Last week, the moment finally arrived again: Mercedes-Benz unveiled the new S-Class (W223) in Stuttgart. However, it wasn’t like in previous years, because the presentation took place entirely digitally via livestream. Accordingly, we were also curious to see exactly how Mercedes would present the 11th generation of the S-Class. In addition to the usual points of interest, such as the design and technical innovations, we naturally kept a close eye on the topic of roof boxes: Can a roof box be mounted on the new Mercedes S-Class, just as it was on previous generations?
The New Features
The presentation consisted largely of individual promotional videos and segments in which employees from the development, manufacturing, and marketing departments provided more detailed explanations of the innovations. Daimler CEO Ola Källenius led us through the presentation.
Externally, Mercedes has remained true to the model’s DNA and has made only minor visual changes. For example, the new S-Class is slightly longer than the previous model. Viewed from the side, you’ll find no creases or design flourishes in the new model’s bodywork. The retractable door handles, which can be installed for an additional charge, are a small highlight. However, this is of course not a new innovation, since retractable door handles have been available on Tesla already come standard. The new S-Class achieves a top score for its drag coefficient (Cd value): with a Cd value of 0.22, it ranks among the most aerodynamic vehicles. While the new S-Class doesn’t quite match the Cd value of our ASPHALTKIND roof box (0.11), these figures are still very impressive.
Mercedes has introduced major innovations, particularly in the interior. For example, up to five screens (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) can now be used, including a new vertical touchscreen in the center of the cockpit. The car also features a wealth of modern software: the climate control system can be operated via voice commands, parking and exiting a parking space can be controlled remotely via smartphone, and the sunroof can be opened automatically with a hand gesture. Particularly fascinating is the optional E-Active Body Control system, which raises the vehicle’s body within a fraction of a second if there is a risk of a side-impact collision.
And what about a roof box on the new S-Class?
During the presentation, we were, of course, on the lookout for mounting points on the car’s roof that would even make it possible to attach a roof box, as was the case with previous models. Toward the middle of the presentation, we caught a brief glimpse of the roof, and we’re happy to report: Yes, a roof box can indeed be mounted on the new S-Class (W223). Why is that so important to us?
Source: Mercedes-Benz (https://bit.ly/3k4oC86)
To date, there is no roof box suitable for luxury sedans such as the S-Class, the BMW 7 Series, or the Audi A8. These cars are the benchmark for the German automotive industry.
With the ASPHALTKIND roof box, we’ll definitely be seeing ourselves on these cars as well. After all, there’s hardly any other target group for whom design, long-distance and everyday practicality, and aerodynamics are so important. None of these cars has a particularly large trunk. So it’s time to offer a roof-mounted solution here as well with our benchmark product.