STUTTGART, Germany — Mercedes-Benz may launch its next-generation A- and B-Class compacts in the U.S. in 2012 as part of a broader strategy to bolster its small-car portfolio in North America.

The plan has been under consideration for more than a year, and this week, Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche told The Wall Street Journal in an interview that the company plans to sell one or more of its new compacts in the U.S. The new A- and B-Class lineup will be introduced in Europe in late 2011.

The smaller Mercedes models would compete against such European rivals as the Audi A3 and the BMW 1 Series.

The automaker also will decide in the next two months whether to shift some production of the C-Class sedan to its U.S. plant in Vance, Alabama, according to Automotive News. The industry journal is also reporting that a redesigned C-Class is due in 2013.

Mercedes is reshaping its small-car plans for North America even as U.S. sales of the Smart Fortwo subcompact have fallen well below expectations.

Smart sales totaled only 661 units in October, down more than 70 percent from October 2008 and the lowest for any month since the car made its U.S. debut. For the first time, Smart is offering cut-rate financing on the car in the hope of boosting demand.

Most gasoline-electric hybrids are all about fuel economy, cars that resolutely eschew any notion of driving pleasure for the intangible satisfaction of big MPGs. That’s not so much the case with the 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6, a four-door, fastback-styled “sports activity coupe” that has no qualms about piling on the power. Providing the motivation is BMW’s now-familiar twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine with direct injection, producing a very stout 400 horsepower, and a pair of electric synchronous motors, delivering an additional 91 and 86 horsepower, respectively. Total system output of 480 horsepower and 575 foot-pounds of torque reaches the pavement through a sophisticated seven-speed transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The ActiveHybrid X6’s performance, no surprise, is decidedly un-hybrid-like: zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph. For those trips where maximum velocity isn’t a top priority, however, the ActiveHybrid is quite happy to waft along on electric power alone at speeds up to 37 mph and for as far as 1.6 miles. Official EPA fuel economy numbers are forthcoming, but BMW is claiming a 20-percent improvement over the non-hybrid X6 xDrive50i, or about 22 mpg on the highway. Pricing hasn’t been announced, but look for the ActiveHybrid X6 to command a healthy premium over the $66,650 X6 xDrive50i when it lands in American showrooms late this year. (bmwusa.com)

I have to admit. Lexuses have never interested me. They’re solid cars that know how to coddle their drivers with understated (if not a little bland) luxury, but they’re not exactly thrill-enducing or even exciting from a design standpoint in a way, say, Mercedes are.

And so when I saw the first Lexus LFA supercar concept that debuted way back in 2005 at the Detroit Auto Show, I thought, like so many fanciful concepts that don’t necessarily fit a company’s image, they’ll never make this thing. But I was wrong. And I’m here to report: It’s a beast.

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Whether you’re talking about a bespoke smoking jacket, an electronic tennis racket or a top-of-the-line German sports car, substance trumps style every time.

In other words, if it’s only pretty to look at, it’s not really worth your money (this is especially true in the case of the electronic tennis racket, because of all the competition out there).

Thankfully, you don’t have to worry about this with the new Porsche 911. It’s the fastest, most fuel-efficient Porsche 911 ever.

I’m going to be frank with you (after all, it is a German sports car we’re talking about): this automobile was meant to be—no, deserves to be—driven every day. So if you’re just looking for some kind of driveway ornament to pull out for quickie joyrides on the weekends, you’re barking up the wrong tree. It’s not that kind of car.

See: this is the first Porsche 911 to be equipped with two racing-inspired technologies—DFI or Direct Fuel Injection, and PDK or Porsche Doppelkupplung. The first leads to an extremely obedient gas pedal, and the second helps you rip through seven gears (yes, we said seven) with racetrack-level speed and power. The result is a Porsche that grabs 27mpg highway, while topping out at 188mph and going from a dead stop to 60mph in about four seconds.

All of which you need. You absolutely need.

The successor to the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing from the 1950s (and replacement for the SLR) has finally been officially revealed today with a new batch of high-resolution photos after months of drip-fed teasers, spy shots, and recently, leaked details and photos. Picking up the official title of SLS AMG–a nod to its exclusive development by Mercedes’ official in-house tuner, AMG–the latest model is set to grace the stands at next week’s 2009 Frankfurt auto show before going on sale early next year.

In true gullwing style, the 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG features a pair of vertically lifting doors that almost resemble wings once fully extended. These are bolted to a new aluminum spaceframe, which provides an almost perfect front-to-rear weight distribution of 48-to-52%.





Power comes from a revised version of AMG’s now-familiar 6.2L V-8 mated to an all-new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission mounted on the rear axle. Peak output stands at 571 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. Changes to the engine include a new magnesium intake with eight separate velocity stacks, two electronically controlled throttle plates, a high-flow exhaust and a new dry-sump lubrication system.





The engine is located up front but is mounted behind the front axle for better weight distribution. The SLS AMG’s final curb weight is 3,571 pounds, 47% of which rests on the front axle, 53% on the rear. With the V-8 mill it’s claimed to accelerate from 0-62 mph in 3.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 197 mph. Fuel efficiency is 17.8 mpg in the European combined cycle.





As for the new dual-clutch gearbox, the unit was developed by AMG and boasts fast gear changes with no loss of tractive force. The driver has a choice of four different driving modes, ranging from comfortable to extremely sporty, as well as a ‘RACESTART’ function. The suspension set-up is equally advanced, with double wishbones and hub carriers made of lightweight forged aluminum. Stopping power comes from carbon-ceramic discs, and these are mounted within 19 inch light-alloy wheels.





The car’s dimensions have also been revealed, measuring in at 4.65 m in length, 1.95 m across and just 1.25 m in height. The wheelbase stretches just 2.7 m.





Standard features includes the COMAND APS, leather trim, an electronic parking brake, headlamp assist, keyless ignition, PARKTRONIC, rain sensors, heated seats, AMG floor mats, cruise control, sports pedals and THERMOTRONIC. Optional goodies include a 6-disc DVD charger, Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG sound system, alarm, and several AMG paint schemes include the special Alubeam Silver.





AMG is also offering several performance modifications including a carbon-fiber bonnet, carbon side mirrors, carbon trim, stiffer suspension settings, forged 10-spoke wheels, sports bucket seats and a performance steering wheel finished in leather and Alcantara.





The starting price in Germany is set at €177,310 (approximately $257,232). U.S. pricing should be revealed closer to the car’s sales launch, pegged for early next year as a 2010 model.

It may never reach showrooms, but the “Thousand Kilogram” concept points the way to future Ferraris designed to do more with less.

What We Know About the 2010 Ferrari Millechilli

The concept Millechilli stirred journalists’ juices when unveiled during Ferrari’s recent 60th anniversary festivities. Why? Because though it’s only a foam mock-up, with cardboard “wheels” and no interior or running gear, the Millechilli (MEE-lay KEE-lay) embodies the new design philosophy of future Ferrari road cars, starting with a reborn “Dino” that’s expected to premiere at the spring 2008 Geneva Auto Show in Switzerland.

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Basically, Ferrari has decided its future cars must do more with less, just like one of its Formula One racers. The storied Italian company believes it’s the only way to keep its cars relevant–and legal–in the face of global warming, dwindling fossil-fuel reserves, and new government regulations sparked by such concerns. In particular, Ferrari is responding to a hotly debated proposal by the European Union to cap vehicle carbon-dioxide emissions at 120 grams per kilometer. No current Ferrari could hope to meet that standard. Ditto other high-performance cars. But the EU seems likely to pass some sort of tough limit, so Ferrari wants to be prepared. It also knows its “clients” will still demand traditional Prancing Horse performance and roadability, plus practical space and comfort.

Because weight is the enemy of performance, fuel economy, and greenhouse-gas emissions, Ferrari sees its future cars as much lighter and smaller than today’s models, more high-tech and aerodynamically efficient, yet no less spacious. The Millechilli is meant to show what’s possible. At a glance, it looks like Ferrari’s mid-engine Enzo supercar, but a pared-down nose and tail slash overall length to 152.8 inches, five inches shorter than a Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky roadster. Even more important, the reduced size and extensive use of exotic lightweight materials drop curb weight by some 800 pounds to a projected 2205 pounds. That equates to 1000 kilograms–mille chilli in Italian. Cockpit and powertrain space are virtually unchanged, however, thanks in part to a relatively long 104.3-inch wheelbase.

Moreover, a lighter Ferrari can use a smaller, more efficient engine to provide the same performance and likely better fuel economy too. The Millechilli looks to have room for the 483-horsepower 4.3-liter V8 from today’s Ferrari F430, which in coupe form weighs close to 3200 pounds yet does 0-60 mph in about 3.5 seconds. The concept could also easily package a turbocharged V6 of, say, 3.0-liters. Either way, it’s quite a change from the Enzo’s potent but thirsty 660-hp V12. Of course, a smaller, lighter car can also use smaller wheels, brakes, and other components, again without compromising performance or safety–provided you have the engineering smarts, as Ferrari definitely does.

Top speed was initially promised to be 407 km/h (253 mph) but test versions were unstable at that speed, forcing a redesign of the aerodynamics. In May, 2005, a prototype Veyron tested at a Volkswagen track near Wolfsburg, Germany recorded an electronically limited top speed of 400 km/h (249 mph). In October, 2005, Car and Driver magazine’s editor Csaba Csere test drove the final production version of the Veyron for the November 2005 issue. This test, at Volkswagen’s Ehra-Lessien test track, reached a top speed of 407.5 km/h (253.2 mph). The top speed was verified once again by James May on Top Gear, again at Volkswagen’s private test track, when the car hit 407.9 km/h (253 mph), which equated to precisely one-third of supersonic speed at sea level. When getting close to the top speed during the test he said that “the tires will only last for about fifteen minutes, but it’s okay because the fuel runs out in twelve minutes.” He also gave an indication of the power requirements, at 249 km/h (155 mph) the Veyron was using approximately 270 bhp (201 kW), but to get to its rated 407 km/h (253 mph) top speed required far more from the engine.

Aerodynamic friction or drag is proportional to the square of the speed; for example doubling speed quadruples drag. Work is a product of force applied over a distance travelled. Comparing a vehicle travelling at 100 mph (160 km/h) with one travelling at 200 mph (320 km/h), over a given period of time (e.g. 1 second), the faster vehicle must overcome 4 times the aerodynamic drag, and travel twice the distance of the slower one. Thus it does 8 times the work of the slower vehicle in that period of time. As power is work done / time taken it follows that the faster vehicle, travelling at twice the speed requires 8 times the power of the slower one. German inspection officials recorded an average top speed of 408.47 km/h (253.8 mph)[4] during test sessions on the Ehra Lessien test track on April 19, 2005.

The car’s everyday top speed is listed at 375 km/h (233 mph). When the car reaches 220 km/h (137 mph), hydraulics lower the car until it has a ground clearance of about 8.9 cm (3½ inches). At the same time, the wing and spoiler deploy. This is the “handling mode”, in which the wing helps provide 3425 newtons (770 pounds) of downforce, holding the car to the road.[11] The driver must, using a special key (the “Top Speed Key”), toggle the lock to the left of his seat in order to attain the maximum (average) speed of 407 km/h (253 mph). The key functions only when the vehicle is at a stop when a checklist then establishes whether the car—and its driver—are ready to enable ‘top speed’ mode. If all systems are go, the rear spoiler retracts, the front air diffusers close and the ground clearance, normally 12.5 cm (4.9 inches), drops to 6.5 cm (2.6 inches).

Acceleration
The Veyron is one of the quickest production cars to 100km/h (62mph) with a proven time of 2.5 seconds[citation needed]. It reaches 60 mph (97 km/h) in approximately 2.46 seconds. This is an average acceleration of 1.18 g.

The forward acceleration in a Veyron may also be strong enough to cause head-up illusion, which gives passengers the impression of driving up a slope, very much like what is commonly experienced in a jet liner that accelerates for take off. This could arguably lead to false perception of stopping distances.

The Veyron reaches 200 and 300 km/h (124 and 186 mph) in 7.4 and 16.7 seconds respectively. And according to the February 2007 issue of Road & Track Magazine, the Veyron accomplished the quarter mile in 10.2 seconds at a speed of 142.9 mph (230.0 km/h). Other tests, however, have the Veyron hitting 150 mph (240 km/h) in 9.8 seconds (see below), so the quarter mile time is actually faster, making the Veyron the most rapidly accelerating production car in history.

I am the proud owner of a Mercedes Benz E-Class and recommend them to EVERYONE. I must admit the technology involved with keeping Mercedes on the road is invasive and often results in maintenance one might never experience with other vehicles, but it is well worth any minor inconvenience.

My ride quality is pillow soft even at speeds in excess of the century mark, craftsmanship is superb, and Mercedes doesn’t sacrifice speed and power for luxury. With my date alongside me, at the “Stop-Light Derby” I easily and gracefully crush those attempting to out accelerate me all the while my date doing her mascara in the vanity mirror.

Enough with my Mercedes “Romanticism”, onward to the newer, more sophisticated, and more brutish: 2010 E-Class!!! Slainte!!!

New for 2010: The Coupe

…beautiful girl, beautiful car…

Replacing the long-running CLK-Class coupe beginning with the 2010 model year, the Mercedes E-Class Coupe is a return to tradition for the German automaker. Based primarily on the E-Class platform, the E-Class coupe actually borrows some of its suspension from the smaller C-Class, though unlike the CLK, the majority of its structure is from the larger E.

Available in E350 and E550 versions, the E-Class coupe brings back a pillar-less coupe version of Mercedes-Benz’s bread-and-butter sedans, unlike the CLK, which looked vaguely like the E-Class but was built on a C-Class platform.

Unlike its predecessors, the E-Class coupe eschews the three-pointed star hood ornament for a prominent, grille-mounted replacement that, in the latest Mercedes-Benz design language, signifies “sport,” rather than luxury. Accordingly, the E-Class coupe has been tuned more towards performance than providing the coddling personal luxury-style accommodations of Mercedes coupes of yore.

Inside, that means you’ll find an angular dashboard lifted from the E-Class sedan, which boasts Mercedes’ latest COMAND software, but also a console-mounted automatic transmission lever, rather than the steering column stalk-mounted setup in the four-door.

The E350 features Mercedes’ 3.5-liter V6 engine, rated at 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque in this application, while the E550 is powered by the automaker’s 5.5-liter V8, which cranks out 382 horsepower and 391 lb-ft. of torque. Both engines are mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission that also includes steering wheel-mounted paddles for manual-style control.

Safety, both passive and active, is a priority for the E-Class coupe. Attention Assist, which monitors steering inputs to detect driver drowsiness, comes standard. The system uses front and rear-mounted radar sensors to estimate when a driver deviates from his line of course by taking into account lane drifting followed by rapid corrections.

The E-Class coupe also features a class-leading nine airbags active head restraints that move forward during a rear impact for added safety.

Both models offer an optional Distronic Plus with Pre-Safe braking, which charges the brakes when it detects and impending impact in order to limit the severity of the wreck as much as possible.

Several option packages are available line-wide. The Premium 1 package includes a navigation system, 450-watt harman/kardon premium audio system, Sirius satellite radio, a rear sunshade and heated seats. The Premium 2 package adds ventilated front seats, bi-xenon headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, adaptive high-beam assist (which can automatically dim high-beam headlights when it detects oncoming traffic) and keyless starting and entry.

A Sport Package upgrades the E350 to 17-inch wheels, a sports suspension and ventilated brake discs, all of which are standard on the E550. It adds sports seats, rubber-studded pedals and a unique trim package to both, while only the E550 gets an AMG-designed sport steering wheel.

The optional Distronic Plus package adds the aforementioned adaptive cruise control with Brake Assist Plus and Parktronic parking assist that can help guide the car into parking spots via a rear-mounted camera.

Individual options include full leather trim, a leather and wood-covered steering wheel and TeleAid emergency assist.

At the model’s introduction, the E350 is available with a special Launch Edition package that pairs unique Olivine Grey paint with a Natural Beige/Black interior, the Sports Package, Premium 2 Package and a wood and leather steering wheel.

The Sedan

Mercedes-Benz’s E-Class range has long been the automaker’s bread-and-butter lineup. A direct descendent of the rattly, yet long-lasting diesel sedans of the ’70s and early ’80s, the E-Class has seen considerable evolution over the years, leading to the highly refined vehicles of today.

The executive sedan received a complete redesign for the 2010 model year onward, representing a significant step up from its predecessor. In addition to an all-new interior and exterior, the E-Class packs a number of new or improved high-tech features, as is typical of Mercedes-Benz. Despite offering more in virtually every department, the new model will lists for $4,600 less than the prior version.

The the base E350 model lists from $49,475 — $4,600 less than the old E350’s price. The V8-powered E550 also saw a significant price reduction, listing for $5,400 under the old model at $57,175. All prices include destination.

The sedan’s all-new body doesn’t just look different, it also yields a number of functional improvements. Aerodynamics were a big focus of the redesign, and Mercedes was able to achieve a drag coefficient of only 0.25, making the car the most aerodynamic luxury sedan, the company claims. Moreover, the new body is 30 percent stiffer, resulting in more precise handling.

Engine performance and fuel economy has been improved, starting from the base model up. As before, the E350 offers 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the V8 E500 cranks out 382 hp at 6000 rpm and 391 lb-ft between 2800 and 4800 rpm. Both models will be offered with all-wheel-drive. Customers can also chose between the the six-cylinder E 350 CDI with an output of 241 horsepower and an even more efficient E350 BlueTEC, developing 211 horsepower and meeting EU6 exhaust emission standards planned for 2014. All the other engine variants in the new E-Class meet the EU5 limits.

High-tech features include: Attention Assist, which detects driver drowsiness based on 70 parameters; Adaptive Main Beam Assist, which adjusts the angle of the headlight for the best possible illumination without blinding other motorists; LED daytime driving lights, which use less power and enhance aesthetics; Blind Spot Assist familiar from the S-Class; and Lane Keeping Assist, which uses vibrations in the steering wheel to inform the driver if they’re veering out of their lane. An optional Speed Limit Assist , which recognizes speed limit signs as the car passes them, then displays the relevant speed limit in the speedometer.

As with other Mercedes models, Brake Assist Plus automatically calculates the braking pressure to prevent a collision in critical situations. When the brake pedal is depressed, the system immediately activates the calculated level of braking assistance. If the driver fails to respond to the warnings, the radar system first initiates partial braking, and if a collision is unavoidable, emergency braking is initiated.

The Maybach Landaulet was the response to customer requests

The Maybach name epitomises high-end luxury motoring. It stands for effortlessly superior automotive engineering at the very highest level, timeless and stylish elegance, and precision craftsmanship. Since approximately two-thirds of Maybach customers wish to tailor their cars exactly to their own tastes and ideas, Maybach is constantly expanding its exclusive range of customisation options.

The Maybach Landaulet was prompted by the clientele of Maybach. Experts understand the landaulet to be an automobile whose front section has a fixed roof, but whose rear has a folding top to allow the passengers to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Landaulets were formerly often used as parade cars in which the occupants could present themselves to the people at the roadside. However, security considerations have largely relieved the landaulet of this function today.

Of course, this has not detracted from the legends, which surround landaulet automobiles. Chauffeur-driven cars by nature, even today they still are ranked among the top products of the carmaker’s art. This applies to a particular degree to the Maybach Landaulet: innovative, high-grade engineering, exceptional comfort and a luxurious ambience clearly place this Landaulet a cut above even the luxury car segment. This is down in part to select, high-quality materials, large amounts of which specialists incorporate into the Maybach Landaulet with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmen’s skill. The vehicle displayed in Genevacomes with white Grand Nappa leather of highest quality and exquisite black granite as well as glossy piano lacquer for trim elements. The new Maybach Landaulet might best be compared to luxurious super-yachts – exquisitely beautiful and valuable masterpieces that combine sophisticated technology and exotic materials with a close-to experience of nature, which addresses all the senses, and take their owners far away from the conventional.

Large folding roof for the passengers in the rear

In technical terms the Maybach Landaulet is based on the Maybach 62 S – which can claim to be the world’s most powerful series-produced chauffeured saloon. Maybach technicians have removed the rear roof module in order to afford passengers an unobstructed view of the sky above. The side walls have been invisibly reinforced with an integral tubular steel structure. As these measures have not altered the silhouette of the luxury saloon, the generously dimensioned doors and the complete interior with reclining seats remain unchanged.

When closed, the black soft-top of the Maybach Landaulet rests on the roof frame and is wind and weather-proof. When requested by the passengers, the chauffeur operates a switch in the centre console. Fully automatically, electric motors then open the two locks which fasten the folding top to the roof frame; the top is folded and gently laid onto the parcel shelf in the rear, together with its integral rear windscreen made of single-layer safety glass. One hydraulic cylinder each on the left and right side open and close the top virtually noiselessly. The necessary driving power is furnished by an electro-hydraulic motor hidden away in the side of the boot. The opening and closing of the roof are choreographed to take place in less than 20 seconds. Of course, even with the top down the luggage compartment is always fully accessible.

The chauffeur is able to enclose the folded roof with a fine leather tonneau cover, which both conceals the roof mechanism from view and completes the overall picture of outstanding elegance. The tonneau cover comes in the same colour as the interior of the rear compartment, thereby creating a harmonious, organic link with the exterior. A logo reading “Maybach Landaulet” in the colour specified by the customer is embroidered onto the cover, where it is visible to following traffic. The model on show sports an elegant and discreet white-on-white logo: after all, Maybach saloons do not wish to achieve their effect with superficial stylistic features, but rather with the distinguished air of a first-class butler.

Exclusive workplace for the chauffeur, exquisite luxury for passengers

The Maybach Landaulet is a masterpiece of automotive engineering and comes with its very own exciting, yet distinguished, authentic style. The interior colour scheme of the model shown in Genevais another point, which illustrates that the Maybach Landaulet is conceived as a chauffeur-driven car. The passenger compartment in the spacious rear of the vehicle is styled a tasteful white, whereas the chauffeur’s area is entirely in black. Though this does make the respective roles quite clear, the seat behind the steering wheel of the Maybach Landaulet should certainly be one of the most coveted workplaces for a chauffeur. For here, too, only exceptionally high-grade materials are used.

The chauffeur’s area is modelled on the successful Maybach 62 S, but has been upgraded in a number of important ways. The centre console and all trim elements have black piano lacquer surfaces. And for the extensive leather appointments Maybach uses an exclusive, smooth black leather.

Generous spaciousness and first-class comfort

The passengers in the rear with its optional contrasting colour scheme enjoy their place in the sun. Theytravel on opulent reclining seats upholstered in exquisite Grand Nappa leather in an environment of utmost luxury and exquisite style. The basis for outstanding comfort is the generous spaciousness of the rear passenger compartment, which the Maybach Landaulet has adopted unchanged from the Maybach 62 S. Two superbly comfortable individual seats positively invite the rear passengers to sit back and relax. As a highlight, the elegant individual rear seats allow even tall passengers to enjoy a comfortable reclining position, which travellers would normally expect to find only in the first-class sections of modern passenger jets. Rear passengers can call up a pre-set reclined position at the push of a button, whereupon the backrest smoothly tilts backwards by up to 47 degrees whilst, simultaneously, a lower-leg support and footrest extend forwards. This means that occupants can enjoy the ride in an extremely relaxed reclined position. Of course, the seat can easily be adjusted to each passenger’s own particular comfort needs.

Seat comfort is further enhanced by pneumatically adjustable air cushions in the backrest and a program-controlled massage function. Pressing the “Pulse” button inflates and deflates the central air cushion in the lumbar region at precisely defined intervals and with varying intensity. As confirmed by orthopaedic experts, this pulsating action relieves stress in the back muscles and boosts the metabolism of the intervertebral discs. Each relaxing back massage lasts for five minutes and can be repeated as often as required.

Exquisite appointments

Highly skilled craftsmanship, unerring taste, the use of unique materials plus the very highest standards of quality played a decisive role in the design of the rear, and have produced an outstanding result. Maybach Manufaktur has fitted out the passenger compartment of the vehicle on show almost completely in exquisite Seychelles White Nappa leather.

A contrast is provided in the vehicle on show by inserts and decorative trim in black. But white and black is not the only theme: warm and cool contrasts also help to create atmosphere. Some surfaces in the rear passenger compartment feature glossy black piano lacquer, while several elements are made of Star Galaxy granite from India. This rare stone is deep black in colour, with numerous warm, gold inclusions. The standard specification of the new Maybach Landaulet comes with a choice of three leather appointment options, and a choice of two trim element finishes – black piano lacquer combined with carbon-fibre trim or fine anthracite poplar.

Designed specifically for open-top motoring

Maybach has adapted the luxurious rear compartment to the requirements of open-top motoring. For instance, the rear head restraints are slightly larger than on the saloon and effectively help reduce wind turbulence. Another slim wind deflector is automatically raised at speedsabove 70 km/h to further reduce the risk of any uncomfortable draughts. The deflector, which measures around five centimetres, can be activated manually at any time. The switch is conveniently positioned for rear passengers in the centre console.

The intercom in the passenger compartment is fitted with an additional handset in the centre console, allowing passengers to communicate with the driver while the roof is down.

Sophisticated integral system with crash-responsive backrests for outstanding safety

As well as being exceptionally comfortable, the reclining seats in the Maybach Landaulet offer an outstanding level of safety – in any position. The restraint system incorporating the belt tensioner, belt-force limiter and sidebag is integrated in the backrests, meaning that the rear passengers can enjoy optimal protection even when the seats are fully reclined. Further safety features include a crash-responsive backrest which is moved into an upright position in the event of a frontal impact and the tensioners on the belt buckles which also tension the lap belt in the event of an accident.

Partition with electric transparency control

Designed from the outset as a chauffeur-driven limousine, the Maybach Landaulet is equipped with a partition. The lower section of the partition consists of an aluminium sandwich structure. The upper section comprises an electro-transparent laminated glass panel that can be lowered by electric motor.

Two separate systems for a perfect climate all round

Driving enjoyment of the highest calibre is further enhanced by the climate comfort afforded by the Maybach Landaulet. To provide effective climate control in the spacious interior, Maybach equips the vehicle with two of the most sophisticated automatic climate control units currently available – one for the front compartment and one specially for the rear compartment. Thanks to its high performance capability and intelligent control set-up, the system allows the occupants in the front as well as the passengers in the rear to adjust and program the climate control system individually. The parameters of the climate control system have been adapted to the conditions in the Maybach Landaulet and ensure that open-air travel remains a pleasure even under adverse climatic conditions.

State-of-the-art entertainment and communications

The rear console is the centrepiece for entertainment, communications and travelling pleasure in the Maybach Landaulet. Numerous stowage compartments enable the rear passengers to tidy away both large and small items conveniently. The exquisitely designed interior door panels alone house ten stowage compartments whose lids open at the push of a button.

However, it is the multifunctional centre console between the seats that forms the heart of the stowage concept in the rear of the Maybach cars. This is where Maybach engineers have grouped everything relating to the entertainment and pleasure of the rear-seat passengers: a DVD player, six-disc CD changer, a cooler compartment with its own electric compressor and an intelligent system, which holds silver goblets and champagne bottle safely in position. The champagne flutes – specifically designed for the Maybach in high-grade sterling silver – are held by clips that automatically grip them above the base when they are put down. The clips are released as soon as the rear passenger picks up the flute again.

Top-quality fine paintwork

The Maybach Landaulet on show in Genevacomes with exclusive paintwork in Antigua White. This gleaming white paint finish is built up by specialists layer by layer ‑ almost twice as many layers as normally found on other high-quality automobiles. The new Maybach Landaulet is painted in Baltic Black or Nevada Silver in a sophisticated process that ensures the highest standards of quality.

Visual highlights are provided by 20-inch aluminium wheels, also available as an option at no extra charge painted in the vehicle colour or burnished to a high sheen in a special finishing process. These are shod in Michelin Pilot Sport high-performance size 275/45 R 20 tyres manufactured specifically for Maybach.

Individual appointments at no extra charge

As testimony to its exceptional customer focus, Maybach also meets many special Landaulet requirements at no extra charge for the customer. For instance, Maybach Landaulet clients can choose the individual appointments for their vehicle from the entire Maybach paint finish, leather and trim element range at no extra charge. An extra charge only applies to highly exclusive requirements such as special paint finishes based on the customer’s own specifications, select leather colours, trim elements in natural stone or the electro-transparent partition.

Engine and suspension

The Maybach Landaulet is powered by an uprated V12 engine which Maybach engineers have developed further for the Maybach 57 S and Maybach 62 S together with the specialists at Mercedes-AMG. Thanks to twin turbochargers and water intercooling, the V12 develops a maximum output of 450 kW/612 hp from a displacement of 5980 cubic centimetres. This is continuously available between 4800 and 5100 rpm, and the engine also delivers an impressive maximum torque of 1000 newton metres between 2000 and 4000 rpm.

In line with the Maybach approach, the twelve-cylinder biturbo engine is hand-assembled in the Mercedes-AMG engine workshops, or Manufaktur. The “One man, one engine” philosophy is reflected by the signature of the technician responsible on the characteristic model plate, which is attached to the engine cover of the V12 biturbo – a guarantee of the greatest care and highest quality.

Equipped with the AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) electronically controlled air suspension system and the Adaptive Damping System (ADS II), the Maybach Landaulet achieves an outstanding level of ride comfort whilst at the same time proving that even a prestigious automobile can display excellent agility and handling qualities.

In addition to large, internally ventilated brake discs – with twin callipers at the front – both the Maybach Landaulet and the Maybach 62 S are equipped with two electro-hydraulic Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC™) braking systems working in tandem. Together with ESP®, ASR, ABS and Brake Assist, this provides the Maybach Landaulet with the very latest in effective, high-tech handling control systems.

Lamborghini President and CEO Stephan Winkelmann didn’t have much to say at the company’s press conference at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, but it was still well worth attending.

Winkelman announced that the company sold a record 2430 cars in 2008 and opened up 15 more dealerships. The highlight, however, was the cars, two of which (the LP640 and LP560-4) featured a stunning new matte blue color offered as a part of Lamborghini’s Ad Personam personalization program.

Front and center sat the company’s latest car, the LP560-4 Spider in matte-white (Bianco Canopus). Lamborghini als offers two other matte finishes, a matt-luster black called Nero Nemesis and a matte brown finish called Marrone Apus.

“Ad Personam offers every Lamborghini customer the opportunity to acquire a completely exclusive vehicle from a unique brand – one that is perfectly in tune with their own lifestyle,” said Winkelmann. “A super sports car from Lamborghini is always a fundamental expression of the buyer’s personality. And that is why the highest levels of exclusivity are possible, right through to absolute one-of-a-kind Lamborghini vehicles.”

Along with the three different Lamborghini models, there were also three models of the female variety.

Official release after the jump:

Lamborghini presents highly individualized super sports cars at the Detroit Auto Show

Sant’Agata Bolognese/Detroit, 11th January 2009 – Alongside the new Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder, Lamborghini will present two exclusive, highly individualized super sports cars at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show. With a unique, matt-luster paint finish in matt blue and all available special equipment options, this Murciélago LP 640 and Gallardo LP 560-4 demonstrate the virtually limitless possibilities and expert craftsmanship presented through the Ad Personam individualization program by the specialists in Sant’Agata Bolognese.
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“Ad Personam offers every Lamborghini customer the opportunity to acquire a completely exclusive vehicle from a unique brand – one that is perfectly in tune with their own lifestyle,” says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. “A super sports car from Lamborghini is always a fundamental expression of the buyer’s personality. And that is why the highest levels of exclusivity are possible, right through to absolute one-of-a-kind Lamborghini vehicles.”

“Think the impossible” is the motto of the Lamborghini individualization program. Ad Personam offers a host of possibilities to bring a highly individual style to the exterior and the interior of a Lamborghini – all the way through to a Lamborghini like no other.

A unique color for a unique design

Both super sports cars presented in Detroit are such highly individualized examples– painted in matt blue, an all-new, powerful blue tone with a matt-luster finish. Dressed like this, the Murciélago and the Gallardo are elegant and refined, yet extremely powerful and dynamic. This is a unique color that fits perfectly to the unique design of a Lamborghini.

The super sports car brand from Sant’Agata Bolognese is the only auto maker to have mastered the difficult and complex craftsmanship required to work with the matt-luster paint finish. Alongside the new matt blue three more colors are permanently available in the Ad Personam program: Nero Nemesis is a matt-luster black, while the matt white is called Bianco Canopus; and Marrone Apus refers to the particularly elegant matt brown finish. In addition, Lamborghini Ad Personam offers its customers complete freedom to choose any color imaginable.

Luxuriously sporty or classically powerful

In their interiors, too, the highly individualized super sports cars presented in Detroit provide a clear example of the possibilities offered by the Ad Personam program. The base color applied to the upholstery of both vehicles is black, with color contrast supplied by fine diamond stitching in the blue of the exterior paintwork. This is applied to the seats, door trim, headliner and the steering wheel. The leather upholstery lends a luxuriously sporty look and feel to the Gallardo LP 560-4.

Furthermore, the Gallardo LP560-4 shows the finest in Nappa leather in color Nero Perseus which clads not only the seats, cockpit and door trim, but also the pillars and headliners. Further accents are provided courtesy of individual elements crafted in carbon fiber. The Callisto wheels are painted in high-gloss black, providing a contrast to the matt blue paint finish.

The Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640 is one of the most fascinating super sports cars of all time, and underscores this in Detroit with a purist interior finished in Alcantara with diamond stitching. Not only are the sports seats upholstered in Alcantara, but also the entire interior, including doors and headliner. The cockpit surround is finished in carbon fiber. The steering wheel features stitched suede and carbon fiber inlays. The high-gloss black of the Murciélago’s wheels – in Hermera design – also delivers the perfect contrast to the matt blue exterior paintwork.

An inexhaustible range

Ad Personam offers an inexhaustible range possibilities for bringing a completely unique style to the interior and exterior of every Lamborghini. The color and trim designers from Sant’Agata Bolognese have also created exceptionally exclusive equipment offerings for the entire product range. The extended leather finish, for example, enables the allure of the first-class natural product to be raised even further. Only the very finest quality leathers are used. The seats alone offer infinite possibilities through a vast range of color options for leather and Alcantara , two-tone contrasts, material mixes, stitching and piping in contrasting colors, as well as the diamond-stitched pattern of the seat squabs, known as Q-citura.

The exceptionally hi-tech carbon fiber material provides a hint of the racetrack, with elements such as the control panel for the air conditioning and the hand brake boasting a carbon fiber finish. Further finishing touches for personalizing the exterior include an extended range of wheel options and brake calipers in yellow and silver.

Within applicable vehicles, Lamborghini can comply with virtually any customer’s desire in vehicle individualization. The boundaries are set, however, by Lamborghini’s own quality demands, which apply to all modifications carried out. When a new Lamborghini exactly meets personal expectations in terms of colors, materials and trim, then aesthetic perfection has been achieved