Mercedes-Benz-a German brand name of automobiles, buses, coaches, trucks and auto parts like --- has recently announced the coming of their new armored Pullman limousine. This type of vehicle is designed to meet and pass the world's strictest passenger protection standards (B6/B7) and are not for mass distribution since they are only created for the privilege few consist of the wealthiest, important dignitaries, and governments.
Mercedes-Benz is preparing a grand debut for their Pullman limousine which is also known as State limousine. The State limo is scheduled for release in late 2008. Many may not be aware of this but the Pullman nameplate has been around for almost 80 years, a period longer than most automakers have existed and even longer than the which the company has been producing for almost 32 years.
The Pullman, just like the Ford's Super Chief concept was once used for railroad application that's because the American Pullman Palace Car Company made railroad sleeping cars during that time with furnishings that fits royalties and Mercedes-Benz found the name suitable for their extended wheelbase luxury sedans. The Mercedes-Benz Pullman Limousine features a partition that separates the driver from the passenger compartment, and four individual seats that are positioned in such a way that the seats are facing each other. And for the past eight decades, Pullmans have featured this very same layout even the latest S600 version follows this layout as well.
The very first Pullman armored vehicle that Mercedes-Benz built was the W08/460. It was followed by 770 K which was especially built for Japanese Emperor Hirohito. And since then, 600-series Mercedes-Benz were used as base for all Pullman models. And since the Pullman limo transports not just anybody but the most important people in the world, Mercedes-Benz really take the whole armoring thing seriously. As a fact, the automaker said that the newest models of their Pullman limo are designed to exceed standards set for protection in any country or state.
According to Mercedes-Benz their new Pullman limo is capable of withstanding military standard small-arms projectiles, automatic firearms, and grenades. The Pullman is distinct from other armored vehicle in the sense that its protection is integrated right into the car's frame and body. Aside from the armor incorporate din the bodywork and glass, the Pullman limo is also equipped with runflat tires, a fire extinguisher, an air purification system in case of chemical attacks, a self-sealing fuel tank and a loudspeaker system for external communication. All the work done on the Pullman limo is accomplished at the Mercedes' Sindelfingen workshop.
To handle and balance the extended wheelbase, armor and special interior the Pullman limo is equipped with the most powerful and smoothest drivetrain. It is powered by a 5.5 liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine that revs up 517 horsepower and 612 lb-ft of potent torque. And since the Pullman limo is not created for mass distribution interested customers need to purchase on a consultation basis where important details are discussed such as what color is preferred by the client, or what type of materials he wants for his Pullman limo to have and other security options that the client wants loaded on his Pullman---all these and more are discussed during the consultation process.
The price of the Pullman limo is not yet revealed but one thing is for sure it will be on the level of royalties and we know pretty well how much that is---beyond our reach.
