It’s been quite a while since we’ve heard anything about the superluxury brand Maybach. Latest reports say that the brand’s future may be in doubt. Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler AG, recently told Automotive News that the company has made no decision on whether to build a second-generation of the Maybach sedan.

The current Maybach model is now 6-years old and is based on the previous-generation platform of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Earlier reports say that the Maybach sedan will be refreshed in 2010. Executives say that Daimler is considering whether or not to continue offering the luxury model with a V12 or a turbo-charged V8.

- By: Stephen Calogera

Daimler says that “Even today, the name ‘Zeppelin’ has an incomparable ring to it in the realm of high-end luxury cars.” Honestly, it just reminds us of the English rock band Led Zeppelin and amazing guitarist Jimmy Page. But to Maybach, ‘Zeppelin’ means something totally different. The now uber-luxury brand used to be a subsidiary of Luftschiffbau Zeppelin GmbH. It originally developed and manufactured diesel and gas engines for Zeppelins, and then rail cars.

Either way, it is now 2009 and Maybach has announced that it will debut a new range-topping model next month at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show that goes by the name of Maybach Zeppelin.

The Maybach 57 S and the 62 S will serve as the basis for the Maybach Zeppelin with power coming from a 6.0 V12 biturbo unit that delivers 640-hp and a peak torque of 738 lb-ft.

Maybach will only make 100 units of the Zeppelin and they won’t come cheap. The Maybach 57 Zeppelin costs €406,000 ($523,870 USD) while the Maybach 62 Zeppelin carries a price tag of €473,200 ($610,580 USD). Both go on sale on March 3 with the first deliveries scheduled for September 2009.

Make the jump for the press release and high-res images.

Maybach Zeppelin:

Press Release:

The new Maybach Zeppelin: The reincarnation of an automotive legend

The Maybach brand is bringing out the new Maybach Zeppelin to spearhead its luxury saloon model range. The new model, which is receiving its premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, represents the absolute zenith in the high-end luxury saloon segment. This makes it a worthy successor to the legendary Maybach Zeppelin, which was revered worldwide as the ultimate in high-class automotive engineering in the 1930s. The hallmark features of the new Maybach flagship’s unique sense of style include a stunning paint finish, featuring a shoulderline in a contrasting colour, as well as the exquisite, meticulously crafted materials in the interior, whose long list of optional extras includes a world first – a highly sophisticated perfume atomiser. The new model’s performance even outclasses the rest of the Maybach range, making it the most powerful Maybach ever. In a nutshell: the Maybach Zeppelin epitomises stylish elegance and the art of vehicle manufacture at its most refined as no car has ever done before. The new Maybach Zeppelin is being built in a limited edition of just 100 worldwide.

Even today, the name “Zeppelin” has an incomparable ring to it in the realm of high-end luxury cars. As in bygone times, Maybach is once again building the Maybach Zeppelin for drivers who are seeking something extra special, even in this most luxurious of automotive segments. Not only do the Maybach 57 Zeppelin and Maybach 62 Zeppelin stand out for their exquisite elegance, inventive ideas and phenomenal performance, only one hundred of these special model versions of the high-end luxury saloons will be made worldwide.

Even greater power for the Maybach Zeppelin

The Maybach 57 S and the long-wheelbase version, the 62 S, serve as the technical basis for the new range-topping model. Supreme performance is assured in both cases by the 6.0 litre V12 biturbo power unit under the bonnet, which now delivers 471 kW/640 hp (+ 28 hp) and a peak torque of 1000 Newton metres.

A two-tone exterior identifies the new Maybach flagship

Whatever angle it is viewed from, the new Maybach Zeppelin radiates character and the sort of style which appeals to all the senses. From the outside, the luxury brand’s new top-of-the-range model can be recognised by its two-tone special paint finish. The shoulderline is painted right through to the background of the headlamp assemblies in Rocky Mountains light brown, which forms a stylish and scintillating contrast to the Taiga black finish used for the rest of the vehicle body. Dark red tail light units and a fine vertical partition in the tailpipe add striking visual touches at the rear. Naturally, customers may also specify their Maybach Zeppelin in any other paint finish they wish.

The Maybach Zeppelin’s newly designed 20-inch wheels in a Chrome Shadow finish complete the picture. These were first painted with a black undercoat, before having a silver topcoat applied using an elaborate painting process that causes the tone to gradually increase in darkness from the outside in.

The streamlined exterior mirrors, which produce even less wind noise, are new to Maybach. They have a more angular design and are separated from the door frame by a slender arm, giving them a more expressive look. They also feature an enlarged mirror surface together with integral indicators in the shape of a horizontal “V” for even greater perceptual safety.

The curving “ZEPPELIN” lettering that appears below the distinctive double “M” emblem on the radiator grille and on the boot lid instantly gives away the elite status of the new Maybach Zeppelin.

Finest-quality leather and high-gloss piano lacquer trim

The new Maybach Zeppelin is a car for connoisseurs, as is immediately apparent from its interior. Here, the luxurious leather appointments in California beige leather form a delightful contrast with the exclusive leather in deep Stromboli black that gives added impact to the shoulderline on the inside too. At the same time, the lustrous deep black tone of the leather harmonises beautifully with the exquisite piano lacquer finish of the trim elements. The precisely crafted contrasting topstitching in the dashboard and on the doors reinforces the Maybach Zeppelin’s sense of dynamism. The unusual diamond quilting pattern on the seat cushions and backrests together with the black piping gives the opulently styled seats a character all of their own. The occupants’ feet rest on genuine lambskin carpeting.

The limited-edition special models bear a number of discreet identifying markings in the interior too. The centre console in the front, the partition screen that is available as an option for the Maybach Zeppelin 62, plus the silver champagne flutes included as standard are all marked with the lettering “MAYBACH ZEPPELIN”, while the door sill panels as well as the key ring are engraved with the word “ZEPPELIN”.

World first – a system for a fine interior fragrance

Customers are also able to opt for an especially refined equipment detail that is exclusive to the Maybach Zeppelin – an imaginatively designed, extremely high-quality perfume atomiser, the only one of its kind in the world. It easily eclipses all previous efforts to produce something similar, both in terms of its visual appeal and its operation. Its sophisticated technology and premium fragrances, which can be individually chosen, create a unique aromatic experience in the Maybach Zeppelin’s interior at the push of a button – stimulating the senses of the occupants not with an overpowering perfume but with a soft, delicate scent.

The system’s core component is an internally illuminated Plexiglass sphere on the rear centre console, into which Maybach Zeppelin owners can insert a vial of their preferred fragrance. A regulator pump then directs a gentle flow of air into the Plexiglass sphere, fanning the vial’s perfume molecules into the vehicle interior.

The ingenious control understands the human sense of smell

The perfume atomiser can be activated either from the driver’s seat or by means of a button in the rear centre console, with an additional thumbwheel in the rear for sensitive aroma control. The chosen fragrance gently wafts into the passenger compartment within ten to twelve seconds. On models with a partition screen, only the passengers in the rear are able to activate the atomiser.

The aroma experts took the human sense of smell into consideration when designing the control mechanism. As the nose adjusts to smells in such a way that it no longer perceives them after a short while, the perfume atomiser switches off after about ten minutes. Once the system has switched off, the fragrance – which does not seep into the interior’s materials or the occupants’ clothes – quickly evaporates. Reactivating the atomiser later allows the experience to be enjoyed all over again.

Artistic, hand-blown vials and specially developed fragrances

The system comes supplied with two select fragrances, which have been exclusively developed for the Maybach by a renowned perfumer from global specialist Givaudan: one light and refreshing, the other slightly heavier and woodier.

Maybach Zeppelin owners can also use other fragrances, or even have one specially developed and enjoy the luxury of immersing themselves in their very own, personally designed aroma. The fragrance holders are easily interchangeable. The specification includes a total of three valuable vials, which are hand-blown by a well-known glass artist.

The elaborate, silent-running perfume atomiser system is a patented Maybach innovation.

The Maybach 57 Zeppelin costs €406,000, the Maybach 62 Zeppelin has a price tag of €473,200 (German list price, excl. VAT). The perfume atomiser that is exclusive to the Zeppelin can be ordered for an extra €3950 (German list price, excl. VAT).

The new Maybach Zeppelin goes on sale on 3 March 2009, with the first models expected to be delivered to customers in September 2009.

A Baltic Black Maybach 62S Landaulet with an Aspen White interior is on sale on eBay Motors. It’s rare for a vehicle of such exclusivity to pop on the auction site, but with the tough economic times, we’re not that surprised.

Instead of cashing out the retail price of $1.35 million and wait until Maybach hand builds the car for you, you can purchase this fully-loaded model with 95 miles for a total Buy it Now price of $2.2 million.

The roll-back canvas roof offers fun-in-the-sun for rear-seat passengers as the driver pushes the 6.0L V12 engine with twin turbochargers that produces 612 horsepower.

Check out the listing on eBay for more details.

Source: eBay Motors (via Jalopnik)

It’s that time of the year again – where we bring you the annual update on a brand that is hardly ever discussed in the automotive industry – Maybach. According to Automotive News, despite the global economic crisis and the credit crunch, customers aren’t cancelling their Maybach orders.

“There is no visible impact of the financial crisis,” said Thorsten Lenz, Maybach’s product and portfolio manager. “We have a good order base that will last for a few months.”

The hand-built Maybach models start at $343,250 for the Maybach 57 and can go all the way up to $1.3 million for the 62S Landaulet. It takes Maybach about five to seven months to build each car after taking an order.

The uber-luxury Daimler brand sold 300 vehicles in 2008 – down from 400 in 2007. U.S. sales account for 40 to 50 percent of global sales. Lenz said that Maybach has no plans of downsizing its engines and plans to stick with V12 units.

We almost forgot that Maybach is still around until today. A stretched Maybach 62 is on sale in Germany for those that thought that seating for four in the ultra-luxurious car was never enough (or for those that just want to show off that they have a limo version of one of the most expensive vehicles in the world).

The 2004 Maybach 62 has only been driven 800 miles and is on sale for 599,000 euros – that’s a whopping $799,574 USD for those that are interested.

Of course we think there is a lot more you can do with $799,574 – like helping bail out the American auto industry for example.

Maybach 72: Stretched-out Maybach 62:

Source: autogespot (via autblog.nl via WCF)

Remember Maybach? Yeah, that uber-luxury Mercedes-Benz brand that sells only 2 cars based on the S-Class. Earlier this year, Daimler was considering selling the brand after it sold only 146 cars last year. According to Automotive News, the brand that is supposed to compete with the Bentleys and the Rolls-Royces is going to stick around.

Dieter Zetsche, CEO of Daimler, says that Daimler won’t kill Maybach because it is not losing money.

A handful of 62S Landaulet, a ‘convertible’ Maybach, will go on sale in December with prices starting at $1.35 million. We’re pretty sure some rich-folks in Dubai will buy them.

However the future of Maybach still seems shaky as competitors like Rolls-Royce gear up for cheaper and smaller models. Maybach, so far, has nothing planned after the 62S Landaulet.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

We thought only Jay-Z could offered the 2005 Maybach Exelero Concept, but apparently some dealership in Austria had one built on order but never sold it. Well now they are trying to sell the car and are asking for 5,000,000 Euros ($7,848,492).

We’d buy it but we already have one Exelero and a Veyron Pur Sang on the way. Wow, that felt really good to say. One day… okay – we’ll stop lying.

Refresher: V12 bi-turbo from Maybach 57 S 690-hp with a peak torque of 737 ft-lb. 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds with a top speed of 218mph.

2005 Maybach Exelero Concept for sale:

Thanks for the tip Dan!

Source: Anamera

Men want cars that exude power, performance and exclusivity. Vehicles with the highest percentage of male drivers are among the flashiest, loudest and most expensive models on the market.

If you see a canary-colored Lamborghini Gallardo cruising down the street, nine times out of 10 a man will be at the wheel.

The same goes for other attention-getting sports cars, chauffeur-worthy sedans and burly sport utility vehicles that make up our list of the Top 10 Vehicles Driven by Men.

Click through for the list.

Top 10 Vehicles with Highest-Precentage of Male Drivers.

10. Aston Martin: 81.25 percent male drivers
9. BMW 6 Series: 81.71 percent male drivers
8. Cadillac Escalade ESV: 85.13 percent male drivers
7. Ferrari: 85.82 percent male drivers
6. Mercedes-Benz G-Class: 88.84 percent male drivers
5. Dodge Viper: 89.87 percent male drivers
4. Rolls-Royce Phantom: 90 percent male drivers
3. Lamborghini: 90.32 percent male drivers
2. Mercedes-Benz GL-Class: 90.47 percent male drivers
1. Maybach 57 and 62: 95 percent male drivers

View Slideshow

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Top 10 Luxury Cars Driven by Women 

Macho Movers: Male Drivers’ 10 Favorite Vehicles

Men want cars that exude power, performance and exclusivity. Vehicles with the highest percentage of male drivers are among the flashiest, loudest and most expensive models on the market.

by BENGT HALVORSON
ForbesAutos.com

If you see a canary-colored Lamborghini Gallardo cruising down the street, nine times out of 10 a man will be at the wheel.

The same goes for other attention-getting sports cars, chauffeur-worthy sedans and burly sport utility vehicles that make up our list of the Top 10 Vehicles Driven by Men.

When it comes to cars, men want to be seen — and heard. Specifically, they want to be seen in a vehicle that others can’t have, says Milton Pedraza of the Manhattan-based Luxury Institute.

That’s why rare cars like the Dodge Viper, of which only 435 were sold in the United States in 2007, are driven mostly by men. This two-seat sports car ranks fifth on our list, with 89.97 percent male primary drivers, according to CNW Marketing Research of Bandon, Ore., which conducts thousands of surveys each ear on car-related topics.

The “powerful, predatory look” of cars like the Viper attracts male buyers, Pedraza says. “Men have a greater need to show off their power.” The Viper can be a mechanism for that, not only with its flashy looks but also with its brawly engine sound.

Dodge’s own data shows that up to 95 percent of Vipers are owned by men, who use it mostly as a weekend vehicle. “Vipers tend to be driven on the track more than any other sports car model,” says Kathy Graham, a spokesperson with Dodge’s parent company, Chrysler. In general, relatively few women participate in driving activities on racetracks, she says.

Men’s desire to showcase power and aggression with the vehicles they drive stems from an “animal nature,” says Imre Molnar, dean of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit. Men decorate and embellish themselves with their automobiles as if it’s “mating season,” he says.

That helps explain why many vehicles — and especially those on our list — have masculine styling cues, which Molnar says include big wheels pushed to the corners of the vehicle, flush or protruding wheel faces, a high “shoulder line” (at the bottom of the side windows), and taut lines that look like tensed muscles.

Vehicles that sit higher at the back tend to look like a predator “ready to pounce,” Molnar says. High haunches have become the norm on nearly every sedan.

Automotive Accessory

Statistics show that most women prefer vehicles with understated styling and an opulent, comfortable interior. (Read more about women’s top car choices in our ranking of Vehicles Most Driven by Women.)

Rather than cars, women use jewelry, high-end fashion and expensive handbags to create a distinctive look, says Luxury Institute’s Pedraza. When it comes to creating an image of wealth and influence, men have fewer choices in attire and accessories — that’s where the cars come in.

“Men don’t wear a $100,000 necklace with their $100,000 car,” Pedraza says. He points out that music-industry mogul Simon Cowell, a judge on the television show “American Idol,” dresses conservatively but drives a Bugatti Veyron, which has a starting price of $1.5 million.

You “can’t beat the accessory value of a Veyron,” Pedraza says.

Other high-priced “accessories” on wheels include the Maybach 57 and 62 and Rolls-Royce Phantom, which are the most ostentatious and exclusive luxury limos available.

The $340,000 Rolls-Royce Phantom has the fourth-highest percentage of male primary drivers, 90 percent, and the $335,000 Maybach tops our list with 95 percent male primary drivers.

“The Maybach brand is only five years on the U.S. market and the high percentage [of male drivers] likely represents top automobile enthusiasts who purchased the initial production,” says Rob Allan, product manager for Maybach, which is owned by Mercedes-Benz. Only 156 Maybachs were sold in the United States last year.

“Over time, as with [Mercedes’ high-performance division] AMG, the percentage of female owners should rise,” Allan says. “Maybach marketing — primarily events-based experiential marketing — is targeted equally to qualified male and female prospects.”

First shown on U.S. soil at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, the Maybach 62S Landaulet will be arriving in showrooms in December.

“The Landaulet is for a superrich individual who wants something that is extremely extraordinary and enjoys being driven in a car with acres of sky above them,” said Hans-Dieter Multhaupt vice president of program management for Maybach.

“Over 60 years ago, we had many cars like this,” said Multhaupt. The last Landaulet from Mercedes was based on the W100 Pullman body style and produced from 1965 to 1981.

The exclusive Maybach convertible offers fun-in-the-sun for rear-seat passengers as the driver pushes the 6.0L V12 engine with twin turbochargers that produces 612 horsepower. Multhaupt said that pricing will start at $1.35 million.

Maybach 62S Landaulet Gallery:

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Maybach[/tags]

We almost forgot that Maybach still exists as an Uber-premium brand, but its future is certainly questionable. Maybach sold only 146 cars last year, or one-tenth the projected amount. 

The company, which sells only 2 versions of the same car in XL [57] and XXL [63] sizes, is not scheduled to get any new products anytime soon. Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche argues that the Maybach brand shows that they can compete with the most pretigious of brands, Rolls Royce. Well, his definition of ‘compete’ must be slightly different than ours though.

In terms of profitability, it’s been said that the investment on Maybach was minimal as the car was based in part on the last generation S-class. Why they had to make that painfully obvious with the exterior styling, interior components and base-model S-class style wheels though, is a mystery.

Zetsche mentioned that the decision will be made in the next two years whether to expand the brand’s offerings or let it get deep-six’ed. 

Source: The Car Connection

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Maybach[/tags]

We got our first ‘real-life’ look at the Maybach 62 S Landaulet concept at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show last week. And if you are one of those that can afford a Maybach you may be excited to learn that Daimler AG has decided to make the 62S Landaulet concept a reality.

Speaking with German newspaper, Stuttgarter Zeitung, Klaus Mair, head of Mercedes-Benz Cars marketing, said that the car is now set to go into serial production.

“The car on display was already sold last night,” he was quoted as saying. “The Landaulet will expand the Maybach product line and draw a lot of attention to the brand,” he added.

Wonder who bought that? Anyway, Mair did not say how many units Mercedes-Benz Cars will built but said it will cost around 800,000 euros ($1.19 million) and up. The Maybach 62 S Landaulet is powered by a 6.0L V12 engine with twin turbochargers that produces 612 horsepower.

Maybach 62S Landaulet Gallery:

Source: Reuters

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Maybach, Mercedes, Benz[/tags]

Maybach brought its 62S Landaulet Concept over to Detroit after unveiling it at the Dubai Motor Show in November. This exclusive Mayback convertible offers fun-in-the-sun for rear-seat passengers as the driver pushes the 6.0L V12 engine with twin turbochargers that produces 612 horsepower.

Since all Maybachs are supposed chauffer driven cars, Maybach offers pampering to only rear-seat passengers rather than the driver. The roof of the 62S Landaulet can be fully opened at the rear, while the chauffeur’s area remains completely closed off to the world. Rear passengers also get the entertainment package with a DVD-player, six CD-changer, a cooler compartment with its own electric compressor and an intelligent system which holds glasses, goblets and champagne bottles safely in position.

There is no word whether Maybach will produce the car, but a limited production is expected if the Landaulet concept generates enough positive reaction.

Click through for the press release and images from the Detroit Auto Show.

Maybach 62S Landaulet Gallery:

Press Release:

Maybach Landaulet Study
Only the sky is the limit

• Maybach shows one of the world’s most exclusive luxury cars
• Majestic open-air experience with the ultimate in luxury and comfort
• Folding roof for pampered rear-seat passengers
• Appointments in the rear include white leather, piano lacquer and exquisite black granite

Detroit – At the 2008 Detroit Autoshow, for the first time in America, Maybach presents a masterpiece of advanced technology which re-enlivens the great art of building majestic automobiles: the open-top Maybach Landaulet Study. True to the tradition of exclusive landaulets, the roof of this sparkling white one-off study can be opened fully at the rear, while in the chauffeur’s compartment it remains completely closed. The passengers are then able to enjoy the clear, blue sky above. Seated in opulent armchairs upholstered in white leather, in an environment of utmost luxury and exquisite style, the pampered passengers are treated to a majestic open-air experience currently unrivalled by any other automobile. Romance close to the heart of nature is harmoniously combined with the ultimate in comfort and technological sophistication. Here Maybach is once again demonstrating its expertise in building the world’s most exclusive luxury limousines.

In the Landaulet Study, with painstaking craftsmanship, Maybach has created an open-top car whose standing well exceeds that of a conventional convertible, and which represents the pinnacle of true luxury. Appropriately it could serve as a regal carriage for crowned heads or underscore the status of very successful and wealthy persons who value a distinguished, authentic style.

Landaulet Study is Maybach’s response to customer requests
The Maybach brand 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.

In fact, the study was prompted by the clientele of Maybach, for whom the landaulet retains the aura of the grand carriages of days gone by. Experts understand the landaulet to be an automobile whose front section has a solid roof, but whose rear has a folding top to allow the distinguished passengers to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Landaulets formerly were 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 car-maker’s art. This applies to a particular degree to the Maybach study: innovative, high-grade engineering, extraordinary comfort and a luxurious ambience clearly place this Landaulet a cut above even the luxury car segment. This is down in part to select, valuable materials, large amounts of which specialists incorporate into the vehicle with meticulous attention to detail and craftsmen’s skill. They include white nappa leather of highest quality and exquisite black granite as well as brilliant piano lacquer for trim parts. The Maybach Landaulet study might best be compared to luxurious super-yachts – exquisitely beautiful and valuable masterpieces that combine sophisticated technology and exotic materials with a close-up 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 Landaulet Study is based on the Maybach 62 S – which can claim to be the world’s most powerful series-produced chauffeured saloon. Maybach has uncompromisingly designed the Landaulet, too, as a chauffeur-driven car with a partition and a driver’s area all in black, to which the generously dimensioned passenger compartment, all in white and spanned by a large folding roof, creates a colour contrast, underscoring the special status of the occupants.

Maybach technicians have removed the rear roof module in order to afford passengers an unobstructed view of the sky above. The side walls remain, and have merely 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, uniquely configured with reclining seats, remain unchanged.

When closed the black soft-top of the 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 deposited on 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 where it does not obstruct the luggage compartment. The opening and closing of the roof are choreographed to take place quickly, but without unseemly haste, and take well under 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 white tonneau cover, which both conceals the roof mechanism from view and completes the overall picture of outstanding elegance. A large logo reading “Maybach Landaulet” is embroidered onto the cover, where it is visible to following traffic – though naturally in an elegant and discreet white-on-white. After all, the Maybach Landaulet Study does not wish to achieve its effect with superficial stylistic features, but rather with the distinguished air of a first-class butler.

White paintwork and white wheels
This impression is accentuated by the shining white paintwork of the study, an exclusive finish named Antigua white. This gleaming white paint finish is built up by experienced specialists in an involved process layer by layer – almost twice as many layers as normally found on other high-quality automobiles. In contrast to conventional paintwork with a single colour-determining base coat, two paints are necessary to obtain the incomparable, mother-of-pearl-like sheen. One of these paints contains mica, which is responsible for the exceptional lustre of the colour, which slightly changes according to the incidence of light and appears especially bright in sunlight. The paint coats mostly are applied by hand. Several layers of clear coat finally make the paintwork remarkably resistant.

Visual highlights are provided by 20-inch wheels specially designed for the Landaulet Study. These are also painted in white with 11 high-sheen spokes. Michelin Pilot Sport high-performance size 275/45 R 20 tyres manufactured specifically for Maybach are mounted on the wheels. Other exclusive features for the study include white indicators in the front and rear light clusters in dark red, as well as a slim third brake light elegantly recessed into the boot lid.

All in black – the chauffeur’s workplace
The interior colour scheme is another point which illustrates that the Maybach Landaulet Study 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 study certainly should be one of the most coveted workplaces for a chauffeur. For here, too, only exceptionally valuable 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 parts have black piano lacquer surfaces. And for the extensive leather appointments Maybach uses an exclusive, deep black, glossy leather. The high-sheen black stromboli leather imparts the same deep black to the leather appointments as the piano lacquer, thereby giving the interior a look which is both exciting and harmonious at the same time.

To achieve this exceptional gloss, the leather specialists at Maybach Manufaktur took the existing nappa/semi-aniline leather and refined it further in an additional processing stage. This consists of “ironing” it to make the surface even smoother and shinier, at the same time making it appear “blacker”, especially in contrast with the way the light plays on it.

White leather and black stone
Highly skilled craftsmanship, unerring taste, the use of exclusive and in part 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 almost completely in exquisite Seychelles white nappa leather. In addition to the comfortable seats, the doors and the window frames, too, are trimmed in this exquisite white leather. This even extends to the finest details: for example, the reverse of the elegant high-society mobile telephone by Vertu is lined in white leather and lies in a custom-made, leather-lined charger cradle in the console between the passenger seats. Consistently, the stylists have used white leather even for the coat hooks, for the recesses of the handles on the armrest and for a coin-sized cap which normally is not seen at all.

The footwell and roof liner of this high-end luxury landaulet are also in white – the floor is carpeted in white velour and the roof lined with a high-quality white fabric.

A dramatic contrast is provided 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 exclusive black star galaxy granite from India. This rare stone is deep black in colour, with numerous gold inclusions. 

Stone is for eternity
Maybach deliberately opted for natural stone as trim material because it is felt to convey high quality. Famous sculptures testify to this. Trim parts made of stone are the pinnacle of exclusiveness in cars. In the Maybach Landaulet Study, the frames of the seat switch clusters in the doors, the edges of the centre console, the covers of the compartments between the passenger seats, mouldings, and the middle section of the partition, almost as wide as the car and containing the recessed video screens, are made of the exquisite Indian granite and gleam like very artistic sculptures. The working surfaces of the folding tables accommodated between the seats and edged with white leather and chrome are also made of granite.

The select natural material has a very special aura and displays the living brilliance which only nature can create: feldspar sparkles in the natural stone, which glitters and glistens with three-dimensional crystals that give the stone a fascinating depth. Such effects could never be imitated with plastics.

Unconventional ways to bend stone
The engineers and designers had to employ unconventional methods to wrap the extremely thin stone plate around tight radii and even drape it around corners without diminishing the stone’s exciting optical effect. They fastened a thin sheet of granite to a kind of adhesive film and then crushed it between two rollers at an exactly defined pressure and speed to give it an almost uniform grain size. The result was not an amorphous mixture – each grain retains precisely the position it had before. Since the microcrystalline structure is not destroyed, visually the stone appears unimpaired after this treatment, has retained all its valuable properties, yet still can be put into almost any shape.

The stone passed the most demanding tests with flying colours. Its light-fastness is flawless, and in crash tests the stone got best grades. No wonder. After all, stone knows no rebound resilience, and since the trim parts consist of intentionally and selectively segmented stone, as in the case of safety glass no sharp edges result when it breaks.

Generous spaciousness and first-class comfort
The basis for outstanding comfort is the generous spaciousness of the rear passenger compartment, which the Landaulet Study 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.

Sophisticated integral system with crash-responsive backrest for outstanding safety
As well as being exceptionally comfortable, the reclining seats in the Maybach Landaulet Study 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 study is equipped with a partition. The lower section of the partition consists of an aluminium sandwich structure, trimmed partly with a large black granite element, while the upper section comprises a laminated glass panel that can be lowered by electric motor.

Two separate systems for a perfect climate all round
Driving enjoyment of the very highest calibre – thanks to the luxurious ambience and extremely spacious accommodation – is further enhanced by the climate comfort afforded by the Landaulet Study. 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. The rear climate control unit can also be operated by the chauffeur using a control panel in the front centre console. 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 luxurious rear seats to adjust and program the climate control system individually. The parameters of the climate control system have been adapted to the conditions in the Landaulet Study and ensure that open-air travel remains a pleasure even under adverse climatic conditions.

State-of-the-art entertainment and communications
As in the Maybach 62 S, the rear console is the centrepiece for entertainment, communications and travelling pleasure. 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 flap-style lids smoothly open at the push of a button. However, it is the granite-trimmed 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-CD changer, a cooler compartment with its own electric compressor and an intelligent system which holds glasses, goblets and champagne bottles 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.

Engine and suspension
The Maybach Landaulet Study is powered by the 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 Landaulet model achieves an outstanding level of ride comfort whilst on the other hand 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 study 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 Landaulet Study with the very latest in effective, high-tech handling control systems.

Innovative technology from sister-brand Mercedes-Benz
Like all Maybach saloons, the Landaulet also benefits from the unrivalled experience of sister brand Mercedes-Benz in the development and production of high-quality cars in the luxury segment. Important innovations from Mercedes-Benz, successfully developed further for the Maybach saloons, are standard equipment in every Maybach and are of course also on board the Landaulet Study – examples include the electronically controlled air suspension AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control), LINGUATRONIC voice control and the control and display system COMAND APS.

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Maybach[/tags]

Impressed by Maybach’s 62S Landaulet study? Check out this video of the car in action. Of course we feel horrible for the driver that won’t get any fun in the sun like the passengers in the rear seat. But don’t worry, at least he’ll get to enjoy the 6.0 liter V12 engine with twin turbochargers that produces 612 horsepower.

Click through for the video.

Maybach 62S Landaulet Concept Gallery:

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BRABUS has set the world-record speed of 205 mph with its Maybach 57 which carries the BRBABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine. BRABUS broke its own record set in 2005 with a BRABUS SV12 Biturbo that produces 640 horsepower which clocked in at 195mph.

Engineers and test drives then teamed up to increase the output of the car up to 730 horsepower allowing them to reach a top speed of 205.2mph.

BRABUS also set a speed record for street-legal sedans in October of 2006 with its Mercedes-Benz CLS based BRABUS Rocket which reached a top speed of 227.2mph.

——

Press Release:

World Record of 330.6 km/h (205.2 mph) Set in Nardo The Maybach 57 with BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo Engine The World’s Fastest and Most Exclusive Ultra-Luxury Sedan.

A world-record speed of 330.6 km/h (205.2 mph) set on the high-speed test track in Nardo, Italy; BRABUS added to its extensive collection of automotive records with a Maybach 57 powered by a 730- hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537-kW BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine. It is the world’s fastest and most exclusive ultra-luxury sedan. The BRABUS engineers and test drivers bested their own record set in 2005 when a Maybach 57 powered by a BRABUS SV12 Biturbo engine with 640 hp (631 hp SAE net) / 471 kW was clocked at 314 km/h (195 mph).

The SV12 S Biturbo evolution of the 6.3-liter displacement engine was originally developed for the BRABUS ROCKET, the four-door car based on the Mercedes CLS series. In October of 2006 it set a speed record for street-legal sedans of 365.7 km/h (227.2 mph), a record that still stands today.

For power increase of the turbocharged Maybach 12-cylinder engine from standard 550 hp (543 hp SAE net) / 405 kW to 730 hp (720 hp SAE net) / 537 kW BRABUS followed its tradition of increasing engine displacement. The BRABUS engineers developed a special crankshaft with longer stroke, precision-balanced piston rods and larger pistons to account for the increased cylinder bore. Displacement grows from standard 5.5 to 6.3 liters (335 to 385 cu. in.).

The inner workings of the engine are modified with precision-machined cylinder heads and special camshafts. The engine peripherals are tuned for more power with the help of a high-performance turbocharging system with special manifolds, two larger turbochargers, more efficient intercoolers, and a stainless-steel high-performance exhaust system with metal catalysts.

Custom-programmed engine electronics coordinate the perfect interaction of all high-performance components and ensure that the engine meets stringent EURO IV emission limits. The standard 250-km/h (155 mph) speed limit is also eliminated. The peak torque of 1,320 Nm (974 lb-ft) is limited by the engine electronics to 1,100 Nm (811 lb-ft).

The enormous power of the BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo engine is transferred to the rear wheels via a reinforced five-speed automatic transmission. For the lubrication of the entire drivetrain BRABUS relies exclusively on ARAL high-performance lubricants.

The top speed of 330.2 km/h (205.2 mph) places enormous demands on tires and wheels. The BRABUS suspension engineers developed forged 21-inch BRABUS Monoblock VI light-alloy wheels specifically for the Maybach. The fully polished multi-piece wheels with six double spokes perfectly fill the space beneath the wheel arches. They are mounted in size 9.0Jx21 in front with size 275/40 R 21 tires, and in size 10.5Jx21 with size 315/35 R 21 tires on the rear axle.

For further increased driving safety the BRABUS air-suspension module lowers the ride height by some 15 millimeters (0.6 inches) without compromising the unique ride comfort.

BRABUS refines the elegant lines of Maybach not just with a lowered ride height and with large wheels. The front of the sedan can be upgraded with two auxiliary headlights that serve as daytime running lights. They are stylishly integrated into the production front apron.

Exclusive BRABUS light design is also available for the sides and the rear of the Maybach: LED lights integrated into the body that illuminate the ground beside and behind the luxury sedan can be activated via the keyless fob. They help avoid unfortunate missteps into potholes or puddles in the dark. The rear of the Maybach is further upgraded with the ultra-flat tailpipes of the BRABUS sport exhaust system.

BRABUS also offers exclusive custom-tailored interiors and state-of-the-art multimedia technology for all Maybach models. Owners of the luxury sedan can choose from the finest leathers and Alcantara in any desired color and design.

Special loving attention to detail is present in the waffle-patterned leather carpeting that alone uses several kilometers of the finest thread, sewn with utmost precision. Custom-tailored BRABUS lambs wool floor mats caress the occupants’ feet.

The BRABUS development team also created additional interesting features for the standard entertainment system of the Maybach. The 16:9 flat screens integrated into the back of the front seats measure 15.2 inches in the BRABUS version (standard: 9 inches). An additional 6-disc DVD changer rounds out the BRABUS multimedia package for the Maybach.

At the push of a button the Maybach transforms into a luxurious office on wheels: The screens the display the computer’s user interface. BRABUS uses a special computer designed for use in a car that is connected to the internet via UMTS. A wireless keyboard and wireless optical gyro mouse make operating the computer easy and convenient. A USB 2.0 port, stylishly integrated into the center console, allows connecting external electronic equipment such as printer or a digital camera.

To remain online even when outside the vehicle the BRABUS communications specialists have integrated a high-tech notebook computer in an electrically operated drawer in the trunk. This computer is connected to the computer network of the vehicle via W-LAN.

Maybach has revealed the Maybach 62S Landaulet Concept ahead of its Dubai Motor Show debut on November 13th. Since all Maybachs are chauffer driven cars, Maybach offers pampering to only rear-seat passengers rather than the driver. With the Maybach 62S Landaulet, the roof can be opened fully at the rear, while the chauffeur’s area remains completely closed.

The Maybach Landaulet Concept is powered by a 6.0 liter V12 engine with twin turbochargers that produces 612 horsepower. Performance is enhanced by an electronically controlled air suspension AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) and the Adaptive Damping System (ADS II) improves agility and comfort.

Rear passengers also get the entertainment package with a DVD-player, six CD-changer, a cooler compartment with its own electric compressor and an intelligent system which holds glasses, goblets and champagne bottles safely in position.

There is no word whether Maybach will produce the car, but a limited production is expected if the Landaulet concept generates enough attention.

Maybach 62S Landaulet Concept Gallery:

Press Release:

Only the sky is the limit

    – Maybach shows one of the world’s most exclusive luxury cars
    – Majestic open-air experience with the ultimate in luxury and comfort
    – Folding roof for pampered rear-seat passengers
    – Appointments in the rear include white leather, piano lacquer and exquisite black granite

With this study of an open-top landaulet, Maybach has re-enlivened the great art of building majestic automobiles. True to the tradition of exclusive landaulets, the roof of this sparkling white one-off study can be opened fully at the rear, while the chauffeur’s compartment remains completely enclosed. The passengers are then able to enjoy the clear, blue sky above. Seated in opulent armchairs upholstered in white leather, they are treated to a majestic open-air experience currently unrivalled by any other automobile in an environment of the utmost luxury and exquisite style. Romance close to the heart of nature is harmoniously combined with the ultimate in comfort and technological sophistication. With this unique study, Maybach is once again demonstrating its expertise in building the world’s most exclusive luxury cars.

Large folding roof for passengers in the rear

In technical terms the Landaulet study 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 remain, and have merely 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 its reclining seats remain unchanged.

When closed the black soft-top of the Landaulet rests on the frame formed by the roof bows, and is wind and weather-proof. When requested by the passengers, the chauffeur operates a switch in the centre console. The roof then opens electro-hydraulically and is gently deposited on the parcel shelf in the rear, together with its integral rear window of single-layer safety glass. Opening and closing the roof takes 16 seconds. The chauffeur is able to enclose the folded roof with a fitted leather cover, which both conceals the roof mechanism from view and completes the overall picture of outstanding elegance.

White paintwork and wheels

This impression is accentuated by the shining white paintwork of the study, an exclusive finish named antigua white. Visual highlights are provided by 20-inch wheels specially designed for the Landaulet study. These are also painted in white with high-sheen spokes, and are accompanied by white indicators in the front and rear light clusters in dark red.

Black for the chauffeur, white for the passengers

In addition, the already luxurious driver’s compartment of the successful Maybach 62 S has been enhanced in a number of important respects. All the interior trim is now surfaced in black piano lacquer, and for the extensive leather appointments Maybach has used particularly exclusive, glossy stromboli black leather.

In contrast Maybach has fitted the passenger compartment almost completely in exquisite seychelleswhite leather. The footwell and roof liner of this high-end luxury landaulet are also in white – the floor is carpeted in white velour and the roof lined with white fabric. A dramatic contrast is provided by inserts and decorative trim in glossy, black piano lacquer or exclusive black granite with numerous gold inclusions.

Generous spaciousness and first-class comfort

Outstanding comfort is assured by the generous spaciousness of the rear, which the Landaulet study has adopted unchanged from the Maybach 62. Passengers are welcomed into the interior by two large, single seats. These elegant seats also allow even very tall passengers to enjoy a reclining position which travellers normally only encounter in the first-class armchairs of modern passenger jets.

The study is designed as a chauffeured vehicle and features a partition. The upper section of the partition is a glass panel which the passengers can render opaque at the touch of a button, thanks to a liquid crystal membrane embedded in the glass.

Two ultra-modern automatic climate control systems, whose parameters have been adapted to the Landaulet study, ensure that open-air travel remains a pleasure even under adverse climatic conditions.

State-of-the-art entertainment and communications

As in the Maybach 62 S, the rear console is the centrepiece for entertainment, communications and travelling pleasure. This is where Maybach engineers have grouped everything relating to the entertainment and pleasure of the rear-seat passengers: a DVD-player, six CD-changer, a cooler compartment with its own electric compressor and an intelligent system which holds glasses, goblets and champagne bottles safely in position.

Engine and suspension

The Maybach Landaulet study is powered by the 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.

The electronically controlled air suspension AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) and the Adaptive Damping System (ADS II) endow the Landaulet with outstanding levels of ride comfort, at the same time demonstrating that even a prestigious vehicle such as this can exhibit extraordinary agility and dynamic performance.

In addition to large, internally ventilated brake discs – with twin callipers at the front – both the study 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 Landaulet study with the very latest in effective, high-tech handling control systems.

Innovative technology from the sister-brand Mercedes-Benz

Like all Maybach saloons, the Landaulet also benefits from the unrivalled experience of the sister-brand Mercedes-Benz in the development and production of high-quality cars in the luxury segment. Important innovations from Mercedes-Benz, successfully developed further for the Maybach saloons, are standard equipment in every Maybach and are of course also on board the Landaulet study – examples include the electronically controlled air suspension AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control), LINGUATRONIC voice control and the control and display system COMAND APS.

Source: Daimler

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Despite sluggish sales of the Maybach lineup, Mercedes has decided to increase pricing of 2008 models. The 2008 Maybach 57 now starts at $341,750 while the 2008 Maybach 62 S carries a price tag of $432,250. Both models receive an increase of $3,500 over the outgoing 2007 models.

That puts the Maybach brand to compete with the Rolls-Royce Phantom sedan which starts at $342,000. The 2008 57 S now begins at $381,250, while the Maybach 62 starts at $392,750.

While Mercedes-Benz set an annual target of 500 Maybachs when it debuted in 2003, dealers have sold only 778 cars up until July of 2007.

Mercedes-Benz has been slowly killing the number of Maybach franchises by more than half. 29 of Maybach’s original 71 United States dealers have given up on Maybach.

While it may seem like Mercedes is getting rid of the Maybach brand from U.S. soil, there have been talks of expanding the lineup and offering cheaper and smaller models. There have been rumors of a smaller Maybach that will be closer to the S600, although pricing will keep up with Maybach standards. There have also been rumors of a Maybach version of the GL-Class as well as a convertible based on the Ocean Drive Concept, which originally started its life as a Maybach.

Source: InsideLine

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Maybach, Mercedes, Benz[/tags]

Since the sales of the ultimate-luxury brand Maybach continue to fall, Mercedes-Benz USA has decided to kill the number of Maybach franchises by more than half. 29 of Maybach’s original 71 United States dealers have given up on Maybach, said Ernst Lieb, CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA.

When Mercedes introduced the brand five years ago, Mercedes-Benz dealerships spent over $500,000 preparing their showrooms for the Maybach brand, however the cars aren’t selling as well as they’d hope. Annual goals were set at 600 units, however in 2006 Mercedes sold only 146 Maybachs in the U.S.

There have been talks of a smaller Maybach that will be closer to the S600, although pricing will keep up with Maybach standards. There have also been rumors of a Maybach version of the GL-Class as well as a convertible based on the Ocean Drive Concept, which originally started its life as a Maybach.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Mercedes, Maybach[/tags]

Executives at Mercedes-Benz are saying that it doesn’t cost much too keep the Maybach brand on the market, although dealers aren’t too happy. 70 U.S. Mercedes-Benz dealerships spent over $500,000 preparing their showrooms for the Maybach brand, however the car isn’t selling as well as they’d hope.

While Mercedes-Benz set an annual target of 500 Maybachs when it debuted in 2003, dealers have sold only 778 cars up until July of 2007. So what’s next for Maybach?

The Maybach 57 and 62 are both build on the platform of the old S-Class, but executives are not talking about whether the brand will blend into other Mercedes models.

There have been talks of a smaller Maybach that will be closer to the S600, although pricing will keep up with Maybach standards. There have also been rumors of a Maybach version of the GL-Class as well as a convertible based on the Ocean Drive Concept, which originally started its life as a Maybach.

The only addition Maybach has recently made is the 62 S, which is a longer-wheel-base version of the 62 that is powered by a 6.0 liter V12 that produces 604 horsepower. Starting price is $428,750.

Source: Automotive News (Subscription Required)

[tags]Cars, Car, Auto, Automobile, Vehicles, Technology, Auto News, News, Automotive, Maybach, Mercedes[/tags]