(June 14, 2010) STUTTGART — Mercedes-Benz is in the fast lane. Since the beginning of 2010 Mercedes-Benz has sold 16 percent more cars worldwide than in the same period last year.

And the groundwork has already been laid for further growth thanks to the current model offensive. Sixteen new or upgraded models will be launched during 2010 and 2011, including two vehicles in a soon-to-be family of four in the compact segment.

With the smart fortwo electric drive, the B-Class F-Cell and the A-Class E-Cell, the new model launches include three series production vehicles with alternative drives and zero local emissions.

This fall will see Mercedes-Benz once more set benchmarks in the efficiency of modern internal combustion engines. All-new V6 and V8 engines consume up to 24 percent less fuel than their predecessors. These BlueDIRECT powerplants are the perfect complement to the four-cylinder units already available on the market and turning in exceptionally low fuel consumption figures.

Also this fall, Mercedes-Benz will introduce its ECO start/stop function as standard throughout its model line-up.

Starting now, these product and technology innovations will be supported by a wide-ranging communications offensive, the focal point being the new brand claim “The best or nothing.” — the principle from the company’s founding father Gottlieb Daimler.