2011 Marcedes
2011 Marcedes
2011 Marcedes
2011 Marcedes
Mercedes is developing an all new platform upon which the new generation of A and B-Class and a number of totally new models will be built. A mid-size four-door coupe called BLS, and a new compact SUV, the BLK, are some of the upcoming products on this platform. Here;s an artist’s impression of the Mercedes BLK, which will challenge BMW X1 and the upcoming Audi Q3.
The BLK probably will be released in 2011 as a 2012 model, until then Mercedes has enough time to study strength and weakness points of the rivals and use them to its advantage. Mercedes already has a compact SUV called GLK, and BLK certainly won’t be much smaller than it, but the GLK is on the par with BMW X3 and Audi Q5, so Mercedes needs a new model to take on the new smaller crossovers such as the X1, which has also received a warm welcome in the market.
Transmission
Standard transmission is AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic transmission through a lightweight carbon fiber driveshaft in a transaxle arrangement. Selectable driving modes include "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) or "M" (Manual). A true manual transmission is not available.
Brakes
Standard brakes are 390 mm (15.35 in) (front) and 360 mm (14.17 in) (rear) cast iron disc brakes with 6-piston aluminium (front) and 4-piston (rear) calipers. Optional on the SLS AMG are carbon-ceramic disc brakes. 402 mm (15.83 in) discs with 6-piston aluminium calipers (front) and 360 mm (14.17 in) discs with 4-piston calipers (rear). These brakes provide increased stopping power with a 40% weight reduction compared to the standard brake system.
