Mercedes-Benz is launching its first passenger car model equipped with a hybrid drive system in summer 2009 - the S 400 BlueHYBRID. The combination of a modified V6 petrol engine and a compact hybrid module makes the S 400 BlueHYBRID the world's most economical luxury saloon with a spark-ignition engine. The NEDC combined fuel consumption is a mere 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres. This makes for the world's lowest CO2 emissions in this vehicle and performance class - just 190 grams per kilometre. These exemplary figures go hand in hand with assured performance. The 3.5-litre petrol engine develops an output of 205 kW/279 hp, the electric motor generates 15 kW/20 hp and a starting torque of 160 Nm. The result is a combined output of 220 kW/299 hp and a combined maximum torque of 385 newton metres. Moreover, the new S 400 BlueHYBRID is the first series-production model to be equipped with a particularly efficient lithium-ion battery specially developed for automotive use. This is another major contribution by Mercedes-Benz to the electrification of the car.

The new Mercedes-Benz S 400 BlueHYBRID is based on the S 350, and features an extensively modified drive train. This encompasses a further development of the 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, an additional magneto-electric motor, the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission specially configured for the hybrid module, the necessary operating and control electronics, the transformer and a high-voltage lithium-ion battery.

The compact hybrid module is a disc-shaped electric motor that also acts as a starter and generator. The system offers a double benefit, as it both helps to save fuel and increases driving enjoyment. This is partly due to the booster effect of the electric motor, as it powerfully backs up the petrol engine with a maximum additional torque of 160 newton metres during the high-consumption acceleration phase. The driver benefits from the combined action of these two units in the form of even more impressive torque characteristics and smooth, effortlessly superior acceleration.

The hybrid module also has a comfortable start/stop function, which switches the engine off when the vehicle is at a standstill - for example at traffic lights. When it's time to move off again, the electric motor almost imperceptibly restarts the main power unit. This likewise makes a contribution to fuel economy and environmental protection: because the engine restarts first time, and practically instantly, emissions are also minimised during the starting phase.

When the vehicle is braked the electric motor acts as a generator, and is able to recover braking energy by a process known as recuperation. Working in finely tuned partnership, the electric motor supplements the braking effect of the petrol engine and the wheel brakes to deliver a smoothly progressive braking action. The recuperated energy is stored in a compact yet highly efficient lithium-ion battery in the engine compartment, and made available when required. This complex system is managed by a high-performance control unit, which is likewise located in the engine compartment.

A milestone on the road to electrification

The centrepiece of the modular, very compact and highly efficient hybrid drive system is the new high-voltage lithium-ion battery, which was specially developed for automotive use and is the first such unit worldwide to be introduced in a series-production vehicle. In this way Mercedes-Benz is making a trailblazing contribution to the electrification of the car, with the S-Class once again playing the role of the technological trendsetter.

Major advantages over conventional nickel/metal hydride batteries include a higher energy density and better electrical efficiency, together with more compact dimensions and a lower weight. Thanks to space-saving installation in the engine compartment, where it replaces the conventional starter battery, the generous interior space and boot capacity of the S 400 remain unchanged. The lithium-ion battery not only stores energy for the electric motor, but is also connected to the 12-Volt onboard network via the transformer to supply power to other standard consumers such as the headlamps and comfort features. The completely newly designed battery system consists of the cell block with its lithium-ion cells and the cell monitoring system, the battery management function, the high-strength housing, the cooling gel, the cooling plate, the coolant feed and the high-voltage connector.

Optimised thermal efficiency lowers the engine's fuel consumption

The 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine with variable valve control has been throughly re-engineered and improved. In the process the development engineers made use of the advantages offered by the Atkinson principle,where the expansion phase is longer than the compression phase. The intake valve is kept open slightly longer between the intake and compression phases, which improves the engine's thermal efficiency while reducing the specific fuel consumption and untreated emissions. A new cylinder head, different pistons and a modified camshaft with different camshaft control increase the output by 5 kW/7 hp to 205 kW/279 hp - while reducing fuel consumption at the same time.

Especially on rural journeys and on motorways, the S 400 BlueHYBRID achieves a further efficiency improvement by moving the so-called operating point of the petrol engine to produce a lower specific fuel consumption. The extremely high start-off torque made possible by the boost effect of the electric motor gives the driver a particularly exhilarating feeling of powerful acceleration, while fuel consumption and emissions are reduced.

The electric motor improves efficiency

The compact, disc-shaped electric motor, which is space-savingly installed in the torque converter housing between the engine and the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission, improves efficiency even further. This is a 3-phase AC external rotor magneto motor, which develops a peak output of 15 kW/20 hp and a starting torque of 160 newton metres with an operating voltage of 120 Volts.

This compact motor also acts as a starter and generator, adopting the functions of both these conventional ancillary units.

Sophisticated interaction with the internal combustion engine makes numerous additional functions possible that positively influence the emissions and agility of the S 400 BlueHYBRID in equal measure. Moreover, this disc-shaped motor effectively dampens torsional vibrations in the drive train, thereby further reducing noise and vibrations in the interior. The result is even more ride comfort for both driver and passengers.

"Boost" effect for even more driving pleasure

The overall system offers extensive benefits: firstly by helping to save fuel, and secondly by increasing driving pleasure with the help of the "boost" effect, where the electric motor gives powerful assistance to the petrol engine with its maximum torque of 160 newton metres right from the beginning of the fuel-intensive acceleration phase. This means that the hybrid drive system of the S 400 BlueHYBRID moves off powerfully even from very low engine speeds, as the torque curve impressively confirms. The additional torque of the hybrid module also has a consistently positive effect during subsequent acceleration phases. In all driving situations, the driver therefore benefits from the interaction between the two units in the form of powerful responsiveness and muscular torque - but without an increased fuel consumption.

The S 400 BlueHYBRID accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, and reaches an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h. The S 400 BlueHYBRID betters the already very favourable NEDC fuel consumption of the conventionally powered S 350 by up to 2.2 litres per 100 kilometres. CO2 emissions are reduced by 21 percent.

The start/stop function already saves fuel when rolling to a stop

In addition the hybrid module features an extremely comfortable and efficient start/stop function, which already switches the engine off when the vehicle is rolling to a stop at less than 15 km/h, for example before stopping at traffic lights. When it's time to move off again, the electric motor immediately and imperceptibly restarts the main engine as soon as the driver releases the brake pedal or operates the accelerator. This likewise contributes to fuel economy and environmental conservation: as the engine restarts practically instantly, emissions are also minimised during the starting phase. The vibrations and jolts that are unavoidable when starting with a conventional starter are also reduced to a minimum.

Steering and climatic comfort remain unchanged, as both the steering servo pump and the refrigerant compressor are electrically powered. Both systems therefore continue to operate even when the vehicle is at a standstill with the engine automatically switched off. The intelligent control logic is able to detect whether the driver is executing a turning or parking manoeuvre. In this case the automatic start/stop function is temporarily deactivated, so that these manoeuvres can be carried out in comfort.

Every braking action generates electric power for the battery

When the vehicle is braked, the electric motor acts as a generator and uses a process known as recuperation to convert the kinetic energy into electrical energy. This energy is stored in the compact yet highly efficient lithium-ion battery, and made available when required.

In the process the electric motor assists the engine braking effect of the internal combustion engine in two smooth, seamless stages: In stage one, on the overrun with no braking action, the electric motor acts as a generator and begins to recuperate energy. Stage two commences as soon as the driver lightly operates the brake pedal: the generator output is then increased proportionally, and perceived as heavier deceleration by the driver. Only when more brake pedal pressure is applied are the wheel brakes activated in addition to recuperation. In this way more electrical energy can be generated, while saving wear and tear on the hydraulic braking system at the same time. To make the best possible use of this double benefit, Mercedes engineers also developed a new braking system with a new brake pedal module for the S 400 BlueHYBRID.

Cleverly located control electronics

Dedicated control electronics are required to operate the 3-phase AC electric motor in the 120-Volt high-voltage DC network. The current converter is accommodated in the space formerly occupied by the starter. As the control electronics heat up as a result of electric currents measuring up to 150 amps, the system is equipped with its own, additional low-temperature cooling circuit.

Mercedes-Benz engineers have accommodated the transformer in the right front wheel arch, where it facilitates the exchange of energy between the 120-Volt high-voltage network and the 12-Volt onboard network - and also allows the option of emergency starting with jump leads if the standard battery should lose its charge. To ensure a consistently high level of electrical efficiency, the transformer is likewise cooled by a low-temperature circuit. The 12-Volt lead/acid battery is installed in the boot, and not only supplies the standard consumers but also the monitoring system for the high-voltage components with energy. Thanks to its interaction with the lithium-ion battery, it is considerably smaller in size and lighter than usual.

Tried-and-tested automatic transmission with a new configuration

Mercedes-Benz developers also adapted the well-proven 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission to suit the hybrid drive, with newly programmed software for the transmission management system. A newly developed auxiliary oil pump ensures reliable lubrication of the transmission even during phases when the internal combustion engine is switched off.

This complex system is managed by the modified high-performance engine control unit. This incorporates extensive functions, and distinguishes between operating conditions such as city traffic, rural journeys, motorway driving or slow manoeuvring.

Hybrid status is shown in the instrument cluster

The driver is also able to monitor the status of the hybrid drive system visually. The instrument cluster has a separate, centrally positioned, display showing the energy flow during boost and recuperation phases, as well as the battery charge status.

Seven-stage safety concept in addition to the Mercedes-Benz standard

As is usual at Mercedes-Benz, the development engineers gave safety aspects their very special attention. Know-how incorporated into the series-production car included long years of Daimler research experience with fuel-cell technology. The challenge lay in not only complying with all the worldwide and in-house legal crash test requirements, but also in ensuring the greatest possible safety for the electrical components. This safety system already applies in production, includes workshop personnel during servicing and maintenance, and also takes the emergency services into account when passengers need to be recovered following an accident.

Accordingly the hybrid technology of the S 400 BlueHYBRID is equipped with an extensive 7-stage safety concept.

1. In the first stage all the wiring is colour-coded to eliminate confusion, and marked with safety instructions. This prevents assembly errors in production, and makes the regular quality checks easier to carry out.

2. The second stage comprises comprehensive contact protection for the entire system by means of generous insulation and newly developed, dedicated connectors.

3. As part of the third stage, the world's first lithium-ion battery to be used in a series-production model has been given a whole package of carefully coordinated safety measures. This innovative battery is accommodated in a high-strength steel housing, and also secured in place. Bedding the battery cells in a special gel effectively dampens any jolts and knocks. There is also a blow-off vent with a rupture disc and a separate cooling circuit. An internal electronic controller continuously monitors the safety requirements and immediately signals any malfunctions.

4. The fourth stage of the safety concept includes separation of the battery terminals, individual safety-wiring for all high-voltage components and continuous monitoring by multiple interlock switches. This means that all high-voltage components are connected by an electric loop. In the event of a malfunction the high-voltage system is automatically switched off.

5. Active discharging of the high-voltage system as soon as the ignition is switched to "Off", or in the event of a malfunction, is part of the fifth stage.

6. During an accident, the high-voltage system is completely switched off within fractions of a second (stage six).

7. As the seventh and last stage, the system is continuously monitored for short circuits.

Thanks to its compact dimensions and modular design, the additional weight of the overall system is only 75 kilograms - including the comprehensive safety systems. The superior driving experience for which a Mercedes is known is therefore ensured by this trailblazing and very versatile technology, which can be used for practically all Mercedes-Benz model series. Moreover, the payload remains unchanged at 595 kilograms.

The intelligent high-performance engine management system responds very sensitively to different driving conditions, and optimally configures the drive system for the relevant application, ensuring that both fuel consumption and emissions are kept to the lowest possible level.

At standstill the petrol engine is usually switched off, and therefore consumes no fuel. The electric drive of the refrigerant compressor and steering servo pump allows uninterrupted operation of the air conditioning and power steering. Comfort is in no way compromised, and is at the same high level as in all S-Class models.

Moving off and acceleratingaway gently remains a smooth and comfortable procedure. A driver who kicks down the accelerator for a brisk start benefits from the boost function of the electric motor, which produces considerably more dynamic acceleration.

At constant speedsthe intelligent electronics recognise situations such as relaxed motorway stretches, and automatically adjust the load point of the internal combustion engine to achieve a lower specific fuel consumption, thereby helping to save fuel and reduce emissions.

When rolling to a stopthe recuperation function is activated as soon as the drive is interrupted in any way (foot off the accelerator, engine braking). Once the vehicle speed falls below 15 km/h, the petrol engine is automatically switched off.

If the driver brakes using the brake pedal, the electric motor initially begins to convert the vehicle's kinetic energy into electrical energy. In this case the electric motor acts as a generator, storing the kinetic energy as electrical energy in the lithium-ion battery. This process feels like a stronger engine braking effect to the driver. The conventional disc brakes at the wheels are not yet employed, saving wear and tear. The disc brakes are only activated if the driver applies heavy pressure to the brake pedal, braking the car together with the engine brake and recuperation.

Once the driver selects "R" (reverse) in the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission when manoeuvring, this automatically activates the Manoeuvring mode and prevents the start/stop function from switching off the engine at short, frequent intervals.

The advantages of the hybrid drive system really come into their own in city traffic, with frequent stops at red traffic lights. Already switching off the petrol engine as the car frequently coasts to a stop significantly lowers the fuel consumption and emissions, while the long recuperation phases increase the battery charge. The electric motor ensures particularly comfortable and rapid restarting when the start/stop function is active.

On rural roadsthere are frequent changes between boost, constant speed and recuperation phases. Depending on the nature of the route, large quantities of recuperation energy are available to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The more braking and acceleration phases there are, the better: uphill and downhill gradients, as well as winding, dynamic stretches, make for the largest savings.

The hybrid effect is inherently less important on motorways, however thanks to specific modifications to the V6 petrol engine and the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission, the driver is also able to achieve significant fuel savings and correspondingly lower emissions on fast road stretches like these.

The S 400 BlueHYBRID is produced at the Sindelfingenplant, together with the other S-Class models. The petrol engine, 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission and electric motor are first put together to form a hybrid module, then delivered to the production line as a unit. The market launch in western Europe is planned for June 2009; China is expected to follow in August 2009 and the USAin September 2009.

Modular technologies for the environmentally friendly future of the premium car

The new S 400 BlueHYBRID exemplifies the strategy of Mercedes-Benz, whose declared aim is to offer the brand's customers economical and environmentally compatible premium cars - without compromising in terms of typical brand attributes such as safety, comfort and a superior driving experience.

Major areas of development focus include modular drive technologies, which are used on a stand-alone basis or in combination depending on the vehicle class, operating profile and customer requirements - Mercedes-Benz has already described how this applies to the product portfolio in its "Road to the Future". In this context Mercedes-Benz also provides an outlook on the future of the internal combustion engine, with the innovative DIESOTTO engine in the F 700 research car.

Dedicated solutions for different requirements

The requirements for the cars of the future are complex and multi-facetted. This is because the world population, and therefore the demand for mobility, are set to increase drastically over the next few decades. At the same time the world's natural resources are becoming increasingly scarce, and therefore more and more expensive for both consumers and car manufacturers. Depending on the world region, there are also sometimes very different legal requirements with respect to the environmental compatibility of vehicles. Examples include the environmental zones already established in many European cities, or the legally prescibed quotas for emission-free vehicles in California.

These developments are already having a noticeable effect on customer behaviour. In addition to economic factors - above all increasing fuel prices - the environmental compatibility of a car is becoming increasingly important as a buying criterion. What is more, the day-to-day driving requirements of customers are becoming more and more individual and distinctive: drivers covering long rural distances have different requirements from those who mainly or even exclusively drive in densely populated urban areas.

In the view of Mercedes-Benz, there is therefore no single technology that will provide the ideal solution for sustainable mobility in the future. Instead the company offers versatile, tailor-made solutions to meet these very varied requirements. The individual technologies deliver their benefits in terms of optimal fuel consumption and emissions in the specific areas of application concerned. The approach taken by Mercedes-Benz envisages vehicle concepts with modular drive technologies, which ensure that customer benefits and environmental compatibility are always jointly emphasised.

Roadmap for sustainable mobility

The corporate development strategy is aimed at safeguarding the leading position in the premium segment on a lasting basis. To this end three areas of emphasis were defined in the roadmap for sustained mobility:

Vehicle optimisation with the latest internal combustion engine technology - for example by downsizing, high-pressure charging, direct injection and the environmentally friendly diesel technology BlueTEC - as well as specific vehicle improvements in the areas of aerodynamics, lightweight construction and energy management (BlueEFFICIENCY), for example.

Further efficiency improvements by means of need-related hybridisation in various development stages - from the start/stop function to the two-mode hybrid operating under electric power alone.

Locally emission-free driving with fuel-cell and battery-powered vehicles.

The company is also actively involved in the development of clean and alternative fuels that do not compete with the production of foodstuffs - particularly in SunDiesel, which is obtained from plant waste.

An intelligent mix of drive systems as a solution for the mobility of the future

Mercedes-Benz has already brought numerous answers to the challenges of tomorrow to market. The most recent examples are the BlueEFFICIENCY models in the A-Class, B-Class and C-Class, the natural-gas-powered B 170 NGT and the powerful yet economical and clean BlueTEC SUVs, which were first introduced into the US market this year. A mix of modular drive systems, from the latest internal combustion engines with BlueTEC or direct injection, with or without hybridisation, right up to locally emission-free battery and fuel-cell-powered vehicles, provides all the conditions that will enable Mercedes-Benz to offer its customers need-related mobility to the brand's customary high standard into the long-term future.

Mercedes-Benz is proud to present a prestigious new luxury limousine for use by government leaders, captains of industry and royalty – the S 600 Pullman Guard with integrated Highest Protection. The latest in a long and unique tradition of large, armoured, prestige limousines from the world's oldest automaker, this model also marks a special anniversary for the Stuttgart-based firm: 80 years of manufacturing vehicles with factory-integrated special protection.

The very first Mercedes-Benz car to be built with factory-integrated special protection was a Pullman limousine version of the "Nürburg" 460 (W08) series which was introduced in 1928. At the beginning of the 1930s, this was followed by the 770 (W07) "Grand Mercedes" (which provided protection befitting the status of Japanese Emperor Hirohito, to name but one prominent user) as well as by the special-protection variants of the 500 (W08) and 770 (W 150) model series. In the 1960s, the legendary Mercedes-Benz 600 took on the mantle of state limousine for a period of almost thirty years which saw it serve as an official vehicle not only for the German government, but also for many other countries' leaders and ruling houses. Further special-protection Pullman versions of the Mercedes-Benz S-Guard followed their distinguished predecessors – the very latest being the new S 600 Pullman Guard.

Like the famously luxurious and spacious open-plan Pullman railway coaches after which it is named, the new S 600 Pullman Guard treats its occupants to a travelling environment characterised by generous accommodation and the highest comfort. The vehicle owes its remarkably spacious interior to its 4315-millimetre wheelbase (115 centimetres longer than that of the long version of the special-protection S-Class). Indeed, with an overall length of 6356 millimetres, the S 600 Pullman Guard is a vehicle of truly majestic proportions which offers its passengers not only a maximum of comfort, but also a superbly appointed setting for discreet meetings, equipped, of course, with all the key communications and entertainment systems. This ensures they are always able to remain fully in touch with the rest of the world while enjoying the luxury and comfort of their own very special place in it.

Developed as a new vehicle on the basis of the S 600

The technical basis for the new Pullman limousine is provided by the S 600 Guard, the top of the Mercedes-Benz Guard range. It is powered by a superbly smooth twelve-cylinder biturbo engine with a displacement of 5513 cubic centimetres and an output of 380 kW/517 hp with an impressive 830 Nm of torque.

The suspension and basic vehicle structure have been modified as it would be impossible to guarantee the long-term overall stability of the vehicle with its extra-long wheelbase if the lengthening process consisted of simply inserting an additional body section. The modifications also provide a solid foundation for the integration of the heavy special-protection elements. Furthermore, the new state limousine is equipped with a higher rear roof for easier access and greater headroom. Four passengers can be accommodated in the rear compartment behind the partition — in comfortable seats whose face-to-face arrangement recalls the great Pullman tradition.

Integrated special protection for outstanding safety

What's more, the new Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard offers its demanding passengers extremely effective protection from terrorist attacks. Its Highest Protection status means that it has been engineered to resistance level B6/B7, as tested and certified by state-approved organisations, and also meets additional requirements which go beyond those laid down in the standard but which are tested by public and independent organisations. Its armour resists military-standard small-arms projectiles and provides protection against fragments from hand grenades and other explosive charges. Additional safety features include run-flat tyres, a self-sealing fuel tank and a fire-extinguishing system.

In order to ensure that the vehicle offers outstanding protection, specialists with many years of experience in this field apply the principle of integrated special protection to the Pullman limousine. In effect this means that, rather than retro-fitting the protective elements in the doors, rear wall, side panels, roof lining and firewall etc. of an already finished vehicle, they fully integrate them into the bodyshell in a dedicated production process. This effectively creates a coat of armour around the entire passenger cell. Even the roof frame struts, door locks, door gaps, exterior mirror mountings and other components are incorporated into this security concept. The resulting vehicle offers hallmark Mercedes-Benz build quality combined with comprehensive Highest Protection characteristics, even in those areas where retrofitting would be all but impossible.

A further advantage of integrated special protection is that the protective features actually reinforce the body structure rather than exerting extra strain. In addi-tion, Mercedes-Benz' integrated design approach means that any body-structure reinforcements required due to the weight of the protective elements can be integrated right from the very start. The result is extraordinary longevity and the same exceptional quality all round that distinguishes Mercedes-Benz standard-production models.

All Mercedes-Benz Guard models display the same outstanding ride comfort and effortlessly superior handling as their series-production counterparts. Further-more, generously dimensioned suspension components and brakes ensure that their handling qualities are almost identical to those of the standard-production models, thus giving the driver an optimal driving feel with high dynamic reserves at all times. The chassis is also designed to provide hallmark Mercedes ride comfort despite the extra weight.

The basis for this is the long-standing, continuous and close cooperation with nationally and internationally recognised security authorities. For decades, this has ensured that the Mercedes specialists have been able to continuously increase their expertise in the fields of development and manufacturing while also applying their vast experience in vehicle protection technology and ballistics to meet the highest standards.

Thanks to the seamless integration of the special protection features, the paint quality and corrosion protection match the standards of Mercedes-Benz series-production vehicles. And, like all other Guard models, the Pullman limousines can be serviced in any Mercedes-Benz service outlet anywhere in the world – another important factor which ensures easy access to comprehensive service of the highest standard.

80 years of Guard – factory-integrated special protection

As the inventor of the motor car, the world's oldest automaker has always felt a special obligation to drive forward the development of automotive technology at the highest level and to keep on setting new standards for the industry. This demanding objective which Mercedes-Benz has set itself also applies to its special-protection vehicles, as is demonstrated by the Stuttgart-based premium brand's unique track record in this field. As early as 1928, with a vehicle based on the Nürburg 460 model, Daimler-Benz became the first company to factory-fit vehicles with special protective elements design to provide the occupants with effective protection from attack with firearms and explosives. This was the start of eight decades of extensive materials testing and focused development, during much of which Mercedes-Benz enjoyed a unique position in the field of special-protection vehicles.

The special-protection version of the Mercedes-Benz "Nürburg" 460 model was followed in the 1930s and 1940s by armoured variants of the 770 "Grand Mercedes" as well as the 500 and 540 K models. In September 1963, Mercedes-Benz presented a new, exclusive prestige vehicle – the legendary 600 model – to meet the requirements of the most demanding customers. Shortly after the launch, the German government approached Daimler-Benz with a request for an armoured version for state visitors. For the engineering team in Stuttgart, this marked the beginning of a new era chara-cterised by a new set of challenges – not least, how to reconcile the requirements of a special-protection vehicle with a self-supporting body structure which had by now become the industry norm. With no other German manufacturer at the time able to offer factory-built armoured passenger cars and Mercedes-Benz limou-sines being held in high esteem by many governments around the world, a close working relationship developed between Daimler-Benz and the German authorities. In the course of this cooperation, the Stuttgart-based automaker came up with many new technical solutions and concepts. Indeed, this intensive cooper-ation formed the basis for the current European standards which define the different resistance levels.

In 1970, when there was suddenly great demand for special-protection vehicles following attacks on diplomats in Latin America, Daimler-Benz rose to the occasion with armoured versions of the 280 SEL 3.5 model. Demand grew once again during the 1970s with the attacks by the RAF terrorist group. Mercedes-Benz therefore built special-protection variants of the eight-cylinder 350 SE, 350 SEL, 450 SE and 450 SEL models which it supplied to a select group of customers, including state bodies and governments in Europe and beyond.

All subsequent generations of the S-Class have been available in the form of special-protection variants. This was the case with the 126 model series as well as the 140, 220 and the current 221 model series. In addition to its S-Guard line-up, Mercedes-Benz today also offers E-Guard and G-Guard special-protection vehicles.

Mercedes-Benz offers High Protection and Highest Protection

Mercedes-Benz uses this know-how acquired over many years to provide answers to different risk scenarios all over the world, offering Mercedes-Benz Guard models with various resistance levels in accordance with the European standard.

High-Protection vehicles, engineered to the European B4 resistance level, resist large-calibre revolver ammunition and offer particularly good protection against the increasing threat of drug-related and violent street crime.
Highest-Protection vehicles, engineered to resistance level B6/B7, provide effective protection against the threat posed by terrorist attacks. Their armour is designed to resist rifle-launched projectiles from military weapons which have a velocity almost twice that of bullets fired from a revolver. They also offer resistance to shrapnel from hand grenades and explosive charges.

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Here's a look at the upcoming standard S-Class Coupe.

"Standard" meaning as opposed to the AMG version we've previously had a sneak peek at.

New in the S-Class Coupe (besides the name, as it replaces the CL) will be the redesigned headlights, the addition of LED-day driving lights, a different grill that slants much less, full LED tail lights, new front and rear bumpers and a new set of pipes for the exhaust.

Engines expected are the same range as seen in the S-Class series, likely coming with improvements in fuel economy and upped performance output through engine management techniques that Mercedes-Benz is constantly developing.

An S-Class Coupe 400 BlueHybrid may also be in the works as the S-Class sedan version is already expected this May. The 400 BlueHybrid features a 3.5 liter V6 engine with 279 hp coupled with an electric motor of 20 hp and a combined torque reading of 385 Nm. With the addition of stop-start technology, the 400 BlueHybrid rates an impressive fuel economy of 7.9 liters per 100 km (30mpg US) for the full-sized S-Class.