Book excerpt: Filled with the inside stories that make up the exciting and innovative history of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class from its origins in Germany to its production at a newly constructed plant in America. Included are the people who made it happen and the innovative vehicle that eventually rolled off the assembly line in 1997. In less than five years, Mercedes-Benz went from initial designs to complete production. The entire construction will take place in a new factory in Alabama. The M-Class boasts advanced technology including very light fuel efficient V-6 and V-8 engines, 4-wheel drive unlike any other in the world, providing traction in virtually any driving situation.