In another sign of how times are changing, Mercedes-Benz executives in China are pushing for the brand to host the world premiere of the next generation S-Class in one of the country’s major car shows in 2013, according to a report from Beijing’s Jinhua Times.

“There is no doubt that the Chinese market will be key to the sales of this product; therefore we have a strong case to make for it to debut in China,” said Klaus Maier, CEO of Mercedes-Benz China.

The new S-Class, known internally as the W222, will include a range of six or perhaps even more models such as the normal and long wheelbase sedans, a coupe replacement for the current CL-Class, an extra-long and luxurious “Pullman” edition and two convertibles.

Autonews reported that Maier also told the Beijing newspaper that Mercedes-Benz will launch five new models in the country by the end of the year (without disclosing any other details) and that the company plans to expand its Chinese dealership network to 260 stores, up from 217 today.

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