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DIMO offers exceptional care on Mercedes-Benz

When it comes to the world's most renowned automobile brand Mercedes-Benz, there's no name in Sri Lanka closer associated to it than Diesel and Motor Engineering PLC (DIMO). As the German automobile inventors' local Authorised Distributor for over seven decades, DIMO has been instrumental in moulding the face of Sri Lankan transport with this 'Star' among automobiles.

The brand Mercedes-Benz is, needless to say, a legend of its own. As the inventor of the world's first automobile, it has grown in leaps and bounds since its inception in 1886, and has been a key player in introducing some of the most widely used vehicle technologies in the world. The Mercedes-Benz range is celebrated for its ingenious use of modern technology; a wide range of intuitive features makes driving this prestigious legend a refreshingly different experience.

Such an exceptional masterpiece needs an exceptional level of care which is where DIMO's reputed service really outshines. From 24 Hour islandwide Roadside Assistance to complete restorations of vintage classics, DIMO's range of premium after sales services has something to keep every Mercedes-Benz owner smiling.

One of DIMO's latest initiatives is the construction of a state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Centre, which will be a reflection of DIMO's dedication in delivering outstanding service at every stage by providing modern services and better facilities to its valuable customers.

Mercedes-Benz automobiles are engineered with many ingenious technologies and possess a wide range of exclusive automotive features. Factory trained technical professionals at DIMO are perfectly suited to service these specialised vehicles with precision. A constantly updated 'Star Diagnostics' system and sophisticated body and paint tools such as Celette body distortion straightening machinery, ensures smooth fault diagnosis which facilitates accurate and speedy repairs for anything from the smallest part replacement to major engine overhauls using only genuine Mercedes-Benz spares.

Another outstanding DIMO service is its 'Star Collection and Return Services', where the company collect vehicle and return it to the owner after services or repairs at no extra cost. A selection of factory recommended servicing for every model is available, DIMO also offers comprehensive body care packages that help any vehicle look its best. The 'Star Polish' package is highly recommended for cars with visible swirl marks, the Mercedes-Benz exclusive 'Nano Sealant' provides the most advanced paint-protection technology that gives the vehicle a dazzling shine along with many other distinctive advantages such as less dust collection, easy to wash, and minimum damages on bird droppings. 'Nano Sealent' that is exclusively offered by Mercedes-Benz has already become a popular application on other branded vehicles too, by many car enthusiasts in the country.

'Star Interior' is DIMO's interior cleaning package which ensures that the leather and interior of your car is cleaned and treated, which moisturisers for long term durability and hygiene. DIMO also offers sun roof and window lubrication packages alongside headlamp cleaning and polishing as well as Sri Lanka's best paint refinishing services.

DIMO has been instrumental in preserving the re-sale value of the Mercedes-Benz vehicle range in Sri Lanka owing to their outstanding after sales services which keep vehicles in continuous mint condition. Even though there is a perception that servicing a vehicle at the authorised distributor is expensive, DIMO has proven to challenge this perception by offering affordably priced service packages starting at just Rs. 12,000 + VAT, which includes factory recommended service, genuine oil filter change as well as manufacturer recommended lubricants. While a special parts 20% discount parts of is available for cars older than 8 years, while cars more than 10 years are eligible for a special parts 20% discount along with a 50% discount on labour charges. DIMO further adds to this by providing a one year warranty for parts and workmanship carried out, using only genuine replacement parts.

With such a wide array of services, Mercedes-Benz owners are generally spoilt for choice - which is why DIMO's team of service advisers are always at hand to assist customers select the best customised package to suit their specific vehicle and needs.

Being the authorised distributor for Chrysler and Jeep in Sri Lanka, customers will be glad to note that DIMO also provides these services for all Chrysler Jeep vehicles as well. For the prospective buyer, it is always reassuring to know that behind these vehicle legends, there will always be DIMO's legendary service.

BMW group wins GOOD DESIGNTM awards

Six BMW Group models have received the prestigious 2011 GOOD DESIGNTM Award: the BMW 6 Series Convertible, the BMW 6 Series Coupe, the BMW 1 Series M Coupe, the BMW ActiveE, two motorcycle models BMW K 1600 GT/GTL along with BMW G650 GS. The annual GOOD DESIGNTM Award is ranked as the most celebrated international accolade in the field of product design - and once again honours as the outstanding quality of BMW Group Design.

The world's oldest and most esteemed design prize, founded in 1950 in Chicago by the architects Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames, and Edgar Kaufmann Jr. awarded by the Chicago Athenaeum and the European Centre for Architecture, Art Design and Urban Studies. For more than 60 years, this coveted accolade has recognised exceptionally innovative and visionary products, concepts and ideas that go beyond the regular horizons of everyday product design. The aim of the award is to raise public awareness of contemporary design together with related issues of sustainability.

The prize is awarded based on the criteria of functionality and aesthetics as originally laid down by Saarinen and Eames, and is complemented by an ecological aspect that stipulates sustainable design in keeping with our times. The independent jury of design experts and architects sifted through a record number of applications from around the world to decide on their final selection of more than 500 product designs and graphics from 38 countries that were deemed worthy of the GOOD DESIGN Award.

The new BMW 6 Series Convertible combines a stretched bonnet, set-back passenger compartment, long wheelbase and flat waistline with a classic soft-top roof featuring a distinctive 'fin' design. The car's powerfully contoured surfaces and forward-surging lines are a reflection of its dynamic handling properties.

The new BMW 1 Series M Coupe cuts a compelling figure with its athletic demeanour and M-specific interior design. The optimised track width of the front and rear axles, an expansive front apron and powerfully flared wheel arches lend the BMW 1 Series M Coupe its unmistakable character. The two sets of chrome-plated twin tailpipes, situated at the outer edges of the rear, make for the symmetrical look familiar from M styling.

With the BMW ActiveE, an all-electric-drive BMW 1 Series Coupe, BMW is testing everyday usage of electric vehicles. The insights gleaned from this field test will flow directly into series development of the BMW i3. The intelligent configuration of the drive components and energy storage systems within the vehicle create the ideal prerequisites for customary BMW driving dynamics and extended functionality. This electric car offers four full seats, boot space of around 200 litres, rear-wheel drive and a range of approximately 160 kilometres in day-to-day operation.

With its BMW K 1600 GT and BMW K 1600 GTL, BMW Motorrad is tapping into a new dimension of the touring experience. Both these motorcycles present a self-assured, imposing and distinctive appearance, sparking off a hefty dose of wanderlust at first glance.

With its lean and wiry off-road physique, the BMW G 650 GS motorbike evokes an impression of lightness and adventurousness. Its characteristic enduro design and its colour concept are in keeping with the BMW GS family style and round off the bike's overall sporty impression. The quality and specification of this model coupled with its long-distance comfort set it apart from the competitors.

BMW Group Design has already won the coveted design award several times in the past. Last year it was the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the MINI Countryman, the BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW Concept 6 design study that captured the prestigious prize. In 2008 honours went to the BMW 3 Series Convertible, the BMW 1 Series Coupe, the MINI Cooper S Clubman and four BMW motorcycles. Back in 2007, the jury of the GOOD DESIGN Award paid tribute to the new BMW X5, the BMW 3 Series Coupe, the new MINI and three motorcycle models.