USA - How do you make the Exclusive even more so, by making a special Limited Edition, thats what Mercedes has done.

The first cabriolet from the Mercedes-Maybach brand is making its debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show and is all set to hit markets in the spring of 2017 – limited to 300 examples and with a net price tag of 300,000 euros. 

Unique features include nine additional colour concepts for the interior, the trim - optionally with “flowing lines” - plus the hand-finished craftsmanship of the leather seats with perforations in a waterfall-style look. The drive system is a 6.0-litre V12 engine with an output of 463 kW (630 hp).

A glimpse into the future of the luxury brand was provided by the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6, which made its European premiere at the Paris Motor Show just a few weeks ago. 

This is now being followed by the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet, a series production model which, embodies modern luxury and represents the design philosophy of Sensual Purity: it is both hot and cool at the same time. Worldwide just 300 examples of this open-top four-seater model will be produced.

The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 is based on the open-top S-Class and has adopted the latter’s classic proportions, among other features, with highlights which include the dynamic silhouette with coupé-like soft top and the dropping line along the side which slopes down towards the rear. 

Exclusive Mercedes-Maybach features include a new front bumper with upgraded lower section and also numerous chrome highlights. The Maybach emblem is discreetly but elegantly featured on the vehicle’s wing. Other special elements on the exterior include the high-quality 20-inch Maybach forged wheels in a powerful design with a bichromatic finish. On opening the doors, the Maybach logo is projected onto the floor by means of entrance lighting.

Interior theme: “Everything flows”

In the interior, the fully leather-trimmed Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet brings some of the visionary ideas of the Concept S‑Class Coupé show car (IAA 2013) to series production. These include the dynamic “flowing lines” in the seats. This waterfall-like seat upholstery look is achieved with the aid of progressive perforations. An eye for detail is also demonstrated in the outer diamond quilting on the seat side bolsters and the Budapest piping.

The unique trim elements are commissioned individually for each vehicle based on the colour and grain. In addition to trim on the instrument panel and door panelling, the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet exclusively boasts a trim element on top of the soft top compartment with inlaid Maybach logo. As an option, the look can be refined with “flowing lines”. In combination with the other trim elements a unique yacht ambience is created – inspired by the Mercedes-Benz Style “Arrow 460-Granturismo” yacht.

The flowing lines are generated by a combination of precision machining and traditional craftsmanship. As part of this, the substrate beneath the fine wood veneer of the three-dimensional trim element is exposed in a special process using a fine milling cutter (with a diameter of 0.8 mm). The individually milled lines follow the shape of the trim, thus reinforcing the three-dimensional effect.

Exclusive to the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet are trim elements in designo nut brown magnolia – either with flowing lines or in a high-gloss finish. Nine additional interior colour concepts – from pastel yellow/black to porcelain/saddle brown – provide for further individualisation.

Mercedes-Maybach logos are located on the front side of the seats (embroidered), on the back of the head restraints (embossed) and also inlaid in the stowage cover of the centre console. Other details include deep-pile floor mats, chrome-plated “1 of 300” lettering on the cup holder, and the steering wheel which features Maybach lettering on the lower bezel.

All of the optional extras of the S-Class Cabriolet come as standard on the Mercedes-Maybach, including AIRCAP, AIRSCARF and Swarovski headlamps.

Elegant items of luggage: colour-coordinated to match the interior variant

The Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Cabriolet is equipped as standard with an exclusive travel luggage set from MAYBACH - ICONS OF LUXURY. “THE AFFINITY” set comprises two large travel bags as well as two lifestyle bags made of original vehicle leather. In terms of form and colour – which are coordinated with the interior variant selected by the customer – the bag set is tailored to match the Cabriolet. The bags can be securely attached to each other with straps to enable optimum use of the space in the boot.

Just like the vehicles from Mercedes-Maybach, the elegant items of luggage from the licence partner MAYBACH - ICONS OF LUXURY GmbH meet high standards in terms of design, materials and the German art of manufacturing.

Supplied as standard: exclusive fabric cover and certificate

The scope of delivery of each Mercedes-Maybach Cabriolet includes a car cover made of high-quality fabric in the soft top colour, with diamond quilting and embroidered Maybach emblem and lettering on the bonnet.

In addition, each Mercedes-Maybach Cabriolet is delivered with a special welcome pack. This comprises a key ring made of the nappa leather used in the vehicle and in the interior colour, with Maybach emblem and “1 of 300” lettering, as well as a certificate signed by Dr Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes Benz Cars.

The powertrain: a fitting biturbo V12

The luxury cabriolet’s superior drive system relies on the 6.0-litre biturbo V12 engine with an output of 463 kW(630 hp). Power transmission to the rear axle comes via 7G-TRONIC, while the AIRMATIC suspension with steplessly variable damping control ensures a special driving sensation.

Technical data at a glance:

	Mercedes-Maybach S 650
Number of cylinders/arrangement	12/V
Displacement (cc)	5980
Rated output (kW/hp at rpm)	463 (630) at 4800-5400
Rated torque (Nm at rpm)	1000 at 2300-4300
Fuel consumption (NEDC), combined (l/100 km) / (mpg)	12.0 / 23.5
Combined CO2 emissions (g/km)	272
Efficiency class	F
Acceleration 0-100 kmh / 62 mph (s)	4.1
Top speed (km/h) / (mph)	250 / 155

Mercedes-Maybach: innovative strength fused with exclusivity

Mercedes-Maybach stands for the ultimate in exclusivity and individuality for status-oriented customers. The current vehicles include the Mercedes-Maybach S 500 and S 600 models, launched in February 2015, which blend the innovative strength of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class with the exclusivity of Maybach. 

A special protection version, the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard, is the world’s first passenger car to meet the highest ballistic protection level for civilian vehicles, VR10. 

The latest models are the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Pullman (introduced at the start of 2016) and the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Pullman Guard (first deliveries scheduled for the second half of 2017), both with a vis‑à-vis seating layout.

Bentley forges a new collaborative agreement to design, create and market a full range of Bentley branded Golf kit.

• New partnership signals the first golf hardware collaboration for Bentley Motors
• The launch collection offers golf clubs, bags and accessories
• Japanese forging delivers the ultimate in performance
• Bespoke finishing and full customisation available

Uniting the worlds of luxury and performance with the finest in sports and leisure, Bentley is delighted to present its launch collection of handcrafted, state of the art, bespoke golf equipment.

The exceptional quality and attention to detail found within every Bentley model is now available in Bentley Golf, a collection that encompasses golf clubs, bags, luggage and accessories.

Developed in partnership with Professional Golf Europe, market leaders in the global golf industry, Bentley Golf offers the finest in cutting-edge manufacturing processes and expert hand-forging.  

The collection features irons hand-forged in Ichikawa, Japan, a town with a historical heritage of forging which goes back to the period of Samurai sword production. 

This forging technique produces the most stunning feel, consistency and performance, and lends itself perfectly to golf club production of the highest quality. Japanese forging, fused with modern day CNC Milling techniques, delivers the ultimate performance for aficionados.

Detailing from Bentley models feature across the collection. Design influences from the rear arch haunch line of the Continental GT to the subtle curves of the Mulsanne’s front wing can all be found in the range.  

Bentley’s famous fine detailing, such as its distinctive knurling, can be found on the club end caps and luxurious diamond quilting is a hidden delight within the bags and luggage. Stepping from your car onto the course will now feel like a seamless transition.

The Collection in Detail

Golf Clubs

The equipment range features the finest forged heads, high performance steel and graphite shaft options, including Shimada and Seven Dreamers in flexes for all golfers, and superb grip options including custom leathers.

The driver is available in three loft options, 9, 10.5 and 12 degree. A fairway wood, a Utility and a Hybrid complete the ‘wood’ line up. Irons from 3 through to PW in both a player’s blade and a forgiving cavity back option, three wedges and beautiful putter featuring the Bentley engine-turn milling across the face.

Golf Bags

Characterised by detailing, luxury and performance never before found in the golf industry, the Bentley Golf range of bags feature waterproof fabrics throughout, including leather. 

The Tour Bag, Cart bag and Stand Bag reveal a design language familiar to Bentley customers, delivering stunning features and the performance you deserve. A matching Flight Cover to transport your clubs in style, coupled with a holdall and shoe bag, ensure understated luxury both on and off the course.

Accessories

The stunning Sterling Silver Golf Ball Marker and Pitch Fork featuring Bentley knurling give an overriding feel of luxury. The six-piece Bentley Golf Ball, Leather Golf Glove, Bag Towel, Umbrella, Leather Scorecard Holder, Cap and Golf Tees, ensure Bentley luxury from the moment you step onto the course.

All items go on sale through selected golf retailers in September and online at: http://www.bentleygolf.com/

New bespoke luggage for Jaguar's F-Type.

• Jaguar has collaborated with luxury French luggage label Moynat to produce a bespoke trunk designed specifically to fit the Jaguar F-TYPE convertible sports car
• The one-of-a-kind piece was created to celebrate the opening of Moynat’s first boutique outside Paris
• The unique trunk was unveiled at the boutique’s official opening in London last night

Jaguar has collaborated with luxury French luggage label Moynat to produce a bespoke trunk designed specifically to fit the Jaguar F-TYPE.  The one-of-a-kind piece was created to celebrate the opening of Moynat’s first boutique outside Paris.  It was unveiled at the official launch of Moynat’s Mount Street store in London last night.

Since its inception in 1849, Moynat has become renowned for production of made-to-measure luggage and travel accessories. The company specialises in designing custom trunks to match the paint finishes and fit the contours of various vehicles.  The most famous example is the Limousine trunk, patented in 1902, with its curved bottom designed to fit on the roof of an automobile.

Moynat’s artistic director, Ramesh Nair, created the new concept piece with Jaguar, which itself is inspired by the Limousine trunk.  Nair commented: “It was a pleasure to collaborate with Jaguar to create this piece. Our brands share a commitment to beautiful design combined with quality and functionality – qualities which are espoused in this bespoke trunk.”

The trunk fits perfectly into the F-TYPE boot, with the signature curves of the Moynat House. It took more than 900 working hours for the design and careful production of the trunk.  The structure is moulded to form by hand with eight layers of wood. This is then covered by vegetal dyed leather in slate grey to match the car body, lined in mandarin orange colour, the signature colour of Moynat.  Inside the trunk, an electric scooter is provided for use in urban areas.

In addition, Jaguar offers a range of bespoke F-TYPE luggage, including a five-piece range comprising two suitcases, laptop bag, garment bag and wash bag – each designed specifically to fit the boot space of the F-TYPE.  Further details can be found at https://shop.jaguar.co.uk/f-type-collection.

BMW and Louis Vuitton collaborate on bespoke luggage for new i8 super-car.

Louis Vuitton creates tailor-made luggage for the BMW i8. Forward-looking travel bags for progressive driving made from carbon fibre.

Exceptional luggage for an exceptional automobile. Louis Vuitton, the pioneer of the art of travel, has created a tailor-made set of luggage for the most progressive sports car – the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid.

The innovative collection of luggage comprises two travel bags, a business case and a garment bag. To ensure optimal use of space, the luggage items have been tailor-made to fit perfectly into the interior of the revolutionary BMW i8.

“BMW and Louis Vuitton share both a profound appreciation of tradition and a commitment to constant further development,” says Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. “The use of CFRP in the revolutionary BMW i8 sports car is indicative of an intelligent lightweight construction philosophy. And Louis Vuitton has demonstrated a similar belief in innovation, aesthetics and lightweight design in creating an exclusive luggage collection tailored perfectly to the new BMW i8.”

Distinguished and elegant – the design.

The understated carbon-black of this luggage range matches the colours of the BMW i8. Its sophisticated look comes courtesy of the unmistakable chequered Damier pattern – a Louis Vuitton hallmark – and a laser-etched Louis Vuitton signature. Black and electric blue used in the microfibre lining take their cue from the trademark brand colours of the BMW i8 and bag handles are made from dyed natural leather, a sign of Louis Vuitton quality. All items in the collection come with leather name tags and the iconic Louis Vuitton padlock with the exception of the garment bag.

Patrick-Louis Vuitton, Head of Special Orders at Louis Vuitton and great grandson of the House’s founder, says, “This collaboration with BMW epitomises our shared values of creativity, technological innovation and style. Our craftsmen at Louis Vuitton have enjoyed the challenge of this very special project, using their ingenuity and attention to detail to create a truly made to measure set of luxury luggage. This is a pure expression of the art of travel.”

A strong future – the material.

Inspired by the visionary design of the BMW i8, the bags and cases – like the sports car’s innovative passenger cell – are made entirely from carbon fibre. This particularly lightweight yet extremely sturdy high-tech material has been used by Louis Vuitton to create a special textile. It provides great robustness and strength, and as such is made for the rigours of travel – no matter how long and arduous the drive.

Tailored to the BMW i8 – the luggage.

The exclusive luggage pieces created by Louis Vuitton fit snugly into the BMW i8. The Weekender GM i8, with both hand and shoulder carry straps, is custom-designed to go into the boot, while the Garment Bag i8is a perfect fit for the rear shelf of the BMW i8. The sturdy hardshell Business Case i8 which is also ideal for carrying laptops, matches the shape of the rear seats; while the small Weekender PM i8 is designed to rest on its surface.

The Louis Vuitton luggage series will be available upon request in a selection of Louis Vuitton stores worldwide (Munich, Milan, London, Paris, Moscow, Dubai, New York, Los Angeles) starting April 1st 2014.

Revolution in sports cars – the BMW i8.

The BMW i8 is the  most progressive sports car and is the BMW Group’s first plug-in hybrid vehicle and the second model from the BMW i brand. It is a 2+2-seater boasting visionary design and intelligent lightweight engineering. As a plug-in hybrid,  the BMW i8 unites the advantages of innovative electric drive and the latest combustion-engine technology. The upshot is an extraordinary driving experience that delivers the dynamics of a sports car (0 – 100 km/h / 62 mph in 4.4 seconds) along with fuel economy and emissions figures of a small city car  (2,1 l/100km / 49 g CO₂/km). This means not just purely electric emission-free driving around town but also sporty performance on inter-urban routes. The athletic personality of this revolutionary sports car is patently manifest in its design: classical sports car proportions, spectacular gullwing doors, clean, minimalist lines and a low-slung silhouette all imbue it with its powerful, dynamic shape. The sporty character of the BMW i8 exterior makes a seamless transition into the interior’s future-focused design.

EUROPE - Beautiful new limited run Bentley Mulsanne.

• New Limited Edition Mulsanne exclusively for Europe
• Inspired by gentleman, visionary and Bentley Boy, Tim Birkin
• Three exquisite colour specifications with unique styling details
• Mulliner Driving Specification, Entertainment Specification, and fitted luggage set epitomise the pinnacle of British luxury motoring

Bentley Motors today unveils a new Limited Edition model exclusively for European customers, the Birkin Mulsanne.

Taking inspiration from Sir Henry ‘Tiger’ Tim Birkin – the legendary Bentley Boy who travelled and raced extensively around Europe in the 1920s and 1930s – this new model features numerous unique styling details and represents the pinnacle of British luxury motoring in its most discerning form.

The Limited Edition of just 22 cars is available in three colour specifications: a fresh and contemporary Ghost White, Damson for a more vibrant touch, and a sophisticated contrast of Fountain Blue and Dark Sapphire, offering a modern interpretation of the classic two-tone Bentley paint design.

Numbered door sill plaques, a unique 21" wheel design inspired by those on the original Mulsanne concept car, and a striking 3D ‘Flying B’ logo stitched into the vehicle headrests and inlaid into the wood of the front fascia and rear picnic tables, identify the Birkin models.  In addition, all three specifications feature a stunning tailored luggage set – each one hand-crafted, individually numbered and matched with the interior of each car.

Items have been selected for the Birkin Limited Edition from the Mulsanne’s extensive options list for the well-travelled connoisseur and the Mulliner Driving Specification delivers an engaging motoring experience thanks to a unique ‘Sport’ setting on the Drive Dynamics Control system.  An intricate diamond quilting pattern to the seats and door panels, complemented by an indented leather headlining and ‘knurling’ details to the interior metalwork, create a contemporary and tactile finish to the cabin.

For those travelling in the rear of the Birkin Mulsanne’s spacious cabin, the Entertainment Specification offers a luxurious and comfortable space to work or relax while on the move.  Each car features exquisitely-packaged twin 8" LCD screens in the rear of the seat headrests, a DVD player, a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Naim for Bentley premium audio system and iPads integrated into the hand-crafted solid wood picnic tables.

A tribute to Tim Birkin
The muse for this Limited Edition Mulsanne, Sir Henry Ralph Stanley ‘Tim’ Birkin, was celebrated as both racing legend and unassuming style icon in his time, epitomising the idea of the British gentleman racer.

The Birkin Mulsanne specifications are born from the idea of how Birkin would commission a Bentley today.  With its effortless performance and luxurious hand-crafted cabin, the Bentley Mulsanne embodies the essence of Birkin’s beliefs as motoring connoisseur.  Now, with its unique styling details and exquisite specification, the Limited Edition Birkin Mulsanne is an automotive homage to one of Bentley’s most influential visionaries.

Birkin’s first Bentley was bought simply out of a love of fine motoring, but over time he became increasingly involved with Bentley’s efforts on the road and race track, culminating with his key role in the development of the ‘Blower’ Bentley in 1928.  Birkin saw that to retain its competitive racing edge, the company needed to increase the power of the 130 bhp Bentley 4 ½ litre, and so pushed to fit the car with a supercharger, which increased power to an impressive 242 bhp.

Birkin convinced company owner Woolf Barnato and financial-backer Dorothy Paget to support a production run of 50 cars in order to qualify for Le Mans.  It was for this car – and his fearless style of driving it – that Birkin is perhaps best known.

GENEVA - Bentley unveils Spring collection from the Bentley Boutique

• Debut of ‘Breitling for Bentley’ Light Body Midnight Carbon watch
• Limited edition ‘zai for Bentley’ ski, poles and ski bag
• Showcase for two new collections: ‘Bentley for Men’ fragrances and Mulsanne fitted luggage set

The 2013 Bentley Boutique at the Geneva Motor Show showcases a selection of the company’s new and exciting products, created with luxury and performance in mind in collaboration with partnership brands.

‘Breitling for Bentley’ Light Body Midnight Carbon Watch

Bentley and Breitling have once again combined British chic and Swiss horological excellence to create a limited edition, ultra-sporty Bentley Light Body Midnight Carbon chronograph. Displayed in the Bentley Boutique at the Geneva Motor Show, the limited edition watch conceals a light and sturdy titanium chassis featuring a highly resistant carbon-based coating beneath its all-black exterior.

The dashboard-style dial displays exclusive Breitling technical features highlighted by red-rimmed indications. The originality and strength of the design are accentuated by the hands and hour-markers, also clad in matt black and enhanced by a luminescent coating ensuring optimal readability in the dark. The midnight black rubber strap is distinguished by its central raised motif echoing that of the knurled bezel – a refined nod to the famous radiator grilles gracing the prow of a Bentley.

The watch is limited to only 1,000 pieces worldwide, the unrivalled performance of this elegant and reliable watch is powered by a self-winding chronograph movement chronometer. Further information can be found at http://www.breitlingforbentley.com.

‘zai for Bentley’

Bentley is proud to present the new limited edition ‘zai for Bentley’ ski, poles and bag. Working with Bentley’s own styling team, Swiss ski manufacturer zai AG has created the new skis incorporating innovative, unique combinations of materials resulting in unmatched levels of performance and durability.

The new skis comprise a natural rubber surface, offering uncompromised comfort, integrated with a spring steel to mirror the Bentley matrix grille. Similarly to a Bentley, the ski is based upon a pureness of design and hand craftsmanship that will meet the technical demands of the most avid skier.

The skis are limited to 100 pairs in both white and green and are available through zai and Bentley dealers. Further information can be found at www.zaiforbentley.com.

‘Lalique for Bentley’ and ‘Bentley for Men’

The collaboration between Bentley and Art & Fragrance, owner of Lalique, creates the bespoke ‘Lalique for Bentley Crystal Edition’, an impressive crystal flacon with the legendary ‘Flying B’ Bentley mascot. The eau de parfum itself, composed by Mylène Alran, from the French perfume house Robertet, is a fitting elixir of fine woody notes and exquisite leather to complement the epicentres of excellence within Bentley’s craftsmanship. 

The ‘Bentley for Men’ and the high-impact ‘Bentley for Men Intense’ fragrances are created by top French perfumer Nathalie Lorson, from the perfume house Firmenich.  She has skilfully transformed the quintessence of the luxury automotive brand Bentley into a superb and unmistakeable fragrance experience. To do so, the finest perfume raw ingredients have been used, including those must-haves for Bentley’s debut fragrance, fine wood and leather notes.

The captivating Bentley fragrances are available at carefully selected perfumeries and department stores from April 2013.

Mulsanne fitted luggage set

Bentley has created a stylish range of luggage to fit effortlessly into its flagship Mulsanne model. The luggage, hand-made by Schedoni of Italy, allows the customer to tailor the specification of the set to match the hides within their own car. The design of this range is inspired directly from the key styling elements within the inner door panelling of the Mulsanne. The full set consists of two large cases, two foldable garment bags and two small cases.