Mercedes-Benz India on Thursday launched a car that can withstand a bomb blast. Called the S600 Guard, it is essentially the S-Class — the luxury limousine — turned into one of the safest cars on earth.
The S600 Guard is certified for the highest ballistic protection class right now, called VR9. The company said the car can withstand rifle fire from military weapons and protection from grenades and explosive charges. It comes with Airmatic suspension, a huge V12 engine, intelligent driver assistance systems and unrestricted day-to-day suitability.
The S600 Guard was launched by Eberhard Kern, MD & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, and Markus Rubenbauer, head, Guard Sales, at the Buddh International Circuit near New Delhi. Prices start at Rs 8.9 crore onwards (ex-showroom, Delhi).
The car’s outstanding strength and stability is a result of specific reinforcement of the base structure that is integrated into the body shell. Similarly, the glass area is an essential part of the protective concept — the glass is coated with polycarbonate on the inside for protection against splinters. The company added that intelligent interaction between all the components provides the occupants not only ballistic protection but also comprehensive protection against explosive devices. “The occupants are effectively protected by the armouring if a splintering explosive charge is fired at close range on either side,” it said in a statement.
Further, despite the extensive protective measures, the S600 Guard is hardly distinguishable from the standard model from the outside. “As the S600 Guard is hardly recognisable as an armoured saloon, it meets a further important requirement for special protection vehicles: maximum discretion thanks to unobtrusiveness,” the company added.
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