SLS AMG, with a 6.3-liter V8 engine, has a top speed of 317 km/h, and zero to 100km/h acceleration in just 3.8 seconds.

S-400 Hybrid

During last evening's event, Mercedes-Benz also highlighted its role as a leader not only in luxury, but also in eco-friendly mobility, with the S 400 Hybrid. As the world's first series-production vehicle to feature a hybrid drive with a lithium-ion battery, the S 400 Hybrid has already been crowned as the CO2 champion of the luxury class.

"The S 400 exemplifies the significant progress Mercedes-Benz made in advancing alternative-drive technology last year," said Joachim Schmidt, executive vice-president of sales and marketing for Mercedes-Benz Cars.

"And, it is proof that Mercedes also stands for premium when it comes to 'sustainable mobility'," he added.

For more than 60 years, the S-Class has stood at the pinnacle of the world's top luxury segment with technical breakthroughs that have allowed the company's flagship model to set the pace among competitors worldwide.

The S-Class has enjoyed a 33 percent growth in China in the first quarter of the year, which consolidated its leadership to maintain its 44 percent market share in the top luxury segment. With such continuous growth, China remains the S-Class largest market worldwide, signifying a true testament of its appeal among China's elite, who have a keen taste for luxury cars.

Possessing all the features one would expect from an S-Class, the S 400 Hybrid does not compromise on luxury while incorporating innovative and ground-breaking technologies to assist drivers - thus truly demonstrating that luxury and efficiency are not mutually exclusive.

Shooting Break

Also displayed at the event, and set to be available at the auto show, was the Concept Shooting Break, which highlights Mercedes-Benz's leadership vision for the future of advanced design. Prior to its debut, a vivid and innovative LED performance fusing together technology, art, and design dazzled the venue, no doubt an apparent representation of its latest unveiling.

Thomas Weber, head of research and development said the Concept Shooting Break embodies the company's guiding principle.

"We focus here on four areas that will remain relevant to the success of premium and luxury automobiles in the future: comfort and safety, sustainability, sporting refinement plus fascination and design," he noted.

The concept car undoubtedly impresses with its eye-catching design. Taking cues from previous Mercedes models, the car features some surprising proportions clearly reminiscent of the CLS, while also making use of elements that bear a resemblance to the SLS AMG - including a striking radiator grille.

Beyond a striking design, the model delivers impressive performance with a V6 60 cylinder angle and a displacement of 3.5 liters, the vehicle produces a powerful output of 225kW and a maximum torque of 370 Nm.

The Concept Shooting Break clearly presents an innovative proposition. Providing a leading insight into a unique vision for the future, all the hallmarks of a Mercedes-Benz are at hand, including a luxurious interior and leading technology. On this evidence, a fascinating and fulfilling design outlook lies ahead for future Mercedes-Benz cars.

Guests were also treated to a special video message from Zetsche, who further reinforced the brand's luxury and leadership.

"We want to give you an impression of how we see the future of luxury cars. We believe that it is possible to build cars that have it all: cutting edge technology, environmental friendliness and fascinating design," he said.