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Zwartkop, Pretoria - Mercedes-Benz South Africa (Pty) Ltd (MBSA) will again be supporting the annual Nampo event in Bothaville, Free State, running from 12 to 15 May. This is the largest agricultural show in the southern hemisphere and provides a unique opportunity to all manufacturers and distributors of agricultural machinery, products and services to exhibit as well as demonstrate their vast range of products to the agricultural community.
“MBSA has consistently supported this event over the last 30 years for the simple reason that we have enjoyed a large and loyal customer base amongst the farmers of South Africa, since we first started bringing our product to this country in the mid-50s,” says MBSA President and CEO, Dr Hansgeorg Niefer.
“With well over 64 000 visitors over the 4-day show period last year, this year’s show is bound to enjoy a good turnout, despite the economic slowdown, as this is the highlight on the farming calendar. For this reason we have lined-up our latest commercial vehicle products which provide efficient and robust transport solutions for any farming requirement. Our fuel-efficient, reliable and versatile passenger cars offer family safety and comfort.”
“We are delighted to be a part of this event, as we bring our vehicles, as well as vehicle finance and insurance, to our farming customers,” says Niefer.
Mercedes-Benz Cars
Mercedes-Benz Cars has a full line-up on display with models from the entry level A-Class to the flagship S500 L.
At the show, Mercedes-Benz Cars is offering their special DESIGN-A-DEAL on the A-Class, B-Class and C-Class. In addition, there is a unique offering on the R-Class.
The A-Class and B-Class models recently saw a successful facelift. Outstanding safety and everyday versatility has always been the strength of the A-Class. The B-Class boasts the dynamic design of a sporty saloon, the exterior dimensions of a compact car, the spaciousness of an estate and the versatility of a mini MPV. New innovative technology reinforces these models segment leadership.
The Mercedes-Benz brand position has been and will continue to be, to harmonise private transport with man and his natural environment. Show-goers will experience the C180 KOMPRESSOR BlueEFFICIENCY with improved aerodynamics, lightweight construction, and enhanced drivetrain. The C180 BlueEFFICIENCY model is attractive and gives customers the benefit of lower fuel consumption and impacts positively on the environment.
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is the trendsetter among today's SUVs. Its exceptional status is attributed to its characteristic dynamic, stylish design, a combination of compelling performance both on and off-road and the ride comfort and ease of operation of a sedan. The M-Class also comes with a range of standard safety features that are unsurpassed in the SUV segment, including the anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® and NECK-PRO head restraints.
The ML 320 CDI on display has the proven powerful common rail diesel engine with 165 kW of power, giving a reduced fuel consumption of up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres less than its predecessor.
With its poised, assured presence, the GL’s aspirations to conquer its market segment are clearly visible. The distinctive design idiom exudes power and exclusivity. Calm body surfaces, powerful, wedge-shaped features and striking details give the impression of forward motion even when stationary.
The welcoming interior with top-quality materials offers superb ample space for seven people, whether you’re popping into town, cruising hundreds of kilometers or negotiating rough terrain.
The new Mercedes-Benz R-Class reaffirms the role of Mercedes-Benz as the visionary and trendsetter amongst automotive brands. This exceptional vehicle concept takes the acknowledged strengths of established vehicle categories, such as sporty saloon, estate, MPV and SUV, and fuses them to create a new car with a character all of its own, a car that is all about the three Ds: Design, Dimensions and Dynamism.
The SLK sports roadster has long captured the hearts of motoring enthusiasts and the innovative safety and comfort features puts this roadster in a class of its own. A newly developed direct-steer system with variable power assistance that elicits the very best from the suspension's sporty capabilities is standard on all models of the SLK. The SLK roadster also comes with the standard unique AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, which allows open-top driving pleasure all year round.
The SLK on display is equipped with the optional sports package. Its features include racy interior and sporty exterior appointments to enhance the look and feel of the vehicle, all of which runs on the unique 6-double spoke design 17” wheels.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class is a technological pacemaker, with pioneering innovations geared to enhanced safety, comfort and practicality. The S-Class influences the future of automotive development. The long-wheel base version on display, the S500 L, is ideally suited for chauffeur driven individuals, and as South Africa heads towards being a first-class business destination, with a number of international conferences and sporting events taking place, such as the upcoming Confederations Cup and the 2010 Soccer World Cup, demand will be on the rise for this 8-cylinder. This new luxury saloon is quick to impress with its new dimensions in ride comfort and every trip will be a first class experience.
All models from Mercedes-Benz Cars come with the MobiloDrive 120 maintenance contract as standard.
Mitsubishi Motors
The highlight of the Mitsubishi Motors model line-up is the preview of the Pajero Sport. Not as yet launched to the local market, the Pajero Sport will attract the 4x4 fraternity by its good looks and its technological supremacy. This dynamic vehicle has a 4-speed automatic gearbox with a turbocharged Di-DC engine that powers up to 118kW and 343Nm. As safety is paramount in all the Mitsubishi models, the Pajero Sport also boasts innovations such as Mitsubishi’s Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE), ABS with EBD, as well as driver and passenger airbags. The new model will use the Super Select 4WD system, also used in the Pajero SUV, which transmits drive torque effectively to all four wheels on all types of road surfaces.
Joining the new model on the Mitsubishi Motors stand for viewing is an impressive line-up of adventurous vehicles including the locally assembled Mitsubishi Triton 3.2 Di - DC Double Cab 4x4 and the 2.5 Di - DC ClubCab 4x2 model variants.
There are a number of major features that distinguish the Triton bakkie. These include an original and stylish exterior / interior design that adds a sporty dash to the bakkie’s toughness; packaging that provides a best-in-class roomy interior space; and suspension and interior appointments that emulate passenger car-like comfort and ride levels.
The Mitsubishi Outlander provides progressive yet rational and intelligent motorists with a vehicle able to combine heart-thumping performance, pleasure-rending utility and sporty styling with real-world usability that redefines the standards for the genre.
This a roomy five-seater, has the body width to allow for generous track measures and therefore a high level of dynamic ability.
The Mitsubishi Lancer 2,0 GLS sedan, arguably unbeatable as a value for money proposition in the C-segment, is also available with the option of a sophisticated constantly variable transmission (CVT). The Lancer boasts exceptional ride and handling characteristics, top performance and unbeatable value in its segment.
The Pajero 3.2-litre Di - D long-wheel-base and 3.8 litre short-wheel-base GLS on display is still the strongest, quietest, safest and smartest Pajero ever built. With a sharp new body, refined new interior and with the ability to tackle any terrain, the Pajero is rugged yet refined and is an authentic 4x4.
Designed to tackle both heavy-duty rough and smooth roads, to climb, tow and navigate sand, rock, water, mud, highways and even the high street, the rugged yet refined Pajero is powerful, responsive and utterly exhilarating.
To enthuse attendees with the successful Spirit of Africa Trophy competition sponsored by Mitsubishi, the Triton 2,5 Di - DC 4x4 heavily adorned with its promotional decals will be available for preview. This year’s competition is due to commence at the end of May under the watchful eye of Sarel van der Merwe, South Africa’s own motorsport icon.
Mitsubishi is all about those who want to embark on adventurous driving. The brand is committed to providing the utmost driving pleasure and safety and will have their Triton ClubCab, Double Cab and Pajero on the 4x4 performance track for show-goes to experience, under the supervision of an experienced 4x4 instructor.
Mercedes-Benz Commercial Vehicles
Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles (MBCV) have a strong association with the agriculture community dating back many years. Their products and services have characteristics and values that set them apart from the rest of the field. The wide range of products on offer, continue to act as a beacon to customers.
On display, MBCV have vehicles from the mighty Actros and Axor truck models to the Vito 120 CDI Sport and the Sprinter 4x4 and Sprinter 518 freight carrier, all MBCV vehicles that are servicing the agricultural sector.
As a show incentive to the farming community, MBCV is offering special discounts on their Actros 2650LS/33, Axor 3335/45 and Axor 1828/60. The Van division is also supporting this initiative with fantastic pricing of their Sprinter 'Inkanyezi' and Vito 120 CDI Sport models. Experienced marketing and finance personnel will be on hand to finalise these deals.
The Actros revolutionised the truck world with the introduction of the first electro-pneumatic braking system in combination with all-round disc brakes. Soon after, further safety and assistance systems were added. The Actros once again set new standards with the new-generation ‘Mercedes-Benz PowerShift’ transmission.
The Actros 2650 LS/33 on display is well suited for the delivery of agricultural products on medium to long-haul routes.
The Mercedes-Benz Axor is custom built for African conditions. The Axor 1828 is well positioned to be a true ‘farmer’s truck due to its rugged design, payload capability and ability of pulling a trailer. The Axor 3335 freight carrier with side tipper is ideally suited for work in the transport and distribution industries.
Leading the way with green technology, all Mercedes-Benz trucks in Southern Africa are now standard with Euro 3 engines. Although the South African legal requirement is Euro 2, a number of International operators and Corporate companies have strict purchasing requirements, which include at least Euro 3 compliant engines to promote environmental protection. MBCV is committed to reduce emission levels and to lower fuel consumption, which ultimately will be of greater benefit to the operator and the environment.
The Mercedes-Benz Vans division has on display and on the performance tracks a number of versatile vehicles including;
The Vito 120 CDI Sport crew-bus is a new introduction with the top of the range V6 diesel engine. This Vito sets new standards in engineering, power development and running characteristics. The V6 diesel engine with 3,0-litre displacement achieves impressive ‘numbers’ for diesel engines in the category of MPVs with it output of 150 kW of power and maximum torque of 440 Nm.
The crew-bus model in the new Mercedes-Benz Vito range can carry up to eight people in comfort, whist still offering a luggage capacity of up to 970 cubic metres. Passengers will find a sophisticated ambience awaiting them in the interior, which sports full trim panelling and seats designed for comfortable long-distance motoring.
The Sprinter 318 CDI 4x4 is based on a standard Mercedes-Benz Sprinter panel van and/or chassis cab/doublecab, which is converted by IGLHAUT-Allrad SA to customer specification. The basic drive train used is the same as the standard Sprinter. However, the front axle has been converted into a driving axle together with 3 diff-locks and transfer gearbox, including low-range (i=2,5). The vehicle is fitted with All-Terrain/Mud Terrain tyres with the dimensions 265/75 R16 inch wheels, dependent on the application and usage of the vehicle. The Sprinter 4x4 has a six-speed manual gearbox with permanent four-wheel drive.
This 4x4 conversion with its wheel changes gives maximum ground clearance of more than 260 mm, making it a real off-road all terrain vehicle. The approach and departure angles are dependant on the wheelbase. The Sprinter 318 CDI with a wheelbase of 3 665 mm, has a front approach angle of 31º and a departure angle of 35º.
Show-goers will experience the Sprinter 318’s smaller brother, namely the 315 CDI 4x4 on the off-road performance track and will find out first-hand what the excitement is all about for this vehicle.
The Sprinter is known for its versatility and serves well as a people carrier. The Sprinter 416 CDI - ‘Inkanyezi’ is specifically designed for the taxi industry. This specialised package provides the customer with a complete transport solution ideally suited for the taxi industry, including tailor-made finance packages, competitive maintenance rates and insurance.
Further enhancing the Sprinter range is the Sprinter 518 freight-carrier with an aluminium drop-side body. With an increased payload this unit has the versatility to transport light freight including garden produce and the like.
New standards are also set by the Sprinter's standard specification – amongst many other features, every model comes with electrically operated windows, radio remote control central locking, driver's airbag, six-speed transmission, wide-angle electric and heated mirrors and ADAPTIVE ESP®. Materials and build quality are equally impressive.
Freightliner
Freightliner has a full range of custom-built cabs, state of the art electronic engines and now offers a complete in-house after-sales support for Detroit Diesel Series 60 engines fitted to its market leading, long-haul American truck range.
Freightliner offers a full range of custom-built cabs and is the only manufacture to offer a choice of three state-of-the-art electronic engines from three leading manufactures Cummins, Caterpillar and Detroit Diesel. Freightliner offers the Smart Shift Eaton transmission known as ‘the Smart choice’ as standard.
On show is the exciting Freightliner Argosy with the Detroit Diesel Series 60 engine.
Freightliner has proven itself as the truck-of-choice for long haul applications with its reliability and fuel efficiencies that have a strong impact on operator costs.
The Freightliner Columbia, with its lightweight chassis powered by a 410 horsepower CAT C-12 engine coupled to a 10-speed SmartShift gearbox as standard has proven to be ideal for single tri-axle trailer applications. The Columbia on display is a day cab, however the brand offers a short 34” mid-roof sleeper as standard options, as well as a raised roof cab as a custom-built option.
Freightliner is at the forefront of customisation and technology and both the Argosy and Columbia take into account every individual customer’s requirements.
Mitsubishi FUSO
The Mitsubishi FUSO Canter range has set a new standard in the medium duty segment especially the 4x4 Canter FG6-106, an innovative addition to the range. This model has created new opportunities in niche markets such as off-road agricultural units, game viewing vehicles, specialised utility vehicles, and versatile fire-engines. In addition, customers have the option of ordering the single wheel application which enables the FG to move more easily through sand and tough terrain.
The FUSO FK and FM heavy truck range continues to offer outstanding comfort for the truck operator and excellent economy for the owner. A reliable and durable truck designed with the customer in mind.
The Mitsubishi FUSO extra heavy duty range, the FV and FP models are aimed at the 300 to 350 horse power class covering applications from general cartage and construction to short and medium haul distribution, ideally suited for the agricultural sector.
Mitsubishi FUSO launched a campaign - ‘All for you’ - which clearly focuses on customers and provides for a professional partnership to move customers’ business successfully. It explicitly emphasises a customer-oriented spirit, reflected not only in the product design and production, but also in the services provided. Mitsubishi FUSO is fully aware that their customers’ appreciation is the base of their business and none is more true than with the farming community.
Expertise on demand for all brands
With the support of the franchised dealer, John Williams Motors Bloemfontein, the Mercedes-Benz South Africa contingent of experts will be on hand to provide tailor-made solutions for customers wishing to purchase, finance or insure the best vehicle and transport option for their needs. |
