Beijing, September 9, 2010 – Mercedes-Benz (China) Ltd. today commenced pre-sales for the highly anticipated A-Class in China, bringing two new models – the A 160 and A 180 – one step closer to Chinese customers at price tags of RMB 230,000 to RMB 250,000 and RMB 270,000 to RMB 290,000 respectively. Additionally, A-Class pre-sale customers will also have chance to receive a Mercedes-Benz folding bicycle as a special gift. As one of Mercedes-Benz's youngest products, this all-new model features extraordinary daily usage practicality, a comfortable and relaxed driving experience, and unparalleled safety technology – all of which come together into a youthful vehicle that immediately attracts individuals desiring superior driving convenience, as well as young elites seeking a luxury vehicle that embodies the ultimate in practicality. The all-new A-Class is set to further enrich the entire Mercedes-Benz product portfolio in China, thereby allowing even more customers to fulfill their dreams of owning a Mercedes-Benz.

The exquisite design of the A-Class is exemplified by its striking exterior, with strong and unmistakable lines, an eye-catching wedge-shaped design, and the distinctive three-pointed star emblem on the front end – all of which highlight the prestigious and unmistakable luxury of the Mercedes-Benz brand. Meanwhile, its compact dimensions, as well as its ample trunk space and overall spaciousness, all fully demonstrate the daily usage practicality of the A-Class. An array of other convenient features, such as Bluetooth, allows drivers and passengers alike to enjoy the sheer practicality of this dynamic vehicle.

Thanks to its advanced technology, A-Class customers will also be able to enjoy a relaxed driving experience that is characterized by outstanding practicality. Everyday driving becomes extremely convenient, as even tough situations such as heavy urban traffic become easy to maneuver as a result of the A-Class' small turning radius and higher seating position that allows for broader visibility, both of which help to make this vehicle ideal for city driving. In addition, as can be found in the B-Class, the A-Class is also equipped with the active parking assist system, which automatically steers drivers into even the most difficult parking spaces.

With safety as the ultimate priority of Mercedes-Benz, the A-Class not only shines as one of the automaker's safest products, it also stands out as the safest vehicle in its entire luxury segment. The A-Class sets standards in occupant protection, highlighted by two-stage front airbags and a safety advanced body design. Additionally, in the field of active safety, the A-Class benefits from the technological leadership of Mercedes-Benz, highlighted by ESP®, ABS, BAS, an automatic hill-start function and other features as standard, which make driving safer and demonstrably contribute to accident prevention.

In order to receive in-depth feedback for the A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is also introducing exciting customer activities to coincide with the model's pre-sales launch. The "Three-Pointed Star's European Tour" will allow 200 pre-sales customers the opportunity to travel to Germany and visit the company's factories as well as the Mercedes-Benz Museum, where they will personally experience the rich brand heritage of Mercedes-Benz, as well as its extensive product portfolio, unparalleled design language, and superior technological advancements. In addition, Mercedes-Benz has also created interesting online activities with Taobao, with a special limited time online auction that will bring users surprise gifts, thus adding even more excitement to A-Class sales.

Since its world premiere in 1997, the A-Class has made a name for itself as a trendsetter and innovative leader in its class, already capturing the hearts of about 1.7 million customers worldwide. The entrance of the A-Class into the China market will undoubtedly bring the three-pointed star even closer to Chinese customers, allowing an increasing number of young elites to enjoy a most pleasant driving experience and even better quality of life.