If you’re at the Essen Motor Show or still in a turkey coma from yesterday’s Thanksgiving feast, there is one car you need to pay particular attention to today as its going to be talked about come Monday Morning. It is the BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo “iBusiness”. Like it’s predecessor we saw a couple of months back, this luxury sedan is filled with state-of-the-art components from Apple such as iPad, Mac mini, iPod touch and Apple TV. The main difference is that instead of their 850 horsepower office on wheels in Frankfurt, and now they’ve gone for something a bit more realistic, starting out with the S500, not the V12 AMG engine.

Read on for a complete overview of the new Brabus 850 “iBusiness”.

The exclusive appointments of the BRABUS 850 “iBusiness” also include a sporty-elegant designer outfit for the body, forged BRABUS “PLATINUM EDITION” 21-inch wheels, a high-performance braking system with carbon-ceramic discs and an exquisite, two-tone all-leather interior.

In best BRABUS tradition the new BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo high-capacity engine subscribes to the ancient but still true wisdom that nothing can substitute for displacement other than more displacement.

The new engine is based on the latest Mercedes 63 AMG eight-cylinder four-valve engine. For the increase in displacement to 5,912 cc (361 cu. in.) the BRABUS motor engineers brought their entire know-how amassed in the more than 35 years of the company’s history to bear. Numerous engine components had to be newly developed and the engine block, cylinders and cylinder heads had to be extensively re-machined in the company engine-building shop.

Mercedes-Benz S500 Brabus iBusiness Engine[/caption]

Increasing the eight cylinder bores to 99 millimeters (3.89 in.) allows the use of special forged pistons with modified surface contours to achieve an even more efficient combustion. They are connected by billet piston rods to the precision-balanced billet crankshaft with a stroke of 96 mm (3.77 in.).

The two special BRABUS turbochargers with larger compressor unit and modified exhaust manifolds are of course also a major factor in the enormous increase in power by 195 kW / 265 hp (261 bhp) over the stock engine. Other performance-enhancing upgrades on the exhaust side are the metal catalysts with 75-millimeter-thick (2.95 in.) downpipes and the BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust whose pipe connectors have a diameter of 76 millimeters (3 in.).

The BRABUS installations on the intake side are immediately apparent upon opening the hood: in addition to the fiery-red BRABUS design accents on the engine, the BRABUS Gold Heat Reflection sheathing for the intake and charge-air tubes right away catches the eye. This measure also contributes to the high-performance experience provided by this engine, as does the newly designed BRABUS 850 intake manifold for the eight-cylinder four-valve engine. It includes a larger air filter box with enlarged intake cross section, which gets its air supply via a special air duct in the hood. Also part of the package is the carbon-fiber intake pipe with larger diameter, which was positioned behind the new BRABUS fascia directly exposed to the relative wind.

Special mapping for the engine management system programmed on the BRABUS high-tech engine test rigs and during road tests coordinate all high-performance components perfectly. This benefits not only the gigantic power yield, but also the outstanding throttle response and refinement of the engine across the entire rev range.

The performance data of the BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo high-capacity engine are correspondingly impressive: the V8 produces its peak power of 625 kW / 850 hp (838 bhp) at a low 5,400 rpm U/min. The equally potent peak torque of 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft) is limited in the car to 1,150 Nm (848 lb-ft) to protect the powertrain as a whole. It is available steadily on a plateau between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm. BRABUS exclusively uses high-performance lubricants from technology partner MOTUL. A BRABUS limited-slip differential with a locking rate of 40 percent is available as an option.

In conjunction with the modified AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission the BRABUS 850 “iBusiness” delivers a performance only attained by a very few full-blooded and significantly lighter sports cars. Sprinting from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.5 seconds is just as unrivalled in this class of vehicles as is the electronically limited top speed of 350 km/h (217 mph). The transmission either sorts the gears automatically or allows drivers to shift manually using the BRABUS aluminum shift paddles on the steering wheel.

This unique driving sensation is accompanied by an exhaust note that can be either subtle or thrilling. The BRABUS sport exhaust system with controlled butterfly valve offers drivers the option to actively control the exhaust note at the push of a button on the steering wheel. It determines whether the luxury sedan operates in a subtle and quiet “Coming Home” mode or announces its V8 power full-throated to the world in the “Sport” position to the enjoyment of the driver.

It goes without saying that BRABUS performance kits are available for all Mercedes S-Class engines. The plug-and-play BRABUS B50 – 520 PowerXtra CGI performance kit for the 4.7-liter eight-cylinder Biturbo engine of the S 500 uses special mapping for injection and ignition as well as a moderate increase in boost pressure to bump the power output by 65 horsepower.

After the conversion the engine’s power output jumps from 335 kW / 455 hp (449 bhp) to 382 kW / 520 hp (512 bhp) and peak torque grows to 820 Nm (605 lb-ft). This propels the four-door car from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.2 seconds. The BRABUS Vmax unit that is part of the engine tuning allows limiting the top speed electronically to 250, 275 or 300 km/h (155, 171 or 186 mph).

BRABUS is one of the pioneers in developing innovative, functional multimedia systems that are stylishly integrated into the automobile. The 1.0 generation of the BRABUS “iBusiness” concept building on the Apple iPad was presented in the Mercedes S-Class of the W/V 221 model series in 2010.

 

Now, several evolutionary stages and one vehicle generation later, the new BRABUS 850 “iBusiness” celebrates its world debut. In the refined ambiance of a BRABUS fine leather interior crafted to perfection down to the last detail the passengers have the latest generation of Apple computer technology for global communications and entertainment at their disposal.

The BRABUS “iBusiness” multimedia system incorporates an iPad mini tablet into the rear compartment. To this end the BRABUS designer developed a custom center console, which is installed between the two individual seats in the rear, and is equipped with a docking station. The docking station not only secures the table computer safely in place when not in use, it also recharges the computer’s battery.

The iPad mini is not only for communication with the outside world. The integration of the “iBusiness” concept into the vehicle’s on-board electronics also allows all functions of the S-Class COMAND system to be controlled from the iPad mini.

In addition, the mobile computer is connected to a Mac mini computer via the InCar-Hotspot. The Mac mini serves as the mainframe. The ultra-compact yet particularly powerful computer is housed safely in an electrically operated custom-designed drawer in the trunk of the S-Class. The BRABUS programmers developed the innovative BRABUS Remote app to facilitate communication between the individual modules of the multimedia equipment.

Of course there is also a special BRABUS app for iPad, iPhone and iPod. This software is part of the state-of-the-art communications concept of the luxury sedan as well.

A 15.2-inch color TFT display with an aspect ratio of 16:9 serves as the central monitor for the iPad minis and the other devices of the multimedia equipment. The electrically deployed monitor is integrated elegantly into the headliner made from the finest leather. At night the headliner can be illuminated by a multitude of fiber-optic lights to resemble a starry sky. In addition, the standard screens on the back of the front head restraints can be used to watch TV via DVBT or other programming sources.

High-speed USB 3.0 ports integrated into the rear compartment allow connecting additional devices such as a digital camera to the Mac mini. The BRABUS 850 “iBusiness” uses state-of-the-art wireless technology to connect to the internet.

The music comes from an Apple iPod touch of the latest generation. With 64 gigabytes of memory it offers enough storage capacity for more than 14,000 tracks. The sound is reproduced by the sound system of the S-Class.

The perfectly finished BRABUS fine leather interior can be crafted in the company upholstery shop in any desired color and in any upholstery design from high-end leathers and Alcantara. The selection of wood and carbon-fiber inlays in virtually any desired color and with a variety of surface finishes is just as extensive.

At the extremely high speeds the BRABUS 850 “iBusiness” effortlessly attains the aerodynamic properties are of utmost importance. To minimize negative lift on the front and rear axle while creating an optimal balance the BRABUS designers have developed a body conversion kit with sporty and elegant style. The components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-end PUR plastics and carbon fiber, and lend the luxury sedan a dynamic visual upgrade and optimize aerodynamic efficiency.

The BRABUS front fascia replaces the production bumper in its entirety. It captivates not only with its striking looks that includes large stylishly integrated air scoops that optimize the supply of cooling air for the radiators, engine and front brakes. Its shape was optimized in the wind tunnel and consequently also reduces negative lift on the front axle, which plays a role in the further improved handling stability at high speeds.

The side of the each front fender is upgraded with a BRABUS design element made from clear-coated carbon fiber, with a choice of matt or high-sheen finish. The integrated BRABUS logo is optionally available in a backlit version whose illumination is activated by operating the remote control or by pulling on a door handle.

At the same time the LED lights integrated into the underside of the BRABUS rocker panels also light up. The underfloor lighting makes approaching the car at night safer and helps to avoid stepping into a pothole or puddle.

The BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement concept was designed for all current S-Class models with short or long wheelbase. It is rounded out by the BRABUS rear separation edge, which is also available in a version made from clear-coated carbon fiber, and the rear fascia with integrated diffuser and tailor-made cutouts for the BRABUS sport exhaust system.

Also contributing to the striking designer look and the even more dynamic and safer handling of the Mercedes S-Class are the tailor-made BRABUS Monoblock alloy wheels with diameters of 19, 20, 21 or even 22 inches.

Forged BRABUS “PLATINUM EDITION” wheels in size 9Jx21 on the front axle and size 10.5Jx21 wheels in the rear are available as a 21-inch tire/wheel combination. Customers can choose from three different designs: mirror-finished Monoblock VI wheels with six double spokes, Monoblock F cross-spoke wheels or the new Monoblock R wheels where the spoke pairs are arranged in two different plains. Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA high-performance tires in sizes 255/35 ZR 21 in the front and 295/30 ZR 21 on the rear axle were selected as the optimal tires.

An innovation is the BRABUS 22-inch tire/wheel combination for the S-Class. The BRABUS Monoblock G “Platinum Edition” forged wheels feature a combination of size 9Jx22 wheels and size 255/30 ZR 22 tires on the front axle with size 10Jx22 wheels and size 295/25 ZR 22 tires in back, and make full use of the available space below the wheel arches.

To further enhance the high level of dynamic handling of the high-performance luxury sedan BRABUS has developed a special control module for the air suspension of the S-Class. It lowers the ride height of the BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo “iBusiness” by some 15 millimeters (0.6 in.) without impairing the outstanding ride comfort.

Maximum stopping power is even more important than exceptional acceleration and thus the BRABUS high-performance braking system is part of the technical highlights of this vehicle. It features anthracite-colored six-piston aluminum fixed calipers with golden BRABUS logo and vented carbon-ceramic discs measuring 380 x 34 millimeters (14.9 x 1.3 in.) on the front axle. The carbon-ceramic discs were developed in cooperation with brake specialist Brembo, and are manufactured from an entirely new material. The new structure of the disc and the material drastically increases thermal diffusivity, resulting in a much higher performance of the braking system compared with conventional systems.

The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo “iBusiness” is built to order. The multimedia system and all other BRABUS tuning components are available for all current S-Class models. BRABUS engine tuning is also available for all other engine variants.

Fuel economy, CO2 emissions and efficiency class

BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo based on the S 63 AMG saloon: city 13.8 l/100 km. highway 7.9 l/100 km. combined: 10.1 l/100 km. CO2 emissions, combined: 237 g/km. Efficiency class E.

Mercedes-Benz Classic is making the exclusive history of the S-Class and its pioneering innovations the main focus of its brand presentation at the 25th Techno Classica in Essen from April 10-14, 2013. Mercedes-Benz, the world’s oldest car manufacturer will be presenting its exhibits at the largest international trade fair for classic vehicles on a stand covering 4500 square metres in hall 1 of the Essen Exhibition Grounds.

“The Techno Classica is actually one of the most important events in the year for classic cars,” is how Michael Bock, Head of Mercedes-Benz Classic, highlights the importance of the leading international exhibition for classic vehicles. “Together with our officially recognised brand clubs, we will be able to communicate the entire world of Mercedes-Benz Classic and at the same time demonstrate our very close partnership with them,” anticipates Michael Bock.

And here the Stuttgart brand will be dedicating 1000 square metres of its exhibition space solely to its luxury class, top-of-the-range vehicles from the S-Class and their predecessor model series – from the early days of the automobile right up to modern times. A particular gem is the Benz “Prinz-Heinrich-Wagen” from 1910. Mercedes-Benz Classic has extensively restored this original special touring car at great expense and in accordance with the requirement for utmost authenticity. The car therefore stands for both the excellent motorsport tradition of the brand and the outstanding competence of Mercedes-Benz Classic in the field of extensive, true-to-original restoration projects. The project was carried out in co-operation with the Louwman Museum in The Hague (the Netherlands), who also had a “Prinz-Heinrich-Wagen” from 1910 restored to original condition.

S-Class Gallery

The focal point of the Mercedes-Benz Classic exhibition will be the presentation of the unique S-Class tradition in a gallery of twelve vehicles. The importance of the S-Class and its product values with their roots going way back in brand history to the invention of the automobile will be demonstrated by three exhibits dating from the first half of the twentieth century: the Mercedes-Simplex 60 hp (1904), which was used as a touring car by businessman Emil Jellinek – whose daughter Mercédès Jellinek lent her name to the brand – as well as a Nürburg 460 (W 08, 1929) and a model 770 “Grand Mercedes” (W 07, 1931). In addition to nine other vehicles representing the ancestors of the range-topping, premium-segment saloons since 1951, the Mercedes-Benz Classic exhibition stand will be taking a look into the future with the new 222 model series which will be given its market launch this summer.

The Benz “Prinz-Heinrich-Wagen” from 1910

The “Prinz-Heinrich-Wagen” exhibited at the Techno Classica is one of only two true-to-original vehicles worldwide to have survived the more than 100 years since their first racing appearance. It is extraordinary proof of the visionary technological leadership of this era. The ten Benz racing touring cars built at the time were specifically designed for the Prince Heinrich Tour of 1910 and they were technically far ahead of their time. The spirit of such excellence is part of the Mercedes-Benz brand values which have formed the basis for the creation of amazing vehicles across all eras”. The car from the Mercedes-Benz Classic collection reached the finishing line of the 1910 Prince Heinrich Tour in 11th place, and then in the same year it also went on the Tsar Nicholas Tour. The car still has the modified engine which the racing car was fitted with for this race in Russia.

A good partnership between brand and clubs

Mercedes-Benz Classic and the officially recognised brand clubs once more demonstrate their mutual affinity at the Techno Classica 2013: the presentations from 17 clubs with a total of about 50 historical vehicles are included in the overall presentation of the brand’s own Classic area. “We really appreciate the great commitment shown by the brand clubs,” emphasises Michael Bock. “They are extremely important ambassadors for the long-lived fascination of the brand.”

Among the topics Mercedes-Benz Classic is taking up at the Techno Classica exhibition are the exemplary services provided by both Classic Centers and dealerships, the comprehensive services provided by garages and workshops, and the ready availability of Mercedes-Benz GenuineParts. The Mercedes-Benz Museum and the Mercedes-Benz Classic Store are also taking part in the exhibition.

Anniversary fair in Essen

This year it is the 25th time that the Techno Classica, the leading international trade fair for classic vehicles, will be held in Essen. The trade fair will be opened on 10 April 2013 with a preview, media and trade day followed by three more days from 11 to 14 April. The 2013 anniversary event has attracted great attention so that all of the 20 halls and the open-air section of the Essen Exhibition Grounds will be full. And very appropriately for the anniversary, 25 automotive brands from all over the world will also be exhibited at the Techno Classica.

Since it started in 1989, the Techno Classica has established itself as the leading venue and trading centre for the international classics scene. This year the organisers are expecting more than 180,000 visitors who will be awaited by more than 1200 exhibitors. There will be about 2500 high quality collector’s cars on show as well as restoration specialists, suppliers and spare parts providers – and in addition everything else connected with classic cars such as literature, models, accessories and art.

Heading to Stuttgart?

The history of the S-Class will be the focus of a special exhibition taking place at the Mercedes-Benz Museum from June 18 to November 3, 2013.

There is nothing we can’t do! This is Lorinser’s motto for its comprehensive range of parts for the current CLS X218. The company, based in the south of Germany, has been developing and manufacturing products for personalising Mercedes vehicles from as far back as 1981. In doing so, the innovative Sportservice Lorinser team draws advantage from its experience with just about every Mercedes series. The skills gained form an optimal base for the launch of the exclusive range of modification options for the Mercedes CLS estate wagon. The result is impressive, both in terms of looks and sound: lift-reducing aerodynamic components, significantly enhanced performance, stainless steel exhaust systems with a sporty sound, striking 19 and 20-inch alloy wheels and superior interior modifications make for individualised series vehicles.

Bodywork finishes in proven quality

Lorinser combines dynamic design with efficient aerodynamics. The result is sensational stylishness with optimised air flow across the vehicle outline. The shapes of the sporty and striking front spoiler bumper blend impeccably with the wider wings. Together with the rear skirt the Lorinser body components ensure reduced lift while providing a new, attractive overall appearance. The Lorinser side skirts form an optical link between the front and rear. The tailor-made body kit is mounted on the serial attachment points, and is available from 6,176.00 Euro (incl. German VAT).

Optimised performance for stretching the limits and improved driving enjoyment The range of performance enhancements offered by Lorinser is just as extensive as the selection of Mercedes engines. For example, Sportservice offers optimised ECUs for the CLS 350 BlueEFFICIENCY, which results in an engine output of 322 HP / 237 kW at 6200 RPM. At the same time the maximum torque increases to 400 Nm between 2900 and 5000 RPM. In this connection, Lorinser has also lifted the limit of 250 km/h, allowing the car to reach an impressive speed of 265 km/h. The output of the 350 CDI the Sportservice increases to 305 hp / 224 kW at 4.100 rpm. At the same time, torque rises to 695 Nm with revs of 1.600 to 2.900 rpm.

Lorinser sport rear silencers that have been aligned to the different performance kits are also available. The range includes four-pipe systems, which ensure a full and powerful sound.

Sporty or elegant

The Lorinser rim range has been created entirely according to the requirements of Mercedes customers. Be it sporty and striking, or elegant and sophisticated – Lorinser offers various wheel designs and sizes. The RS8 is a 19-inch wheel with turbine look. The recommended wheel/tyre combination comprises 8.5Jx19-inch rims with 255/35ZR19 tyres for the front and 9.5Jx19-inch rims with 285/30ZR19 tyres for the rear.

The RS8 tyre is also available in a 20-inch design. In this instance, Lorinser recommends using 9.0Jx20-inch wheels with 255/30ZR20 tyres for the front axle and 10.0Jx20-inch wheels with 295/25ZR20 tyres for the rear axle.

Highest technical requirements combined with sporty elegance set the RSK6 designer wheel apart from other light-alloy wheels. The multi-part alloy rim with five spokes and stainless steel connecting bolts boasts a sophisticated look as well as excellent finishes. The wheel comes in dimensions of 8.5Jx19 inches and 9.5Jx19 inches as well as in 9,0Jx20 and 10,0Jx20.

Lorinser recommends using high-performance tyres from its technology partner, Continental.

The vehicle suspension springs, which lower the centre of gravity of the sport limousine by around 25 millimetres on the front and rear axles, add to its sporty appearance. A car lowering set for vehicles with Airmatic is currently being tested.

Interior with perfected technology

As a supplement to existing interiors available ex-plant, Lorinser offers stylish accessories such as aluminium pedals and door sills with an illuminated Lorinser logo. On request, Lorinser offers everything that makes car aficionados’ hearts beat faster – from a personalised set of floor mats to a complete leather interior – and all with precision craftsmanship.

TIKT, a German tuner and performance-parts specialist, has reworked the already exceptionally powerful Mercedes C63 AMG Black Series Coupe, transforming it into the Black Barron for the 2012 Essen Motor Show. Over the years the company has made a name for itself as a top tuner with its spectacular and technically expert individual conversions based solely on the top range Corvette (including diverse lap records with the TIKT Corvette ZR 1 Triple X).

The C63 AMG “Black Baron” is fitted with exclusive TIKT forged wheels, 10Jx20 on the front axle and 11Jx20 on the rear axle, with Hankook high performance tires in sizes 285/25 ZR (VA) and 325/25 ZR20 (HA).  Sizing is perfect, offering a maximum mechanical grip that is an absolute must in this performance category.

For ambitious hobby racing drivers, TIKT offers an additional set-up alternative that has been specially developed for use on race tracks. When it comes to the suspension the TIKT team has placed its confidence in the brand new, twice adjustable Clubsport suspension from the company Bilstein. However, it was equipped with a special TIKT setting when fitted to the Black Baron.

The engineers and technicians from TIKT also used all their experience and meticulousness for work under the bonnet as they naturally did not want to just make do with the 517 PS provided ex-works. So the 6.2 litre Suction V8 engine was given larger throttle valves, high performance racing headers and a completely new high performance exhaust system with a sports catalyzer and X-pipe as well as engine electronics that have been perfectly tuned to all the modifications on the company’s own testing stations.

The results of their work are more than impressive. The Black Baron now produces a power output of 606 PS and a maximum torque of 660 Nm and has thus clearly distanced itself from the original model. The ambitious gentleman racing driver can find just the rights components at TIKT to set the tone when racing around the bends both on the road and on the racetrack. The complete vehicle can be had from EUR 175,000.

Debuting at the 2012 Essen Motor Show was 8th specialty vehicle to come from the Tune it! Safe! program.  Tune it! Safe! aims to promote responsible and safe tuning, and this year’s safe tuning example was the Mercedes-Benz A250 BlueEFFICIENCY.

The A-Class sits on 19-inch alloy wheels with Hankook Ventus S1 Evo 2 tires and has been given a Brabus body kit including a front fascia, a rear diffuser and a roof spoiler. The A250 is also sporting a police livery, as well as a light bar for the roof and four tailpipe exhaust.

Inside, the driver’s and passengers are treated to a few minor updated, custom floor mats, metallic pedals and custom controls for the lighted roof bar. Powering the Tune it! Safe A-Class is a Turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that has been tweaked to output 245 hp and a peak torque of 380 Nm (280 lb-ft).

The A250 sprints 0-62 mph in a mere 6.2 seconds, while its top speed sits at 155 mph (250 km/h).  Even with these updates, the car is rather efficient, managing 6.1 liters per 100 km (38.6 US mpg) and emitting 143 grams of CO2 per km.

In case the new G63 AMG wasn’t enough to leave you salivating, Brabus has unveiled their upgrade for the 2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG.  You can read on or you can skip straight to the video that flashes back and forth between the standard G63 AMG and the Brabus Widestar version.   The video is a bit on the long side but gives a great comparrison between the two.

The Brabus G-Class will be on display at this year’s Essen Motor Show, starting on Saturday. Power for the Brabus G63 AMG comes from the same twin-turbo V8 5.5-liter engine, although it’s been upgraded to output 620 HP (456 kW) – 76 HP more than the standard 544 HP (400 kW). Torque has also increased to 605 lb-ft (820 Nm) over the standard 560 lb-ft (760 Nm) – a 45 lb-ft increase.

Electronically adjustable ride control suspension with comfort and sport modes and an adjustable valve-controlled exhaust for a louder or quieter sound have also been added to the Brabus Widestar G63. Other additions include LED illumination for the side steps, a new set of 23-inch alloy wheels, satin silver color accents in the side body mouldings, rear bumper fascia and an aerodynamic front spoiler in silver with integrated LEDs.

Not to be left out, the interior receives new leather upholstery and upgraded materials that are available in a wide variety of colors.