Mercedes takes security in-house

Mercedes-Benz has announced it will round out the latest S-Class series, due Down Under in February 2006, with a factory-built armoured special protection version.

This is a departure for the armoured vehicle area. Usually such vehicles are built in ultra low volumes by approved aftermarket conversion specialists. However, in perhaps a telling indicator of the growth in the demand for bullet and bomb-proof vehicles, Mercedes-Benz will offer a specially armoured version of the new S-Class with factory-fitted pr0tective and performance upgrades.

The first of these, the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard, will be offered by special order from the start of 2006.

Powered by a Maybach-sourced 380kW biturbo V-12 petrol engine, the S 600 Guard features protective elements which are incorporated into the vehicle during the normal production process. Mercedes says the integration ensures there is virtually no reduction of the new S-Class’ interior space, comfort and performance.

Says Benz, the generous dimensions of the standard S-Class's chassis components and brakes ensure that the S-Guard saloon displays handling properties almost identical to standard models. In addition, the chassis design ensures that the level of comfort typical of Mercedes-Benz is undiminished, despite the higher weight.

The S 600 Guard provides protection that meets the specifications of the highest B6/B7 protection standard. Military-grade small arms fire cannot penetrate the vehicle’s armour, which also protects occupants from hand grenade shrapnel and other explosive devices. Additional security features include tyres with run-flat properties, a self-sealing fuel tank and an alarm system for endangered occupants.

No news on a road test example at this stage... Though we'll keep you posted!

Meantime, the standard S-Class (now there's an oxymoron!) sans armour has won the automotive "Best of What's New" award from US magazine, Popular Science.