The S-Guard weighs about 1.5 tonnes heavier than the standard production S-Class, thus essential modifications had to be done to maintain the S-Guard’s performance. It is outfitted with a redesigned suspension system that uses specially reinforced components to ensure the safety and ride comfort of all the passengers despite the weight gain of as much as 70%. The ABS and EPS also had to be tweaked due to different handling characteristics of the heavier vehicle.
The S-Guard runs on Michelin PAX run-flat tires, which allows it to drive up to 80Km/h for a distance of 30 Kilometers in case the President comes under threat. It even has a specially coated fuel tank that reacts to damage caused by projectiles and seals any holes by itself. I suppose that’s also a safety net in case the President drops one of his cigarette butts too close to the fuel tank. And if that’s not enough, the S-Guard underwent a simulated endurance test on torture tracks to put it through the paces. This car is almost like the Chuck Norris of automobiles.
Noy Noy’s set of wheels is powered by a V12 biturbo engine that’s strong enough to plow through even the thickest roll of red tape. But a V8 CDI option is also available in case he finds unleaded too expensive. And for extreme emergency situations, the S-Guard comes equipped with an Emergency Fresh Air System, Fire Extinguishing System, Emergency Boot Lid Opening, and Panic Alarm System.
Inside, Mercedes-Benz has transformed this luxury sedan into a mobile office complete with phone, fax, file sorter, and a separate business console. But in case the President wishes to sit back and relax, he can indulge in the S-Guard’s amenities such as four-zone air conditioning, refrigerator, rear entertainment system and a built-in seat massage; more than enough to soothe away even the most obscure scandals that might come his way.
But before anyone gets to sit behind the wheel, drivers of the presidential car have to be sent to Germany for a two-day course at Mercedes-Benz’s Guard Intensive Driving Safety Training. Talk about responsibility, this is part of Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to passenger safety.
CATS Motors Philippines, the exclusive Philippine distributor of Mercedes-Benz, has a big responsibility resting on their shoulders as their flagship armored luxury sedan protects the number one man in the country. To say that it’s a big responsibility being the presidential car is an understatement. The new big car of the new big boss requires much more than good looks and complimentary bodyguards; it requires a touch of elegance and an emphasis on safety.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Guard is built to protect heads of nations even without the use of a ‘wang-wang’. It is a model of aesthetic, security, and class - a fitting vehicle for the country’s chief executive.
