Driving school for teens

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), which markets the Sprinter van in the U.S., is setting up a “Driving Academy” program aimed at improving the behind-the-wheel skills of teenagers.

“Despite the dramatic changes in vehicles, highways, and the driving environment over the past 60 years, driver education remains relatively unchanged in the U.S.,” said Alexander Hobbach, a senior manager at MBUSA's German parent, Daimler AG.

MBUSA will combine elements of the program it launched in Great Britain with U.S. DMV requirements to devise a curriculum, which will be offered at a Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy later this year.