2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Teased With Superscreen, Selfie Camera
A new generation of the Mercedes-Benz E-Class will be unveiled in the coming months and launched in Canada by the end of this year as a 2024 model. Today, the German automaker gave us a preview by showing some of the midsize sedan’s interior and detailing a number of new technologies.
The most striking change is the available Superscreen, which combines the centre touchscreen with a passenger-side display into a large glass surface. Unlike the Hyperscreen in Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles, however, the digital instrument panel remains detached from the rest of the interface.
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The main icons of the MBUX infotainment system are now simpler and also colour-coded to match smartphone tiles, allowing the driver to recognize them more intuitively. Meanwhile, with the "Just Talk" function, the intelligent voice control can now be activated without the keyword "Hey Mercedes." When the function is activated, a red microphone symbol appears in the display to indicate that the vehicle is ready and waiting for commands.
By the way, the computing functions of previously separate domains take place in a single processor. The screens and MBUX system thus share a new, very powerful central onboard computer, enabling data streams to be transmitted significantly faster.
Let the Show Begin
Look closely and you’ll spot a new selfie and video camera on top of the dashboard. That’s right: When the car is stationary, the driver can participate in online video conferences or take personal photos and videos to share on social media.
In fact, the software experts at Mercedes-Benz have developed a new compatibility layer that allows the installation of third-party apps, such as Webex and Zoom. These two along with Tiktok and the Angry Birds game will be available at launch, not to mention the ZYNC entertainment platform (optional).
Elsewhere, new Active Ambient Lighting with Sound Visualization makes it possible to not only hear songs but also “see” them. Visualization takes place on the light strip. For example, fast sequences of beats can cause rapid light changes, while flowing rhythms can create softly merging lighting moods, Mercedes-Benz explains.
Artificial intelligence can learn which comfort systems occupants use repeatedly and automate them in what the company calls “routines.” Customers will also have the option of creating routines themselves, linking several functions and conditions. For example, "Switch on the seat heating and set the ambient lighting to warm orange if the interior temperature is below 15 degrees Celsius."
Furthermore, the next-gen E-Class brings the debut of a new feature: The Motion sickness prevention program of ENERGIZING COMFORT helps affected passengers alleviate the symptoms. A bio feedback function is planned for the ENERGIZING COACH in the medium term. This can reduce the feeling of stress with breathing exercises.
Partnership With Google
Also today, Mercedes-Benz announced a long-term strategic partnership with Google to further accelerate auto innovation and create the industry’s next-generation digital luxury car experience. As a result, Mercedes-Benz will be the first automaker to build its own branded navigation experience based on new in-car data and navigation capabilities from Google Maps.
What’s more, by embedding these features into the upcoming Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), customers will be able to enjoy a superior navigation experience thanks to easy usability and better graphics on the car’s high-resolution screen.
As a first step starting right now, the automaker will give customers access to Place Details provided by Google, including business hours, photos, ratings and reviews. Eventually, Mercedes-Benz will use Google Maps data to enable assisted driving features such as automatic speed adjustments before intersections, roundabouts or curves.
Keep following The Car Guide for more details and coverage of the upcoming 2024 Mercedes-Benz E-Class.