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Mercedes-Benz S (W222)
Overview
Manufacturer	Daimler AG
Production	June 2013 – September 2020
Model years	2014–2020
Assembly	Germany: Sindelfingen (Sindelfingen Plant) India: Pune (Mercedes-Benz India) Malaysia: Pekan (HICOM) Indonesia: Bogor (MBI) Thailand: Samut Prakan (TAAP) Vietnam: Ho Chi Minh City (MBV)
Designer	Il-hun Yoon Robert Lešnik (2009)
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size luxury car
Body style	4-door saloon
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive Front-engine, all-wheel-drive (4MATIC)
Related	Mercedes-Benz S-Class (C217)
Powertrain
Engine	Petrol engines: 2.0 L M264 turbo I4 (China) 3.0 L M276 turbo V6 3.0 L M256 I6 turbo 3.0 L M276 DE 30 red. V6 bi-turbo 3.5 L M276 DE 35 V6 4.7 L M278 DE 46 AL V8 bi-turbo 3.0 L M276 DE 30 AL V6 bi-turbo 4.0 L M176/M177 AMG V8 bi-turbo 5.5 L M157 DE 55 AL V8 bi-turbo 6.0 L M277 V12 bi-turbo 6.0 L M279 E 60 AL V12 bi-turbo Diesel engines: 2.2 L OM651 DE 22 LA I4 twin-turbo 2.9 L OM656 D 29 I6 bi-turbo 3.0 L OM642 LS DE 30LA V6 turbo
Transmission	7-speed 7G-Tronic automatic 9-speed 9G-Tronic automatic
Hybrid drivetrain	Parallel hybrid (S400 Hybrid, S300 BlueTec Hybrid) Mild hybrid (EQ Boost) Plug-in hybrid (S500e / S560e)
Dimensions
Wheelbase	SWB: 3,035 mm (119.5 in) LWB: 3,165 mm (124.6 in) Maybach: 3,365 mm (132.5 in) Pullman: 4,418 mm (173.9 in)
Length	SWB: 5,146 mm (202.6 in) LWB: 5,296 mm (208.5 in) Maybach: 5,453 mm (214.7 in) Pullman: 6,499 mm (255.9 in)
Width	1,899 mm (74.8 in)
Height	1,496 mm (58.9 in) 1,598 mm (62.9 in) (Pullman)
Curb weight	1,910–2,275 kg (4,210–5,020 lb) 2,295–2,360 kg (5,060–5,200 lb) (Mercedes-Maybach)
Chronology
Predecessor	Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) Maybach 57 and 62 (Mercedes-Maybach; indirect)
Successor	Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W223)

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W222) is a full-size luxury car manufactured by Daimler AG and marketed by Mercedes-Benz from 2013 to 2020. Following the W221, it represents the sixth generation of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. Having its public debut on 15 May 2013 in Hamburg, Germany, the W222 S-Class began series production at the Sindelfingen plant on 12 June 2013.

The short-wheelbase model—internally designated W222—is sold alongside a long-wheelbase model, bearing the V222 codename. While retaining its 3,035 mm (119.5 in) wheelbase and overall platform, aluminium is used to a greater extent and its length has increased marginally. The design concept, initially conceived by South Korean designer Il-hun Yoon, saw further refinement under the leadership of Robert Lešnik's team in 2009. The development programme of the W222 represented a substantial expenditure of approximately €1 billion, invested from 2011 to 2014. In June 2014, Daimler AG had introduced the coupe and convertible successors to the CL-Class, identified by the C217 and A217 codenames, respectively.

In May 2013, the ordering phase for the W222 S-Class began, and it officially arrived at Mercedes-Benz dealers on 20 July 2013. The initial model lineup comprised the S 400 Hybrid, S 500, and S 350 BlueTEC, with the subsequent introduction of the S 300 BlueTEC Hybrid in 2014. A subtle mid-cycle refresh, introduced in April 2017, commenced production in July of the same year. This facelift introduced a 48-volt mild hybrid system, innovative comfort technologies, revised headlamps, taillamps, and a restyled grille. Furthermore, in 2014, Mercedes-Benz announced the reintroduction of the ultra-luxury Mercedes-Maybach nameplate to the S-Class lineup in 2015 as a sub-brand, marking a return after a three-year hiatus following the discontinuation of the 57 and 62 models.

The W222 has received positive reviews overall, with many automotive critics praising its comfortable driving experience, refinement, and handling capabilities.^[1] The production of the W222 concluded in 2020 after a seven-year run, and it was succeeded by the W223 model.

The W222 represented an approximate expenditure of €1 billion (US$1.33 billion); all of which was spent between 2011 and 2014.^[2] This investment, disbursed between 2011 and 2014, comprised €350 million for the body shop, €130 million for the press shop, and €70 million for the assembly line, with the residual funds allocated to other areas of the manufacturing process.^[3] A new manufacturing process was implemented for the lightweight, aluminium roof. This process involved joining the roof and steel body after both components had undergone the paint shop procedures. A notable advancement in production logistics is the implementation of the "pick-by-projector" system. This system facilitates the process of picking parts by guiding to the employees to which storage unit houses the required component. Enhancements in design and engineering have contributed to a reduction of approximately 20 per cent in energy consumption per vehicle.^[3]

Extensive training for plant employees focused on assembling a new chassis and body, constructed from a combination of aluminium and steel.^[4] Daimler established an ergonomic assembly line, enabling workers to comfortably mount control units on the back wall module at a height conducive to their comfort. The introduction of a lifting device further aids in transporting components into the vehicle, minimising strain on the workers.^[4]

In addressing noise, vibration, and harshness, engineers devised an "articulation index" to evaluate the ease of communication and comprehension at higher speeds. Analysing the pitch and tone of typical human voices, they collaborated on optimising sound insulation, minimising vibrations, and improving aerodynamics. This was done to ensure that any noise that did come in was at a different frequency, thus improving the understandability of speech.^[5]

The design concept was initially conceived by South Korean designer Il-hun Yoon before it saw further refinement when a team under the leadership of Robert Lešnik formulated a design basis in 2009.^[6][7] Unveiled at Airbus in Hamburg-Finkenwerder on 15 May 2013,^[8] the W222 made subsequent appearances at Shanghai's Mercedes-Benz Arena,^[9] and Japan's 2013 Osaka Motor Show (S 400 Hybrid).

US models went on sale as 2014 model year vehicles; the lineup initially included only the long-wheelbase "S 550" (S 500 in Europe) in September 2013, and long-wheelbase S 550 4Matic which arrived in November 2013.^[10] Auto Bild measured the LWB as the quietest among cars like Rolls-Royce Ghost and Bentley Flying Spur in 2014.^[11] Additional models, including V12 models and those from AMG arrived in early 2014.

Europe models went on sale at the end of July 2013, followed by China at the end of September 2013, the USA in October 2013.^[12]

Japan models went on sale and delivery began in November 2013. Early models include the S 400 Hybrid (right-hand-drive), S 400 Hybrid Exclusive (right steering), S 550 long (left/right steering), S 63 AMG long (right steering), S 63 AMG 4Matic long (left-hand-drive).^[13][14] The S 300 BlueTEC HYBRID, S 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC, S 600, and S 65 AMG Saloon arrived at dealer showrooms in March 2014.

There is also the "S 500 Intelligent Drive", which is a self-driving version of the S 500 sedan, using sensors that are also available in the production version of the S-Class. The car uses the sensors to capture the massive amounts of data in traffic.^[15][16] The vehicle was unveiled in the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show.^[17]

Holden Commodore (VE)
Overview
Manufacturer	Holden
Also called	Holden Berlina Holden Calais Holden Ute HSV E Series Chevrolet Lumina (Middle East and South Africa) Chevrolet Omega (Brazil) Pontiac G8 (North America) Vauxhall VXR8 (UK) CSV CR8
Production	July 2006 – May 2013 (sedan) August 2007 – May 2013 (utility) July 2008 – May 2013 (wagon)
Assembly	Australia: Elizabeth, South Australia (Holden Elizabeth Plant)
Designer	Peter Hughes (2003)
Body and chassis
Class	Full-size car
Body style	2-door coupé utility 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon
Layout	Front-engine, rear-wheel drive
Platform	GM Zeta
Related	Buick Park Avenue (China) Chevrolet Camaro (fifth generation) Holden Statesman/Caprice (WM) Holden Special Vehicles GTS/Clubsport
Powertrain
Engine	3.0 L LF1 V6 3.6 L LY7 V6 3.6 L LFX V6 6.0 L L98 V8 (Manual 2008–2010) 6.0 L L76 V8 (Auto 2008–2010) 6.0 L L77 V8 6.2 L LS3 V8 (HSV and Pontiac) 7.0 L LS7 V8 (HSV only)
Transmission	4-speed GM 4L60-E automatic 5-speed GM 5L40-E automatic 6-speed GM 6L50 automatic 6-speed GM 6L80-E automatic 6-speed Aisin AY6 manual 6-speed Tremec T56 manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,915 mm (114.8 in)
Length	4,894–4,900 mm (192.7–192.9 in) (sedan) 4,896–4,904 mm (192.8–193.1 in) (wagon)
Width	1,899 mm (74.8 in)
Height	1,471–1,476 mm (57.9–58.1 in)
Kerb weight	1,690–1,825 kg (3,726–4,023 lb) (sedan) 1,837–1,988 kg (4,050–4,383 lb) (wagon)
Chronology
Predecessor	Holden Commodore (VZ)
Successor	Holden Commodore (VF)

The Holden Commodore (VE) is a full-size car that was produced by Holden from 2006 to 2013. Succeeding the VZ series, the VE represents the first iteration of the fourth generation of the Commodore. Its range included the luxury variants, Holden Berlina (VE) and Holden Calais (VE); utility models were included as the Holden Ute (VE).

As opposed to the VZ and all models previous which used Opel-sourced platforms adapted both mechanically and in size for the local market, the whole-new VE programme is the first Commodore to be developed exclusively by Holden in Australia. Despite its status as an all-new model, engines—comprising the 3.6-litre V6 and the 6.0-litre V8—have been largely carried over from the VZ series. Innovative features to minimise export redevelopment costs, such as a symmetrical centre console housing a flush-fitting hand brake lever, facilitated the conversion to left-hand drive. Internationally, the VE was badge engineered as the Chevrolet Lumina, Chevrolet Omega and Pontiac G8.

Holden implemented a staged roll-out of the VE variants, releasing the sedan first in July 2006. Prior to this, Holden stated they would manufacture two parallel generations of Commodores until the new station wagon and utility body styles were launched. Variants by Holden's performance vehicle partner, Holden Special Vehicles (HSV), were released soon after the sedan's debut alongside the long-wheelbase WM Statesman/Caprice models. The VE Ute did not enter production until 2007 when it was accompanied by the previewing of a Sportwagon concept. The Sportwagon itself was subsequently introduced in July 2008 with the standard Commodore wheelbase instead of the extended wheelbase of previous Commodore wagons.

Updates to the VE have come in the form of model year (MY) changes from early 2007 onwards. Typically subtle in nature, these recurring changes have involved alterations to colours and trim, increased standard equipment, and a reduction in fuel consumption. More noteworthy adjustments have come in the form of a smaller 3.0-litre V6 engine for entry-level versions and "Series II" styling revisions in late 2010.

Official manufacture of the sedan began at Holden's Elizabeth, South Australia production facility on 13 July 2006.^[1] Three days later, Holden publicly revealed the car at the Melbourne Convention Centre, broadcast simultaneously via the Internet. The launch occurred alongside that of the flagship WM Statesman/Caprice.^[2] Prior to this, Holden announced that VE station wagon and utility variants would be postponed and the VZ equivalents would remain in production.^[3] Sales of the VE Ute commenced on 22 August 2007.^[4] This was subsequently followed by the unveiling of the Sportwagon concept,^[5] the production version of which was released in July 2008.^[6]

Holden's designers and engineers began laying down the fundamentals of a clean-sheet Commodore sedan in 1999. In the seven years of development, the car came to be Holden's largest and most expensive project, representing an expenditure of approximately A$1.03 billion and 3.4 million kilometres (2.1 million miles) of testing.^[7][8]

In 1999, Peter Hughes—manager of exterior design for Holden—generated a two-dimensional image of a sketch drawn earlier by Michael Simcoe, who served as Holden's design director at the time. Known in-house as the "Bill of Design", this sketch laid the foundation for the design of the eventual production-ready sedan. While certain elements of the sketch were altered, such as the tail lamps, the low-profile side window cluster and the drawn out wheelbase, the assertive stance was preserved.^[9]

In 2004—two years before the release of the VE Commodore—Holden unveiled the Torana TT36 concept car at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The TT36 served as a preview of the VE and allowed Holden to assess public response to its exterior design. Many stylistic elements of the Torana were inspired by the essence of the VE's design. Some production-ready components such as the steering wheel, the window and rear-view mirror switch cluster and the handbrake lever were seamlessly integrated from the TT36 into the production VE.^[10]

Following the initial creation of the design sketches, Holden's engineers promptly commenced work on developing the chassis. The cessation of Opel's rear-wheel drive Omega in 2003, which hitherto provided the basis for all preceding Commodores, presented Holden with a dilemma.^[11] This predicament had left Holden with two decisions: to use another GM platform, or to develop an all-new architecture. GM's new premium rear-wheel drive Sigma platform was to see production in the 2002 Cadillac CTS. Holden's engineers were offered this platform, however they decided it was not appropriate.^[12] The Sigma platform's double A-arm front suspension and extensive use of aluminium were too costly for the VE's market segment. Limitations in luggage compartment size and an inability to stretch the Sigma interior package adequately to accommodate a full-size family car were identified as critical shortcomings. Notably, the rear-seat shoulder width fell below the required standards.^[13] Confronted with these major drawbacks, Holden made the decision to develop an all-new platform, designated the GM Zeta platform. This platform not only addressed the shortcomings but also laid the foundation for forthcoming GM vehicles.^[14] The Zeta suspension system comprises new double-pivot MacPherson strut for the front and a four-link independent rear setup. These replace the previous simple MacPherson strut design front and much criticised semi-trailing arm rear suspension, for improved ride and handling.^[15]

The VE's wheelbase (Omega MY07 pictured) is about 130 mm (5.1 in) longer than the VZ sedan, while overall length is retained

Denny Mooney assumed the position of chairman at Holden on 1 January 2004,^[16] by which time development of the VE Commodore was well underway. Key design and engineering work was underway and being finalised. Simultaneously, investment was already in progress for the tooling necessary to manufacture the car.^[13] Under Mooney's direction, particular attention was dedicated to addressing the perceived quality issues surrounding the previous Commodore generations. Mooney advocated for a reduction of panel gaps by an extra 0.5 millimetres (0.020 in) over previous targets. Smaller panel gaps were one of the measures employed by Holden to position the VE competitively against its respective European counterparts.^[17] Through the utilisation of advanced steels and intensive design, the body structure is 50 per cent stiffer than the outgoing model, benefiting from noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) reductions, and improved handling/crash safety.^[18] However, introducing the new body structure resulted in a substantial increase in weight compared to the preceding model.^[19]

The development of the new car prompted Holden to redesign the Elizabeth plant in South Australia, facilitating the assembly of entire sections of the car off the foremost production line. This innovative production method allows for a seamless construction of complete sub-sections like the engine and transmissions to be assembled on rigs that simplify production.^[20] This process is applied to the front-end module of the VE Commodore, comprising its headlights, bumpers, airbag sensors and other accessory components. This modular construction permits the easy removal of the entire front-end as a single-piece unit, resulting in reduced repair costs and easier access to the engine bay.^[21] This revolutionary production technique marks the first instance such a method has been used within GM and garnered the SAE Australasia's 2006 Automotive Engineering Excellence Award.^[22] A modular design structure known within Holden as "Flex Vision" has been applied to the interior where fundamentally different components such as audio units and instrument clusters can be swapped out for the different Commodore variants, creating radically varied interior look and feel without much higher costs.^[23] The upshot of this is much greater differentiation between the variants than the outgoing model creating three distinct interior aesthetics, dubbed: Functional, Performance and Luxury.^[24]

Additional refinements were incorporated into the VE, including a new four-strut hinge system for the boot to replace the heavily criticised "gooseneck" hinges used on previous Commodores that occupied an excessive amount of space.^[25] High-specification variants feature expandable door pockets and a Saab-inspired "blackout" feature, illuminating only the speedometer at night to enhance driver focus on the road.^[26] An innovative flush-fitting handbrake set into a symmetrical centre console means the lever can be easily reversed to sit on the opposite side of the center console for left-hand drive export markets, minimising redevelopment costs.^[27]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to PageOrganizer/GA.

• Butler, Glenn; Dowling, Joshua; Hagon, Toby; Newton, Bruce (12 September 2006). "VE Commodore eMag". Drive. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 July 2011. Retrieved 5 April 2010.
• McCarthy, Mike; McKay, Peter; Newton, Bruce; Robinson, Peter (October 2006). "2006 Collector's Edition VE Commodore: The Full Story". Wheels.
• Robinson, Peter (2006). AutoBiography: The inside story of Holden's all-new VE Commodore. Woolloomooloo: Focus Publishing. ISBN 1-921156-10-4.