Stuttgart. Outstanding handling characteristics and very good traction, plus the safety and superiority that are hallmarks of the brand: since its market launch in 2011, the Sprinter 4x4 has been recognised as being the epitome of a large van, capable of mastering even the toughest of driving conditions while still retaining all the comfort features of its counterparts with conventional drive configurations. The third-generation Sprinter with all-wheel drive feels just at home on various mountain passes as it does on temporary roads to construction sites. With immediate effect, the number one among vans can now also be ordered with all-wheel drive. The entry-level price for the panel van with standard wheelbase is 46 272 euros (in Germany, excl. VAT), and 43 652 euros(excl. VAT) for a chassis version.

Fully integrated into the adaptive stability program ESP

The selectable all-wheel drive of the new-generation Sprinter improves traction. When the engine is running, it is selected either when stationary or at low speeds up to 10 km/h by operating a switch in the instrument panel. Under normal operating conditions, this driving mode sees the torque of the Sprinter 4x4 distributed to the front and rear axles in a ratio of 35:65 respectively. This ensures handling characteristics that differ only marginally from those of the rear-wheel drive Sprinter in day-to-day operation.

The electronic traction control system 4ETS makes a major contribution to the optimal driving and handling characteristics. It is fully integrated into the electronic stability program "Adaptive ESP" and its control characteristics have been specially adapted for all-wheel drive. At the same time all the functions of Adaptive ESP are retained: anti-lock braking system (ABS), acceleration skid control (ASR), electronic brake force distribution (EBV), Brake Assist (BAS) and the Start-off Assist system (AAS).

If one or more wheels lose traction on a slippery surface, e.g. on snow or ice, 4ETS automatically brakes the spinning wheels with brief impulses, thus increasing the drive torque to the wheels with good traction. 4ETS uses the ABS wheel sensors for this purpose. The automatic braking intervention by 4ETS can match the effect of up to three differential locks: the inter-axle differential lock, rear axle lock and front axle lock.

ASR can be disabled for defined driving situations

Depending on the driving situation, the acceleration skid control (ASR) of the Sprinter 4x4 can be disabled for a short period using the menu buttons on the steering wheel. In this case the control thresholds are briefly extended to improve traction by allowing increased slip, e.g. when driving with snow chains or on gravel. The ASR function is automatically reactivated within a speed range of 40 to 60 km/h. The same applies if slip increases excessively, or after more than ten seconds in "ASR Off" mode. ESP always remains active in all situations.

However, 4ETS avoids critical driving situations in the first place. As the speed increases, the locking effect within an axle is reduced to prevent yawing motions (rotation around the vertical axis) in the interests of driving stability. Despite this intervention, overheating of the braking system is not possible: if the temperature of the brakes rises to an undesirable level during extreme off-road operations, 4ETS reduces the locking effect automatically until the brakes have cooled again. The driver is made aware of this by means of an indicator lamp.

Recognition of the load and centre of gravity (Load Adaptive Control LAC) is particularly important in view of the many body variants and conversions available for the Sprinter. In the case of special-purpose bodies, for example, Adaptive ESP registers a high centre of gravity and adapts the control characteristics accordingly. When driving off-road, Adaptive ESP thereby improves safety, e.g. when driving along inclines with large tilt angles.

Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) is optionally available in conjunction with the reduction gear. It ensures that a preset speed is maintained when descending a gradient. This is made possible by interaction between the engine, transmission and specific braking intervention. DSR is activated by a button in the cockpit. The speed is then regulated by a rocker on the steering wheel. Mercedes-Benz can also optionally equip the Sprinter 4x4 with a hill-holder – ideal when driving in wintry conditions.

Even more traction: the Sprinter 4x4 with reduction gear

The all-wheel drive van is also optionally available with the additional "Low Range" reduction gear. When switched on with the vehicle stationary and the engine running, with 4x4 mode activated and the clutch operated or in automatic transmission position "N", this lowers the transmission ratio by 42 percent. The maximum speeds in the individual gears are correspondingly reduced. Tractive power increases at the same time. This means that the Sprinter 4x4 can now be driven off-road with circumspection at low speeds, saving wear to the clutch. Use of the reduction gear is recommended during frequent slow manoeuvring to reduce clutch wear, on extreme gradients in mountainous regions and when driving with a full load or towing a trailer off-road.

Raised body level in the interests of off-road capabilities

While the Sprinter 4x4 does not claim to be an off-roader, raising the body by 155 millimetres at the front and 135 millimetres at the rear already gives a visual indication of typical off-road characteristics.

For example, the angle of approach of the Sprinter with 3.5 tons permissible gross vehicle weight is 26 degrees rather than 16 degrees for the Sprinter with conventional rear-wheel drive, and the angle of departure is 25 degrees (versus 17 degrees) for the panel van with short overhang. The breakover angle – which is important when negotiating hill crests – is 23 degrees rather than 14 degrees for the Sprinter 4x4 with standard wheelbase.

Depending on the engine variant, the gradient climbing ability is around 20 percent better than that of a conventionally powered Sprinter. At the same time its full day-to-day suitability in demanding commercial operations is fully retained: the weight increase compared to conventional drive configurations is a mere 140 kilograms. The load capacity remains the same.

Affalterbach. At its début four years ago, the AMG GT (combined fuel consumption 12.5-11.4 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 284-261 g/km) confidently sought out competition on the world-wide sports car scene - and conquered a large part of the market. The top athlete from Affalterbach now comes to the starting line honed further, and with the new limited edition AMG GT R PRO. In addition to exterior updates, the two-door AMG GT Coupés and Roadsters will be fitted with the AMG DYNAMICS integrated driving dynamics control system for added agility, the new AMG Performance steering wheel, the centre console with innovative display buttons from the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé (combined fuel consumption: 11.3-9.4 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 257-215 g/km) and a fully digital instrument display with exclusive AMG “Superport” display style on the instrument cluster. The AMG GT R PRO was modified in numerous details to deliver even more racetrack performance: The optimised specific power, the new suspension, the aerodynamic fine-tuning resulting in even more downforce overall, lightweight-design bucket seats and lightweight-design wheels contribute to the enhanced driving dynamics and faster lap times on the racetrack.

"The AMG GT embodies the core of our brand, "Driving Performance", in a unique way. At its début four years ago, it not only turned the heads of customers and sports car enthusiasts, but also created new dimensions in the competitive environment. In order to continue this success story, we have now equipped it with numerous innovations from the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé and added a new limited-edition top-of-the-range model: No other production model of Mercedes-AMG presently is as close to motor racing as the new AMG GT R PRO. A lot of experience from our current GT3 and GT4 motorsport activities entered into its development.

The agile responses to all driver commands and the overall performance now deliver even more of that incomparable feeling that our racing drivers experience on the track", says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

Fully digital instrument display as standard.

As in the AMG GT 4-Door Coupé, the new telematics architecture in the two-door AMG GT models makes the innovative, standard fully digital instrument display with 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia display on the centre console possible. The instrument cluster offers an entirely new screen design with the three AMG-specific display styles “Classic”, “Sporty” or “ Supersport”. In the “Supersport" mode, there is also extensive additional information specific to AMG, such as a prompt borrowed from motorsport to shift up in manual transmission mode. The newly designed visualisations in the multimedia display enable further vehicle functions to be experienced even better, e.g. with an animated presentation of the driving assistance, vehicle and communication systems.

Via the left-hand touch control button on the steering wheel, preferred information can also be displayed on the left or right-hand side of the instrument panel – for example the classic speedometer and rev counter, navigation information or assistance systems through to detailed engine data. Sporty drivers especially can fade in a g-force display or the current output and torque values.

Innovative display buttons in the centre console

The eye-catching feature in the interior is the centre console with its stylised V8 design, not only putting the spotlight on the brand's performance claim but also perfectly fulfilling functional requirements. The 2-door AMG GT is now also getting the innovative, coloured display buttons. They integrate the display and steering of transmission logistics, chassis, ESP®, exhaust system, rear spoilers and start stop function. Using TFT technology the display buttons use intuitively comprehensible symbols to show the function and are easy to operate with just a small tap of the finger. The display buttons are supplemented by the two rocker switches for the drive programmes and volume control.

It’s all down to the grip: the new generation of AMG steering wheels

During model maintenance the 2-door AMG GT is getting the new AMG performance steering wheel which celebrated its début in the AMG GT 4-door coupé and is also available in the C 63. It is characterised by its sporty design, a flattened bottom section with a heavily contoured rim and intuitive operation. The steering wheel cover in black nappa leather is perforated at the sides to ensure optimum grip.

On the AMG GT S and AMG GT C the steering wheel comes as standard with a rim in black nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre. In the AMG GT R the rim is completely covered with DINAMICA microfibre. The AMG steering wheel also comes in black nappa leather with trim in black piano gloss, as well as DINAMICA microfibre with elements in high-gloss carbon fibre. In any case the galvanised gearshift paddles on the steering wheel allow an even sportier driving style with manual gear shift.

The integrated Touch Control buttons can be used to control the functions of the digital dash and the multimedia display by means of horizontal and vertical swiping of the finger. The active distance assistant DISTRONIC and the TEMPOMAT cruise control can be adjusted on the control panels on the left. The control panels on the right are used to activate the voice control and telephone, to regulate the volume as well as other functions of the multimedia system.

All 2-door AMG GT models have the standard new AMG steering wheel buttons. These consist of a round controller with an integrated display beneath the right-hand steering-wheel spoke, plus two vertically positioned colour display buttons with switches beneath the left-hand steering-wheel spoke.

The AMG drive programmes can be triggered via the controller. The selected setting is shown on the colour LCD display directly integrated in the controller.

The two freely configurable display buttons and the additional switches on the left-hand side enable further AMG functions to be controlled directly on the steering wheel. This means that the driver can concentrate fully on dynamic driving without having to take their hands off the wheel. Each required function can be depicted on the display icon and its switch is tapped by the driver to set the respective function.

So the two individually preferred AMG functions can be defined exactly and the settings changed with just one tap of the finger.

Data logger for use on the race track: AMG TRACK PACE

The AMG TRACK PACE virtual race engineer, which records data when driving on closed-off race tracks, provides a significantly extended and even more precise scope of functions. AMG TRACK PACE is a standard part of the COMAND online infotainment system.

Once the function has been activated, while driving on a race track, more than 80 vehicle-specific sets of data (e.g. speed, acceleration) are recorded ten times per second. On top of this, lap and sector times are displayed, as well as the respective difference to a reference time. Because specific display elements are shown in green or red, the driver is able to see at a glance without reading numbers whether they are currently faster or slower than the best time.

After putting in some fast laps, the driver can use the data to analyse and, if necessary, improve their driving skills. In addition, acceleration and deceleration values (e.g. 0-100 km/h, ¼ mile, 100-0 km/h) can be measured and saved. Thanks to a newly developed algorithm which determines the vehicle position as precisely as possible, AMG TRACK PACE even detects when the circuit has been left or it has been shortened. This is done using GPS data as well as the sensors available in the vehicle (acceleration, gyroscope, steering angle, wheel speeds).

The data is displayed on the multimedia display and the digital dash. Well-known race tracks like, for example, the Nürburgring or Spa Francorchamps, are already stored. Furthermore, it is also possible to record your own circuits.

Exterior: AMG GT family connection further enhanced

The new light controls of the LED high performance headlights now show parallels to the AMG GT 4-door coupé and therefore further enhance the AMG GT family connection. A tri-functional, arched light guide takes on the functions of daytime running light, navigation light and turn signals.

The multi-chamber reflector system with three single reflectors each for dipped beam and main beam not only ensures optimal illumination of the roadway, but also gives the AMG GT a sporty, dynamic look which gains even more optical depth as the result of the black background. The light of the LED tail lights also appears even deeper set and sportier through the dark background.

From the back the new look of the rear apron is striking, its sporty black diffuser insert was redesigned for the AMG GT, AMG GT S and AMG GT C. At the same time the tail pipe cover was visually redesigned and matched to the shape of the AMG GT 4-door coupé. The AMG GT now has two round twin tail pipe covers, the AMG GT S and AMG GT C has trapeze shaped twin tail pipe covers. The rear design of the AMG GT R keeps its distinctive shape with the large, centrally positioned tail pipe cover with centre bar. It is flanked by two more black tail pipes on the left and right of the diffuser.

The AMG GT and AMG GT S are getting a new black grained sill cover on the bottom section. This makes for an additional dynamic optical look. Used in combination with the optional exterior package, additional decorative element attachments emphasise the features.

Also, if desired, the AMG GT and AMG GT S can come with a new light y-spoke alloy wheel in soft black with a finely polished surface. In addition, an option for the AMG GT, AMG GT S and AMG GT C is new 10-double-spoked forged wheels in titanium grey with finely polished surfaces or in soft black with finely polished rim flange.

A new option is the parking package with the PARKTRONIC park assistant, reverse and front camera, which increases everyday suitability when manoeuvring. And one more sign of a family connection is also the 2-door AMG GT, now available in brilliant blue magno, which will be introduced with the AMG GT 4-door coupé. Other extras are two-tone leather upholstery in exclusive nappa style in silver pearl/black.

Even more agile through AMG DYNAMICS

As a new feature in the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT “Slippery”, “Comfort”, “Sport”, “Sport Plus”, “RACE” and “Individual” drive programmes, the 2-door AMG GT now also comes with AMG DYNAMICS. This integrated driving dynamics regulation expands the functions of ESP® (electronic stability programme) to exact dosing of power distribution at the rear axis and the characteristics of steering.

In this way the AMG GT becomes even more agile at its highest stability. In the first place AMG DYNAMICS optimises the transverse dynamics by a higher lateral acceleration, better traction and load change reactions.

Particularly remarkable: AMG DYNAMICS calculates how the vehicle will react. To do this, the system uses the available sensors that detect the speed, the steering angle or the yaw rate, for instance. Based on the pilot-control principle it is possible to anticipate the vehicle behaviour on the basis of the driver's actions and the data from the sensors. The control system reacts in this way even before the driver – and with no noticeable or intervention of the system. The driver gets a very authentic driving feel with high cornering dynamics and optimum traction as well as high stability and predictable handling. Even experienced drivers receive optimum assistance without feeling patronised by the system.

The different AMG DYNAMICS modes are named "Basic", "Advanced", "Pro" and "Master". The drive program selection indicated on the multimedia display now shows the new AMG DYNAMICS symbol with the relevant additional term instead of the previous ESP® symbol.

    "Basic" is assigned to the "Slippery" and "Comfort" drive programs. Here the AMG GT demonstrates exceptionally stable handling characteristics with high yaw damping.
    "Advanced" is activated in the "Sport" programme. The AMG GT is then neutrally balanced. The lower yaw damping, lower steering angle requirement and enhanced agility support dynamic manoeuvres such as driving on winding country roads.
    “Pro” (abbreviation for “professional”) is part of the “Sport+” programme. In “Pro” the driver receives even more assistance for dynamic driving manoeuvres while agility and precision are further enhanced when taking corners.
    “Master” (only available for GT C, GT S and GT R) is connected to the RACE drive programme. "Master" mode is aimed at drivers who want to experience dynamism and the driving enjoyment on closed-off circuits. "Master" offers an extremely neutral vehicle balance, low steer angle requirement and more agile steering. In this way, "Master" ensures maximum agility and fully exploits the dynamic potential.

Closer to motor racing than ever before: the new AMG GT R PRO

The new limited-edition top-of-the-range model AMG GT R PRO is characterised by yet further improved driving dynamics, in particular on the racetrack. The experience from the AMG GT3 and AMG GT4 racing cars entered into the development. The measures from motorsport can be clustered in four areas: suspension, lightweight construction, aerodynamics and looks.

Suspension: the optimal set-up

The new AMG coil-over suspension offers even more choices for tailoring the set-up to the particular circuit. As in professional motorsport, the driver is not only able to set the spring preload length mechanically, but can now also adjust the compression and rebound of the dampers. This is done quickly and precisely without tools via a click system with an integral adjustment dial on the damper. The compression rate is adjusted separately for high-speed and low-speed movements. This means that the settings can be dialled-in for slow and fast compression movements as is common practice in motorsport. This allows influencing the body dive and roll as the well as the traction of the AMG GT R PRO even more selectively.

The front axle is fitted with an adjustable torsion bar made of lightweight carbon fibre. Its counterpart at the rear is made of steel, is likewise adjustable and also saves weight due to its hollow tube design.

The AMG GT R is already fitted with Uniball spherical bearings at the lower wishbones of the rear axle. The AMG GT R PRO now gets these bearings also for the upper wishbones. They are significantly more wear-resistant than conventional wishbone bearings and due to their design have no play, which means toe-in and camber do not change even under high loads. As a result, the AMG GT R PRO can be driven with even more precision.

The carbon-fibre shear panel in the underbody of the rear end also contributes to the high handling precision. This lightweight and rigid element stiffens the rear-end structure and as a result adds even more stability to the body shell.

The electronically controlled dynamic engine and transmission mounts were also retuned to further increase the agility and deliver high-precision response and clear feedback.

The standard delivery scope of the AMG GT R PRO also includes the Track Package (not for USA, Canada and China). It comprises a roll-over protection system, enclosed 4-point safety harnesses for driver and front passenger, and a 2-kg fire extinguisher (both scopes exclusively for use on the racetrack). The bolted steel roll cage of the roll-over protection system consists of a main roll bar, a brace for mounting the harnesses, two rear braces as well as a diagonal X-brace in the rear end. The system further increases the already excellent vehicle rigidity and thus also has a positive influence on the vehicle's driving dynamics. In the USA, Canada and China, the AMG GT R PRO is fitted with matte carbon-fibre trim elements and the boot brace in place of the Track Package.

Lightweight construction: carbon-fibre components and new forged wheels

In addition to a host of carbon-fibre components, weight is saved by the standard-fit ceramic high-performance compound braking system exclusively with black painted brake callipers as well as by the AMG bucket seats made of clear-coated carbon fibre (not for USA, Canada and China). In the USA, Canada and China, the AMG GT R PRO is equipped with AMG Performance seats as standard. The lightweight AMG Performance 5-double-spoke forged wheels are exclusively painted titanium grey and feature a rim flange with high-sheen finish.

Aerodynamics: redesigned front apron with additional flics

The aerodynamic fine-tuning increases the overall performance of the AMG GT R PRO as well. The redesigned front apron was fitted with two flics at the sides made of clear-coated carbon fibre. The lower flics transition virtually seamlessly into the front splitter, which was extended further forward and is held by small metal braces – they stabilise the front splitter at higher speeds. In addition, they are another visual homage to the role models from motorsport.

The louvres (air slots) in the front wings effectively vent the wheel arches and consequently contribute to reducing front-axle lift. At the rear, a clear-coated carbon-fibre aero element at the wheel arch on either side rises up vertically almost to the level of the tail lamps. The interplay of all these measures significantly reduces front-axle lift without negatively impacting the aerodynamic conditions at the rear axle.

The active aerodynamics profile in the underbody, the AIRPANEL active air regulation system in the front apron and the large aerofoil on the hatch, all known from the AMG GT R, are part of the standard specification. In addition, the rear aerofoil is fitted with a spoiler lip (gurney), which increases downforce at the rear axle, and now sits on milled aluminium brackets that underscore the proximity to motor racing.

Motor racing looks: Carbon Package, new carbon-fibre roof, car wrap

The AMG GT R PRO does not only drive like a racing car, it also looks the part. The standard-fit Carbon Package I with front splitter, fins in the wings, trim strips in the side sills and a diffuser with high-quality clear-coated carbon-fibre finish emphasise the proximity to motorsport, as does the redesigned carbon-fibre roof with lowered centre.

The special status is also underscored by the car wrap with racing stripes running over the bonnet, roof and hatch as well as along the sides of the vehicle. This car wrap is light green exclusively in combination with the selenite grey paint finish. For all other colour variants, the stripes come in dark-grey matt. Optionally, the car wrap can also be omitted completely.

Even before the world premiere, the new AMG GT R PRO has impressively demonstrated its performance potential on the racetrack: In early November, AMG brand ambassador and AMG GT3 racing driver Maro Engel completed a circuit of the Nürburgring North Loop in exactly 7.04.632 minutes driving a still disguised AMG GT R PRO. This considerably bettered the previous time for the AMG GT R – and at an autumnal ambient temperature of 12 degrees, it demonstrated the great potential of the current AMG flagship model.

PETRONAS celebrated its fifth consecutive FIA Formula One™ World Constructors’ Championship with Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport driver, Valtteri Bottas at the PETRONAS Twin Towers today.

Valtteri arrived in Kuala Lumpur after wrapping up the final tests of the year in Abu Dhabi to pay tribute to PETRONAS, which has played a crucial role ensuring Mercedes takes home another F1 double world championship this year.

The Silver Arrows clinched the Constructors’ title in Brazil to become the second team in the sport’s history to win five double championships in a row after Lewis Hamilton lifted the Drivers’ title in Mexico, equalling the record set by Ferrari, between 2000 and 2004.

Valtteri spoke positively about the team’s partnership with PETRONAS. “It's always good to come back to Malaysia, particularly when we get to visit our friends at PETRONAS to celebrate another successful season. The reception at the Twin Towers today was incredible, it’s great to see the same level of enthusiasm and pride for our joint achievements as we have witnessed in Brackley and Brixworth.

“PETRONAS technology is the lifeblood of this amazing car we’ve been fortunate to race in this year, and we’d like to thank everyone at PETRONAS for their dedication and hard work that has contributed to both Championships. Enjoy the moment and let’s keep pushing forward.”

This continued success is a testimony to PETRONAS’ technological contribution to the Mercedes team.

As title and technical partner, PETRONAS works closely with the team to design efficient fuel, lubricants and functional fluids and as a result, since the introduction of the Hybrid power-units in 2014, PETRONAS and Mercedes have won five double world championships, plus a total of 74 Grand Prix victories in 100 races, to date. Within the same period, the team had also taken 84 pole positions and won 221 trophies.

Commenting on the World Constructors‘ Championship success, PETRONAS President and Group CEO, Tan Sri Wan Zulkiflee Wan Ariffin said: “On behalf of everyone from PETRONAS, I would like to congratulate Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport on claiming its fifth successive World Constructors‘ Championship. We are proud to be a key partner in this significant milestone which highlights the success of PETRONAS‘ fluid technology solutions that formulates the fuel and lubricants for the winning F1 cars and contributed to yet another victory with Mercedes-AMG.

“PETRONAS is committed to bringing our achievements on the track to the road, translating our advanced fluid technology into efficient and high-performance products for our customers.“

Over race weekends, the PETRONAS trackside laboratory is an integral part of the team’s infrastructure. The facility is able to bring precise laboratory conditions so that the engineers can benefit from full diagnostic support.  Using some of the most high-tech equipment in the world, PETRONAS experts analyse samples of PETRONAS PRIMAX racing fuel and PETRONAS SYNTIUM motor oil to monitor the health and performance of the engine, crucial for the performance of the Mercedes-AMG F1 W09 EQ Power+.

Team Principal and CEO of Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport, Toto Wolff added: “Mercedes and PETRONAS came together for the first time in 2010. Back then, if somebody had told us that we might one day win five titles in a row, we would have told them they were crazy. Now we’re only the second group of people ever to achieve five consecutive double World Championship wins.

“I’d like to thank the entire PETRONAS team for their important contribution to this success. It’s a remarkable achievement and one that felt all the sweeter after the race in Interlagos, with Lewis’ power unit on the edge of failure from lap 29 onwards. The way we managed that engine problem, with incredible teamwork and ingenuity, is a perfect example of what has made the combination of Mercedes and PETRONAS formidable in the last years. Quick thinking, clever solutions and amazing teamwork.”

About PETRONAS

PETRONAS is a Fortune Global 500® company wholly-owned by the government of Malaysia. Together with its subsidiaries and associated companies, PETRONAS is a fully integrated entity with global operations in a wide spectrum of the oil and gas value-chain with strategic interests in more than 50 countries.

Valtteri completed 120 laps of the Yas Marina Circuit on Tuesday at the wheel of the championship winning Mercedes-AMG F1 W09 EQ Power+. The team returned to the venue of last weekend’s Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, testing Pirelli’s new range of tyres for 2019.

    The Finn set the second fastest time of the day, a 1:37.231, on the HyperSoft tyre
    He completed 120 untroubled laps of the Yas Marina Circuit (666.480 km)
    The main focus of the day was collecting data on the 2019 tyre compounds

Valtteri Bottas

Overall, a good day of testing here in Abu Dhabi. We completed our programme without any issues and we were able to do some long and short runs on a mix of the new Pirelli compounds. We can see some differences to this year’s tyres but we have all winter to work on understanding the new tyres from all the knowledge we are gaining from this test. I’m sure Pirelli will learn a lot from these two days of testing as well. We’ll be back on track tomorrow for the final time this year.

Andrew Shovlin

Today was about gathering data on the 2019 tyres and understanding how they differ to the 2018 tyres we’ve used this year. We’ll continue our programme with Valtteri tomorrow with more of a focus on the performance and degradation of each of the compounds.  This work is important as we need to select tyres for the early races based on the information we find at this test. It was a good day of running and the car ran without any issues.

Stuttgart/Weilburg-Hirschhausen. After winning a tender for several new regular-service bus routes in Limburg-Weilburg (central Hesse), Medenbach Traffic GmbH will be operating 20 new Setra Low Entry buses. The vehicles of the S 415 LE business and S 418 LE business models will be brought into service on a total of eight routes on behalf of the Rhein-Main-Verkehrsverbundes (RMV) public transport provider. Axel Stokinger, Managing Director of the German sales division of Daimler Buses (middle) handed over the low-floor buses to Managing Director Peter Medenbach (left) in the company of his son-in-law Timo Medenbach in Neu-Ulm. The Euro 6 vehicles of the Setra MultiClass model series feature elegant wood-look flooring, a special use area for pushchairs, wheelchairs and bicycles as well as display systems with real-time information for the passengers.