Mercedes-Benz begins local production of new M-class, inaugurates hi-tech paint shop at Chakan

Pune, October 10, 2012: Mercedes-Benz India has begun rolling out its first locally manufactured M-class SUV from its plant in Chakan, Pune. It has also declared the start of operations at its technologically advanced paint shop.

The roll-out of the M-class and the inauguration of the paint shop were done by Peter Honegg, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, Ralf Mungenast, director, International Productions, Daimler AG and Piyush Arora, director, technical, Mercedes-Benz India.

Production of the new M-class 250CDI involves the use of latest technology at the plant using synchronised conveyor systems and the latest PLC control units for all equipment which provide adaptability with different models on common production lines, thereby increasing flexibility. The use of technology enabled processes like EMS-transfer, production lines with latest-generation controllers, X-road-Dynamic testing and programming of cars, frequency controlled measurements for accuracy, shower testing cabin – for simulation of rain, high pressure jets and dynamic movement – help deliver the highest quality products.

The ML250 CDI, which slots below the more expensive ML350 CDI, is priced at Rs 46.50 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi), is the first M-class to be assembled in India via semi-knocked-down kits. The luxury SUV, targeted at the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 that are a segment lower, is powered by a 204bhp 2.2-litre, twin-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine. The ML250 CDI gets most of the ML350 CDI’s features such as Intelligent Light System and Active Park Assist, among others.

According to MBIL’s chief Peter Honegg, “The M-class 250 CDI is the first M-class ever to be offered from a local production outside Mercedes-Benz’s SUV plant in Tuscaloosa, USA. India becomes the ‘first’ market in the world to enjoy this elite status and further highlights Daimler AG’s focus and commitment on the Indian market.”

Paint shop in sync with Merc’s global standards

The state-of-the-art paint shop is capable of water-based painting using highly sophisticated and environment friendly water-based painting technology. The fully automated facility maintains identical painting standards in line with Daimler stringent global norms. Its key highlights include the flow of cars with the latest communication systems for conveyors and tracking of each and every car at every stage with RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) systems. The control of all the equipment is through a central server and automated feedback loops for equipment ensures optimum settings according to the process and environmental conditions.

The paint shop also boasts sophisticated checking laboratories. The automated selection of colours is enabled for robots and an online status of input and output offers flexibility and complete control in production sequencing.

Speaking at the inauguration, Piyush Arora, director, technical, Mercedes-Benz India commented, “The new paint shop now positions us as a global benchmark within the Mercedes-Benz world. It underscores our bullish outlook for the Indian market and we look forward to introducing more locally produced vehicles. The paint shop and the additional assembly lines will be the cornerstone in Mercedes-Benz’s product offensive for the foreseeable future.”

The paint shop, which covers 17,000 square metres, has an annual capacity of 20,000 units which is extendable to 40,000 units annually.