With its Guard models Mercedes-Benz offers the world's widest ex-factory range of special protection vehicles. The range comprising E-Guard, S-Guard and G-Guard features tailor-made protection to European standards. A high level of protection is provided by armour made from state-of-the-art materials such as glass/plastic composites and high-strength special steel in combination with plastic elements. All protective elements are incorporated at the bodyshell stage during a separate and independent production process.

Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard

The armoured special-protection version of the long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz S 600 is powered by a twelve-cylinder biturbo engine developing 380 kW/517 hp, whose outstanding performance capability allows the luxury saloon to escape from dangerous situations at high speed.

The S-Class interior space concept, which makes for a first-class ambience combined with outstanding ride comfort for all the occupants, not to mention effortlessly superior handling, remains virtually unaffected. Furthermore, generously dimensioned suspension components and twin-calliper front brakes lend the Mercedes-Benz S-Guard saloon hallmark Mercedes handling qualities and provide the driver with an optimal driving feel at all times. Furthermore, the suspension has been configured so as not to impair the sumptuous level of comfort that distinguishes the standard-production S-Class.

The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard offers Highest Protection and has been engineered to resistance level B6/B7, as tested and certified by state-approved organisations. Additional safety features include run-flat tyres, a self-sealing fuel tank and a fire-extinguishing system.

The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard is equipped with the same technical innovations that have made the flagship Mercedes S-Class the number-one trailblazer in passenger car development and the world's best-selling luxury saloon. These include important new developments such as Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE SAFE® brake in combination with DISTRONIC PLUS, night view assist and the enhanced PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system. On top of all this, the outstanding level of interior comfort and extremely agile handling make for an effortlessly superior driving experience.

Mercedes-Benz S 420 CDI Guard

The S 420 CDI, which became available this year, is the world's first armoured luxury limousine with a diesel engine. Its advanced V8 CDI engine with an output of 235 kW/320 hp and 730 newtonmetres of torque gives the luxury limousine outstanding performance and extremely favourable fuel consumption despite its greater weight compared with the standard model. The S 420 CDI Guard is also equipped with Highest Protection to resistance level B6/B7.

Mercedes-Benz E-Guard

The Mercedes-Benz E-Guard models are available in three engine variants. The six-cylinder diesel unit in the E 320 CDI Guard develops 165 kW/224 hp and 540 newtonmetres of torque. The V6 petrol engine in the E 350 Guard has an output of 200 kW/272 hp. The most powerful version 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 on all E-Guard models, the top speed is limited to 240 km/h.

All E-Guard models are equipped with High Protection to resistance level B4. They offer their occupants the same generous accommodation and high ride comfort as their standard-production counterparts. Furthermore, the E-Guard models, which are supplied in the stylishly sporty Avantgarde finish, have agile handling almost identical to that of the standard models, despite their greater weight.

The E-Guard models are equipped with the same innovative technology as all the standard Mercedes-Benz E-Class models. Highlights include:

• PRE-SAFE® - an anticipatory system which gives the vehicle "reflexes", automatically triggering safety features for the driver and front passenger when an accident appears likely,
  
  
• NECK-PRO head restraints – these reduce the risk of whiplash injuries during a rear-end collision,
  
  
• Intelligent Light System – unique, adaptive headlamps which adjust themselves in line with the driving and weather conditions,
  
  
• ADAPTIVE BRAKE – brake lights that flash during emergency braking, allowing a faster braking response by drivers following behind,
  
  
• DIRECT CONTROL – more direct steering combined with a new suspension configuration for considerably more agility.
  
  

G 500 Guard

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is also available in a special-protection version. Model update measures will see enhancements to the G 500 Guard from November 2008 when the model will be equipped with a 5.5-litre V8 engine and Highest Protection to resistance level B6 or B7. The principal new features include:

• 5.5-litre V8 engine with 285 KW (388 hp),
  
  
• 7-speed automatic transmission with touch shift,
  
  
• modified radiator grille with 3-louvre design,
  
  
• revised dashboard,
  
  
• new, extended and more user-friendly telematics generation with COMAND APS,
  
  
• reversing camera integrated in third brake light via COMAND,
  
  
• Tyre pressure monitoring system,
  
  
• bi-xenon headlamps and fog lamps with cornering light function,
  
  
• tail lights with advanced LED technology,
  
  
• 12V outlet in passenger footwell.
  
  

The current Mercedes-Benz Guard vehicles at a glance:

	The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard: Part Of The Mercedes-Benz Guard Range
	The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard: Target Groups And Markets
	The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard: Safety Philosophy
	The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard: Development, Testing And Production
	The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard: A Unique Tradition Of Building Special-Protection Vehicles
	The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard: Model Overview And Specifications
	The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Pullman Guard: 80 Years Of Factory-Integrated Special Protection