What's even better than a new forward-thinking Mercedes-Benz model? A vehicle that embraces new technologies from multiple automakers. For the third time (and by that we mean on the third vehicle) Mercedes- Benz is partnering with Tesla. So far, the two Daimler division members have collaborated on two impressive products: the Mercedes-Benz A-Class E-Cell and the Smart ForTwo Electric Drive. As you may know, both of these vehicles are EVs, and the third collaboration unit will be one as well.

Mercedes-Benz will officially say "auf widersehen" to the iconic Maybach model in 2013, reports Autoweek.  The decision comes after a decade of disappointing sales for the luxury marque's 57 and 62 editions. The company has decided not to develop replacement models for the Maybach, which would have debuted in 2014. Mercedes-Benz Chairman Dieter Zetsche approved the decision, an insider from the company states. The source then goes on to explain, "We've come to the conclusion that it is better to cut our losses with Maybach than to continue into an uncertain future with a brand that has failed…

Some of our astute readers might know that Mercedes-Benz and Superbike company Ducati teamed up a little over a year ago. The Mercedes-AMG and Ducati pact, which was signed at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2010, includes numerous marketing activities, as well as joint appearances at exhibitions and customer events. In the AMG core markets of the US, Canada, China, Australia, France, Italy, Germany, Great Britain and Switzerland, the announcement of the collaboration was very soon followed by the formation of close links at market level. The companies have had a very positive relationship, and this showed at…