Mercedes

First Car

1886

Carl Benz is awarded German patent number 37435 for a three-wheeled, self-propelled "Motorwagen". With a rear-mounted single-cylinder engine, the first automobile forever changes the way people move, and sparks a legacy of innovation that continues to this day.

4 wheel independent suspension

1931

The Mercedes 170 features the first-ever fully independent suspension, which allows each wheel to respond individually. Along with a new hydraulic braking system, the 170 sets new performance and safety benchmarks that remain the gold standard today

Crash Testing Program

1958

For the first time, development of every new Mercedes includes an increasingly rigorous regimen of crash-testing. This vital learning tool was initially performed outdoors.

Anti-Lock Braking System(ABS)

1978

A concept first unveiled in 1970, ABS helps the driver retain steering control under heavy braking by preventing wheel lockup. It remains both a milestone in automotive safety and a cornerstone, with the ability to individually brake wheels serving as a fundamental element of countless future breakthroughs.

Tele Aid and mbrace

2000

Introduced as Tele Aid and later enhanced under the mbrace® banner, this continually advancing suite of security, convenience and navigation features can connect drivers to their vehicle or to Mercedes-Benz Customer Assistance via smartphone, computer or three buttons inside the car. In 2012, the new mbrace2™ brought the Internet into the car, with new apps and expanded remote and in-car features.

Pre Safe

2002

A groundbreaking system that can help prepare the occupants for an accident before it happens, PRE-SAFE can detect that certain types of collision might be imminent. In the precious moments before impact, it can snug the front seat belts and adjust the front head restraints to help optimize the effectiveness of the restraint systems.

Attention assist

2010

After Measuring over 70 parameters in the first few minutes of a drive, this innovation can help detect signs of drowsiness and audibly alert the driver to take a break.

Car to X communication

2016

This next-generation system in the 2017 E-Class shares critical information with other vehicles equipped with the technology in order to help warn of potential danger - such as slippery road conditions, fog, heavy rain, and even accidents and break-downs - earlier than ever previously possible. Someday millions of cars could include this kind of technology, making driving safer and smarter than ever.