Daimler's Mercedes-Benz plant in Bremen has started production of the C-Class Cabriolet. The model is is the first convertible since the C-Class line evolved from the 190 back in the early 90s and is also the fourth C-class derivative made at the factory which is the 'mother plant' for several overseas factories.
Like most Mercedes convertibles, the C-Class has a fabric roof. It is built on the same assembly line as the C-Class and E-Class Coupés and E-Class Cabriolet. The launch takes Bremen's model count to nine, requiring high flexibility.
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Like the coupé, the cabriolet is built with a high proportion of aluminium and light weight components include the wings, bonnet and boot lid, lowering weight and CO2 emissions. A diverse range of joining techniques are used in the body shop.
The fully automatic, multi-layer, acoustic, fabric soft top is also available in dark brown, dark blue, dark red as well as standard black. Assembly of the roof is not fully automated and a handling device assists manual work. The same applies to cockpit assembly. Numerous other equipment plus safety and assistance options mean every vehicle off the line is unique.
"The start of production in Bremen is symbolic of the growth strategy pursued by Mercedes-Benz Cars. Our aim is to offer the right vehicle to every customer," said production and supply chain chief Markus Schäfer. "Four models of one product family are being produced flexibly, efficiently and in top quality."
The plant is also preparing to launch the GLC Coupé.
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By GlobalDataWorks council head Michael Peters said: "The scope of production covering 10 models in Bremen as of this summer is unprecedented. We have shown that we are able to cope with this degree of complexity in recent years. The numerous production starts mean long-term job security."
Bremen employs around 12,500 people. It is C-Class lead plant supporting factories in Tuscaloosa, US, Beijing, China and East London, South Africa. It will also oversee global GLC assembly.
