Maybach: A new standard in the high-end luxury car class

Maybach - a name and a trademark. A synonym for timeless automotive beauty, hand-crafted precision and technical expertise. The Maybach luxury car brand has certainly occupied a fond place in the memory – for over six decades at the last count – and in autumn 2002 it reemerged for a fascinating renaissance. Fired by the same ambition as in its original heyday, Maybach was back to reclaim its rightful place at the high table of luxury car construction, and to set the standard in this small, but highly prestigious market segment.

Today, Maybach customers have a choice of two Saloons: The flagship model is the Maybach 62, which stretches to 6.17 metres in length and combines outstanding spaciousness with peerless comfort. The second high-end luxury Saloon is the Maybach 57, its model designation reflecting a body length of 5.73 metres.

Every detail of the Maybach Saloons bears witness to the technical leadership, expertise and wealth of experience of its sister brand Mercedes-Benz, whose pioneering innovations also leave their distinctive stamp of quality on the high-end luxury models from Maybach.

A tribute to Wilhelm Maybach, the design engineer behind the first Mercedes

The Mercedes-Benz and Maybach automotive brands have much in common, including long and distinguished traditions. Wilhelm Maybach (1846–1929), a long-time companion of Gottlieb Daimler (1834–1900), held the post of technical director at Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG) and was the brains behind the construction of the first Mercedes, the template for all modern-day passenger cars, in 1901. For this reason, Maybach was much admired and known as the "king of designers".

Gottlieb Daimler first met the gifted design engineer in Reutlingen in 1865 and later also worked alongside him in an engineering works in Karlsruhe and at "Gasmotorenfabrik Deutz". After ten years in the Rhineland area of Germany, during which time Maybach developed the four-stroke engine invented by Nikolaus Otto for series production, Daimler and Maybach returned to the south of the country in 1882 and went on to unearth one ground-breaking automotive invention after another. In the process, they also laid the foundations for Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft (DMG), which they were to establish as a company in 1891.

In 1907 Wilhelm Maybach left DMG, joining forces with his son Karl in 1909 to build powerful engines for the airships produced by Graf Ferdinand von Zeppelin. In 1912, the company relocated to Friedrichshafen on the banks of Lake Constance, moving in next-door to Zeppelin's airship construction plant. In the years after 1919 Karl Maybach (1879–1960) was to make quite a name for himself through the development and construction of exclusive and technically flawless luxury cars. Around 1800 of these high-class vehicles had been built by 1941, with the bodies painstakingly designed and equipped by specialist firms according to the customers' specifications. The flagship Maybach model was the DS 8 "Zeppelin" of 1931. At some 5.5 metres in length, the "Zeppelin" ranked as one of the most prestigious German cars of its time - "a car of the greatest elegance and strength which you would give your last wish to own," as a Maybach brochure put it.

The market: a small segment with big expectations

Today, DaimlerChrysler feels an obligation to live up to this lofty billing. The Maybach luxury car brand therefore set its sights on establishing itself at the very pinnacle of a small, but highly exclusive market segment populated by customers with the highest expectations in terms of technology, design and quality. Market research points to annual worldwide potential of some 8000 customers in the high-end luxury car class. Indeed, studies confirm further growth in this traditionally stable market, with North America and South-East Asia identified as promising regions.

Production of the new generation of Maybach Saloons is limited to some 1000 vehicles a year.

The interior: a world of its own

One look at the dimensions of the two high-end luxury cars provides a glimpse into a different world – one which offers its passengers remarkable spaciousness in which to relax and enjoy the ride.

• The interior length – measured from the accelerator heel point of the driver to the backrests of the rear seat bench – stands at 2245 millimetres in the Maybach 57 and 2682 millimetres in the Maybach 62. The distance between the seats (from the front seat reference point to the rear seat reference point) stands at 1133 / 1570 millimetres. The lateral distance from seat centre axis to seat centre axis in the front of the car stands at 840 millimetres.
• The boot capacity also clearly exceeds the levels which have hitherto been the norm for this vehicle class, standing at 605 litres – around 40 percent more than other luxury cars. The Maybach's luggage compartment is therefore large enough to accommodate five large suitcases or four golf bags. If the Maybach customer orders a spare wheel (available as an option at no extra cost) instead of the TIREFIT tyre sealing compound, the boot capacity is reduced to 500 litres.

The reclining seats: sit back and relax

In the Maybach 62, innovative new reclining seats take passenger comfort to new levels. Their headline feature is the reclining position, which travellers have only previously been able to enjoy in the first-class armchairs on modern passenger jets. All the rear passenger has to do is call up a pre-programmed reclining position at the touch of a button and the backrest slowly tilts backwards by up to 47 degrees. At the same time, a lower leg support and footrest fold out to the front from the underside of the seat. Now everything is in place for the passenger to enjoy the journey in an extremely relaxing reclined position. Seven electric motors are responsible for moving this technical masterpiece into the desired position, with three of these working simultaneously in response to certain commands. An electronic control unit monitors the complex adjustment process and ensures that the logical sequence is followed. The memory function, which can store the settings for up to three individual seating positions, makes using the new seats much easier: at a single touch of a button, the reclining seat will adjust itself to the passenger's personal comfort preferences.

As well as unbeatable levels of comfort, the newly developed reclining seats in the Maybach 62 also offer an extremely high standard of safety – in every position. The restraint system of belt tensioner, belt force limiter and sidebag is integrated into the backrest, ensuring that the rear passengers are also protected when their seat is in a reclined position. Further safety features include the innovative crash-active backrest, which straightens up from the reclined position in the event of a frontal impact, and the tensioners on the belt buckles, which also tighten the lap belt if a crash occurs.

In addition to enjoying the benefits of a prestigious and comfortable luxury saloon, the Maybach models' owners may also need to use them on occasion as a mobile office. With this in mind the Maybach engineers in Sindelfingen have developed a folding table made from painstakingly processed aluminium for each of the two rear seats. The surface of each table is split into two and the upper side is trimmed with high-quality wood. The folding tables (fitted as standard in the Maybach 62) are accommodated in compartments on either side of the rear centre console so as to save space, and can be pulled out and unfolded with the minimum of fuss using a leather loop.

The rear console: the focal point for entertainment, communications and enjoyment

A host of stowage compartments are on hand for the rear passengers to store away both large and smaller items. Indeed, there are ten stowage compartments in the lavishly designed interior door trim of the Maybach 62 alone (eight in the Maybach 57). However, the centrepiece of the stowage compartment concept in the rear of the luxury Saloon is provided by the multifunction centre console between the seats. This is where the Maybach engineers have grouped together all the elements which serve to enhance the rear passengers' entertainment and enjoyment during the journey. There is a DVD player, CD changer for six CDs, two telephones, a refrigerator compartment with a separate electric compressor, plus an intelligent system which holds a champagne bottle and glasses securely in place.

The Maybach engineers have integrated three attractively designed circular instruments into an overhead panel in the roof lining of the luxury Saloon which keep the rear passengers constantly informed of the vehicle's current speed, the outside temperature and the time.

Climate control: two separate systems ensure exemplary cooling performance

Controlling the climate of an area as spacious as the Maybach's interior demands deep reserves of both experience in climate control system development and high-performance technology. The Sindelfingen-based Maybach engineers have equipped both high-end luxury Saloons with two leading-edge automatic climate control systems – one for the front section of the car and a separate second unit for the rear compartment.

Sensors allow the air conditioning systems to respond to the temperature and air humidity, the strength of the sun and the level of pollution in the outside air. The two units are linked up via a CAN databus. In the interests of generating outstanding cooling performance, the Maybach is fitted with two separate and fully controllable coolant compressors. Tests carried out in an outside air temperature of 48 degrees Celsius and with the strength of the sun's rays rising to 1000 watts per square metre provide evidence of just how effective the systems are. In these conditions, the temperature inside the Maybach 62 soared to 70 degrees Celsius (measured at the driver's head height) but was subsequently cooled to a pleasant 25 degrees Celsius in no time at all by the air conditioning units.

As an option, Maybach can also fit the high-end luxury Saloon with a specially developed solar module, which is accommodated in the front or rear section of the roof, depending on the model variant. A total of 30 solar cells spread over an area measuring around a half a square metre convert the sunlight into electric energy, generating output of up to 63 watts. The solar current begins to flow as soon as the ignition is switched off, driving the ventilation fan in the front climate control system. This then circulates a constant flow of fresh air throughout the interior.

The bodywork: better safe than sorry

The principle of intelligent lightweight construction played a central role in the development of the large and imposing Maybach Saloon. Indeed, the bodyshell, including all detachable body parts, tipped the scales at "only" 586 kilograms (Maybach 62: 622 kilograms), and yet has still passed the stringent crash tests with flying colours and proved itself capable of offering a high level of safety. Credit for this achievement goes not only to the intelligent body construction, but also to the increased use of high-strength steel alloys. The engineers have managed to generate maximum strength (= safety), whilst using a minimum amount of material (= weight). The aluminium construction of eight large components – the roof, bonnet, doors and front wings – also contributes to the exceptionally low weight of the Maybach body. The boot lid and spare wheel well are made of high-quality glass-fibre reinforced plastics.

Airbags: inflate according to the severity of the accident

A highly effective adaptive restraint system offers occupant protection of the highest order. The system is referred to as "adaptive" since the airbags on the driver's and front passenger side of the car automatically adapt to the severity of the impact. In addition, the electronics register the weight of the front passenger and also take into account this value when deploying the front passenger airbag according to the situation in hand.

Upfront acceleration sensors mounted on the radiator cross member of the front-end structure allow the severity of a collision to be determined at an early stage, providing the necessary basis for adaptive airbag deployment. The information collected by the sensors allows the front airbags to inflate in two stages, in response to the nature of the crash. In the event of a minor frontal collision, the electronic control unit only activates one stage of the two-stage airbag gas generators and the airbags are inflated at low pressure. However, if the system detects a severe head-on impact it also activates – some five to 15 milliseconds later – the second stage of the airbag generators. The airbags are then deployed at higher pressure and are able to offer the vehicle occupants a level of protection which matches the severity of the accident. The three-point seat belts with automatic comfort-fit, high-performance belt tensioners and belt force limiters – the indispensable basic components of the latest occupant protection systems – are integrated into the seats of the high-end luxury Saloon. This helps to ensure that the belt can be worn correctly regardless of the seat position and can therefore provide full protection at all times. A slot enables the shoulder strap to slide up and down to adapt to the shoulder height of the driver and front passenger.

With standard-fitted sidebags at every seat and two windowbags on either side of the interior, the Maybach's restraint system also meets the highest standards in terms of side impact protection.

The panoramic glass roof: transparency at the touch of a button

A very special technical highlight available for the Maybach 62 is the innovative new electro-transparent panoramic glass roof. Featuring an elegant cassette-type structure made from high-quality wood, the panoramic roof elegantly sweeps above the front passengers like a glass dome and offers them unique options for adjusting the amount of light that enters the cabin. The rear section of the roof is made up of two approximately six-millimetre-thick panes of glass with an electrically driven sliding liner between them. The laminated glass pane on the inside has an intermediate layer in the form of a liquid crystal membrane of conductive polymer plastic. When the AC voltage is switched on, the crystals are arranged in the plastic membrane in such a way that the glass becomes transparent and allows daylight into the rear of the Maybach 62 over its entire area. However, as soon as the power is switched off, the liquid crystals lose their transparent arrangement and the light is fragmented in all directions. The glass becomes opaque and filters the daylight to produce a pleasant, diffused glow. This electrically operated transparency function is celebrating its world premiere in the Maybach 62.

Headlamps: lighting features for an unmistakable identity

Taking a close look at the headlamps of the luxury Saloon reveals a good example of the attention to detail lavished on the Maybach by its engineers. The lenses of the bi-xenon headlamps bear the double-M emblem of Maybach Manufaktur – a subtle reinforcement of product identity which is at the same time reminiscent of the legendary Maybach DS 7 "Zeppelin" of 1930, whose headlamp lenses also bore the company trademark.

Bi-xenon is a synonym for the best and most efficient headlamp technology currently available. Outstanding brightness, impressive range and a particularly even illumination of the road ahead are among the primary advantages of a system which uses these qualities to make a significant contribution to improving road safety. The powerful gas-discharge lamps generate main and low beam light from a xenon bulb.

Another distinctive feature of the Maybach's lighting system are the sidemarkers located in the outer positions of the headlamp units and in the exterior mirrors. The additional bulbs in the headlamps and the LEDs in the mirror casings, which glow discreetly when low beam is switched on, characterise the appearance of the Maybach in the dark and make it unmistakable even at night.

The drive system: majestic power

Three attributes of the legendary Maybach twelve-cylinder engine of 1929 also represented key aims in the development of the new "Type 12" powerplant: output, smoothness and longevity.

The 5.5-litre biturbo Maybach engine develops 405 kW/550 hp and peak torque of 900 Newton metres. These imposing performance figures give the "Type 12" powerplant a clear edge in terms of output and torque over its rivals in the series-produced saloon engine market and ensure that the Maybach models handle any driving situation with the ease and authority you expect of the brand:

• The Maybach 57 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds (Maybach 62: 5.4 seconds); Its prodigious torque powers it from 60 to 120 km/h in only 6.2 seconds (Maybach 62: 6.5 seconds);
• The electronically limited maximum speed of 250 km/h is reached quickly and in majestic fashion.

The twin turbochargers aspirate the twelve-cylinder unit so efficiently that the driver is able to mobilise the enormous power at very low revs. A muscular 622 Nm of torque is already on tap at 1500 rpm, the 800 Nm mark is reached at 1800 rpm and from 2300 rpm the power unit generates its peak torque of 900 Nm, a phenomenal figure for a series-produced passenger car engine. It maintains this up to 3000 rpm.

The maximum output of the V12 engine – 405 kW/550 hp – is available as low down as 5250 rpm. Maximum charge pressure stands at 1.3 bar. The space-saving positioning of the twin turbochargers' turbines in the exhaust manifold maximises their efficiency. A wastegate control system enables the flow of exhaust gases to the turbines to be adapted to the current operating point of the engine.

The chassis: everything under control

Safety, comfort and handling were key aspects which characterised the design and development of the Maybach chassis. To fulfil its aims in these three areas, the luxury car maker introduced ground-breaking innovations developed by its sister brand Mercedes-Benz, equipping the new models to set the standard in the high-end luxury car segment.

In addition to large brake discs on the front and rear axles, the Maybach is also fitted with the electrohydraulic brake system Sensotronic Brake Control (SBC™). The Sindelfingen-based engineers further developed this technology for use in the luxury Saloon, adapting it to generate the extra braking power required. Add to SBC™ the combined benefits of ESP®, ASR, ABS and Brake Assist, and it is clear that the Maybach is equipped with the most state-of-the-art and effective control systems available.

The electronically controlled air suspension system AIRMATIC DC (Dual Control) is the Maybach's ticket to a new dimension in ride comfort, demonstrating that a prestigious saloon can also display outstanding agility and driving dynamics. "DC" stands for "Dual Control" and highlights the dual function of AIRMATIC. The system combines actively controlled air suspension with the Adaptive Damping System (ADS II), allowing it to control the springs and damping in equal measure. ADS II adjusts the force of the shock absorbers in response to the condition of the road, driving style and load. Meanwhile, rubber bellows located in the axle systems and filled with compressed air ensure a comfortable suspension setting.

The brake system: fitted with six brake callipers and ready for any challenge

A uniquely powerful and prestigious luxury saloon by definition demands equally exceptional brakes. SBC™ is one of the outstanding features of the Maybach's braking system – the large, internally-ventilated brake discs, which are fitted with two brake callipers each at the front axle, are another. To this end, the driver of the high-end luxury Saloon can rely on a front brake pad surface measuring 248 square centimetres to ensure safe deceleration.

The electronics: music, and much more besides

Passengers in the Maybach do not have to compromise on first-class entertainment, up-to-date information or excellent telecommunications just because they're out on the road. The standard-fitted DVD player, TV receiver and car radio system give them everything they need to put together their own entertainment programme. Plus, they also have the option of connecting external devices such as a camcorder, MP3 player or video game station.

Operating the various pieces of equipment is easy, thanks to a wireless infrared remote control and menus which appear on the two colour monitors in the back of the front seat backrests. The cutting-edge TFT flat-screen technology (9.5-inch screen) can also be used to watch films on DVD, as well as TV programmes. The DVD player and CD changer (for six CDs) can be found in the centre console between the rear seats. The latest electronic entertainment technology – in the shape of a newly developed Bose Surround Everywhere sound system – takes centre stage in the Maybach models. The interior of the luxury Saloon can thus effectively be converted into a mobile concert hall, where each of the four passengers enjoys the pleasure of digital Dolby surround sound. A mobile phone is integrated into a special compartment in the instrument panel, whilst under the padded armrest in the centre console of the rear compartment the passengers will find an additional mobile phone (if ordered as an option) and the cordless handset for the fixed-installation telephone. A second handset can be found in a special compartment in the instrument panel. Both telephones are linked up to the car telephone's central send-and-receive unit via Bluetooth radio technology, allowing the interior to remain totally cable-free.

For the driver and front passenger, the COMAND APS system in the centre console is the central display and control unit for a host of functions. This electronic nerve centre comes with a large TFT colour display (6.5-inch), a DVD drive and, in conjunction with the fixed-installation telephone, a wide range of mobile communications functions, including the Short Message Service (SMS), as well as WAP and e-mail.

The business package: notebook, printer and mobile Internet access are available as an option

With the optionally available business package, which the manufacturer puts together on an individual basis by arrangement with the customer, the Sindelfingen-based electronics engineers integrate a notebook in the vehicle using Bluetooth technology. This allows direct use of the telephone book installed in the Maybach and enables passengers to send and receive faxes and access the Internet. The notebook computer is accommodated in a multifunction compartment on the back of the driver's seat backrest and can be placed on one of the folding tables stored between the rear seats when work needs to be done.

In Europe and the USA a colour inkjet printer and a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) can both be ordered as an option, and these peripherals also benefit from a wireless network connection via the Bluetooth system. In addition, the Maybach high-end Saloon is also available in Europe with a router for Internet access. The router is stored in the boot of the Maybach and is connected with the components of the business package using Bluetooth technology. The Internet router is equipped with two mobile phone terminals and is hooked up to a separate aerial, which is integrated into the boot lid out of sight.

Telematics: automatic emergency call system fitted as standard

The proven telematics services developed by Mercedes-Benz are also available to Maybach customers. The TELEAID automatic emergency call system is fitted as standard and also works in conjunction with the fixed-installation telephone. After an accident, this system automatically sends out an SOS signal, which alerts the rescue services and guides them to the scene. Depending on the type of accident, the emergency call system is activated either by the standard crash sensor, which is also responsible for the reliable activation of the airbags and belt tensioners, or by the roll-over sensor. The occupants of the Maybach can also send out an emergency call manually at any time – at the touch of one of the two red SOS buttons located in the rear centre console and the overhead control panel in the front of the car.

Story by Maybach