The new generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class has made an outstanding debut in Europe, as about 30,000 orders have been placed for the luxury limousine within just a few days of its market launch. The new generation E-Class hit European showrooms on June 10, 2006 and will be introduced to all remaining markets in the coming weeks and months.

“We’re delighted about this promising sales launch,” says Dr. Klaus Maier, head of Sales and Marketing at the Mercedes Car Group. “We recognize the very positive expectations of our customers - rightfully so, since the latest generation of the E-Class is simply the best ever.”

The new generation E-Class has attracted large numbers of prospective customers to Mercedes-Benz dealerships and own retail outlets in Germany. Test drives are also very much in demand. Besides the 4,000 test drives that were already conducted during the first market launch
weekend, over 10.000 more have already been scheduled for other potential customers.

Around ten million E-Class vehicles delivered to customers around the world

Around ten million customers all over the world have purchased Mercedes-Benz’ upper-range model since 1946. The current, seventh generation of the E Class has also been a great success. Since its market launch in 2002, more than one million E-Class vehicles have been sold, making it the best-selling vehicle in its segment.

Safest automobile in its class

Thanks to its pioneering innovations, the E-Class remains the safest vehicle in its segment. The standard equipment in the sedan and the station wagon models includes the anticipatory PRE-SAFE® system, which automatically activates safety measures for the driver and front passenger should an accident be imminent. The new-generation E-Class is the world’s first automobile to be equipped with optional adaptive headlights that optimally adjust to driving and weather conditions. This Intelligent Light System considerably improves driving safety.

E-Class on the road from Paris to Beijing

On October 21, the new generation of the E-Class will begin a remarkable long-distance journey, when 33 vehicles equipped with the latest diesel technology make their way to Beijing from the Paris Motor Show. Large parts of the tour will follow the route of the first intercontinental auto race in history, which took place 99 years ago, albeit in the opposite direction. The approximately 13,000-kilometer trip, which extends across eight national borders and includes some challenging terrain, will enable the new-generation E-Class to demonstrate not only its engine performance, but also its safe and reliable handling. People who would like to take part in this one-of-a-kind adventure can apply at www.e-class-experience.com, starting this summer.