MERCEDES-BENZ designo ("dee-zin-yo") PROGRAM WILL MARKET CUSTOM EDITIONS

10 Special Editions Planned for Model Year 2000

CHICAGO, -- Mercedes-Benz of North America (MBNA), Inc. today unveiled 10 special edition cars, which will become available in limited numbers this summer and fall for model year 2000. The 10 vehicles are the first editions of a new factory program called designo ("dee-zin-yo"), which offer a new level of exclusivity and differentiation within the Mercedes-Benz line. The designo Editions are expected to appeal to buyers looking for a high dose of fashion, but without sacrificing the function and core attributes of safety and performance that Mercedes-Benz automobiles offer.

Each designo Edition was created using a custom color palette of paints, rich interior leather and trim items, and each is named for its exterior color. The designo line will debut in the summer with the "Espresso" and "Silver" Editions of the all-new S-Class.

In the fall, the S-Class designo Editions will be joined by two designo Editions in each the CLK, E, SL and SLK model classes. Most models within those classes can be ordered as a designo Edition. In the E-Class, the exceptions are the 4MATIC models. Pricing for the designo Editions will be announced closer to retail availability. The designo Editions will be truly limited, from about 250-500 of each annually.

"We consider the designo Editions as 'Automotive Art for individualists,"' says Joe Eberhardt, vice president of marketing for Mercedes-Benz of North America. "The designo Editions are aimed at buyers who wear a special suit or dress to a party, and don't enjoy seeing that someone else is wearing the same thing."