Hi all,
As you all know the next gen s class(W223?) will be in R&D phase now and it is never too early to discuss about the new S Class. I thought it would be appropriate to start talking about what is to be expected for the next gen S Class 3 years or so in advance.

1 area outlined by Daimler executive will be the advancement of the autonomous driving technology into higher level. The FL W222 that is expected within a month or so will still be at level 2 partial autonomous. I guess the new S Class might go into level 4 autonomous(high automation) or at the very least level 3 autonomous(Conditional autonomous).

 

I think technology is already there but laws don't permit them ,I read in one of car mags illustrated with the pictures , Mercedes-Benz Trucks were driven by themselves autonomously while the driver read some mags

 

I can understand the allure of being transported to work and back without having to lift a finger.

What I can't understand is why people buy cars and want the cars to drive themselves. I buy cars to drive and because I happen to like driving--but to be fair, I do not consider inching along in rush hour traffic driving.

 

I find the Distronic Plus and the hold feature enough to make driving in traffic ( and not in traffic ) extremely useful and makes driving much more enjoyable.

I have back issues and the start and stop - gas pedal to brake pedal movement would aggravate my back-sciatica. Distronic Plus truly helps. Not sure I'd want anything more.

 

but then again thats how it always goes. When a new feature/option comes I keep thinking why didnt They come up with this sooner. Like shutting off the car at stops to improve fuel efficiency.
Here are some improvements
1) a spare/donut
2)better voice command
3) better massage
4) better fuel efficiency
5)longer range on electric motor for hybrids
6)less wait time on mbrace calling
7)less cluttering of buttons
8)more engine choices i dont need 450hp. 300-350hp would be plenty for me.

 

S65 series will finally be available with 4WD.
Hate this new "automation" B.S., I'm afraid the governments will embrace it and ban humans from driving their own cars.

 

I too enjoy driving and being 'in control' of my car.......as Mitch also mentioned.....I would not buy a car that drove me.