PAX makes an appearance on Mercedes S600 Guard

Michelin may have halted further development of its PAX System back in late 2007, but the run-flat technology is still in demand with those who want to ensure their vehicle isn’t brought to a standstill by a puncture. Or a missile. For this reason, Michelin’s PAX tyres have been selected as the standard original equipment fitment on the most luxurious of all bomb-proof Mercedes-Benz models, the S600 Guard.

The size 255/720 R490AC Pilot Primacy tyres work together with a tyre pressure monitoring system that allows an escape from danger zones up to a distance of 30 kilometres, even with damaged tyres.

Designed for a truly eventful drive to work, the S600 Guard offers “comprehensively certified” class VR9 ballistic resistance, which means military rifle fire, grenade splinters and explosions needn’t worry you. Modifications to the S600 include protective components that are made from a special type of steel and built into the cavities between the body structure and outer skin. For additional splinter protection, the vehicle comes with special aramide and polyethylene components. All glass areas have been coated with polycarbonate on the inside and they also feature a laminated structure. Further Guard-specific touches include a panic alarm system, opaque roller blinds and emergency fresh air system.

Power comes from the same V12 6.0-liter twin-turbo engine that offers 530 PS (390 kW) and 612 lb-ft (830 Nm) of in the regular S600, however the car’s top speed of 130 mph is 25 mph less than that of the limited S600. In terms of appearance, the S600 Guard is virtually indistinguishable from the standard model.