UK-based limousine manufacturer Binz has unveiled an S-Class limo concept, which will be available by special order in addition to the company's current E-Class-based stretch.
The S-Class limousine adopts a 6-door configuration with three forward-facing rows of seats. The presence of three doors on each flank is a little unusual-looking, but the arrangement probably makes for a much more comfortable ride for passengers. Anyone who's had to sit on a sideways bench in a fully-occupied "regular" stretch limo (think "bridal party" here) can attest to this. Getting in and out of the car is probably easier as well, thanks to the 6-door setup.
The big Binz comes with "middle eastern specification" A/C (Brrrrr), and can also be equipped with entertainment options such as headrest-mounted video screens. The standard engine is the S320's CRD V6, with the S350's gasoline V6 available as an option. All onboard electronics have been recalibrated to account for the size and weight gain resulting from the conversion.
(Press release, add'l photo after the jump)
[Source: Binz]
Press Release:
Binz Offers S-Class Luxury Limousine
Leading limousine manufacturer Binz, famed for its extended chassis E-Class limousines, is stepping up a grade with an all new S-Class limousine concept vehicle. The S-Class Mercedes-Benz based Binz is designed to continue that tradition of excellence established since 1936 when Michael Binz first started coachbuilding with Mercedes-Benz sourced chassis units.
Production of the E- Class Binz continues but it is proposed that this will be complimented by the much larger and more sophisticated Binz S-Class, which will initially be available to special order only.
The 6-door S-Class is a real ministerial car that will make an impact wherever it goes. It will have a presence which dominates the road and makes a positive statement about its occupants. With this vehicle, Binz will be bringing European style and class back into a sector that has of late become devalued by pressure from ostentatious over-stretched pseudo-limousines.
Binz's flawless extension of the chassis – designed with access to full Mercedes- Benz S-Class design and test data – will be complemented by sculpted central doors with electric windows. Inside, passengers will relax on leather seating, and keep their cool thanks to the car's middle-eastern specification air conditioning. Available options include in-car entertainment from video screens set into the rear of each headrest, and privacy blinds. Power will be courtesy of the S320 V6 common-rail turbo-diesel, with the S350 petrol 24 valve V6 optional.
As always with a Binz the extended chassis S-Class will have a fully functioning engine management system controlling the brakes, steering and suspension, fine tuned to suit not only the extended length of the vehicle but the additional gross weight with a full passenger occupancy.
Binz UK CEO Peter Smith explains, "With the latest incarnation of the S-Class, Mercedes-Benz have raised the bar yet again as regards standards of passenger safety, and ride comfort. To retain full Mercedes-Benz engineering approvals for our extended chassis limousine version, means precise recalibration of interrelated on-board electronics controlling adaptive intelligent ride air suspension, vehicle stability control and now the Pre-Safe occupant restraint facility."
The Binz S-Class is a Limousine that makes no pretensions – it quite simply doesn't have to, it is the real thing. The S-Class oozes confidence; it has a street presence without having an ungainly stretch or a lurid paint scheme, or an overdose of chrome plated plastic. This is truly travelling first class, in a first class vehicle with first class workmanship.
Binz Facts
Binz supply the only NCAP crash tested Mercedes-Benz E-Class extended limousines to UK hospitality, diplomatic and funeral service users. Its 6 seat passenger vehicle range is complemented by an E-Class hearse designed specifically for this country, and which has also fulfilled the crash test criteria.
All Binz vehicles hold full European Whole Vehicle Type Approval, and retain the base E-Class advanced on-board safety aids such as Acceleration Skid Control, Electronic Stability Control and ABS braking. These dynamic handling systems have been recalibrated by Binz in conjunction with Mercedes-Benz to take into account the increases in wheelbases and rated gross vehicle weights.
Privileged access to key E-Class design and test data like this, and wide use of Original Equipment Manufacture – OEM - components such as heavy-duty axles and brakes, has led Mercedes-Benz (DaimlerChrysler United Kingdom Ltd). to accept Binz vehicles for full warranty and service support through its UK service organisation.
Since release of the current E-220, E270 CDi diesel and E-350 based petrol model range in 2004, Binz has delivered over 200 vehicles to UK operators. Prices for the 6-door extended E-220 limousine to Elegance specification start at £81,671.54 inclusive of VAT and 2 year warranty (£69,50769 exclusive).
Binz extended E-Class limousines and hearses are manufactured for Binz UK Ltd. by Binz GmbH, of Lorch, Germany. Binz UK Ltd. is an independently-owned coachbuilder and vehicle designer, based in Reading, Berkshire.
Sign in to post
Please sign in to leave a comment.
Continue