Things have changed abit because of covid and now MB do suggest you contact the dealer and arrange an appointment. but is no excuse for poor treatment..
Do I need to make an appointment at my dealership to place an application?
Yes, some dealerships will still be closed and social distancing arrangements mean that all dealerships are having to plan more carefully. You will need to make an appointment so that they can dedicate enough time to help you find the right car and let you know how COVID-19 is affecting their services.
So they maybe busy but i test drove the car i ordered in jan 2020 back in sept 2019 and made a provisional order, I have never paid any ap upfront only on day of collection..
I have heard of deposits being made to reserve a build slot or for addons / extras requested which are not part of the AP and is down to the dealer i guess… but on just the ap they trying it and I’ve never been asked hoping to pickup my 4th car soon but now hackers have stop it for now and after covid 2..