Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Corporate Fleet Magazine Autumn 2017

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz corporate

Autumn 2017

The leader in business.

The new S-Class is announced.

The show must go on.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz visits The Royal Norfolk Show.

Life on the road.

Robinsons Corporate Team at The Two Counties Business Exhibition.

The future of diesel.

What does this mean for your fleet?

Some pleasures are made to last. Discover this for yourself with the Mercedes-Benz range.

The A-Class.

Athletic at first sight.

Introducing the Mercedes-Benz A-Class. Its sharp, sporty looks and bold contemporary interior still defines the revived generation of Mercedes-Benz, and with five model lines and a choice of engines available it offers the perfect opportunity to reflect your true individuality.

BUSINESS OFFER

MONTHLY PAYMENTS FROM

£300* *Business users only.

Contract Hire agreements.

Advance payment applies.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the A-Class range: urban 30.7(9.2)-72.4(3.9), extra urban 50.4(5.6)-88.3(3.2), combined 40.9(6.9)-80.7(3.5). CO2 emissions 16289 g/km. Official EU regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz A 160 Sport with manual transmission at £21,710 on-the- road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Business Users only. All payments subject to VAT at 20%. No ownership option. Finance based on a 36 month Contract Hire agreement, 10,000 miles per annum on a new A 160 Sport (Advance Payment £1,800.00). Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Orders/credit approvals on selected A-Class models only between 1 July and 30 September 2017, registered by 31 December 2017. Subject to availability, offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 2448457 and has its registered address at Tongwell, Milton Keynes, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds, Northern Way, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP32 6NH 01284 778 950 corporatesales@robinsonsmercedes.co.uk We also have sites at Cambridge, Kings Lynn, Norwich and Peterborough.

Contents...

04 07 09 10 14

The best of both: Mercedes-Benz C 300 h.

Life on the road.

The show must go on.

The leader in business: The new S-Class is announced.

Diesel vs petrol.

Welcome...

Welcome to the fourth edition of the Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Corporate Magazine.

Inside this issue, we’ve highlighted a shining star within the Mercedes-Benz portfolio, the C 300 h hybrid. For those in the market for an efficient, elegant and exhilarating premium saloon, you need look no further. With so many Fleet Managers now looking for greener additions, the dynamic combination offered by the C 300 h has been the answer.

As we look toward the end of the year, a firm favourite of the Managing Director gets an update, with the new S-Class scheduled to arrive in showrooms before the end of 2017.

Status and technological competence are now even more tangible than ever before all pointing towards the flagship Mercedes-Benz continuing its wave of dominance.

From everyone in the Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Corporate Team, I would like to say thank you for your continued support, and that I look forward to continuing our relationship over the coming months.

Zoey Williamson Corporate Sales Supervisor

Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds 01284 778 950 We also have sites at Cambridge, Kings Lynn, Norwich and Peterborough

Prices and information enclosed within this publication are correct at time of printing in summer 2017 and subject to change without notice.

Mercedes-Benz Fleet

3

The best of both: Mercedes-Benz C 300 h.

For those in the market for an efficient, elegant and exhilarating premium saloon, look no further than the Mercedes-Benz C 300 h.

Under the bonnet is a 201bhp 2.1-litre bi-turbo diesel engine, paired with a 27bhp electric motor.

A combined output of nearly 230bhp and a punchy 500Nm torque will propel you to 62mph in only 6.4 seconds. With a top speed of 152mph, this rear wheel drive saloon has the performance on tap to effortlessly cover many miles.

The seamless transfer of power between the electric motor and engine allows strong performance, while also emitting less than 100g / km of CO2.

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Mercedes-Benz Fleet

Mated to the engine is a slick seven-speed automatic gearbox, featuring customisable driving modes through the DYNAMIC SELECT switch. Effortlessly flick the switch on the centre console to adapt the throttle response, adaptive damping and steering set-up. Select Comfort for a more relaxed experience behind the wheel, while Sport and Sport+ modes sharpen up the car’s dynamics for an engaging drive.

For maximum comfort, opt for the AirMatic Agility package, which brings drivers the ultimate level of cabin comfort.

The C-Class’s striking design is echoed inside the car where attention to detail is clearly evident. Opulent air vents, stylish analogue clock, finely finished trims and high quality leather options really bring a sense of luxury to your journeys. The smooth and elegant design means there is virtually no wind noise, creating the perfect mobile office environment.

The infotainment system on-board offers a whole host of kit as standard including the innovative touchpad system which makes

manoeuvring around the car’s infotainment systems like second nature.

It’s not just about refinement, though, as the cabin offers plenty of practical solutions along with generous head and legroom, plus an automatic boot-lid which makes getting into the 480 litres of space beneath easier.

The optional Driving Assistance Package will automatically brake and accelerate in response to the situation in front of your vehicle.

The package will also detect a car in your blind spot and, by means of one-sided braking, change your direction if there is a risk of collision. The C 300 h will park itself for you through the proprietary Parking Pilot system.

C 300 h Saloon On-the-road price from: £36,760

Combined fuel consumption: 78.5 mpg 0–62 mph: 6.4 seconds Top speed: 152 mph Power: 204 hp

Overall the real benefits come with competitive running costs and low company car taxes in particular.

While the C 250 d, C 220 d and C200 d have to pay a 3% surcharge for diesel cars, the diesel-electric hybrid doesn’t. So, while the C 250 d will be taxed on 14% of its value, the hybrid is taxed on just 10% of its value.

Contact the Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Corporate Team, to discuss further hybrid options.

Mercedes-Benz Fleet

5

Introducing the E-Class.

Masterpiece of intelligence.

The new E-Class Saloon is engineered to deliver more comfort, more efficiency and a more connected drive than ever before. Now available to test drive at your nearest Robinsons Mercedes-Benz, experience the technology yourself.

Meet the perfect balance between elegance and intelligence.

BUSINESS OFFER

MONTHLY PAYMENTS FROM

£382* *Business users only.

Contract Hire agreements.

Advance payment applies.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the E-Class Saloon range: urban 25.7(11.0)-65.7(4.3), extra urban 41.5(6.8)-78.5(3.6), combined 33.6(8.4)-134.5(2.1). CO2 emissions 19249 g/km. Official EU-regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz E 220 d SE with automatic transmission at £37,345 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Business Users only. All payments subject to VAT at 20%. No ownership option. Finance based on 36 month Contract Hire agreements, 10,000 miles per annum on a new E 220 d SE (Advance Payment £3,438.00). Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Orders/credit approvals on selected A-Class models only between 1 July and 30 September 2017, registered by 31 December 2017. Subject to availability, offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 2448457 and has its registered address at Tongwell, Milton Keynes, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds, Northern Way, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP32 6NH 01284 778 950 corporatesales@robinsonsmercedes.co.uk We also have sites at Cambridge, Kings Lynn, Norwich and Peterborough.

Life on the road.

Robinsons Corporate Team attended The Two Counties Business Exhibition.

Robinsons Corporate Team attended The Two Counties Business Exhibition, organised

by Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce in partnership with Suffolk Chamber of Commerce that took place at Newmarket Racecourse in the impressive Millennium Suite.

Providing a platform for up to 100 local businesses, this was the perfect opportunity for three of our Corporate Team, Simon Meredith, Gareth Harris and Alisha Clack to answer the many questions that organisations have about their fleet needs.

John Bridge, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire Chambers, said: “We are very fortunate to have brilliant conference facilities available at Newmarket Racecourses and it was a great

delight to return there once again to bring companies from Newmarket, Cambridge and the surrounding towns together to get connected and create new business opportunities”.

With so many challenges faced by businesses and their Fleet Managers, Robinsons Corporate Sales Supervisor, Zoey Williamson, is a big advocate of getting out

to meet the audience at B2B exhibitions; “With the types of enquiries we get on a daily basis, there’s a lot of misinformation out there on what would be the correct vehicle for an organisation’s needs.

Being able to come to fantastic venues like this offers the chance for us to advise people correctly and give them the most appropriate vehicle solution”.

With more events, still to come you will see our team out on the road at the following venues: Cambridge Chamber of Commerce B2B Quy Mill Hotel & Spa, 21st September 2017

Norwich Chamber of Commerce B2B Carrow Road Stadium, 12th October 2017

Peterborough Chamber of Commerce B2B KingsGate Conference Centre, 18th October 2017

Mercedes-Benz Fleet

7

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01487 740044

info@kloeber.co.uk www.kloeber.co.uk

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St Margaret’s Way, Huntingdon PE29 6EU

The show must go on.

The Royal Norfolk Show, held at the Royal Norfolk Showground is historically a glorious and sun-filled affair, with ladies donning their biggest hats, gents cutting a fine figure in sharp, tailored suits amongst the many beasts of burden and agricultural workers that make up the UK’s largest County Show. This year however, proved slightly more challenging for the thousands of visitors due to the inclement nature of the weather, with frequent downpours over the two days meaning cups of hot coffee were the order of the day as opposed to the more traditional Pimms.

Over the years the show has diversified, playing host to a wide range of retail and commercial businesses including those from the motor trade. Robinsons Mercedes-Benz very own Local Business Development Manager, Simon Meredith attended two days at the show visiting clients. Simon commented on being at the show, “It’s great to be able to come and visit the Show and see so many familiar faces, away from the formal business world”. Over the two-days, ducking between hospitality tents to keep dry, Simon managed to catch up with a wide variety of businesses including Bussey Vehicle Leasing, Alan Boswell Insurance Group, Brown & Co. and Anglian Farmers. Rounding off Simon’s day on both Wednesday and Thursday was the chance to attend Archant Publishing’s Afternoon Tea which was the perfect opportunity to network with many professionals and offer advice on their companies or personal vehicle solutions.

The 155th version of the Show was a tremendous success, in spite of the frequent downpours, with around 80,000 people attending the two-day event.

Zoey Williamson, Fleet Corporate Supervisor says, “Having an informal presence at these types of events is vital to maintaining existing relationships. It provides our Local Business Development Mangers the chance to catch up with key clients away from the fast paced environment we all operate in nowadays”.

Fleet Solutions

If you require advice on your Fleet Solutions, our Corporate Team will be able to assist, please contact: 01284 778950.

Mercedes-Benz Fleet

9

The leader in business: The new S-Class is announced.

Premiering at Auto Shanghai in early 2017 the new S-Class range was presented with all the ceremony you’d expect from the Stuttgart manufacturer’s prized passenger vehicle.

Popular with both Managing Directors and Finance Directors alike for the better part of a decade this refresh of the 2016 best-selling luxury saloon in the world doesn’t reinvent the wheel as the design tweaks that have been made have been influenced by the established audience of the Mercedes-Benz icon.

The S-Class now features six engine options: S 350 d, S 500, S 560 e plug-in hybrid, S 63, S 65 and the S 650 available for the Mercedes-Maybach.

The S 350 d features the most powerful 6-cylinder diesel engine in the history of Mercedes-Benz. The engine makes use of Formula 1 research and development on the road through use of NANOSLIDE technology which produces extremely smooth cylinder surfaces for crankcases in combustion engines in order to improve engine efficiency, which all

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Mercedes-Benz Fleet

contributes to an output of 286 hp. All the engines for the S-Class are remarkable, however the S 560e with a 13.3kWh battery and 30-mile electric range that will appear early next year would certainly appeal to those where emissions are a focus.

The word ‘standard’ doesn’t do the included features on the S-Class justice, with so many now included. Comfort and convenience are at the forefront with the Memory Package and KEYLESS GO comfort package also included as well as the useful wireless charging for mobile devices. Ambient lighting within the cockpit can be controlled with 64 vibrant or subtle shades to

choose from depending on your mood. Many of the technologies are being implemented in automotive uses for the first time on the new S 350d. Wellbeing settings such as ENERGISING comfort link together a number of the creature comforts found inside the S-Class. From massaging seats to climate control and ambient lighting, a specific sort of ambience is created, one which enhances the occupant’s

overall sense of wellness by the time your destination has been reached. There are six programs available, each with their own on-screen graphics and audio accompaniment.

The next generation of COMAND NTG 5.5, features 3D mapping, optional live traffic information and cleverly blends Google Maps satellite imagery with normal mapping. The ‘Linguatronic’ voice control system can be programmed reliably and simply in comparison to some rival systems and is very clear, thanks to the 12.3in screen, that can be customised via the new steering wheel’s touch control buttons.

Mercedes-Benz Fleet

11

The new S-Class takes another major step towards autonomous driving, elevating Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive to the next level. As part of the optional Driving Assistance Package, DISTRONIC Active Distance Assist and Active Steering Assist now provide even more comfortable support for the driver to keep a safe distance and steer. The speed is now adjusted automatically ahead of curves or junctions.

This is complemented by a considerably improved Active Lane Keeping Assist and additional functions of the Active Emergency Stop Assist.

Thanks to enhanced standard camera and radar systems, the new S-Class has an even better view of the surrounding traffic to inform Active Blind Spot Assist.

In addition, for the first time it makes use of map and navigation data to calculate driving behaviour.

A technological statement of superiority was made by the S-Class in 2013 with ROAD SURFACE SCAN. The system detects bumps ahead of the vehicle and adjusts the ACTIVE BODY CONTROL suspension accordingly. In the new S-Class this suspension control

is further improved: the stereo camera of the system now scans the road even more thoroughly, even in dusk. Another comfort enhancement is the CURVE curve-tilting function, available in the S-Class Saloon for the first time. The body tilts to the inside of the turn by up to 2.65 degrees and thereby reduces the driving forces perceived by any passengers.

The modern luxury on display in the new S-Class manifests in maximum quality of materials and workmanship. Status and technological competence are now even more tangible than ever before all pointing towards the flagship Mercedes-Benz continuing its wave of dominance.

S-Class Range On-the-road price from ÂŁ72,705

For more information contact your nearest Robinsons Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz Fleet

13

Diesel vs petrol: What does this mean for your fleet?

The debate around petrol vs. diesel-engine cars in the press has lead to conversations about the future make-up of fleet vehicles in the boardroom.

The source of the negative press of recent months can be pinpointed to the Volkswagen emissions scandal, where real-world testing revealed that some cars’ emissions were far higher than they were when tested in lab conditions. It’s to be highlighted that the problems outlined in this scandal affect older diesel models, with modern diesels featuring exhaust after treatment such as AdBlue® and diesel particulate filters, meaning they’re fully compliant with the latest Euro 6 emissions standards.

As a result of the scandal, a new test dubbed the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure will come into effect in September 2017. This will allow for more accurate readings for both diesel and petrolpowered cars in real-world environments, along with removing the possibility the test results can be falsified.

Many car buyers in the early 2000s chose diesel vehicles because they offered better fuel economy and produced less CO2 emissions than their petrol equivalents – road tax at the time was based solely on CO2 emissions so diesel cars tended to cost less. Diesel models produce more nitrogen dioxide and particulates than petrol ones, potentially leading to acid rain, smog and respiratory problems in people. The recent changes in car tax and the current uncertainty over diesel models reflects an increased awareness of this environmental damage.

It is important to realise that diesel is not dead or dying.

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Mercedes-Benz Fleet

Jayson Whittington, Chief Car Editor at pricing experts Glass’ says that “diesel is still very strong” and is here to stay. Modern diesel cars feature lots of technologies to minimise their environmental effects. These include diesel particulate filters that reduce the number of particles emitted from the exhaust. Some new vehicles use AdBlue® – a urea-derived additive sprayed into the exhaust to break down some of the nitrogen dioxides.

In the premium car market, diesel definitely has a future and Mercedes-Benz has taken the following steps to help preserve this: • Mercedes-Benz has invested some €3 billion in the development and production of a completely new diesel engine family.

• Technology such as AdBlue helps reduce harmful exhaust emissions and meet Euro 6 standards and is fitted to a large number of models within the existing range.

• Last year, Mercedes-Benz was the first manufacturer to launch diesel vehicles on the market which already meet the stricter RDE (Real Driving Emissions) limits planned for the EU from September 2017 onwards. Existing EU6 cars will still be legal and comply – it is the current “NEDC fuel cycle test” that is changing.

• Highly-efficient diesel and petrol engines play an important part in the achievement of the CO2 values of 95 g for 2020/2021, as prescribed by EU legislation.

If you have any questions about your vehicle’s emissions please contact your nearest Robinsons retailer who will be happy to advise you on your situation.

The C-Class Saloon.

It’s never looked so good for fleet.

Eye-catching looks. Innovative technology. Extraordinary comfort. Remarkable efficiency. The C-Class Saloon combines all these and more to provide an exceptional driving experience. Exterior styling is muscular and powerful, while the interior features a wealth of high-end materials and finishes to create a refined driving environment.

BUSINESS OFFER

MONTHLY PAYMENTS FROM

£325* *Business users only.

Contract Hire agreements.

Advance payment applies.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the C-Class Saloon range: urban 26.2(10.8)-72.4(3.9), extra urban 42.2(6.7)-83.1(3.4), combined 34.5(8.2)-134.5(2.1). CO2 emissions 192-48 g/km. Official EU regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz C 200 SE with manual transmission at £29,720 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Business Users only. All payments subject to VAT at 20%. No ownership option. Finance based on 36 month Contract Hire agreements, 10,000 miles per annum on a new C 200 SE (Advance Payment £1,950.00). Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Orders/credit approvals on selected A-Class models only between 1 July and 30 September 2017, registered by 31 December 2017. Subject to availability, offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability.

Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 2448457 and has its registered address at Tongwell, Milton Keynes, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds, Northern Way, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP32 6NH 01284 778 950 corporatesales@robinsonsmercedes.co.uk We also have sites at Cambridge, Kings Lynn, Norwich and Peterborough.

The GLC. Power and finesse combined.

Introducing Mercedes-Benz first ever mid-sized SUV for the UK market. A remarkable vehicle, it boasts the muscular looks and capabilities of a 4x4, yet it handles with the finesse and agility. Standard features include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive while options include the Off-Road Package and AIR BODY CONTROL suspension to further enhance the car’s off-road credentials.

BUSINESS OFFER

MONTHLY PAYMENTS FROM

£529*

*Business users only.

Contract Hire agreements.

Advance payment applies.

Official government fuel consumption figures in mpg (litres per 100km) for the E-Class Saloon range: urban 25.7(11.0)-65.7(4.3), extra urban 41.5(6.8)-78.5(3.6), combined 33.6(8.4)-134.5(2.1). CO2 emissions 192-49 g/km. Official EU regulated test data are provided for comparison purposes and actual performance will depend on driving style, road conditions and other non-technical factors. Model featured is a Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line with automatic transmission at £40,600 on-the-road (on-the-road price includes VAT, delivery, 12 months’ Road Fund Licence, number plates, first registration fee and fuel). *Business Users only. All payments subject to VAT at 20%. No ownership option.

Finance based on 36 month Contract Hire agreements, 10,000 miles per annum on a new GLC 220 d 4MATIC AMG Line (Advance Payment £3,174.00).

Vehicle condition, excess mileage and other charges may apply. Rental includes Road Fund Licence for the contract duration. Guarantees and indemnities may be required. Orders/credit approvals on selected A-Class models only between 1 July and 30 September 2017, registered by 31 December 2017. Subject to availability, offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Some combinations of features/options may not be available. Please contact your Mercedes-Benz Retailer for availability. Credit provided subject to status by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services UK Limited, MK15 8BA. Mercedes-Benz UK Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 2448457 and has its registered address at Tongwell, Milton Keynes, MK15 8BA. Prices, fuel consumption and CO2 emissions correct at time of production.

The best or nothing.

Robinsons Mercedes-Benz Mercedes-Benz of Bury St Edmunds, Northern Way, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP32 6NH 01284 778 950 corporatesales@robinsonsmercedes.co.uk We also have sites at Cambridge, Kings Lynn, Norwich and Peterborough.