New long-wheelbase, fortified S-Class under development.
2009 Mercedes-Benz S600 Pullman |
A new long-wheelbase S-Class Guard Pullman is being developed by Mercedes-Benz, as the German automaker continues 80 years of protecting kings, popes, and prime ministers on the road.
In the past - from the days of the first Pullman limousines, Benzes have chauffered leaders from Hirohito to Helmut Kohl. The new S600 Pullman, Benz says, starts with a long-wheelbase sedan and gets stretched even further to meet every need of the world's leaders.
Powering the newest four-passenger limousine is a twin-turbo V-12 with 517 hp. And since the body is stretched, its suspension is altered to give it more stability. The body is also modified with larger rear door openings.
In the rear, four seats facing each other put even the Maybach 62 to shame. But the chief attraction of the Pullman these days may well be its B6/B7 protection package, the highest degree of protection against acts of terrorism, Mercedes says. The Pullman can protect its passengers from bullets, hand grenade fragments and other explosives - and run-flat tires, a self-sealing fuel tank, and a fire extinguishing system ensure a safe getaway.
Interiors can be trimmed out to spec or from Mercedes' large range of paints, leathers, and woods.
The new Pullman will be ready for delivery at the end of 2008.
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