Mercedes-Benz brings new V-Class MPV to China

The new V-Class has tailor-made features for China: a panoramic sliding sunroof. [Photo provided to China Daily]

With changes in China such as the new universal two-child policy, Mercedes-Benz foresees a positive trend in demand for family-oriented vehicles that are both spacious and flexible in use.

"China is one of the most important markets for Daimler globally", said Hubertus Troska, member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Greater China.

"Our key strategy is to delight our Chinese customers with the best products, best services and of course best customer experience. We have managed to incorporate all those factors in our locally produced new V-Class and are confident that it will open many opportunities for our van business in China," he said.

Localized approach

Mercedes-Benz Vans expanded its plant in Fuzhou, Fujian province, with its first ever research and development center outside Germany in 2013, and the center focuses on locally produced and marketed models. Through this fully localized approach, Mercedes-Benz was able to take Chinese customers' specific needs into full account during the development process of its new MPV.

Daimler, together with its partners, has invested around 1.4 billion yuan in the localization of its mid-size models including the new V-Class and Vito.

The first batch of V-Class vehicles "Made in China for China" has already rolled off the assembly line at the Fuzhou production plant and will be in dealerships across the country in April.

"The new V-Class MPV was born for China," said Bjorn Hauber, President and CEO of Fujian Benz Automotive Co. "Through in-depth market research and analysis, we have a clear understanding of Chinese consumers' actual needs when it comes to driving with family and friends, and will certainly bring you a driving experience that's 'Large as life'."