercedes-Benz has further optimised the MBUX user interface: suggestions for assisted parking are now located more intuitively in the menu and therefore easier for the customer to use. The ‘pre-installation for the Digital Vehicle Key’ service from Mercedes me, which is already available in Europe, will in future also be available in the U.S. and Canada. In addition, the pre-installation will be usable with compatible Android devices.
Another new feature in the S-Class is the occupant presence reminder. It can help draw attention to people that may have been left in the rear of the vehicle. It activates and deactivates automatically by opening a rear door for a longer period of time on the assumption that people have entered the vehicle and are in the backseat.
The Mercedes-Benz Automatic Lane Change (ALC) function now offers an intelligent development of the SAE Level 2[1] driving assistance systems also in Europe. Automatic Lane Change is supported on motorway-like roads (for example with structural separation between traffic travelling in opposite directions). The function is installed ex-factory in the 2024 model year S-Class.
Automatic Lane Change is part of Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with Active Steering Assist. If a slower vehicle is travelling ahead, the car can initiate a lane change itself. If the radar recognises sufficient open space and lane markings are detected, it can overtake the slower vehicle in front fully automatically. The prerequisites are a motorway-like road with at least two lanes and a speed limit as well as a vehicle equipped with MBUX Navigation. The system does not require any further input from the driver to carry out the automatic lane change. Responsibility for controlling the vehicle remains with the driver. Therefore, they must monitor the lane-change process throughout. Mercedes-Benz already offers Automatic Lane Change for some models in the U.S. and Canada.
Since the launch of the current generation in December 2020, Mercedes-Benz has continuously developed the S-Class and expanded the customisation options as part of the MANUFAKTUR programme. Previous product upgrades include, for example, the clearly laid out MBUX Zero Layer user interface and the ultimate sound experience with Dolby Atmos. The OLED centre display is also now standard, as is MBUX Entertainment Plus. In addition to music streaming services and Internet radio, MBUX also offers video streaming via YouTube and RIDEVU. The customisation package[2] includes entertaining mini-games such as Sudoku, atmospheric modes that adjust the interior settings and displays to selected themes, and extended projection functions for vehicles with DIGITAL LIGHT.
Special-protection version with unique integrated concept
All updates also apply to the armoured version of the special-protection version of the luxury model, the S 680 GUARD 4MATIC (energy consumption combined: 20.0 l/100 km | CO₂ emissions combined: 453 g/km | CO₂ class: D)[3]. This special-protection version is powered by the V12 (M279) engine with 450 kW/612 hp.
The S 680 GUARD’s protection class of VPAM VR10 fulfils the highest ballistic test level for civilian vehicles in transparent as well as non-transparent areas in accordance with applicable VPAM (Association of test centres for attack-resistant materials and structures) ERV (Explosive Resistant Vehicles) and BRV (Bullet Resistant Vehicles) guidelines. The S-GUARD has been certified with three out of three stars in the ERV test involving the biofidelic dummy.
The integrated protection system (iPS) includes a dedicated body-in-white made from protective elements. The (aluminium) outer skin serves as a design shell and ensures an inconspicuous appearance. As well as armour plating, the iPS also incorporates adaptations to the chassis, engine and transmission. This ensures handling as close as possible to that of the regular production variant. Thanks to this concept, the occupants of an S-GUARD enjoy the comfort and conveniences of a series-production S-Class as well as an almost identical sense of spaciousness. The lifecycle of the GUARD vehicles is also on par with series-production. Because they are developed in parallel with the high-volume models, the process takes into account the extensive adaptations necessary for the very special demands made of the S-GUARD.
The highlights of the current S-Class generation at a glance
The S-Class is the Mercedes-Benz flagship and a technological pioneer in many areas. Here are the most important innovations of the 223 model series:
- DRIVE PILOT[1] is the world's first SAE Level 3 system with an internationally valid system approval for conditionally automated driving. Under certain conditions, DRIVE PILOT takes over the dynamic driving task. When DRIVE PILOT is activated, the driver can devote themselves to certain secondary activities.[2] DRIVE PILOT has been available for the S-Class in Germany since May 2022 and in the U.S. states of California and Nevada since the autumn of 2023. Mercedes-Benz was also one of the first car manufacturers to receive approval for testing in Beijing in December 2023.
- DIGITAL LIGHT headlamp technology (optional) has a light module in each headlamp with several extremely powerful LEDs whose light is refracted and directed with the aid of 1.3 million micromirrors. Among other things, DIGITAL LIGHT enables auxiliary markings or warning symbols to be projected onto the road.
- Rear-axle steering (optional) reduces the turning circle of the S-Class by up to two metres. The steering angle at the rear axle is up to 10 degrees.
- The E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL active suspension (optional) can individually control the spring and damper forces on each wheel and thus counteract not only rolling, but also pitching and lifting movements. Together with ROAD SURFACE SCAN and the CURVE cornering function, E‑ACTIVE BODY CONTROL provides an exceptional level of comfort. In the event of an imminent side impact with another vehicle, the E-ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension can also raise the body within a few tenths of a second. This is a function of the PRE-SAFE® Impulse side and can reduce the loads exerted on the occupants.
- The fourth generation of the hybrid drive celebrated its premiere in the S-Class in 2021. Drivers can now cover most everyday journeys using only electricity.
- Active ambient lighting (optional) is an additional lighting level with around 250 LEDs. It is integrated into the driving assistance systems and can visually support their warnings.
- The innovative rear airbag (optional for the long-wheelbase S-Class) can significantly reduce the impact on the head and neck of the occupants in the outer rear seats in the event of a serious frontal collision. Another innovative restraint system is the beltbag (optional). This inflatable belt strap can reduce the loads exerted on the occupants' chests in the event of a severe frontal collision.
[2] The content of the customisation package is subject to change. The availability of the content depends on the software version and equipment of the respective vehicle. The availability of the projection animation for DIGITAL LIGHT headlights also depends on the country.
[3] The stated values were determined in accordance with the prescribed WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light vehicles Test Procedure) measurement procedure. The ranges given refer to the German market. The energy consumption and CO₂ emissions of a car depend not only on the car’s efficient use of the fuel or energy source, but also on driving style and other non-technical factors.
[4] The following Mercedes me connect services are required for the DRIVE PILOT to function: Intelligent Drive Online Service and Live Traffic Information with Car-to-X communication. These services can be used free of charge for three years from activation. At the end of this initial term, the services can be extended for a fee, provided they are still offered for the corresponding vehicle. Registration in the Mercedes me portal, agreement to the Mercedes me connect terms of use and linking the respective vehicle to the user account are required for use. The services can be activated for the first time within one year of initial registration or commissioning by the customer – whichever comes first.
[5] The availability and use of the DRIVE PILOT functions on the motorway depend on the equipment, countries and applicable laws. Which secondary activities of the driver are legally permissible depends on the respective road-traffic regulations.
The MANUFAKTUR offerings for the S-Class
These paints are available for the exterior:
The MANUFAKTUR Exclusive nappa leather front and rear seats are among the available interior finishes. They feature intricate diamond quilting, with the Mercedes star embroidered into the cushions of the head restraints. Nappa leather in MANUFAKTUR colours is also used for the armrests and door centre panels, the centre console including centre armrests, and the lower section of the instrument panel. Another interior highlight is the hand-covered MANUFAKTUR steering wheel in nappa leather, which is colour-coordinated with the interior. Also available is a MANUFAKTUR steering wheel in nappa leather based on the multifunction steering wheel finished in wood/leather. The rim is finished in piano lacquer.
The sumptuous deep-pile black MANUFAKTUR floor mats feature an embroidered Mercedes star and nappa leather piping in the MANUFAKTUR interior colour. The illuminated door sill trims in the door cut-outs bear the lettering ‘Mercedes-Benz’ and the Mercedes-Benz pattern.
Five MANUFAKTUR colour combinations are available for interior customisation in the Mercedes‑Benz S‑Class: MANUFAKTUR yacht blue/black, MANUFAKTUR walnut brown/black, MANUFAKTUR deep white/black, MANUFAKTUR tartufo brown/black and MANUFAKTUR pastel yellow/black. The centre console is adorned with MANUFAKTUR lettering in a bright chrome look. It is executed in cursive script, emphasising the label's commitment to quality craftsmanship. The same applies to the embroidered MANUFAKTUR lettering on the parcel shelf, which the driver can see in the rear-view mirror.
There is also a platinum or gold-coloured emblem package: the MANUFAKTUR head-restraint cushions are embroidered with the Mercedes star in the respective colours. Adorning the floor mats is the same pattern or, in combination with the AMG Line, an embroidered AMG logo. In addition, the customer receives ambient lighting in all four doors with an animated projection of the Mercedes-Benz pattern.
The S-Class models from Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach can be personalised in a similar way.
- High-quality hand-crafted materials
- Special exterior paints in solid, metallic or matt finishes
- MANUFAKTUR interior and emblem packages
These paints are available for the exterior:
- Solid paints:
- MANUFAKTUR opalite white bright
- MANUFAKTUR vintage blue
- MANUFAKTUR silicon grey
- Metallic paints:
- MANUFAKTUR graphite metallic
- MANUFAKTUR rubellite red metallic
- MANUFAKTUR Kalahari gold metallic
- MANUFAKTUR mystic blue metallic
- MANUFAKTUR olive metallic
- magno paints with a matt finish:
- MANUFAKTUR graphite grey magno
- MANUFAKTUR midnight black magno
- MANUFAKTUR opalite white magno
- MANUFAKTUR Kalahari gold magno
The MANUFAKTUR Exclusive nappa leather front and rear seats are among the available interior finishes. They feature intricate diamond quilting, with the Mercedes star embroidered into the cushions of the head restraints. Nappa leather in MANUFAKTUR colours is also used for the armrests and door centre panels, the centre console including centre armrests, and the lower section of the instrument panel. Another interior highlight is the hand-covered MANUFAKTUR steering wheel in nappa leather, which is colour-coordinated with the interior. Also available is a MANUFAKTUR steering wheel in nappa leather based on the multifunction steering wheel finished in wood/leather. The rim is finished in piano lacquer.
The sumptuous deep-pile black MANUFAKTUR floor mats feature an embroidered Mercedes star and nappa leather piping in the MANUFAKTUR interior colour. The illuminated door sill trims in the door cut-outs bear the lettering ‘Mercedes-Benz’ and the Mercedes-Benz pattern.
Five MANUFAKTUR colour combinations are available for interior customisation in the Mercedes‑Benz S‑Class: MANUFAKTUR yacht blue/black, MANUFAKTUR walnut brown/black, MANUFAKTUR deep white/black, MANUFAKTUR tartufo brown/black and MANUFAKTUR pastel yellow/black. The centre console is adorned with MANUFAKTUR lettering in a bright chrome look. It is executed in cursive script, emphasising the label's commitment to quality craftsmanship. The same applies to the embroidered MANUFAKTUR lettering on the parcel shelf, which the driver can see in the rear-view mirror.
There is also a platinum or gold-coloured emblem package: the MANUFAKTUR head-restraint cushions are embroidered with the Mercedes star in the respective colours. Adorning the floor mats is the same pattern or, in combination with the AMG Line, an embroidered AMG logo. In addition, the customer receives ambient lighting in all four doors with an animated projection of the Mercedes-Benz pattern.
The S-Class models from Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-Maybach can be personalised in a similar way.
MANUFAKTUR production in Sindelfingen
As the MANUFAKTUR programme offered for selected model ranges has been very well received, it will be continuously expanded. If customers do not find what they are looking for, they can also discuss their customisation wishes with expert advisors. Depending on where they are, this can take place either at the Mercedes-Benz Center of Excellence in Sindelfingen or at a Mercedes-Benz dealership. If the customer's ideas are feasible, unique vehicles are created.
The Mercedes-Benz MANUFAKTUR workshop in Sindelfingen produces exclusive customised and individual interior components that meet the highest standards. Seat trim parts, window frames, vanity mirrors, headliners and much more are clad with leather in various colours and installed in production worldwide.
In the MANUFAKTUR workshop, there is no classic series production; the components are mostly handmade. The team of around 250 consists of highly qualified experts who hold many years of professional experience and have a personal passion for quality craftsmanship and high-end materials. Mercedes-Benz has been training skilled workers for many years. After a three-year training programme to become a vehicle interior mechanic, an additional qualification period of up to six months is required, depending on the component.
The MANUFAKTUR team works with fabrics and deep-pile carpets as well as nappa leather. By sewing precise decorative seams on leather-clad components as well as embroidering and embossing leather, the team produces small works of art. Leather is a good example of what resource-conserving luxury and the highest quality standards at Mercedes-Benz look like in detail. Leather is a natural material with features like skin folds, mosquito bites and scars. Every hide is therefore scrutinised during goods-inward inspection. Any areas that do not meet MANUFAKTUR's high quality standards are marked by specially trained employees using a digital pen. They then scan and save the marked areas and allocate them to each individual skin using a barcode.
In the next process steps, specialists can place the individual component layouts to ensure use of the best areas. This involves the application of digital cutting patterns on the computer. Like a jigsaw puzzle, the team arranges all the layouts on a hide on-screen in a way that leaves out imperfections while minimising waste. The leather must be flexible and supple so that components can be clad with a precision fit and minimal joints. This is why the leather is split in MANUFAKTUR production.
One of the most complex MANUFAKTUR components is the headliner sewn together from nappa leather. It consists of around 20 pieces and is sewn with the utmost precision by a seamster or seamstress on different sewing machines. This work requires a great deal of experience to ensure that, for instance, the decorative seams on the grab-handle recesses end up in the right places. For this reason, only one person is responsible for the sewing on any particular job.
Production of a leather steering wheel is also very demanding. First, the blank is covered with leather, which is then sewn stitch by stitch with a special seam. Depending on the steering wheel design, this takes between four and eight hours.
MANUFAKTUR uses a special embossing tool to emboss logos and lettering into the leather. If the customer wants, they can even order family crests or company logos. It entails making an embossing die from a bronze alloy into which the details are precision milled. This is another way of giving Mercedes-Benz models a very personal touch.
- The MANUFAKTUR customer request programme offers individual customer builds
- Customised interior components are made by hand in the MANUFAKTUR workshop
- Mercedes-Benz trains interior specialists and provides them with further qualifications
As the MANUFAKTUR programme offered for selected model ranges has been very well received, it will be continuously expanded. If customers do not find what they are looking for, they can also discuss their customisation wishes with expert advisors. Depending on where they are, this can take place either at the Mercedes-Benz Center of Excellence in Sindelfingen or at a Mercedes-Benz dealership. If the customer's ideas are feasible, unique vehicles are created.
The Mercedes-Benz MANUFAKTUR workshop in Sindelfingen produces exclusive customised and individual interior components that meet the highest standards. Seat trim parts, window frames, vanity mirrors, headliners and much more are clad with leather in various colours and installed in production worldwide.
In the MANUFAKTUR workshop, there is no classic series production; the components are mostly handmade. The team of around 250 consists of highly qualified experts who hold many years of professional experience and have a personal passion for quality craftsmanship and high-end materials. Mercedes-Benz has been training skilled workers for many years. After a three-year training programme to become a vehicle interior mechanic, an additional qualification period of up to six months is required, depending on the component.
The MANUFAKTUR team works with fabrics and deep-pile carpets as well as nappa leather. By sewing precise decorative seams on leather-clad components as well as embroidering and embossing leather, the team produces small works of art. Leather is a good example of what resource-conserving luxury and the highest quality standards at Mercedes-Benz look like in detail. Leather is a natural material with features like skin folds, mosquito bites and scars. Every hide is therefore scrutinised during goods-inward inspection. Any areas that do not meet MANUFAKTUR's high quality standards are marked by specially trained employees using a digital pen. They then scan and save the marked areas and allocate them to each individual skin using a barcode.
In the next process steps, specialists can place the individual component layouts to ensure use of the best areas. This involves the application of digital cutting patterns on the computer. Like a jigsaw puzzle, the team arranges all the layouts on a hide on-screen in a way that leaves out imperfections while minimising waste. The leather must be flexible and supple so that components can be clad with a precision fit and minimal joints. This is why the leather is split in MANUFAKTUR production.
One of the most complex MANUFAKTUR components is the headliner sewn together from nappa leather. It consists of around 20 pieces and is sewn with the utmost precision by a seamster or seamstress on different sewing machines. This work requires a great deal of experience to ensure that, for instance, the decorative seams on the grab-handle recesses end up in the right places. For this reason, only one person is responsible for the sewing on any particular job.
Production of a leather steering wheel is also very demanding. First, the blank is covered with leather, which is then sewn stitch by stitch with a special seam. Depending on the steering wheel design, this takes between four and eight hours.
MANUFAKTUR uses a special embossing tool to emboss logos and lettering into the leather. If the customer wants, they can even order family crests or company logos. It entails making an embossing die from a bronze alloy into which the details are precision milled. This is another way of giving Mercedes-Benz models a very personal touch.
S-Class production at Factory 56 in Sindelfingen
The assembly system enables flexible setup throughout: two so-called TecLines avoid fixed points in the assembly process. They are located at the start of interior fitting and bring all the complex system technologies together in one place. This means that conversion work necessitated by the integration of new models, for example, is easier to carry out in the other areas of the assembly hall. In the TecLines, the traditional production line is replaced by automated guided vehicles (AGVs), allowing the best possible changeover between continuous and cycled operation. A total of more than 400 AGVs are in operation in Factory 56. The machines and systems are networked with each other throughout the hall via a digital infrastructure with high-performance Wi-Fi and 5G mobile networks.
The so-called ‘Fullflex Marriage’ sets a new standard for the process whereby the vehicle body is connected to the drive system. In Factory 56, this ‘marriage’ consists of several modular stations. For new product requirements, the individual modules can be replaced within one weekend. This makes it possible to avoid major conversions and therefore longer production interruptions.
In line with Ambition 2039, Factory 56 is net carbon neutral and has a significantly reduced energy requirement compared to other assembly halls. This is enabled in part by an innovative energy concept. Factory 56 has a photovoltaic system on its roof that supplies the hall with self-generated, green electricity. This covers around 30 percent of Factory 56's annual electricity requirements. Some of the electricity flows into an innovative direct current grid, which improves the hall’s operating energy efficiency. A stationary energy storage system based on vehicle batteries is also connected to the DC grid. With a total capacity of 1,400 kWh, it serves as a temporary store for surplus solar power generated by the photovoltaic system. Around 40 percent of the roof area is covered in greenery, which offsets factors such as impermeable surface area.
The entire concept of Factory 56 is people-centric. Modern lighting, consisting of LEDs and an innovative blue-sky architecture that allows employees to work in daylight, creates a pleasant working environment while saving energy. All assembly workstations are ergonomically optimised. Depending on their requirements, employees can manoeuvre the vehicles on the line into the best possible position using specific elements, such as overhead rotary conveyors.
- MO360 digital ecosystem provides the basis for digitalised production
- Modern assembly system with TecLines and modular marriage
- Reduced energy requirements compared to other assembly halls
The assembly system enables flexible setup throughout: two so-called TecLines avoid fixed points in the assembly process. They are located at the start of interior fitting and bring all the complex system technologies together in one place. This means that conversion work necessitated by the integration of new models, for example, is easier to carry out in the other areas of the assembly hall. In the TecLines, the traditional production line is replaced by automated guided vehicles (AGVs), allowing the best possible changeover between continuous and cycled operation. A total of more than 400 AGVs are in operation in Factory 56. The machines and systems are networked with each other throughout the hall via a digital infrastructure with high-performance Wi-Fi and 5G mobile networks.
The so-called ‘Fullflex Marriage’ sets a new standard for the process whereby the vehicle body is connected to the drive system. In Factory 56, this ‘marriage’ consists of several modular stations. For new product requirements, the individual modules can be replaced within one weekend. This makes it possible to avoid major conversions and therefore longer production interruptions.
In line with Ambition 2039, Factory 56 is net carbon neutral and has a significantly reduced energy requirement compared to other assembly halls. This is enabled in part by an innovative energy concept. Factory 56 has a photovoltaic system on its roof that supplies the hall with self-generated, green electricity. This covers around 30 percent of Factory 56's annual electricity requirements. Some of the electricity flows into an innovative direct current grid, which improves the hall’s operating energy efficiency. A stationary energy storage system based on vehicle batteries is also connected to the DC grid. With a total capacity of 1,400 kWh, it serves as a temporary store for surplus solar power generated by the photovoltaic system. Around 40 percent of the roof area is covered in greenery, which offsets factors such as impermeable surface area.
The entire concept of Factory 56 is people-centric. Modern lighting, consisting of LEDs and an innovative blue-sky architecture that allows employees to work in daylight, creates a pleasant working environment while saving energy. All assembly workstations are ergonomically optimised. Depending on their requirements, employees can manoeuvre the vehicles on the line into the best possible position using specific elements, such as overhead rotary conveyors.
