Maybach Armored Version Available

From September, the exclusive Maybach saloon can also be ordered with a sophisticated, factory-integrated special-protection package. The first of these specially protected Maybach Guard vehicles will be delivered to customers in mid-2004. Based on the 6.17-metre-long Maybach 62, the Maybach Guard is able to resist not only mechanical violence and attacks involving the use of heavy implements, but also protects the occupants from handgun bullets up to .44 Magnum calibre. This means that this version of the luxury saloon meets all the requirements of the European B4 "high protection" level.

Comfort and driving dynamics unimpaired

Maybach Guard vehicles are based on the concept of integrated special protection. This means that the protective features – such as those used for the doors, rear wall, side panels, roof lining and firewall – are not fitted to a finished vehicle as an afterthought, but are instead integrated into the bodyshell in a dedicated manufacturing process. The state-of-the-art Maybach "Manufaktur" in Sindelfingen, where all the vehicles are built by hand, is ideally suited to this form of production.

The Maybach Guard specialists optimise the entire body structure to take account of the increased weight and so ensure that the special-protection models offer their owners the same outstanding quality, excellent ride comfort and superbly self-assured handling as every other Maybach saloon. Like the standard versions of the Maybach, the Maybach Guard benefits from the massive reserves of power available from the 405 kW / 550 hp twelve-cylinder biturbo engine whose output and torque are among the highest of any series-production saloon engine in the world.

It goes without saying that the occupants of a Maybach Guard vehicle do not have to accept any compromises with regard to comfort. Completely unaffected by the special-protection measures, the passenger accommodation is as spacious as ever. The comprehensive range of luxury features fitted as standard includes a DVD player, a TV receiver, a refrigerator compartment and a cordless phone.

Maybach Guard vehicles are also equipped with 21st century automotive technology. The ground-breaking innovations to be found on board include the Sensotronic Brake Control (SBCTM) electrohydraulic brake system, AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) electronically controlled air suspension, the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system, the COMAND APS control and display system and the TELEAID emergency call system.

Optional security features available for the Maybach Guard models include a protected fuel tank, run-flat tyres which allow the car to be driven out of the danger zone even if they have been punctured by gunfire, and a passenger alarm system. The latter, which can be activated from any seat in the vehicle, locks the doors and alerts the outside world by means of visible and audible alarm signals. Communication with persons outside the vehicle is also possible by means of an intercom.

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