Source: Mercedes-Benz information
STUTTGART, Germany – Mercedes-Benz has introduced a new GLA compact sport utility vehicle (SUV)/crossover (CUV) which is shorter and taller than its predecessor, but has more interior room as well a an even-more comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and safety features than its predecessor.
The redesigned compact SUV features more headroom, legroom and general driver/passenger comfort in a family familiar shape. There are a myriad of models, features, engine choices offered throughout the GLA line; The BRAKE Report will concentrate on the ADAS, safety and braking highlights of the latest member of Mercedes-Benz’s entry-level SUV.
GLA includes multiple ADAS
The GLA can react when the driver does not. As standard, the new GLA is equipped with Active Lane Keeping Assist and extended Active Braking Assist. In many situations the purpose of the latter is to prevent a collision by autonomous braking or mitigate its consequences. At typical city speeds the system is also able to brake for stationary vehicles and crossing pedestrians, and avoid collisions depending on the situation.
In certain situations, the GLA can drive semi-automated. To do this, it keeps a close eye on the traffic situation. Improved camera and radar systems allow it to see far ahead.
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The GLA also uses map and navigation data for assistance functions. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driving Assistance Package can provide route-based support to the driver in numerous situations, and to predictively and conveniently adjust the speed, e.g. when approaching bends, junctions or roundabouts. Also, on board are, for example, Active Emergency Stop Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic alert, and intuitively understandable Active Lane Changing Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Blind Spot/Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Assist.
Blind Spot Assistcan warn of vehicles, including bicycles, in the danger area. When the vehicle is at a standstill it can now also give a driver intending to exit a visual warning in the exterior mirror that a vehicle is passing in the critical area. If the driver or rear seat passenger uses the door handle at this moment, an additional acoustic warning sounds and the ambient lighting in the door (if specified) flashes red. The passing road user must be moving at a speed exceeding 7 km/h (3.5 mph) at the time. The exit warning function of Blind Spot Assist is available when the vehicle is stationary, and for up to three minutes after switching off the ignition. When on the move,
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Active Blind Spot Assist, which is part of the Driving Assistance Package, is also able to react to vehicles in the blind spot and in critical areas with active braking intervention.
Traffic Sign Assist: posted speed limits and any potential no-overtaking signs are displayed for the current section of the route through image recognition and information from the navigation system’s digital road map. The vehicle speed is compared with the speed limit. When the driver selects the appropriate settings, a visual/visual-audible warning signal is issued any time the speed limit is exceeded. No-entry restrictions are also recognized. Furthermore, the system warns of pedestrians detected in the area of pedestrian crossings.
PRE-SAFE® PLUS: can detect a potential rear impact. If the danger of a collision persists, the system can also firmly apply the brakes of the stationary vehicle, minimizing the risk of whiplash injuries by reducing the forward jolt caused by an impact from the rear.
Even in its purely indicative version, and at low speeds,
Braking system
The new GLA has a hydraulic dual-circuit brake system in an X-configuration, with the adaptive-brake control function and anti-lock (ABS) as standard. The rear axle features a combined floating brake caliper with an electric parking brake component.
In addition, the GLA has a special ABS function for off-road conditions and speeds below 30 km/h (19 mph). It permits cyclical locking of the front wheels. This makes it possible to shorten the stopping distance on loose ground, for example, or make stopping possible in the first place (“chock effect”).
Built in Germany and China, the new GLA, is available now in Europe and is scheduled to be launched later this year in the United States and China, will be offered in a variety of engine (gasoline and diesel) and trim levels, including high-performance AMG.
To view the entire Mercedes-Benz release, click HERE.
