Latest news with #Mercedes-Benz
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Mercedes-Benz brings Microsoft Teams calls to cars
Mercedes-Benz has expanded its partnership with Microsoft to bring popular business tools, including Teams, into its cars. The partnership introduces advanced Microsoft business productivity and collaboration tools, starting with the all-new CLA. The productivity enhancements will be rolled out this summer, starting with the powered fourth-generation MBUX in the new CLA. The updated Meetings for Teams app in Mercedes-Benz vehicles now allows drivers to participate in Teams calls using the in-car camera, ensuring compliance with local laws and focusing on safety. The app automatically disables the video stream when the camera is activated to prevent driver distraction. Additionally, the app features a new dashboard with upcoming meetings, quick access to frequent contacts, and an expanded chat function, all designed to enhance productivity while driving. Mercedes-Benz is the first to natively integrate Microsoft Intune into a vehicle operating system, creating a secure workspace on wheels. This integration into allows customers to manage business and private data separately and provides IT administrators with tools to control access rights and security policies. The integration supports productivity apps like MBUX Notes and Calendar and will be available in Europe and the US. The collaboration also aims to bring Microsoft 365 Copilot into Mercedes-Benz vehicles, marking one of the first in-car applications of generative AI. The advanced AI will assist users in summarising emails, retrieving client information, and managing tasks through voice commands, potentially making the vehicle a third workspace alongside the office and home office. Mercedes-Benz Group chairman of the board of management Ola Källenius said: 'Through our industry-leading collaboration with Microsoft, we are making it even easier for our customers to stay productive while on the move. By integrating the latest Microsoft workspace tools, such as Microsoft Teams, directly into our new operating system, we've created an intuitive and safe user experience that boosts efficiency and reduces distractions at the same time.' "Mercedes-Benz brings Microsoft Teams calls to cars" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
The Hindu
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- The Hindu
Track-bred Titans: Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ and GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ debut in India
Mercedes-Benz has turned up the volume on India's performance car narrative by introducing the latest-generation AMG GT coupés — the GT 63 4MATIC+ and its more track-hardened sibling, the GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+. These two coupés are not just additions to the brand's lineup, they represent the cutting edge of Affalterbach's performance philosophy. Each car blends motorsport-grade technology with raw mechanical intensity, wrapped in a silhouette that is both aggressive and unmistakably elegant. The GT 63 4MATIC+ marks a notable debut as the first AMG Coupé of this scale to arrive in India with a fully variable all-wheel-drive, opening up a far broader performance bandwidth. Power delivery, as expected, is nothing short of ferocious. Beneath the long bonnet rests a handcrafted 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo motor that belts out 585 horsepower and 800 Nm of torque. The numbers are arresting on paper — 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, and a top speed just north of 315 km/h — but it's how this car handles that truly defines its purpose. AMG's pursuit of dynamic excellence is evident in its Active Ride Control suspension setup, which replaces traditional anti-roll bars with hydraulically linked dampers that adapt in real time to load and steering input. It's a decisive move away from the stiff compromises that once came with performance. Rear-axle steering lends it incredible agility — turning the rear wheels opposite to the front ones at lower speeds and in tandem at high velocity, giving the car an almost uncanny stability. But where the GT 63 comes across as a streetwise athlete, the GT 63 PRO takes everything a step further. Born from the track and built for those who demand more than just road presence, it delivers a heightened performance with 612 horsepower and 850 Nm underfoot. It's sprint time drops to 3.1 seconds helped by reworked engine software, a more aggressive boost curve, and lightweight ceramic composite brakes that offer immense stopping power. Aesthetically, the GT 63 PRO isn't shy about its intent. Carbon-fibre splitters, diffuser fins, and an aero package that borrows cues from the AMG ONE hypercar help produce serious downforce. In fact, Mercedes claims the upgraded underbody aero elements alone reduce front-end lift by over 30 kilograms, apart from rear downforce gains of around 15 kilograms. Together, these changes have a transformative effect on high-speed stability. Beneath the surface, the car's cooling has been re-engineered with track performance in mind. Two additional radiators nestled into the front wheel arches work alongside actively managed differential cooling systems. Cup 2R tyres — homologated for the circuit — come as a no-cost option, offering serious grip and consistency when chasing apexes. Inside, the dual personality of these AMGs becomes even more apparent. The cabin retains a sense of luxury with a comprehensive spread of digital instrumentation, MBUX displays, and AMG-specific menus that include the TRACK PACE telemetry system. This advanced system records data at a mind-bending ten times per second across over 80 parameters, giving the driver detailed post-lap analysis. While the rear seats don't offer limousine-level comfort, Mercedes has marginally increased rear headroom to accommodate passengers up to 1.5 metres in height — small wins in a packaging war for usability. Personalisation plays a key role in distinguishing the two coupés. Both are offered with a selection of MANUFAKTUR finishes ranging from the deeply dramatic Green Hell Magno to a show-stopping Opalith White Bright. The GT 63 PRO, naturally, gets carbon trim and Night Package II elements as standard, further underlining its intent. Deliveries for the GT 63 are set to begin by the end of 2025, while the GT 63 PRO will reach customers in early 2026. In an interesting move, Mercedes-Benz India is also lining up curated track experiences for customers, which makes perfect sense considering how focused these machines are on delivering a complete performance experience, and not just numbers on a spec sheet. The AMG GT family is more than just Mercedes' interpretation of high-speed indulgence — it's a reminder of how the brand continues to fuse heritage with innovation. Whether it's the raw muscle of the GT 63 or the precision-edged fury of the PRO, both cars underline one simple truth: performance has never looked, sounded, or driven quite like this. Prices (Ex-showroom, India): Mercedes-AMG GT 63 4MATIC+ — ₹3.00 crore Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ — ₹3.65 crore Motorscribes, in association with The Hindu, brings you the latest in cars and bikes. Follow them on Instagram on @motorscribes
India Today
9 hours ago
- Automotive
- India Today
Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coupé to make debut in India on August 12
Mercedes-Benz is set to expand its high-performance lineup in India with the launch of the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coup on August 12, 2025. This model made its global debut in December 2023, and serves as a successor to both the C-Class and E-Class coups. With this launch, Mercedes-Benz aims to streamline its two-door offerings into a single, powerful, luxury grand tourer. The model is a part of the eight launches Mercedes-Benz India announced for aggressive design with signature AMG stylingThe CLE 53 Coup exudes typical AMG aggression with design highlights that include:The Panamericana grille with vertical slatsWider front and rear tracks (widened by 58mm and 75mm respectively)Sharper bumpers, fender vents, and bonnet ventQuad exhaust tips neatly integrated into a sporty rear diffuserSculpted LED headlights with DRLs and two-part LED taillamps connected by piano black trimStandard 19-inch AMG alloy wheels (with 20-inch options)The coup features a flowing roofline and raked windshield, differentiating it from the CLE Cabriolet launched earlier in powertrainAt its heart, the CLE 53 houses the AMG-tuned M256 3.0-litre inline-six twin-turbocharged engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system. Key performance figures include:446bhp and 560Nm of torque (with an additional 40Nm via overboost)Overboosted torque up to 600Nm for 12 secondsIntegrated starter generator delivering up to 22.6 bhp and 205 Nm0–100 kmph in 4.2 secondsElectronically limited top speed of 250 kmphPower is delivered to all four wheels via the 4MATIC+ all-wheel-drive system and a 9-speed AMG Speedshift automatic gearbox. For optimal performance, the car includes AMG Dynamic Select with drive modes like Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual, along with a manual "M" mode for paddle-shifted gear Luxury Meets Motorsport Inside, the CLE 53 borrows heavily from the C-Class in layout but elevates the experience with AMG-specific details: 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster11.9-inch portrait-oriented MBUX infotainment touchscreenAMG Performance seats and flat-bottom AMG steering wheelWireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 64-color ambient lightingBurmester premium sound system and wireless chargingOTA software updates for enhanced digital connectivityAMG-themed graphics, carbon-fiber-style trims, and sportier controls reinforce the car's performance and rivalsExpected to be priced over Rs 1.5 crore (ex-showroom), the Mercedes-AMG CLE 53 Coup will become the first AMG model in the CLE lineup for India, joining the CLE 300 Cabriolet. It will rival the BMW M2 and the Audi RS5 Sportback in the performance luxury CLE 53 arrives almost a year after the CLE Cabriolet's Indian debut and is part of Mercedes-Benz India's broader push to refresh and consolidate its luxury performance portfolio. The brand has confirmed a robust product roadmap, and the CLE 53 Coup marks yet another exciting chapter in that to Auto Today Magazine- Ends
Hindustan Times
17 hours ago
- Automotive
- Hindustan Times
Explainer: Will Tesla's launch in India make a major impact in the country's EV market? How will the dynamics change?
Tesla India has inaugurated its first experience centre showroom in Mumbai's Bandra Kurla Complex in Mumbai. (Photo by Satish Bate/ Hindustan Times) (Hindustan Times) Check Offers The most hyped electric car manufacturer in the world, Tesla, has finally launched its electric car officially in India. The US-based electric car manufacturer launched its Model Y crossover in India as the brand's first EV in the country. While Tesla's entry was initially thought to disrupt the Indian electric passenger vehicle market, now it seems unlikely, at least in the near term. However, if the automaker considers local manufacturing and starts selling electric cars at a more affordable price range, then it may become a disruption in the coming years. Launched at a pricing range between ₹ 59.89 lakh and ₹ 67.89 lakh (ex-showroom), the Tesla Model Y sits in the premium electric car segment in India, which still remains a niche in the country, despite fast growth pace witnessed in the last few years, owing to the rising population of millionaires and their appetite for high-end cars. No wonder Tesla's arrival of its flashy Model Y could further fuel these rich consumers' appetite. Between January and May 2025, India's luxury electric car sales have surged 66 per cent on a year-on-year (YoY) basis, revealed industry data. The luxury electric cars now account for 11 per cent of total luxury car sales in India, which is seven per cent up from what was recorded in the same period last year. This growth is being spearheaded by Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi. Tesla's official entry in India has created quite some excitement in the country, but unlikely to pose any significant disruption in the industry in short term. (Bloomberg) No disruption in the short term Tesla's entry into the Indian electric car market is unlikely to create any major disruption in the short term. The Indian passenger vehicle market, or even the electric car segment too is driven majorly by the sales of the affordable products that are positioned in the under ₹ 20 lakh category. When it comes to luxury cars, or luxury electric cars, they still contribute a little to the overall electric car sales in the country. Hence, car brands that have been selling luxury electric cars in the country, including OEMs such as Mercedes-Benz, Audi and BMW, are unlikely to face any immediate threat from Tesla. In a nutshell, despite the initial excitement, Tesla's car sales numbers in India are expected to remain modest in the near term, and one of the key reasons behind that is that premium pricing will make its vehicles unaffordable for more than 95 per cent of car buyers in India. Tesla has been known for bringing disruptive automotive technologies into the market, which may create challenges for the other auto OEMs in the Indian market in the long run. (Bloomberg) India-US trade deal could play a key role for Tesla The timing of Tesla's official car launch in India is an interesting factor in this whole story. The automaker launched its Model Y crossover in India at a time when the country is negotiating and inching closer to a trade deal with the US, where the EV manufacturer has its base. While Tesla is initially selling its cars in India as Completely Built Units (CBUs) models, it could get potential benefits from the India-US trade deal. If the governments of these two countries come to an agreement to reduce the import taxes, Tesla could see a major pricing advantage. In that case, the Tesla cars could see a price cut in the country, which will eventually boost their sales significantly in the Indian market. Tesla will initially sell only the Model Y crossover as a CBU model in India, while at a later stage, the OEM may bring more models and even start local manufacturing of its cars as well. (Photo by Satish Bate/ Hindustan Times) (Hindustan Times) (HT_PRINT) Tesla may bring massive disruption in the long term While there is no immediate disruption in the Indian electric car market due to Tesla's arrival, in the long term, the scenario may change drastically. Elon Musk's company could explore the possibility of setting up a local manufacturing plant in India within the next few years. This will help the brand to price its cars aggressively against competitors, eventually reaching more consumers. Local manufacturing will also help the brand to get the benefits of the government schemes, while it will also enable Tesla to enhance its presence in other markets in the region. With the local manufacturing strategy, we may see Tesla introducing its much-talked Model 2 in the country, which could be a game-changer for the brand and for the industry as well. Further, the entry of a brand in India, like Tesla, is expected to boost consumer awareness and expectations. This will enhance the consumer's interest in electric vehicles and will set new benchmarks in modern automotive technology. Tesla, which has been known for bringing a plethora of advanced technologies in its cars, may propel other auto OEMs and stakeholders in the industry to step up their efforts and investment in innovations in the electric vehicle comprehensive ecosystem. Check out Upcoming EV Cars in India, Upcoming EV Bikes in India. First Published Date: 17 Jul 2025, 10:07 am IST
Perth Now
a day ago
- Automotive
- Perth Now
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA250e: Brand's cheapest PHEV priced for Australia
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLA250e plug-in hybrid (PHEV) has been launched in Australia as brand's smallest, most affordable PHEV offering locally. Online order books opened today, July 17, 2025, with the GLA250e 'with EQ hybrid technology' – as the automaker refers to it – priced from $78,000 including metallic paint, before on-road costs. That sees the GLA250e undercut the Alfa Romeo Tonale PHEV by $500 but sit a little over $10k above the Cupra Formentor VZe PHEV's $64,990 (before on-roads) showroom sticker. It also gives the German brand a smaller, more affordable SUV in local showrooms to battle a potential PHEV version of the new 2026 Audi Q3, which is due here mid-next year. Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now. Supplied Credit: CarExpert A new-generation GLA is also expected to be launched overseas next year ahead of an Australian on-sale in 2027. The current GLA is the brand's second most-popular model here, behind only the larger GLC SUV. For now, the GLA250e arrives at $2500 less than the more powerful 165kW/350Nm petrol-powered GLA250 but is priced significantly higher than the $63,600 entry-level GLA200 it shares its petrol engine with. For the extra ask, the GLA250e takes the 1.3-litre petrol four-cylinder – with the same 120kW/270Nm – from the GLA200 and adds an extra gear, with an electric motor build into the eight-speed automatic transmission for a combined 160kW/450Nm. An 11.5kWh lithium-ion battery provides up to 65km (WLTP) of electric-only driving range, with charging speeds of up to 11kW from the standard 3.7kW AC charger. Two charge cables are included as standard. Supplied Credit: CarExpert Mercedes-Benz Australia hasn't included fuel consumption figures with its announcement, with the non-hybrid GLA200 offering a claimed 7.4L/100km combined figure. In Germany, Mercedes-Benz claims a figure of 2.9L/100km for the GLA250e under WLTP testing. Standard equipment on the GLA250e includes: 18-inch alloy wheels 'Progressive Line' exterior styling LED headlights with adaptive high-beam Metallic paint Panoramic sunroof Power tailgate Heat-insulating dark-tinted glass Rain-sensing wipers Proximity entry with push-button start Black Artico leatherette upholstery 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system Satellite navigation Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Heated, power-adjustable front seats with memory Semi-autonomous parking assist Automatic climate control with rear air vents Wireless phone charger Adaptive cruise control Blind-spot monitoring Lane-keep assist Safe exit warning Surround-view camera Supplied Credit: CarExpert There are a couple of option packages available on the GLA250e. The AMG Line package costs $2500 and adds: Lowered 'comfort' suspension Sports braking system Nappa leather-wrapped sports steering wheel Galvanised shift paddles Upgraded air-conditioning The Plus package costs $3847 and adds all the features from the AMG Line package, plus: Burmester sound system Head-up display Multibeam LED headlights Augmented reality satellite navigation Illuminated door sills Active Steering Assist Mercedes-Benz Australia had been moving away from mainstream PHEVs over the past few years, axing the A250e and launching new generations of the C-Class and GLC without replacements for their C300e and GLC300e PHEVs. Instead, the brand reserved PHEV powertrains for high-performance models like the Mercedes-AMG C63 S E Performance. However, this year it introduced the C350e, heralding a return to 'regular' PHEVs. Supplied Credit: CarExpert MORE: Explore the Mercedes-Benz GLA showroom
