Luxurious comfort, extensive individualisation options and integrated maximum protection ex factory: this is what Mercedes-Benz Guard stands for. The first Mercedes-Benz automobile with special protection was a prestigious Pullman Saloon in the Nürburg 460 (W 08) series introduced in 1928. This vehicle and two armoured Model 770 “Grand Mercedes” Pullman Saloons ordered by the Japanese Emperor in 1930 were the original examples of these very special automobiles. For more than nine decades, governments, crowned heads and companies have placed their confidence in special protection vehicles bearing the world-renowned star. The current Mercedes-Benz Guard models provide maximum protection up to Class VR10, and are highly sophisticated products at the highest technical level. The Guard manufactory also makes numerous individualisation options available. It is also traditional for Mercedes-Benz to supply Guard vehicles for international occasions such as state receptions, summit meetings and social events of great importance.

An unrivalled combination of outstanding attributes is the key to the success of the Mercedes-Benz Guard range. On the one hand the special protection models meet the highest protection standards available for civilian vehicles, and provide full all-round protection. On the other hand they cosset their occupants with hallmark S-Class comfort, the highest active and passive safety and unrestricted day-to-day suitability.

Integrated special protection by Mercedes-Benz Guard makes this possible. For example, all the protective elements for the doors, rear wall, side components, roof and firewall are not subsequently installed in an already finished vehicle, but integrated into the bodyshell in a separate production process right from the start. To this end the models in the Guard family are conceived and developed together with the unprotected variants from the outset. Potential weaknesses are identified by extensive tests during the development process, and verified by the specialists.

Focused driver safety training by Mercedes-Benz familiarises customers and chauffeurs with the handling capabilities of the Guard models. This is included in the vehicle price. They also receive instruction in the special technical features and systems.

Integrated special protection and a highly-effective combination of materials

All the measures are based on the many years of experience of Mercedes-Benz in the engineering of special protection vehicles. All reinforcing elements made of special steel alloys and other high-strength materials are already integrated in cavities between the bodyshell and exterior skin during the body production phase, specifically reinforcing the basic structure. Joints and material transitions feature intelligently designed material overlaps. Relevant areas of the underbody are protected by armour specially developed for these vehicles.

The glazing is a fixed and very important part of the protective measures. Here too, the material and thickness meet the high requirements of the protection category concerned. The inner surfaces of the glass are coated with polycarbonate for splinter protection. Despite their comprehensive protective effect, they offer very good visibility.

This solid combination provides highly effective occupant protection against attacks. The interior remains practically unaffected by the very complex and technically sophisticated protection system, and offers the occupants unrestricted comfort – unlike vehicles with subsequently installed armour plating. Naturally the suspension, brakes, springs and assistance systems are adapted for the additional weight and ensure near-standard handling characteristics with excellent comfort.

It is part of the protective concept that models with special protection are only distinguishable from their standard production counterparts on very close scrutiny. A number of special technical features also ensure that they remain mobile during and after an attack, and can leave the danger area as rapidly as possible. To this end the powerful, high-torque V12 engine makes 390 kW (530 hp) and 830 newton metres available at 1900 rpm.

Special items of equipment are available for the Mercedes-Benz Guard models, for example:

• emergency fresh air system protecting occupants from the ingress of smoke or irritant gases
• self-activating fire extinguisher system
• official equipment, e.g. siren, revolving beacons and two-way radio
• emergency starter battery
• easily operated panic alarm system
• external communication system (loudspeaker/microphone)

Many governments, companies and organisations also take the opportunity for a detailed production discussion about the ordered Guard vehicle. In this way Mercedes-Benz is able to take special wishes and requirements into account from the start, and suggest specific solutions.

Mercedes-Benz Guard certifications VR9 and VR10

Three Mercedes-Benz Guard models are available.

• Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Guard (combined fuel consumption 18.4 l/100 km, combined CO₂ emissions 421 g/km): this has the highest VR10 ballistic protection class currently available for civilian vehicles, and represents the pinnacle for civilian special protection vehicles. Since its premiere in 2015 it has been the only series production saloon to have this classification ex factory.
• Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Pullman Guard (combined fuel consumption 20.6 l/100 km, combined CO₂emissions 473 g/km): since 2018 this has been the world’s only long-wheelbase state limousine with armour protection ex factory, and has Class VR9 ballistic protection.
• Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard (combined fuel consumption 18.4 l/100 km, combined CO₂ emissions 421 g/km): in 2014 this was the first vehicle to be fully certified for Class VR9 ballistic protection.

All models have official certification from the proofhouse in Ulm, and meet the requirements of BRV 2009, version 2 (Bullet Resistant Vehicles). In this test the body and windows must withstand fire from an assault rifle using armour-piercing ammunition. Compared with VR9, protective measures according to VR10 withstand an approx. 20 percent higher penetration force.

All models also effectively protect their occupants from explosive devices. The roof, floor and sides meet the criteria of Guideline ERV 2010 (Explosive Resistant Vehicles).

Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Guard

In the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class, the perfection of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class comes together with the exclusivity of Maybach: this top-class saloon combines traditional elegance with ultra-modern comfort, and conveys the height of serenity. Its stately appearance underscores this from every angle. Its length of 5462 millimetres and wheelbase of 3365 millimetres are 200 millimetres more than those of a long-wheelbase S-Class Saloon.

The increased size benefits the rear passengers, as do the Executive seats on the left and right as standard, plus further, exclusive details. The generous spaciousness and design turn the interior into both a multifunctional working environment and an exclusive salon. There is a wide choice of high-grade materials for the interior, and the range of individualisation options is quite enormous: the focus is on the customer’s wishes.

Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Pullman Guard

The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Pullman is the epitome of high-end luxury. It combines generous spaciousness with unique interior touches. VIP passengers seated in the direction of travel have two Executive seats as standard, and are able to enjoy the most generous legroom in this segment plus extremely convenient access and egress. In typical Pullman style, the four rear passengers are seated in opposed seats behind the electrically retractable partition.

As was the case with the legendary Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman (W 100), the generous dimensions of the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Pullman proclaim its special status. With a length of around 6500 millimetres, the Pullman is another 1053 millimetres longer than the Mercedes‑Maybach S‑Class. The wheelbase is a stately 4418 millimetres. At 1598 millimetres, the Pullman is also 100 millimetres higher than the Mercedes S‑Class, providing noticeably more headroom.

Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class likewise combines work with lifestyle at the highest level. Materials, ambience and workmanship in the interior fulfil the diverse requirements of a luxury saloon. The 3165-millimetre wheelbase of the long version and an overall length of 5255 millimetres allow for an interior with generous dimensions. A wide range of individualisation options is also available for the S-Class.

It is also part of the DNA of an S-Class to present technological innovations never before seen in an automobile in this form, e.g. in the area of driver assistance systems or comfort features.

Special protection vehicles for over 90 years

For more than 90 years, Mercedes-Benz has laid claim to a special status with respect to personal protection. This tradition is also a unique history of innovations. This is because the protective measures are always developed specifically for the model in question, and also keep pace with technical advances to provide the best possible protection.

It was with the Model Nürburg 460 of 1928 that the then Daimler-Benz AG was the first company to start equipping its saloons with special protection ex factory, so as to effectively protect the occupants from attacks using firearms and explosive devices. Mercedes-Benz also developed specially protected versions of subsequent luxury and prestige models such as the Model 770 “Grand Mercedes” and the 500 and the 540 K models. The Japanese emperor Hirohito chose an armoured “Grand Mercedes” as a personal car befitting his status – this example delivered in 1935 can now be admired at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart.

Many politicians and heads of state followed the emperor’s example and entrusted their safety and security to Mercedes-Benz special protection vehicles. In September 1963 Mercedes-Benz presented a new, exclusive prestige model for the highest expectations – the legendary Model 600. Shortly after this presentation, the German government approached Daimler-Benz AG with a request for an armoured version for state guests. This was the start of a new era in special protection for the engineers in Stuttgart, and new approaches were required – partly because of the by now conventional unibody design of vehicles. As no other German automobile manufacturer was able to provide armoured vehicles ex factory, and Mercedes-Benz saloons had a high reputation amongst governments around the world, a close relationship developed between the German authorities and Daimler-Benz. During the course of this, the brand initiated numerous new technical approaches. The intensive cooperation helped to provide the basis for today’s European standards for the different resistance classes.

When a large demand for special protection vehicles arose in Latin America in 1970, Daimler-Benz AG had a suitable answer with armoured 280 SEL 3.5 vehicles. Mercedes-Benz also produced special protection versions of the eight-cylinder W 116-series models and delivered them to selected customers, among them state institutions and governments in Europe and overseas.

Since 1980 and without exception, all generations of the S-Class (model series 126, 140, 220, 221) and the current model (222 series) have always also been available in special protection versions.

For throwback Thursday, we went way back to October 2006 for a look at the S600 Guard.  My how times have changed.

To the elite few of you looking for protection that only a well-armored vehicle can provide, you’re in luck, Mercedes today has released details of their new S600 Guard, a model designed to meet even the most stringent standards of personal safety (and did I mention it’s the same car driven by Bella in Stephanie Myer’s Breaking Dawn book from the Twilight Series).

Boasting a Euro standard resistance level of B6/B7, the S600 Guard is capable of withstanding up to military-grade small-arms projectiles. As if that wasn’t enough, Mercedes engineers then took the S600 Guard a step further, surpassing requirements not specified in any standards by adding additional protection from explosives and hand grenades.

Of course, what fun is owning an armored vehicle when it looks and drives like a tank, so the final step to compete the S600 Guard was to make it look and drive like… well… an S600. Despite its new protective cage, re-engineered chassis, bulletproof glass, self-sealing gas tank and all of its other numerous life-saving measures, the S600 is virtually indistinguishable from the standard S600 model. In other words, it’s one fine automobile.

To learn more, keep scrolling for more photos showcasing the S600 Guard in action, followed by the comprehensive press release outlining all of the Guard’s many features.

Mercedes-Benz announced today that they will be offering Guard models of the ML350 BlueTEC and ML500, both of which comply with the requirements for protection level VR4.  And while one can never be sure where the future is headed, be it a Zombie Apocalypse or third World War, the one certainty is that the new armored M-Class Guard is going to keep you safer than any traditional Mercedes model.

Helping keep the zombies out, the newest Guard model has been specifically designed and developed from the ground up to accept the attachment of front to back in armored elements.  So while you may think you can create your own Apocalypse-proof zombie crusher by welding iron plates to your current M-Class, think again.  You’re going to lose valuable handling capabilities, which in turn means that high speed chase you will invariably find yourself in will end in a gruesome crash and the zombies happily picking the flesh from your cold, lifeless body.

Not a pretty picture.

Instead, the factory Mercedes M-Class Guard utilizes perfectly fitted and formed steel that has been implemented on the A-, B- and C- pillars, and the same steel also reinforces the passenger compartment and increases the overall structural integrity of the vehicle.  The handling rivals that of the conventional model, and the chance of a rollover is subsequently reduced as well.  In the event the zombies take up arms and start a gunfight – which is quite unlikely due to their lack of logical thought and poor dexterity – the new M-Class Guard can withstand shots from all angles both from a .357 Magnum and .44 caliber round.  It’s also capable of withstanding blasts from certain hand grenades.  If, however, hand grenades are a primary concern of yours, we do suggest adding on the optional floor armor as well.  Lastly, the M-Class Guard also offers specially laminated glazing with uniform thickness and polycarbonate layers on both sides to prevent flying shards, zombie bone fragments, etc. from penetrating the vehicle.

Not forgotten by Mercedes are the tires, because finding yourself trapped in a bullet proof box with the inability to drive is still a bleak outlook.  Helping prevent this unfortunate scenario, the M-Guard is fitted with tires that have run-flat capability, allowing you to safely drive on tires with complete loss of air for 18 miles at a top speed of 50 mph.

Finally, thanks to the option being able to build the M-Class Guard on the ML 350 BlueTEC platform, you have the option of an efficient diesel power plant – a very intelligent option due to the fuel shortage that is all but a certainty when zombies are running rampant. It offers the tried-and-tested V6-cylinder diesel engine with 190 kW output (258 hp) and a top torque level of 620 Nm.  If, on the other hand, you want to sacrifice fuel for speed, you can also opt for the V8 powered ML 500 Guard with 300 kW (408 hp) and 600 Nm  as an alternative to the diesel option.

Whatever you pick, your chances of doing battle with the zombies and living to tell about it have gone up exponentially.

Read on for the complete press release or check out the videos of other Mercedes armored vehicles.

The new special-protection variant of the M-Class is the latest addition to the extensive Mercedes-Benz Guard family. As with all Guard models, the armoured version of this popular SUV follows the brand-typical integrated special protection design principle. All the additional protection systems are taken fully into account right from the development phase of each model series and perfectly integrated into the vehicle’s architecture. This enables all the advantages of the standard series-production vehicle to be retained, such as for instance the luxurious yet functional vehicle interior, the high level of active and passive safety, the exceptional ride comfort and the agile driving dynamics.

As with all special-protection vehicles with the three-pointed star, in the new M-Guard the focus is on a holistic development approach: integrated special protection. This means that the individual protection elements are integrated in the raw vehicle bodyshell from scratch in an autonomous process, by virtue of which the entire passenger compartment receives a kind of coat of armour that even includes elements such as the roof frame struts, locks, door gaps and exterior mirror mounts. This way, a Mercedes-typical comprehensive protection system against ballistic attacks is created, providing protection that includes places where retrofitting would hardly be possible, or would be much less effective.

Another advantage of the integrated protection concept over retrofits that burden the vehicle body structure with added weight: right from the outset the vehicle bodyshell is strengthened in accordance with the greater weight and the positioning of the armour elements. This results in a greater stability of the entire body structure and consequently in the typical longevity and high resistance characteristic of the conventional M-Class models.

M-Class Guard: all-round protection

The bodyshell of the M-Class goes through all the stages of large-series production, benefiting from the excellent quality of the M-Class bodyshell. Unlike its standard series-production counterpart, though, the Guard bodyshell has specific adaptations for the attachment of the armour elements, a front structure with reinforcing elements and modified doors. The armour itself includes:

Windows of the highest optical quality Special laminated glazing with a uniform thickness all-round, polycarbonate layer on inside to protect against shards.

In the un-transparent sectors perfectly tight-fitting formed special steel is used throughout. In the A-, B- and C- pillars and the firewall and roof, this steel also reinforces the passenger compartment and increases structural firmness.

All the components installed comply with defined ballistic requirements, are subjected to constant ballistic control and are already correspondingly certified beforehand.

Complies with VR 4 protection class

The new M-Guard meets the requirements of protection level VR4 according to testing guidelines BRV 2009 for special-protection vehicles with bullet resistance (according to Bullet Resistant Vehicles 2009). This ballistic classification designates ballistic resistance (VR = Vehicle Resistance) in terms of the weapons and calibre: in this case, among others, Magnum .357 and .44. Certification was carried out by the Ulm-based Ballistics Bureau. This independent, neutral, test ensures that the integrated protection concept is appropriate to face the hard requirements of real danger situations. The M‑Guard passed the following ballistic and explosives tests successfully:

• Fire from different angles
• Blasts, for example with DM51 hand grenade, according to test guidelines ERV 2010. Both in the front and in the vehicle rear, these were resisted by the M-Guard with the optional floor armour successfully

Well–harmonised suspension, powerful engines

In spite of the increased weight caused by its armour, the M-Guard achieves the impressive ride comfort, great agility and extraordinary active safety of its series-production counterpart. The special-protection variant features as standard an AIRMATIC air suspension system with Adaptive Damper System (ADS) specifically adapted to the vehicle’s special protection features. Stronger axle components compensate for the increased weight of the M-Guard superbly, Guard-specific torsion bars at the rear axle optimise roll behaviour in fast curves and when taking evasive action.

The M-Guard is exclusively available with tires with run-flat capability and 5‑spoke 50.8 cm (20-inch) AMG light-alloy wheels. MOE tyres with run-flat capability make it possible to drive on safely for up to 30 km at a maximum speed of 80 km/h even if the tyre has suffered a total loss of air.

With the new ML 350 BlueTEC Guard there is a diesel power plant that is just as economical as it is agile for the first time in this segment. It offers the tried-and-tested V6-cylinder diesel engine with 190 kW output (258 hp) and a top torque level of 620 Nm. It meets the requirements of the currently strictest EURO 6 emissions standard. The V8 petrol-engine-powered ML 500 Guard with 300 kW (408 hp) and 600 Nm is available as an alternative. LHD and RHD versions of both vehicles are available.

Unrestricted interior space

The sporty character and high value appeal of the series-production vehicle are also distinctive of the generously-dimensioned interior of the M-Guard. The protection measures restrict neither the car’s famed ambience of well-being nor the space available for its up to five passengers. Its load capacity of up to 2010 litres and the payload of around 560 kg are of the same high level as those of the series-production non-special protection M-Class models. In addition the M-Guard customers can choose from among most of the M-Class’s attractive equipment options. Among these worthy of note are for instance exclusive leather appointments, infotainment systems, such as COMAND Online, and high-value sound systems.

Extensive trial program for top reliability

Apart from the specific ballistic tests carried out by the Ballistics Bureau in Ulm, the M-Guard has to pass a detailed test programme just like its series-production counterparts. These trials mimic everyday operating conditions, exceeding these parameters by a large factor in many cases. They include an endurance test lasting several weeks to determine bodyshell strength, standardised simulation of arduous roads on special bodywork test rigs and road endurance tests to ensure the durability of drivetrain and suspension under extreme conditions. Over and above these trials, heat and cold tests and high-speed driving on test courses are carried out to ensure the resistance of individual components and their overall operation under the greatest stresses. In a separate winter trial on ice and snow, the engineers adjust the driving dynamics systems to the increased weight due to the armour. Finally a crash test programme ensures fault-free operation of all passive protection systems.

Mercedes-Benz offers nine special-protection models

The Guard programme currently includes vehicles of the S-, E-, M- and G-Class. With a total of nine models Mercedes Benz has one of the most comprehensive special-protection ranges:

• E 350 BlueTEC Guard
• E 250 Guard*
• E 350 Guard*
• E 500 Guard
• ML 350 BlueTEC Guard
• ML 500 Guard
• S 600 Guard
• S 600 Pullman Guard
• G 500 Guard

*Only for certain countries

The Guard models can avail themselves of a network of Mercedes-Benz Service stations all around the world for the service, maintenance and repair work needed. And of course the special-protection models also come with a full factory warranty. The new M-Guard can be ordered as of 15 March 2013.

The prices in Germany (in addition statutory 19% VAT):

• ML 350 BlueTEC Guard €105,050
• ML 500 Guard €118,65

Technical data

	ML 350 BlueTEC Guard	ML 500 Guard
Displacement (cc)	2987	4663
Rated output (kW/hp)	190/258	300/408
Torque (Nm)	620	600
Transmission	7G-TRONIC PLUS
Kerb weight – EC (kg)	2765	2785
Perm. GVW – EC (kg)	3350
Payload (kg)	585	565
Luggage compartment capacity (l)	690/2010
Tank capacity (l)	70	93
Wheels & tyres	9J x 20 ET 57 265/45 R20 MOE*
Protection level	High protection VR4**
Fuel consumption NEDC (l/100km)	8.1	12.2
CO2 (g/km)	212	285
Emissions class	EURO 6	EURO 5
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (s)	9.4	6.5
Top speed (km/h)	210***

* MOE (Mercedes Original Extended) = Genuine Mercedes tyres with run-flat characteristics

**VR (Vehicle Resistance) BRV 2009 (special-protection vehicle withbullet resistance according to Bullet Resistant Vehicles 2009

***Electronically limited

With seven Guard models, Mercedes-Benz offers the widest ex factory range of special protection vehicles in the world. This range has models from the S, E and G-Class, and continues the unrivalled tradition of the world’s oldest automobile manufacturer in the production of armoured vehicles. In 1928 Daimler-Benz was the first manufacturer to offer specially protected vehicles ex factory. The current Guard versions mainly differ from the standard models in having an intelligent, tailor-made structure of protective elements made from special steel and aramid fibre. This protection cannot be seen from outside and is not subsequently installed in an already completed vehicle, but rather integrated into the bodyshell right from the start in a special production process. This enables the body structure and running gear to be specifically adapted for the higher weight caused by the protective elements at the outset. Apart from the build quality expected of a Mercedes, the Guard models retain the outstanding ride comfort and superior driving characteristics of the standard models.

The aim of the Guard models from Mercedes-Benz is to protect the occupants from violent criminal acts. Neither is it only government ministers and top managers who are under threat nowadays, as drivers in many regions of the world do not feel safe from acts of violence. Mercedes-Benz has the answer to violent attack with its armoured Guard models from the S, E and G-Class. The flagship of the Mercedes-Benz Guard portfolio is the S 600 Pullman Guard, a prestigious state limousine with an opulently spacious and luxurious interior. Depending on the customer’s requirements, the Guard models are resistant to handgun and rifle fire, and also certain explosives, while offering their occupants outstanding comfort and day-to-day practicality.

Mercedes-Benz S-Guard

The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard is the armoured, special protection version of the long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz S 600. The generous spaciousness of this flagship model, which offers all its occupants a first-class ambience, outstanding ride comfort and superior driving characteristics, is almost fully retained in the Guard version. Naturally the S 600 Guard is also equipped with the technical innovations that have made the Mercedes-Benz S-Class the benchmark for the entire field of car development, and the world’s best-selling luxury saloon. The S 600 Guard is powered by a twelve-cylinder biturbo engine developing 380 kW (517 hp). It provides highest protection to level VR6/VR7.

Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard

The S 600 Pullman Guard continues the tradition of Mercedes-Benz state limousines, and treats it occupants to generous spaciousness and outstanding comfort. This interior spaciousness is ensured by a further, 115-centimetre increase in the wheelbase compared to the long-wheelbase version of the S‑Class with special protection, to 4315 millimetres. The state limousine also has a raised roof section at the rear for even easier access and more headroom. Four passengers can be seated behind a partition in the rear, on comfortable, opposing seats in line with Pullman tradition. This allows plenty of space for confidential discussions. All the important communication and entertainment functions are on board as well. The Pullman is likewise powered by the silky-smooth twelve-cylinder biturbo engine with a cubic capacity of 5513 cc, which develops 380 kW (517 hp) and an impressive torque of 830 Nm. The S 600 Pullman Guard has highest protection to level VR6/VR7.

Mercedes-Benz E-Guard

The Mercedes-Benz E-Guard models are available in three engine variants. The six-cylinder diesel unit in the E 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY Guard develops 195 kW (265 hp) and 620 newton metres of torque. The V6 petrol engine in the E 350 Guard has an output of 200 kW (272 hp). The most powerful variant is the 5.5-litre V8 in the E 500 Guard, which develops 285 kW (388 hp). Because of the run-flat tyres which are standard for all E-Guard models, their top speed is limited to 240 km/h.

All E-Guard models have high protection to level VR4. Their occupants enjoy the same generous spaciousness and high ride comfort as in the standard models.

Mercedes-Benz G 500 Guard

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is also available in a special-protection version. The G 500 Guard is equipped with a 5.5-litre V8 engine and highest protection to VR6 or VR7.

Integrated special protection for outstanding safety

Specialists in Sindelfingen with many years of experience in this field apply the principle of integrated special protection to the Mercedes-Benz Guard models. In effect this means that, rather than retrofitting 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 high/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 imposing extra stresses. In addition, 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 standard Mercedes-Benz production models.

All Mercedes-Benz Guard models display the same outstanding ride comfort and effortlessly superior handling as their series-production counterparts. Furthermore, generously dimensioned suspension components and brakes ensure that their handling qualities are almost on a par with 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. Moreover, the Guard models 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.

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 protection levels in accordance with the European standard.

• High-Protection vehicles, engineered to the VR4 protection level, resist large-calibre revolver ammunition and offer particularly good protection against the increasing threat of drug-related and violent street crime.
• Highest-Protectionvehicles, engineered to protection level VR6/VR7, provide effective protection against the threat posed by terrorist attacks. Their armour is designed to resist rifle-fire from military weapons, which has a velocity almost twice that of handgun bullets. They also offer resistance to shrapnel from hand grenades and explosive charges.

More than 80 years of factory-integrated special protection

As the inventor of the automobile, the world’s oldest automobile manufacturer has always seen itself obligated to develop automotive technology further at the highest level, and to set constantly new standards. This applies in equal measure to the special protection vehicles – as witness the unique tradition on which the Stuttgart-based premium brand can also look back in this sector.

As early as 1928, with the model Nürburg 460, Daimler-Benz was the first company to start building saloon cars with factory-fitted protective features which effectively shielded the occupants from attacks using firearms and explosives. This was followed by more than eight decades of extensive material testing and systematic development which has secured the exceptional position of Mercedes-Benz in the field of special protection to the present day.

In the 1930s and 1940s, the specially protected Mercedes-Benz Nürburg 460 was followed by armoured versions of the “Grand Mercedes” model 770, and of the 500 and the 540 K. 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 characterised 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 limousines 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 cooperation formed the basis for the current European standards which define the different protection 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 official bodies and governments in Europe and beyond. All subsequent generations of the S-Class have also been available as special-protection variants.