August 28, 2002

Mercedes-Benz to build new GST in Alabama in 2004

Vision GST concept Click image to enlarge

Vancouver, B.C. - At a Mercedes-Benz dealer's conference here, DaimlerChrysler announced that it will produce the Mercedes-Benz Grand Sports Tourer (GST) in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, at the end of 2004. The Tuscaloosa plant builds the M-Class sport utility, and approximately US$600 million will be invested in plant expansion over the coming years to accomodate the GST.

Professor Jürgen Hubbert, Board of Management Member of DaimlerChrysler AG responsible for Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars & smart stated, "With the Grand Sports Tourer, DaimlerChrysler is systematically advancing its product offensive, while also defining a new and promising market segment in the premium market area. The GST establishes a new vehicle class that combines the features of various car concepts to form a new independent profile."

The "GST Vision" concept was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2002. DaimlerChrysler stated that production model will be launched to the public soon after production begins.

"With the Grand Sports Tourer DaimlerChrysler will be continuing the success story of the Tuscaloosa site," said Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Head of Mercedes-Benz PC & smart Sales & Marketing. "The outstanding acceptance of the M-Class, which has been produced in Alabama since 1997, shows that we have developed an ideal market for the sport utility vehicle segment in the USA. "As a touring car, station wagon, large-capacity vehicle and sport utility vehicle rolled into one the Grand Sports Tourer is exactly geared to the needs of the North American market. However, we also see great potential for the Mercedes-Benz GST in Europe due to its high functionality and flexibility."

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