The coupés produced by Mercedes-Benz in its prestigious 125-year history have always been a supreme demonstration of elegance and luxury. Each and every 2-door model created since 1985, when the Benz Coupé was released, up to today, when the new C-Class Coupé it's premiered at Geneva, boasts a unique personality throughout the classy side profile sporting puristic styling lines which invariably attract a lot of views.
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For an easy reach of all the articles related to the comprehensive coverage of the Maybach premieres at the Geneva Motor Show 2011, we've compiled all the links heading to them in one single post. Roll down and start reading. Enjoy!
1. Maybach at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 - I
2. Maybach at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 - II
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
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For an easy reach of all the articles related to the comprehensive coverage of the Smart premieres at the Geneva Motor Show 2011, we've compiled all the links heading to them in one single post. Roll down and start reading. Enjoy!
1. smart at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 - I
2. smart at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 - II
3. smart at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 - III
4. smart at the Geneva Motor Show 2011 - IV
Copyright © 2011, Mercedes-Benz-Blog. All rights reserved.
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OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Geneva, Switzerland, Mar 01, 2011
BRABUS 700 Biturbo: Powered by the new BRABUS twin-turbo engine with 700 hp (690 bhp) / 514 kW and a peak torque of 850 Nm (626 lb-ft) and clad in the thrilling WIDESTAR wide-body version the Mercedes SLS AMG from BRABUS ascends to a new level in the league of super sports cars. The gullwing, further refined by an exclusive interior, reaches a top speed of 340 km/h (213 mph) and celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2011.
A high-tech turbocharger system for the high-tech engine of the SLS: The BRABUS engine engineers have designed a state-of-the-art twin turbo system for the fast-revving eight-cylinder four-valve engine of the SLS.
The high-performance exhaust manifolds are optimized for exhaust-gas flow and were custom-developed for this sports car. They drive the two turbochargers. The chargers themselves are another BRABUS custom development. For faster response and better efficiency both chargers feature an air diverter valve.
V-engines are normally fitted with two right-turning chargers, which entails drawbacks for the response characteristics. To eliminate these drawbacks the BRABUS engineers have developed the B63 bi-turbo system with a left-turning charger for the left side of the engine. That allows the turbine and its inlet to be designed for perfect gas flow and gas dynamics. The result is an outstanding engine with an exemplary power curve.
The BRABUS engine conversion also includes a generously dimensioned intercooling system with two water-to-air heat exchangers. The dual-flow intake manifold gets its combustion air through a package-optimized air filter housing and high-performance air filters.
The company engine shop also modifies the inner workings of the engine that like all BRABUS engines is lubricated exclusively with fully-synthetic ARAL high-performance motor oil. Specially manufactured BRABUS forged pistons reduce the compression ratio to 9.0:1.
The newly programmed engine management system with special mapping for ignition and injection orchestrates the perfect interaction of the BRABUS high-performance components. The system also features an integrated electronic boost pressure control. The result is an engine that delivers its extreme power smoothly while meeting the strict emission limits set by EURO V standards.
The exhaust side of the V8-engine is upgraded with free-flow high-performance catalysts and the BRABUS high-performance exhaust system that features four slanted tailpipes with diameters of 84 millimeters (3.2 in.). The BRABUS exhaust is made from ultra-light titanium and weighs 12 kilograms (26 lbs.) less than the production exhaust. A pneumatic flap system, controlled from the cockpit, adds a “coming home” sound setting that is quieter than the production exhaust. The alternatively selectable sport setting gives the 6.3-liter eight-cylinder engine an even throatier note than the stock exhaust.
Powered by this engine the BRABUS 700 Biturbo is among the most powerful super sports cars in the world. As the name indicates, the engine produces a rated power output of 700 hp (690 bhp) / 514 kW at 6,600 rpm. The peak torque of 850 Nm (626 lb-ft) is already available at a low 4,300 rpm.
In combination with the SPEEDSHIFT DCT seven-speed sport transmission the resulting performance is breathtaking: The two-seater car sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.7 seconds and reaches 200 km/h (124 mph) in 10.2 seconds. Top speed is 340 km/h (213 mph).
To give the SLS also a sportier appearance the BRABUS WIDESTAR wide-body version was developed in the wind tunnel. Like in Formula 1 racing all aerodynamic-enhancement components are manufactured from lightweight yet high-strength carbon-fiber compounds. The body components can be painted in body or contrasting color or finished with a clear coat for a purebred racing look.
The BRABUS WIDESTAR flares on the rear axle add 20 millimeters (0.8 in.) to the width of the gullwing. They also facilitate the installation of ultra-light forged wheels, which widen the track and thus further improve driving dynamics. To put even more emphasis on the wedge shape of the coupe the BRABUS Monoblock F “PLATINUM EDITION” wheels are mounted in a staggered combination of size 9.5Jx20 wheels in front and size 11Jx21 on the rear axle. Despite the fact that the wheels are larger than their production counterparts they weigh up to 12 percent less. The wheels are either ceramics-polished or come with a brushed-design surface. They can also be painted any desired color. The high-performance tires in sizes 275/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 21 are supplied by BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.
At the high speeds attained by the BRABUS 700 Biturbo aerodynamic stability is absolutely essential. The BRABUS front spoiler reduces lift on the front axle at high speed. Combined with the two BRABUS covers for the upper air inlets in the apron it lends the SLS an even more striking face.
For optimal aerodynamic balance BRABUS upgrades the rear with a spoiler lip on the trunk lid and a diffuser. Additionally the rear apron is fitted with side air outlets.
The sides of the gullwing are upgraded by the BRABUS gills for the front fenders. At night their integrated, blue-illuminated BRABUS lettering, activated by the keyless fob or by pulling on a door handle, stands out immediately.
Sporty yet elegant side skirts create a perfect aerodynamic transition between front and rear fenders. The cladding features integrated entrance lights for safe entering and exiting of the vehicle in the dark.
The BRABUS suspension was developed in cooperation with technology partner BILSTEIN. It offers advantages both visual and driving dynamics benefits. Those include a ride-height lowering by up to 30 millimeters (1.2 in.). The integrated ‘Ride Control’ function offers the driver a choice between more comfortable or sportier damper settings compared to the production car, all at the push of a button in the cockpit.
BRABUS sport stabilizers on front and rear axle affect even more agile turn-in ability and further reduced body roll.
The BRABUS Ride Control smooth-ride suspension is also available with the optional BRABUS Front Lift system. BRABUS Front Lift can raise the front axle by 50 mm (2.0 in.) and increases the approach angle.
Custom-tailored interiors have been a special BRABUS domain for more than three decades. The company upholstery shop crafts individual, masterful exclusive interiors in any desired leather or Alcantara color for the SLS as well.
These interiors are complemented by an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel, a speedometer with 400-km/h (250-mph) dial and matte or shiny carbon-fiber elements in any desired color. Matte anodized aluminum pedals and foot rest add further distinctly sporty highlights.
* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS *
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OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE
Geneva, Switzerland, Mar 01, 2011
BRABUS high performance meets high-tech multimedia: The BRABUS 800 “iBusiness” represents the world premiere of a unique luxury sedan. The 350-km/h (217-mph) four-seater is based on the Mercedes S 600 and powered by a BRABUS SV12 800 V12 Biturbo twelve-cylinder engine with 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW and a peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft). The interior designers from BRABUS combine this engine with an innovative multimedia system that features the latest Apple components. Two iPads in the rear compartment not only play movies, music and Internet content, they also control all functions of the S-Class COMAND system.
The BRABUS 800 “iBusiness” stands for maximum performance and more importantly for innovative multimedia technology. For the first time ever the BRABUS specialists have integrated Apple components into the vehicle electronics of the Mercedes. The company upholstery shop created a luxurious environment in the form of an elegant all-leather interior with two individual power rear seats. The two-tone upholstery is made from high-quality BRABUS leather that is especially soft, breathable and highly durable.
At the heart of the “iBusiness” is state-of-the-art entertainment and communication technology on wheels. The centerpiece of the system is an ultra-small Mac mini computer safely housed under the rear shelf in an electrically deployed drawer whose design mirrors the design of the computer itself.
A 15.2-inch TFT display with 16:9 aspect ratio is integrated into the headliner covered with the finest Alcantara and contrasted with leather. Together with the standard screens in the back of the front headrests it serves as a display for the multimedia system. USB 2.0 ports integrated into the rear compartment allow connecting various peripherals to the Mac such as a webcam for video conferencing or a digital camera. The “iBusiness” is connected to the Internet via UMTS and HSDPA.
The entire BRABUS multimedia system is controlled from the rear or the front passenger seat with two iPads, connected to the central computer via a WIFI network. These iPads also control all functions of the standard COMAND system such as radio, navigation and telephone.
While on the move the two tablet computers and the Bluetooth keyboards can be safely secured in precisely fitting recesses in the luxurious BRABUS rear tables. The table tops are covered with the same exclusive leather as the entire interior and are bordered by high-gloss aluminum frames. The tables are electrically deployed from special BRABUS seatback consoles and are infinitely adjustable to any angle. They offer ample space for perusing documents, the Apple mouse and keyboard.
When the iPads are not in use or when the “iBusiness” is parked they can be stored securely and hidden from sight in custom-tailored compartments in the BRABUS center console. A special BRABUS App is also available for iPad and iPhone. It is part of the standard equipment of the luxury sedan.
The music comes from a 64GB Apple iPod touch that can store more than 14,000 songs. The sound is reproduced either by the sound system of the S-Class or by Sennheiser Noise Gard headphones, which filter out any unwanted ambient noise for unparalleled listening pleasure.
Power-operated curtains provide privacy for the rear passengers and together with an innovative color-changing interior lighting system create a serene atmosphere. The BRABUS fully leather interior creates an exclusive ambiance further augmented by the new BRABUS Yachting wood trim package. It lends the interior of the luxury sedan a maritime feel that is reminiscent of classic Italian sport boats. All wood trim elements of the S-Class are painstakingly created by hand from hundreds of individual pieces and have the look and feel of a miniature ship veneer. The wood inlays have a high-gloss finish and meet the latest automotive quality and safety guidelines.
Scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo, an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and anodized aluminum pedals add further individual highlights.
The BRABUS “iBusiness” is also the most powerful luxury sedan in the world and thus the world’s fastest office on wheels. This unique automobile is powered by a BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine, a prime example for the ancient wisdom that nothing can replace displacement except more displacement.
Displacement of the V12 engine that normally powers the latest Mercedes 600 models is increased from 5.5 to 6.3 liters (336 to 385 cu. in.) The displacement increase is the product of a special crankshaft with longer stroke, precision-balanced piston rods, larger-diameter pistons and corresponding larger cylinder bore. The inner workings of the BRABUS engine are modified further by high-performance camshafts and flow-optimized cylinder heads.
The new air intake was custom-developed to fit in the available space under the hood of the S-Class. The combustion air is routed through a special carbon-fiber system. Also newly developed was the BRABUS Biturbo system with two special high-performance manifolds with integrated turbine housings and high-performance turbochargers. The system also includes four water-to-air intercoolers. The BRABUS stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with sport catalysts and four exhaust tips with BRABUS-characteristic design optimizes power yield and gives the engine a more dominant exhaust note.
Newly calibrated engine electronics with precision-programmed mapping for injection and ignition ensure exemplary power yield and compliance with strict EURO V emission limits. The high-tech lubricants for the entire powertrain are supplied by technology partner ARAL.
The SV12 800 V12 Biturbo engine produces 800 hp (788 bhp) / 588 kW at 5,500 rpm and an even more impressive peak torque of 1,420 Nm (1,047 lb-ft), available from a low 2,100 rpm. For technical reasons peak torque is limited electronically to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).
Power is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission. A BRABUS high-performance limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent is available as an option.
The extraordinary performance figures elevate the BRABUS 800 “iBusiness” to the exalted position of the world’s most powerful and fastest luxury sedan. Acceleration times from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) of 3.9 seconds and of just 10.3 seconds to 200 km/h (124 mph) are as unmatched in this vehicle category as is the electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph).
On the outside the “iBusiness” is clad in a sporty yet elegant designer suit. The BRABUS designers went into the wind tunnel to develop a striking front fascia whose sophisticated shape reduces lift on the front axle. The large center air inlet further optimizes cooling of the engine and the front brakes. Integrated auxiliary headlights and LED daytime running lights increase the safety factor.
Custom-tailored BRABUS aluminum sport fenders that replace their production counterparts give the S-Class sedan an even more extravagant look. The exclusive character of these fenders is embodied by an integrated air vent made from clear-coated carbon fiber and a horizontal brace that spans the vent with embossed BRABUS signet and integrated LED lights. The latter are activated just like the ones in the BRABUS side sills via the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle.
For optimizing the airflow around the sides of the vehicle the designers shaped BRABUS sill skirts that feature integrated entrance lights for added utility. They are activated by the keyless remote or by pulling on a door handle as are the blue-illuminated BRABUS logos integrated into the side skirts on both sides of the vehicle.
The BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement concept is rounded out by the BRABUS rear spoiler lip, also available in a clear-coated carbon-fiber version, and the new rear fascia with centrally located reflector and custom cutouts for the BRABUS quad sport exhaust system. The underside of the rear fascia also features integrated LED lights which illuminate the ground behind the vehicle. They help avoid any unfortunate missteps into puddles of potholes lurking in the dark.
The enormous performance of the “iBusiness” with BRABUS 800 V12 Biturbo engine is kept safely under control with custom-tailored solutions for tires, brakes and suspension. They include BRABUS Monoblock light-alloy wheels with diameters ranging from 19 to 21 inches.
The largest possible version features size 9Jx21 wheels on the front axle and size 10.5Jx21 in the rear, available in four different designs. They are: three-piece forged and high-gloss polished BRABUS Monoblock VI evo wheels with six double spokes, Monoblock E multi-spoke wheels, the Monoblock S double-spoke wheel and the especially exclusive Monoblock F “PLATINUM EDITION” forged wheel with cross-spoke design. All versions are mounted with Pirelli or YOKOHAMA tires in size 265/30 ZR 21 in front and size 295/30 ZR 21 on the rear axle.
For all gasoline models up to the S 500 (US: S550) BRABUS also certified Monoblock VI, E, G, Q and S 10Jx22 in size 10Jx22 with high-performance tires in size 275/25 ZR 22 in front combined with size 295/25 ZR 22 tires on the rear axle. Thanks to a tire design specifically calibrated to luxury sedans and high-performance coupes the new BRABUS tire/wheel combination offers sporty and agile handling combined with excellent ride comfort.
The large wheels also create the necessary space for installing the BRABUS high-performance brake system with 12-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 380 x 36-mm (15.0 x 1.42 inches) vented and cross-drilled discs in front, and 355 x 28-mm (14.0 x 1.1 inches) discs and six-piston aluminum fixed calipers on the rear axle.
The BRABUS 800 “iBusiness” is built to order and can be combined with any engine variant from the S 350 to the S 65. Alternatively any existing current S-Class model can be equipped with the innovative multimedia system and all other BRABUS options.
* Official photos and details courtesy of BRABUS *
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