The last couple of years Mercedes-Benz has had a walk around competition that starts at the dealership level and then goes to state and on to region.  We have not participated in the last couple of years because we are a new dealership.  This year is different.  We are down to the final four (yes, I am one of the finalists).  Today we have our final judging at the dealership level to see who moves on the the “Market” level.  From their the winner goes to region in Jaxsonville, FL and the National Competition is in Colorado.  Wish me luck!

The different themes represented are safety, technology, performance, comfort and convenience.  This is great opportunity to see the way other sales people demonstrate the vehicle and maybe pickup on something I may have missed in training. 

This year it is focused on the new E Sedan and Coupe.  While studying up for my presentation, I still find my self in awe of everything Mercedes-Benz brings to the industry. 

Here are a few examples on the E Class alone:

• The E Class since it’s inception in 1947 has sold over 10 million vehicles.  We have been building this vehicle longer than some manufacturers have been in business. 
• It is rated as the most successful selling luxury sedan in the world.
• The new E Class was crash tested 150 times, in addition to over 17,000 virtual crash tests via computer.  That combined with the previous 8 generations adds up to a total of over 50,000 vehicles crashed to help improve vehicle safety. 
• Did you know the 2010 E Class contains over 889 safety patents?
• The sedan and coupe offer the lowest coefficient drag of any vehicle in their segment.  That means better performance and fuel economy.
• As an industry first, the E Class now offers Attention Assist as standard equipment.  It is designed to help detect driver drowsiness on long trips.  It looks at over 70 inputs/variables from the driver and car to help determine if a “rest” is needed. 

As the competition continues to improve, Mercedes-Benz leads the way.  A little saying we use is “Always imitated never duplicated.”  From the original patent on the automobile, crash testing, crumple zones, airbags, ABS, ESP,  and now Attention Assist. 

 What’s next you may ask?                                                                                 

                                            Hybrid technology?

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