OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Stuttgart, Germany, May 17, 2011
The new generation of multimedia: Many new functions and internet access
Larger displays, new functions and internet access for the first time are among the main innovations of the new telematics systems from Mercedes-Benz, which are available for the C-Class Coupé. The Bluetooth functions have also been extended: a mobile’s phone book can now be transferred automatically en bloc when connected, and incoming text messages can be displayed on the colour screen.
Overview of the various items of equipment and their functions:
The standard specification includes the Audio 20 CD system with a twin tuner and CD player plus an Aux-in and USB connector. The connectors are within easy reach in a compartment in the centre armrest. The colour display has a diagonal of 14.7 cm. Thanks to a new "Cover Art" function, the title images of the music albums currently being played are shown if their details are stored in the audio file.
A new top line in the Audio 20 CD’s menu navigation makes orientation easier and can be operated via the controller. The settings for the air conditioning are also displayed on the telematics screen when being operated, as is the fuel consumption in the last 15 minutes. This type of consumption histogram is possible for the C 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, C 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY and C 250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY models. The Bluetooth functions have also been extended: a mobile’s phone book can now be transferred automatically en bloc when connected, and wireless music reproduction is possible from Bluetooth-capable terminals. Plus text messages can also be displayed. As an optional extra the Audio 20 CD can be combined with a six-disc CD changer, Media Interface, surround sound system (please see below for details), Convenience Telephony in the armrest, digital radio (DAB) and the new Becker® MAP PILOT entry-level navigation solution (details of this are also given below).
The COMAND Online multimedia system offers internet access for the first time. Customers can either browse the internet freely when at a standstill or access a Mercedes-Benz app; the latter’s pages can be called up particularly quickly and it is simple to operate even when driving. The integral apps include Google™ Local Search and weather. It is also possible to download a route that has been previously configured via Google Maps using a PC and sent to the vehicle. More Mercedes-Benz apps will be introduced gradually and then all customers will be able to use them. Telephones which can be used with COMAND Online apps are listed at www.mercedes-benz.com/connect .
The high-resolution colour display has a diagonal of 17.8 cm. Photos can be shown on the large screen and turned over manually, as in a slide show. Where the audio equipment is concerned, too, new types of representation bring a fresh look and more convenient operation. The new Cover Flow function, for instance, sorts the title images of the music albums stored in a carousel-like form, so that the C-Class driver can easily leaf through their music collection – even if it is rather on the large side: the memory for compressed audio files (mp3, wma and aac formats) is now 10 GB in size. As an option COMAND Online is available with a six-disc DVD changer.
Greatest convenience is afforded by the Music Search function, which enables drivers and passengers to search the hard disc, SD memory cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music tracks and artists. The search can be according to various criteria, for instance album, music category or composer. If a name needs to be entered, the software will also tolerate spelling mistakes. The driver is therefore able to devote their full attention to the traffic. As a further advantage, the occupants are able to search all the connected media and devices simultaneously.
The fast hard-disc navigation system of COMAND Online also has added functions. New features include a 3D display with plastic city views. Also new: routes covered can be recorded and repeated later, specific personal destinations can be saved or imported via an SD card and four alternative routes can be displayed on the navigation map, one of them a particularly economical variation. Mercedes-Benz customers in Europe receive the current cards for their COMAND Online multimedia system free of charge for three years. Authorised Mercedes-Benz dealers upload the updates for navigation data in 39 European countries into the navigation system when the customer visits their premises.
In Europe, COMAND Online also comprises Speed Limit Assist, which receives its information for traffic sign recognition via a camera and navigation database. COMAND Online additionally includes the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system for audio, telephone and navigation. The new "One Shot" input function for the navigation system is particularly convenient, whereby the place and road can be said directly after one another. This function is currently available in seven languages and significantly enhances ease of operation.
The Becker® MAP PILOT makes a low-cost navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the entry-level Audio 20 CD radio. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated operation via the central controls, voice output via the vehicle's loudspeakers and display on the Audio 20 screen, a concealed location in the glove compartment and updating via an internet portal.
Mercedes-Benz developed the Logic7 surround sound system together with the audio specialist harman/kardon®. This high-end system delivers three-dimensional sound as a natural 360-degree musical experience for all passengers. The audio signals are distributed via a 450-watt amplifier connected to twelve high-performance loudspeakers. In conjunction with COMAND Online a multi-channel listening experience with Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS is possible.
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