Mercedes-Benz Malaysia marked the brand’s 130! Years of Innovation at the newly renovated Cycle & Carriage Bintang Georgetown Autohaus in the heritage city of Penang today.
In line with the brand’s distinctive history, and long-standing partnership with its dealer, Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad, the 130! Year of Innovation celebrations pay tribute to Mercedes-Benz’s invention of the automobile in 1886 and its continued pursuit of excellence.
Speaking during the celebration, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner said, “130 years ago, Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz carved their name in history books with the invention of the automobile. The Mercedes-Benz brand was born and has been moving onwards and upwards since. Decade in, decade out, we have been able to reinvent the automobile. As the Daimler motto says, “If you don’t move forwards, you go backwards”, and as such we have been a constantly evolving brand. Mercedes-Benz has been at the forefront of innovation, technology and quality customer experiences since 1886. Living out our ‘the Best or nothing’ motto, we continue to excel and set standards in the automotive industry.”
Today, the brand is recognised and widely known by its Three Pointed Star. The Mercedes-Benz brand is represented in over 120 countries worldwide. As the brand celebrates its 130th year in the automotive industry, Mercedes- Benz is as motivated as ever by its ambition to lead in autonomous driving, exemplary safety standards and environmentally-friendly powertrains.
In Malaysia, the brand’s heritage is well-recognised with the first Mercedes- Benz vehicle sold in 1951. And in 2003, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia was established to carry on the brand’s legacy. Backed by 130! Years of Innovation in product quality and experience in customer service, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has propelled the brand forward in the local automotive market.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s long-standing partnerships with key dealers such as Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad have extended the brand legacy. Its in- country dealer network has been instrumental in the growth of the brand. The Mercedes-Benz Malaysia network is the largest and most extensive, with 28 authorised dealerships covering both peninsular and east Malaysia.
Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad, Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Wong Kin Foo, said, “I would like to congratulate Mercedes-Benz on their 130th year anniversary. It is with great pleasure that we are able to witness this milestone that celebrates the best in automotive innovation. Our relationship and association with the Mercedes-Benz brand dates back to 1951 and we have, since then, carved an illustrious journey to be the largest dealer group in the country. We believe that as new products and growth strategies are implemented, our commitment to extending the Mercedes-Benz brand presence will continue accordingly.”
“Part of Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad’s dedication to growing the Mercedes-Benz brand is its commitment to the northern region of Malaysia. Since 2011, a total of RM20 million has been invested, with the latest RM4 million for the upgrade of the Mercedes-Benz Cycle & Carriage Bintang (Northern) Georgetown Autohaus. Our investments into the brand and retail network will continue over the next 2 years in the remaining 6 Autohauses thruoughout the country and it is expected to cost us RM30 million. This is the best way to add value for our customers’ trust in us.”
The 33,489 sq ft Georgetown Autohaus includes key aspects of the Mercedes-Benz Presentation System II (MPS II) and features seven display vehicles, an upgraded customer lounge area and 14 mechanical work bays for service. Displaying Mercedes-Benz’s new Corporate Identity, the Autohaus has been created and thoughtfully designed with customers in mind.
In closing and continuing the passion for innovation, Dr Claus Weidner said, “As we take in the sights and sounds of the UNESCO world heritage city, Penang, we also want to celebrate how far we have come in our network and after-sales service. Cycle & Carriage Bintang (Northern), Georgetown Autohaus is certainly a prime example of how we have put dedication to our valued customers as a priority. The brand’s success thus far is the result of hard work and determination to building the business, and as we look towards the next 130 years and beyond, we are committed as ever to the Mercedes-Benz brand and our dealership network.”
