Hi Jacob....
Well, it is my understanding that although it recognized the ITS as superior (and perfected as well, so more quickly available to the marketplace), it didn't want to have a "me, too" product in its own vehicles. So, essentially, I believe you are correct.
Of course, now Simula is working on other ITS type products, including other ITS "shapes." So, placing a different ITS shape in a Mercedes would allow it to have an appearance somewhat different from the style that now graces BMW's.
I don't think this represents a significant problem for us now. After all, Autoliv's inability to deliver product...and the uncertainty about when it will actually have one...may well be a more difficult issue for Mercedes to handle on a competitive basis.
I, for one, have owned both a Mercedes and a BMW. However, I can tell you with no hesitation, my next car (which will replace one I have on lease with the contract expiring in the second half of this year) will be a BMW. And, that is solely for the purpose of getting the incremental side-impact protection.
If I am a microcosm for Mercedes...they have to address the issue, and, the sooner the better.
Have a good day. |
