You can never be too careful these days, which is why Mercedes-Benz is launching an armored version of its new E-Class sedan. Called the E-Guard, the armored sedan is designed to protect its occupants in case of a street level attack.
For security reasons, the E-Guard looks almost identical to its unprotected stable mate. However, under its standard-issue E-Class body work hides special metal plates, capable of withstanding the blast of a DM51 hand-grenade. The E-Guard’s glass windows have also been swapped out for polycarbonate units that can stand up to a .44 Magnum hand gun. Despite the thicker windows, the E-Guard’s driver and passenger side front windows can still be rolled down, while the rear windows can be fitted with the same function for an added price.
As with most armored vehicles, the E-Guard comes with a standard intercom system, allowing occupants to safely communicate with the outside world in the event of an attack.
To cope with the added weight of the armoring, the E-Guard uses a special Level II version
of Mercedes’ AIRMATIC air suspension system. The E-Guard comes standard with 17 inch wheels shod in run flat tires, allowing the armored sedan to travel 30 miles at up to 50 mph on flat tires.
The E-Guard package can be had on the E 500, E 350 and E 350 CDIBlueEFFICIENCY. However, piece of mind doesn’t come cheap as the armoring package will add about $58,000 to the price of a standard E-Class. The E-Guard will be available from Mercedes dealers beginning in April.
