Shanghai, April 20, 2009 - Mercedes-Benz is set to fascinate Chinese audiences with a double breakthrough - a record-high of new model premieres along with an impressive lineup of 35 models - at the 13th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai 2009). The Shanghai Auto Show has become the largest auto show for Mercedes-Benz globally, and only comparable to Frankfurt Motor Show. Mercedes-Benz's presentation comprises four world premieres, five Asia premieres and four first time debuts for China, along with a fleet of fascinating cars well presenting all brands from Mercedes family, namely Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, smart and Mercedes-AMG.

Among Mercedes-Benz's world debuts are its four new S-Class models, including
S 400 HYBRID, the first hybrid car equipped with a lithium-ion battery, defining the benchmark for low-emission luxury saloons. Another highlight is the all-new
E-Class, unveiled for the first time in Asia, and available for order by Chinese customers throughout the event ahead of its launch in the China market in the second half of this year. All in all, Mercedes-Benz's spectacular show offerings - from first-class products, eco-friendly innovations and safety technologies to fascinating design and superb performance - perfectly exemplify its long-term commitment to the China market and bring to life its theme of "Confidence, Fascination and Responsibility".

The theme also represents Mercedes-Benz's full understanding of customer demand, which has in turn led to increased sales. According to the latest data, Mercedes-Benz maintained its leadership in the luxury segment, delivering 5,100 units and a 50 percent increase in March alone, tallying 11,000 units in the first quarter with a year-on-year increase of 30 percent in Mainland China.

"The impressive sales performance shown by Mercedes-Benz this quarter has confirmed our strong confidence in the future growth of Mercedes-Benz in China. This is a continuation of our success story of the last 2 years in which we have already increased our sales by 120%," said Mr. Klaus Maier, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz (China) Lt. "By premiering the most important offerings among the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio, including the new generation S-Class and all new E-Class, we express our dedication and commitment to the China market and inject a strong show of confidence into the auto industry."

Mercedes-Benz's 2,500 sqm exhibition booth is specifically designed to mirror the automaker's hybrid concept with two intertwined lines, a notion precisely exemplified by the S 400 HYBRID. Along with the concept BlueZERO, the two models demonstrate the capabilities of the automaker's innovative technologies dedicated to low-emission transportation. The booth's atmosphere is further complemented by Chinese design elements, exuded by the harmonious ambience created by the distinctive peony, thereby illustrating the leading automaker's profound appreciation of Chinese customers.