Two of the top priorities in the development of the interior for the new A-Class were its touch and feel and ergonomic design. Surface materials, display instruments, but-tons and control switches were all subjected to thorough testing according to these criteria. Scientists at the DaimlerChrysler research department’s Customer Research Center in Berlin used drivers to help them explore the properties of various different material variants and developed methods of objectively assessing the totally subjective perceptions of the participating drivers. The tests produced valuable feedback for the development of the interior design and technology.

The instrument panel has a single-piece construction and the instrument cluster, controls and ventilation outlets blend harmoniously into the overall form. The precise edges and radiuses which define its appearance are the result of a cutting-edge manufacturing process which Mercedes-Benz has further refined. Robots apply a so-called “spray-on skin” to a negative mould. This consists of a soft polyurethane plastic whose top surface is pleasant to the touch and can be shaped as desired – according to the specification for the vehicle – whilst the process is being carried out. The result is an even surface unblemished by parting lines or seams. Concealed on the inside, even the tear seam of the front passenger airbag fails to disturb the consistency of the styling.

A newly developed cross member forms the high-strength basis for the instrument panel and its components. The glove compartment, airbag, centre console and jacket tube are attached to this solid structure, which reduces shaking and vibrations. The cross member is bolted at either end to the A-pillars, helping to provide them with critical transverse support. A firewall, which is bonded and bolted to the bodyshell, seals the openings between the engine compartment and interior.

This new firewall concept offers audible benefits, allowing less obtrusive noise to filter through from the engine compartment to the interior.