1952

A model enhanced version of the 170 S passenger car is unveiled, internally designated the 170 Sb. At the same time, a diesel variant – the 170 DS – also makes its debut. Both models are part of the W 191 series.

Mercedes-Benz presents the 300 SL racing sports car (W 194) to the press. It features a 3-litre carburettor engine developing 170 hp / 125 kW, and a tubular spaceframe. The first new Mercedes-Benz competition car developed after the war is to be used in sports car racing.

Daimler-Benz AG concludes a contract with Brazilian businessman Alfred Jurzykowsky to set up a joint venture in São Paulo. Erection of an assembly plant for the production of trucks and buses is planned.

In the Bern Prize for Sports Cars the 300 SL racing sports car not only captures its first victory, but sweeps the first three places. Karl Kling is winner, followed by Hermann Lang and Fritz Rieß.

The legendary Le Mans 24-hour race ends in a spectacular double victory for Mercedes-Benz. Driving Mercedes-Benz 300 SL racing sports cars with gullwing doors, the team of Hermann Lang/Fritz Rieß wins, followed by Theo Helfrich/Helmut Niedermayr in second place.

Daimler-Benz AG secures access to the US market by signing an agreement with Maximilian ("Maxi") Hoffman. Hoffman Motor Car Co. initially functions as general distributor for the east of the United States, and from the end of 1953 for the entire USA. Daimler-Benz delivers a total of 253 passenger cars to the USA by the end of 1952.

Daimler-Benz AG sets up a quality assurance department, charged with the task of carrying out additional measures aimed at securing the quality of the company's products. In 1955 its sphere of responsibility, originally restricted to Untertürkheim and Sindelfingen, is extended to all production plants in Germany and abroad.

Daimler-Benz AG's export revenues from over 80 countries reach a total of DM 226.2 million, up 42 % on the previous year. The most important export country is Argentina, which retains this position until 1955.