Mercedes-Benz confident of sustaining momentum

"It's a key factor that can never be overlooked in further enhancing our ties with customers," said Duan Jianjun, executive vice-president of sales and marketing.

"This year, we will bring more than 15 new models to customers, including the locally produced GLA SUV, new additions to the C-Class model range, as well as new offerings from both AMG and smart," he said.

The company launched the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 and S 400 on Jan 31, and now promises much more. More than 30 models are expected to be on display at Auto China 2015 in Shanghai in April, which should set the tone for another year of success.

Beyond introducing its strong lineup, this year's marketing campaign and test-drive events will encourage more customer participation, Duan said, adding that it is necessary for customers to have an inside look.

"Not only from our perspective, but customers should learn the products' superiority based on their own experience," he said.

But as industry observers wait for April, Speeks and his colleagues remain focused on the task at hand - continuing to make headway in the world's most important automobile market.

"We have the products, we have the partners, and we have the momentum, and although it's still early, we have the confidence," he said.