Mercedes-Benz Lists Their Top Ten New Tech Features For 2019

This has been a really strong year for Mercedes as far as expanding their product line and introducing new and innovative technologies, aimed at making life on-board and on the road easier.

Such systems include the new MBUX user interface with Interior Assistant, E-ACTIVE Body Control, the Carwash Function, the Fully-variable 4MATIC all-wheel drive system (as seen on the 2020 GLE), the 48-volt system for V8 engines and so on. Let’s take them one at a time, shall we?

MBUX with Interior Assistant

MBUX stands for Mercedes-Benz User Experience and unlike the MY19 version, the newer one allows for the “intuitive, natural operation of different comfort and functions through movement recognition.” This is possible thanks to a camera in the overhead console, which registers movements of the driver’s and front passenger’s hands and arms.

When your hand approaches the touchscreen display or the Touchpad on the center console, the infotainment screen will change, highlighting individual elements. Other functions include hand gesturing and personalized programs.

E-ACTIVE Body Control

This technology is based on a fully networked hydropneumatic active suspension, running on a 48-volt platform, and working alongside a newly-developed air suspension. According to the German automaker, this is the only system in the market where the spring and damping forces can be individually controlled at each wheel.

The result is a suspension setup that can counteract body roll, as well as pitch and squat – really helpful on larger vehicles such as SUVs.

Carwash Function

If you happen to purchase the all-new Mercedes GLS, you should know that it comes with a bit of tech that you can use while your car is being washed. The Carwash Function will automatically adjust the suspension to the highest position, fold the mirrors, close the windows and sunroof, suppress the rain sensor, switch the climate control to air-recirculation mode and activates the 360-degree front camera view.

When you leave the carwash, these settings will automatically revert to normal as you accelerate past 12 mph (19 km/h).

Fully-variable 4MATIC

Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system has been further developed, and starting with the 2020 GLE, it can now vary torque distribution between the front and rear axle from 0-100 %, depending on the selected driving mode.

V8 with 48-Volt System

For the 2020 model year, Mercedes gave the GLE and GLS electrified V8 powertrains (GLE 580 and GLS 580), comprised of a V8 biturbo gasoline unit with a 48-volt on-board electrical system and integrated starter generator.

The configuration produces 483 HP (490 PS) and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque, while an additional 184 lb-ft (250 Nm) and 21 HP are available through EQ Boost over short periods. The starter generator is also responsible for handling hybrid functions such as energy recuperation.

35 & 45 AMG Variants

Mercedes-AMG buyers can now purchase CLA and A-Class models powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo unit (35), producing 302 HP (306 PS). The CLA 45 on the other hand features the world’s most powerful series production turbocharged 2.0-liter four-pot, at 382 HP (387 PS) and 354 lb-ft (480 Nm) of torque.

Active Stop-and-Go Assist

Yet another system first launched on the all-new GLE. This technology enables the vehicle to recognize traffic jams at an early stage, before actively supporting the driver in bumper to bumper traffic up to 37 mph (60 km/h).

Cross-Traffic Function

This feature allows the vehicle to brake at speeds typical of maneuvers that are necessary in avoiding a possible collision with oncoming traffic. The car will do the braking if the driver signals the intention to turn (with the turn signals) – coming to a stop before crossing the lane marking.

Exit Warning Function

This year, vehicles equipped with Blind Spot Assist also come with a new Vehicle Exit Warning function. It works by lowering the risk of a collision with other road users after the car is parked – for example, it protects against passing cyclists.

The system monitors the blind spot when the car is at a standstill or parked, and can warn the driver (visual warning in the mirrors, and audible via the instrument cluster) of approaching vehicles, motorcycles or bicycles when opening the door. Mercedes will even keep this function active for up to three minutes after you switch off the engine.

Energizing Coach

Mercedes say that the Energizing Coach function is based on an intelligent algorithm that can recommend a specific relaxation program depending on the situation and the individual. The goal is for passengers to feel refreshed and relaxed even on long and demanding journeys.