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96-780: In 2013, the Dutch Ministry of Defence launched a procurement program aimed at replacing the Mercedes-Benz G280 CDI fleet of the KCT. While experiences with the Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Afghanistan and Mali were generally satisfactory, the vehicles lacked power, payload capacity and clearance deemed necessary for the SOF Mobility Concept. In addition to the engine and payload requirements,

192-688: A Popemobile based on 230 G cabriolet during the first visit of Pope John Paul II in Germany. Mercedes-Benz never officially exported the G-Wagen to the United States because it was considered more of a utilitarian vehicle and didn't fit the American perception of what Mercedes-Benz was. During the 1980s, the grey import specialists brought the W460 to the United States and modified them to meet

288-407: A digital dashboard which displays the status of all critical systems. The VECTOR comes standard with two weapon mounts . The passenger has access to a swing mount which can be fitted with a FN MAG general-purpose machine gun or a FN Minimi squad automatic weapon . The height of the passenger seat is adjustable in order to enable optimal ergonomics for the shooter. The ring mount is fitted in

384-451: A military off-roader , later more luxurious models were added to the line. In certain markets, it was sold under the Puch name as Puch G until 2000. The G-Wagen is characterised by its boxy styling and body-on-frame construction. It uses three fully locking differentials , one of the few passenger car vehicles to have such a feature. Despite the introduction of an intended replacement,

480-463: A turning radius of 9 metres. The maximum payload capacity of the VECTOR is 1,440 kg, the curb weight is 3070 kg with a maximum vehicle weight of 4,700 kg. The VECTOR can wade through 75 cm of water. The driver and passenger seat are adjustable to the needs of the occupants and are fitted with detachable back support modules, the rear seats are foldable. The VECTOR is equipped with

576-942: A 2.3-litre four-cylinder inline petrol and later a 2.9-litre five-cylinder inline diesel. The W460 was assembled in France under licence by Peugeot for the French Army with Peugeot engine and transmission from the 504 and 604 respectively as well as its own seats and wiring system. The front differential gear lock was omitted because Peugeot used its own axles. They are easily identified by rectangular headlamps. An agreement between Daimler-Benz AG and Steyr-Daimler-Puch stipulated that G-Wagens sold in Austria, Switzerland, Yugoslavia (and its successor states: Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia, and Slovenia), Mongolia, and Eastern European COMECON countries were called Puch G and elsewhere as Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen/G-Class. The reason for

672-488: A 6-groove 178 mm (7.0 in) right hand twist . The cold hammer-forging process provides a stronger barrel for greater safety in case of an obstructed bore or for extended firing sessions. Modifications for an over-the-beach (OTB) capability such as drainage holes in the bolt carrier and buffer system are available to let the HK416 fire safely as quickly as possible after being submerged in liquids like water. To reduce

768-467: A cable winch. Fuel injection became available in 1982, when the 230 GE was introduced in Turin, along with more comfortable and supportive front seats, auxiliary heating, wider tires and fender flares. For 1985, differential locks, central door locking and a tachometer became standard and by 1986 over 50,000 G Models had been produced. The G-Wagen was facelifted in 1990. In 1989, for the 10th anniversary of

864-559: A distance of 30 metres. Moreover, Level 1 provides protection from 155 mm High Explosive (HE) at 100 metres, hand grenades , unexploded artillery fragmenting submunitions and small anti-personnel explosive devices. The vehicle can be transported as underslung as well as internal load with the CH-47 Chinook transport helicopter. To enable the vehicle to be transported inside the CH-47, the central ring mount can be collapsed through

960-452: A jumping W460 240 GD. The G-class was developed as a military vehicle from a suggestion by the Shah of Iran Mohammad Reza Pahlavi to Mercedes and was later offered as a civilian vehicle in 1979. In this military role the vehicle was sometimes referred to as the "Wolf". The Peugeot P4 was a variant made under licence in France with a Peugeot engine. The first military in the world to use it

1056-503: A more luxurious cabin were introduced. New dynamic control systems included the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist, and the 4 wheel Electronic Traction System (4 ETS). The G 55 AMG was upgraded in 2004 with a supercharged V8 engine developing 476 hp. In 2006, a documentary filmmaker was the first foreigner to reach Siberia, the world's coldest region, with a passenger vehicle in winter, driving

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1152-563: A multi-functional steering wheel appearing for the first time, ultrasonic reversing assist, front and rear seat heating, anti-theft alarm system, illuminated thresholds. The interior is made of black and aubergine purple Nappa leather, with black suede carpets embroidered with Classic lettering and fine burr walnut interior elements. A total of 500 Classic Special-Editions of all versions were produced, 6 in RHD configuration and 494 in LHD configuration, with

1248-517: A new variation of W461 called W464 . Over the years, Mercedes-Benz had introduced the civilian version of the W461, built in limited numbers and for a limited period of time. They targeted primarily the consumers who wanted the "stripped down" version and did not need the creature comforts. The engine choice was often limited to one type, namely a diesel engine, per series. Those editions were named PUR or Professional. In 2009, Mercedes-Benz, celebrating

1344-710: A prototype and never went to full production. It has a 228 mm (9.0 in) barrel and is expected to produce muzzle velocities of approximately 730 m/s (2,395 ft/s). It was submitted for the Ultra Compact Individual Weapon contract but lost to the LWRC M6A2 . The M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle is a squad automatic weapon variant developed from the D16.5RS, adopted in 2011 by the United States Marine Corps. In 2018

1440-451: A redesigned lower receiver with ambidextrous fire controls, optimised magazine and ammunition compatibility, a repair kit housed inside the pistol grip, and a Flat Dark Earth colour scheme. The stock has a fixed buttplate and no longer has a storage space, as well as the sling loops removed from it. The V2 HK Battle grip is incorporated, which has the V2 grip profile with the storage compartment of

1536-687: A stock G 500 nearly 19,000 km without a single breakdown, in temperatures as frigid as −63˚F/-53 °C. The W460 was introduced at a press event held at the off-road proving ground in Toulon , France, and went on sale in September 1979 with three engine choices and five body variants. Over the next decade, the engine and transmission choices were expanded or updated along with more and more optional extra cost creature comforts (air conditioning, automatic transmission, power windows, etc.). The G-Wagen gained its global fame in 1980 when Mercedes-Benz built

1632-470: A three-door long wheelbase panel van (Kastenwagen in German), a five-door long wheelbase station wagon, a two-door cabriolet and a two or four-door cab chassis truck (Pritschenwagen in German) for the G 300 CDI Professional. The production of the civilian variant continued through 2019. However, the military variant continued through 2022 when it was replaced by the new W464 model. (183.2 cu in) For 1990,

1728-673: A variant under the MR556A1 Competition Model nomenclature; it comes with a 14.5" free-float Modular Rail System (MRS), 16.5" barrel, OSS compensator and Magpul CTR buttstock. The firearm's precision is specified as 1 MOA by Heckler & Koch. In Europe, the MR223A3 variant is sold with the same cosmetic and ergonomic improvements of the HK416A5. The French importer of Heckler & Koch in France, RUAG Defence, have announced that they are going to sell two civilian versions of

1824-456: A wood floor in the load compartment with load lashing lugs and rails. The dashboard received a new instrument cluster from the W463 and dual air bags and the climate control remained manually operated as did the window winders and locks. The exterior received flexible wheel arch flaring, protective grilles for headlamps, taillamps, front turn signal indicators, a walk-on hood/bonnet for easy access to

1920-408: Is chrome-coloured, and the 5-spoke light-alloy wheels are painted in titanium grey. The B-pillars are fitted with "Final Edition 200" badges. The interior received designo leather seats and door panels coloured in ecru with black trim, satin-finished light brown poplar wood trim, and an AMG performance steering wheel. HK416 The Heckler & Koch HK416 is an assault rifle chambered for

2016-550: Is equipped with run-flat tires which allow the vehicle to continue to be driven, at reduced speeds and for limited distances, after punctures. In addition, the vehicle is fitted with an electric winch which can be mounted on the front or rear bumper for recovery purposes. The VECTOR can be optionally fitted with four hydraulically powered extendable pods which can lift the rear, front or both axles. This feature allows for rapid and convenient tire changes, and quick recovery. The standard variant only has limited ballistic protection in

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2112-538: Is equipped with a proprietary accessory rail forearm with MIL-STD-1913 rails on all four sides. This lets most current accessories for M4/M16-type weapons fit the HK416. The HK416 rail forearm can be installed and removed without tools by using the bolt locking lug as the screwdriver. The rail forearm is "free-floating" and does not contact the barrel, improving accuracy. The HK416 has an adjustable multi-position telescopic butt stock, offering six different lengths of pull. The shoulder pad can be either convex or concave and

2208-419: Is not available to any other Mercedes-Benz models. The paint finish is extended to the cooling grille, bumpers, mirror housings, and fender flares. The interior is trimmed with black leather containing the contrasting element in medium grey colour, including the steering wheel. The walnut veneer was fitted to the centre console, part of the handbrake lever, the two transmission selector levers, and trim elements on

2304-425: Is powered by a 3,200 cc Steyr six-cylinder diesel engine, which produces 220 hp (160 kW) and 500 Nm of torque. The maximum speed is limited at 130 km/h, the 115 L fuel tank gives the VECTOR an operational range of 800 km The Steyr engine is linked to a ZF six-speed automatic transmission . The permanent four-wheel drive with three differentials , the optional four-wheel steering allows for

2400-721: The Bundeswehr ' s Heckler & Koch G36 assault rifle, the U.S. Army's XM8 rifle project (cancelled in 2005) and the British Armed Forces SA80 A2 upgrade programme . The project was originally called the Heckler & Koch M4 , but this was changed in response to a trademark infringement suit filed by Colt Defense . Delta Force replaced its M4s with the HK416D in March 2005, after tests revealed that

2496-564: The 5.56×45mm NATO cartridge . It is designed and manufactured by the German company Heckler & Koch . Although the design is based on the AR-15 class of firearm (specifically the Colt M4 carbine family issued to the U.S. military ), it uses a proprietary short-stroke gas piston system from Heckler & Koch's earlier G36 family of rifles. The HK416 is the standard assault rifle of

2592-685: The G95A1 to supersede the G36 as the standard rifle of the German Armed Forces. The G95A1 is similar to the G95, but it features a height-adjustable shoulder support on the stock, a steeper grip angle as well as a shorter hand guard to comply with the required maximum weight of 3.5 kg (7.72 lb) according to the tender. During field testings the rifle was known as the HK416 A8 . According to

2688-932: The Norwegian Armed Forces and the United States Marine Corps (designated M27 ), and it has been selected by the French Armed Forces to replace the FAMAS and by the German Army to replace the G36 as Service rifle . Other users include the Irish Army Ranger Wing , as well as the US Navy's SEAL Team Six , who used it to kill Osama bin Laden in 2011. The United States Army 's Delta Force , at

2784-862: The United States Marine Corps as the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle (IAR). After the Marine Corps Operational Test & Evaluation Activity supervised a round of testing at MCAGCC Twentynine Palms , Fort McCoy , and Camp Shelby (for dust, cold-weather, and hot-weather conditions, respectively). As of March 2012, fielding of 452 IARs had been completed of 4,748 ordered. Five infantry battalions: 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion and 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines , out of Camp Pendleton ; 1st Battalion, 3rd Marines , out of Marine Corps Base Hawaii ; 1st Battalion, 9th Marines , out of Camp Lejeune ; and 1st Battalion, 25th Marines , out of Fort Devens , have deployed

2880-566: The unibody SUV Mercedes-Benz GL-Class in 2006, the G-Class is still in production and is one of the longest-produced vehicles in Daimler's history, with a span of 45 years. Only the Unimog surpasses it. In 2018, Mercedes-Benz introduced the second-generation W463 with heavily revised chassis, powertrain, body, and interior. In 2023, Mercedes-Benz announced plans to launch a smaller version of

2976-737: The "G Model" beginning in Graz in 1979. In 1980, the Vatican took delivery of a specially made G-Wagen outfitted with a clear thermoplastic top which served as the Popemobile . The "Papa G" later took up permanent residence at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany. The first major refinements were introduced in 1981, including an automatic transmission, air conditioning, an auxiliary fuel tank, protective headlamp grilles and

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3072-520: The 2009 SHOT Show , these two firearms were introduced to the U.S. civilian market renamed respectively MR556 and MR762. There is another variant of the MR556 called the MR556A1, which is an improved version of the former. It was created with input from American special forces units. The MR556A1 lets the upper receiver attach to any M16/M4/AR-15 family lower receiver, as the receiver take-down pins are in

3168-506: The 24-Volt electrical system for the W461. During the 1990s, the W461 was offered with a 2.3-litre four inline petrol engine and a 2.9-litre five inline diesel engine from 1992 to 2001. From 2001 to 2014, the W461 model for military and public authorities was offered with a 2.7-litre inline five turbodiesel engine and later with a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine. They were called G 270 CDI Worker (2001–2006) and G 280 CDI Worker (2007–2009) respectively. On 1 October 2021, Mercedes-Benz announced

3264-401: The 30-year anniversary of the G-Class, introduced the G 280 CDI EDITION.30 PUR as a five-door long wheelbase station wagon. The consumers could order theirs with "Off-Road Package 1" or "Off-Road Package 2". The passenger compartment had four seats upholstered in hard-wearing fabric or vinyl, rubber floor coverings, spray-protected/water-resistant controls, drainage apertures in the footwells, and

3360-661: The 560 GE were built in 1993 as part of a feasibility study that resulted in a limited series of the W463 500 GE for 1993–1994 and the W463 G 500 from 1998 on. This version was assembled from Complete Knock Down ( CKD ) by ELBO , formerly a Steyr-Daimler-Puch branch division, in Thessaloniki , Greece for the Greek Army . Additionally, the CKD was also assembled at Mercedes-Benz's Aksaray plant in Turkey . The engine options were

3456-587: The A5 variant safety selector. The new configuration of the selector is comparable to those of aftermarket 45-degree safety selectors. The G95 also features a HKeyMod rail system, which is more lightweight than the traditional Picatinny rail systems. The HKeyMod rail system is also compatible with the HK416 A5 variant. In March 2021, the German Federal Ministry of Defence announced the adoption of

3552-804: The Federal Procurement Office (BAAINBw Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Use of the Bundeswehr ) the Bundeswehr will receive the weapon designated as G95A1 as the new standard rifle with the Specter DR 1-4× as standard aiming optic. The Kurz or short barrelled version for "specialized forces" will be designated as G95KA1 . Civilian variants of the HK416 and HK417 introduced in 2007 were known as MR223 and MR308 (as they remain known in Europe). Both are semi-automatic rifles with several sporterized features. At

3648-526: The G Model, a new model variant with permanent 4-wheel drive, a wood-trimmed interior and optional Anti-lock Braking System ( ABS ) debuted at the Frankfurt International Motor Show . Production began the following April. For 1992, production began on a new sub-series for professional users. The civilian model began to offer cruise control, a stainless-steel spare-tire cover, running boards and Burl Walnut wood interior trim. In

3744-477: The G-Class, named "little G"—though no definitive date was given for the launch. The 400,000th unit was built on 4 December 2020. The success of the second-generation W463 led to the 500,000th unit milestone three years later in April 2023. The 500,000th model was a special one-off model with agave green paintwork, black front end, and amber turn signal indicators in tribute to the iconic 1979 press release photo of

3840-644: The German federal government as the G38 , according to Strategie-Technik. Heckler & Koch offers the G38 in two barrel lengths, an 11- and 14.5-inch barrel. The G95 is designed for the German KSK and KSM special forces unit. During field testing of the rifle it was known as the HK416 A7 . It is similar to the HK416 A5 variant but with a 45-degree safety selector, that rotates 45 degrees rather than 90 degrees as on

3936-742: The HK416 IAR was designated as the M27 and 450 were procured for additional testing. The Turkish company Makina ve Kimya Endustrisi Kurumu ("Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation") has considered manufacturing a copy of the HK416 as the MKEK Mehmetçik-1 for the Turkish Armed Forces . Instead, the new MPT-76 rifle has been developed by KALEKALIP with MKEK as the producer, with the Mehmetçik-1 dropped from adoption into

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4032-688: The HK416F, named the MR223 F-S (14.5" Standard version) and MR223 F-C (11" Short version). The SIG Sauer SIG516 series and Caracal CAR 816 series share lineage to the Heckler & Koch HK416, whilst omitting many proprietary HK416 components that were exchanged for standard M4 arms family mil-spec conform components. The principal firearms engineers for the SIG516 and CAR 816 were Robert Hirt and Chris Sirois. During his time with Heckler & Koch, Hirt

4128-660: The KCT received the first two prototypes which were subsequently subject to an extensive set of trials. Deliveries of serial production vehicles commenced in December 2017 at the production facilities located in Tiel . In June 2018, the Ministry of Defence announced that Defenture was awarded the contract for an additional 25 vehicles, the complete order therefore amounting to 75 vehicles. Deliveries were completed in July 2020. The VECTOR

4224-639: The Turkish military. The French Armed Forces conducted a rifle evaluation and trial to replace the FAMAS , and selected the HK416F as its primary firearm in 2016. Of the 93,080 rifles, 54,575 will be a "short" version with a 280 mm (11 in) barrel weighing 3.7 kg (8.2 lb) without the ability to use a grenade launcher, and 38,505 will be a "standard" version with a 368 mm (14.5 in) barrel weighing 4 kg (8.8 lb), of which 14,915 will take FÉLIN attachments; standard rifles will be supplied with 10,767 HK269F grenade launchers. 5,000 units are supposed to be delivered in 2017, half of

4320-419: The US regulations. In 1988, the new federal law, Motor Vehicle Safety Compliance Act, closed the loopholes and tightened up the regulations for grey imports, making it more difficult and more expensive for the registered importers to federalise the W460 in a very small number. The other issue was severely underpowered engines in the 230 GE, 280 GE, and 300 GD models might not have appealed to the American market as

4416-515: The USMC decided to adopt the M27 IAR as their infantry standard service rifle. The HK416 A5 is an improved variant with ambidextrous controls that was first seen in the Individual Carbine competition. It features a stock similar to that of the G28 designated marksman rifle , except slimmer and non-adjustable. The rifle features an improved tool-less adjustable gas regulator for suppressor use, which can accommodate barrel lengths down to 267 mm (10.5 in) without modifications. It also features

4512-455: The V1 grip for tools. The handguard uses a new hexagonal-shaped cross bolt that cannot be removed by the bolt locking lugs but instead by the takedown tool housed inside the grip. It has a "heavy duty castle nut", which is more robust than the previous version, therefore making that weak spot more resistant to impact. As of 2013, Heckler & Koch replaced the original HK416 with the A5 variant. In 2014, The HK416 A5 has been type classified by

4608-413: The VECTOR vehicle. Consequently, Defenture submitted the bid and on 3 July 2013 it was announced that Defenture won the tender for a total of 50 vehicles with their VECTOR offer. Other bids included the General Dynamics Flyer . The research and development phase continued after the contract was awarded and involved close cooperation with the Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO) and the end-users. In 2014,

4704-462: The W460 was extensively revised, and a new chassis number, W463, was assigned. The W463 moved the G-Class from spartan and utilitarian to a luxury model on par with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class and the luxurious Range Rover . Thus, no three-door panel vans in short and long wheelbase lengths or barn doors in the rear were offered for the W463: those features are exclusive to the W461. The W461 continued in production as military and utilitarian vehicles for

4800-417: The W460. The rarest W460 variants were the 230 GE 2.6 Brabus (1989–?), the 280 GE AMG, and the 560 GE (1993). Brabus increased the engine displacement of the 2.3-litre four-cylinder inline engine to 2.6 litres, increasing the power to 114 kW (155 PS; 153 bhp). AMG modified the 2.8-litre six-cylinder inline petrol engine for more power, 134 kW (182 PS; 180 bhp). Only two units of

4896-422: The W460/W461, including the 200 GE, 230 GE, and 300 GE models for petrol engines along with the 250 GD and 300 GD for diesel engines. In 1994, the Geländewagen was renamed as the G-Class when model names were revised to reflect the new corporate nomenclature. When Mercedes-Benz didn't consider selling the G-Class in the United States, a small registered importer based in New Mexico, Europa International, Inc., began

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4992-426: The bolt carrier group increases the reliability of the weapon and extends the interval between stoppages. During factory tests the HK416 fired 10,000 rounds in full-auto without malfunctioning. The HK416's piston system was originally self-regulating in theory, but in the default position tends to give increased recoil over an adjustable gas system. A user adjustable gas regulator was added in later variants. The HK416

5088-453: The bulkhead, the front and rear doors and the tailgate. The ballistic protection can be expanded with a 'low' ballistic package, which includes four ballistic panels for the doors and behind the rear seats. The 'high' ballistic package consist of bulletproof windows and a mine protection package. The ballistic packages are compliant with STANAG 4569 Level 1 and provides protection from 5.56×45mm NATO and 7.62 mm caliber munitions fired from

5184-406: The centre of the vehicle and can be equipped with a Browning M2 heavy machine gun or a HK GMG automatic grenade launcher . In addition, the VECTOR is equipped with 10 smoke grenade dischargers : five on the front and five on the rear of the vehicle. The VECTOR can be equipped with a range of communication systems and comes standard with several connectivity options for antennas . Moreover,

5280-414: The chassis was modified to accept the M117 V8 engine and beefed up for extra weight and performance. The V8 engine developed 177 kW (241 PS; 237 hp) and 375 N⋅m (277 lb⋅ft), providing the acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.4 seconds and the top speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). A special paint finish, Amethyst Blue Metallic, is exclusive to 500 GE V8 and

5376-479: The dashboard and centre console, designo exclusive leather upholstery, and door sills with illuminated "Grand Edition" lettering. An armoured version of the long wheelbase G 500 five-door station wagon with bullet resistance level FB6 or FB7. The LIMITED.30 model is a special edition, celebrating the 30-year anniversary of the G-model (1979–2009). This edition includes designo platinum black paint finish, specially designed light-alloy wheels and EDITION30 lettering on

5472-408: The decision of purchasing the distribution rights and including the G-Class in its official US model ranges. The first generation W463 had the widest range of engines ever fitted to a Mercedes-Benz vehicle during its entire 28-year model run: from four to twelve cylinders; and from natural aspiration to supercharger, turbo, and twin turbo. Towards the end of the first-generation model run the W463 had

5568-399: The different branding was due to Puch's reputation for its all-terrain vehicles, the Haflinger and Pinzgauer. Since the agreement expired in 2000, consumers could order a retrofit kit from Magna's Puch Competence Centre to replace the Mercedes-Benz brands with Puch emblems. For Pope John Paul II's visit to Austria in 1983, Puch emblems was used on the Popemobile instead. After the new W463

5664-436: The door cards. To reflect the exclusivity and higher price, the 500 GE V8 is luxuriously appointed with many accessories as standard equipment: air conditioning, automatic gearbox, cruise control, sliding sunroof, heated seats, power central locking system, electric window winders, and like. The retail price for the 500 GE V8 was DM 178,250 ($ 107,381 US at 1993 currency exchange rate and $ 223,138 US (2022, adjusted)). To put

5760-571: The engine compartment in G-Class. The V8 engine option for G-Class was reintroduced in 1998 when the G 500 with M113 V8 engine entered into a regular production. A Puch 500 GE V8 was offered as well: only three units were produced. AMG offered the performance upgrade kit for 500 GE V8 with 6-litre displacement: 500 GE V8 6.0 AMG. The upgrade kit offers the higher output (220 kW (299 PS; 295 hp)), higher top speed (195 km/h (121 mph)) and quicker acceleration (10.4 seconds to 100 km/h from zero). 13 units of 500 GE V8 received

5856-485: The expensive process of certifying and modifying the G-Class for the US market and started selling them in 1993. When the new G 500 was introduced in 1998, Europa International sought and received the "small-volume manufacturer status", allowing the company to be the exclusive importer and distributor of the G 500 in the United States. The sales success of the G 500 was attributed to Europa International's clever marketing toward high-end luxury clientele and led Mercedes-Benz to

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5952-475: The front numberplate attached to the top of the bumper. The front bumpers are form-fitted and have integrated fog lamps while the rear bumpers have the integrated red rear fog lamp and white reversing lamp. The fuel filler is now covered by a panel. The side running boards were given a standard fitment. The external rear view mirrors have a new housing that pivots on anchors attached to the front doors. New revised tail lamps without white reversing lamps were fitted in

6048-441: The front turn signal indicators, designo leather upholstery in black/sand colour, a carbon fibre dashboard and centre console trims and an edition logo, e.g. "1 out of 79", placed in front of the gear selector. The vehicle was unveiled in 2009 at the Dubai International Motor Show. The BA3 Final Edition was launched in 2011 to mark the final production run of the three-door, short wheelbase station wagon. The single model variation

6144-409: The government agencies and non-government organisations. The exterior was revised to smoothen out the front end and the front fenders/wings were vertically flattened out at the front underneath headlamps. The fender flares and front end (cooling grille and headlamp bezels) were painted in body colour. The headlamps have square and slightly recessed bezels whilst the grille is narrower to give space for

6240-560: The highest number of paint colour options at 22, including the bright and intense colours of the Crazy Color Edition . The W463 had the highest number of body variations and derivations of any post-war Mercedes-Benz: Mercedes-Benz premiered a special edition of G-Class with its first-ever V8 engine at 1993 Geneva International Motor Show . The 500 GE V8 was available in 5-door, long wheelbase station wagon and for one year, 1993, only. The completed body and chassis were shipped from Graz, Austria to AMG engineering centre in Affalterbach where

6336-607: The instrument cluster has a smoother and more curved housing that meets the dashboard fluidly. The gauges are integrated into one panel rather than a few separate gauges attached to the instrument cluster. The climate control panel was revised to include the temperature and fan speed dials and the door panels are fully trimmed with ruffled leather paneling and soft paddings. The seats are more plush and have several defined cushions along with lumbar support. The new features included ABS and full-time four-wheel-drive with electrically locking differentials . The engines were carried over from

6432-572: The majority being long-wheelbase models and only 12 Cabrio models (the rarest G-Class Cabrio model ever produced until the end of production of the G-Class Cabrio in 2014). The 500 units of the G 500 and G 55 AMG Grand Edition were built and shipped to the United States when Mercedes-Benz decided to end the sales of G-Class in the United States for 2006 before rescinding its decision. The exterior had an exclusive Allanite Grey Magno metallic paint finish and brushed aluminium trim stripes with "Grand Edition" lettering. The interior had matte-silk wood trim on

6528-405: The new magazines could be combat-ready by spring of 2008 if testing went well. In December 2009, a modified version of the HK416 was selected for the final testing in the Infantry Automatic Rifle program, designed to partially replace the M249 light machine gun at the squad level for the United States Marine Corps. It beat the three other finalists by FN Herstal and Colt Defense. In July 2010,

6624-428: The optional roof rack, a towing lug attached to the front bumper and two-section barn doors at the rear. The success of the limited series "EDITION.30 PUR" led to the G 280 CDI Professional in 2009 and its successor, the G 300 CDI Professional, in 2010. Initially the 280 CDI Professional was limited to a five-door long wheelbase station wagon design before the body variants were expanded to five different body variations:

6720-413: The order delivered by 2022, and the order fulfilled by 2028. The first batch of 400 rifles was delivered on 3 May 2017. The HK416 was one of the weapons displayed to U.S. Army officials during an invitation-only Industry Day on 13 November 2008. The goal of the Industry Day was to review current carbine technology prior to writing formal requirements for a future replacement for the M4 carbine. The HK416

6816-434: The original classic G-Class, but benefited from the technical developments of the new generation released in 2000. All Classic Special-Edition G-Class receive unique 18" alloy wheels painted in body color inside, with exterior elements painted in vehicle color, Classic inscription strip on the side of the vehicle, stainless steel and painted spare wheel cover, new instrument cluster, equipped with Becker navigation and Hi-Fi with

6912-421: The piston operating system significantly reduces malfunctions while increasing the life of parts. The HK416 has been tested by the United States military and is in use with some law enforcement agencies. It has been adopted as the standard rifle of the Norwegian Armed Forces (2008) and the French Armed Forces (2017) and is used by many special operations units worldwide. A modified variant underwent testing by

7008-468: The price in perspectives, a 1993 300 GE (the top-of-line G-Class in a regular production) was DM 88,500, and a 1993 W140 500 SE with M119 V8 engine was DM 129,030. The production was initially to be limited to 500 units, signifying the "500" in model name: 446 units were actually produced and sold. Mercedes-Benz had a remaining batch of 446 M117 V8 engines when the next-generation M119 production started for W140 S-Class. The wider M119 engine could not fit

7104-435: The rear. The interior was significantly updated with wood trim and leather upholstery for the first time. The centre console is smoother and better integrated with the dashboard and the lower part of the dashboard is covered with rubber pads for better knee protection in the event of a frontal collision. The electric differential lock switches are placed prominently in the middle of the dashboard with other electric switches and

7200-678: The rear. The mastermind JAPAN skull and bone badges were affixed to the headrests and spare wheel cover. The interior was done in black leather trim with the roof liner finished in light grey Alcantara. Exclusive to the Japanese market, 100 units of the G 550 Night Edition were produced with a black paint finish, AMG badges on the front fenders/wings and five twin-spoke, aluminium wheels finished in titanium grey. Two choices of interior colours were offered: porcelain white (60 units) and classic red (40 units). The dashboard and centre console were trimmed with designo piano lacquer black wood. The roof liner

7296-548: The replacement vehicles should be transportable in and under the CH-47 Chinook transport helicopters of the Royal Netherlands Air Force . Dutch entrepreneur Gerard Rond, who had extensive experience in the rallying branch, created the consortium Defenture which incorporated (among others) VDL Groep and TenCate . The consortium developed the Groundforce (GRF) platform which became the basis of

7392-455: The request of R&D NCO Larry Vickers , collaborated with Heckler & Koch to develop a new carbine in the 1990s for use in close quarters combat . At this point, they were equipped with the Heckler & Koch MP5 , whose 9 mm bullet was considered too weak, and the M4 carbine, which was considered too large. During development, Heckler & Koch capitalized on experience gained developing

7488-512: The risk of slam-firing , the HK416 features a proprietary firing pin safety in the bolt. This firing pin safety limits the HK416 upper to working with standard AR-15 type full height hammers in the fire control group of the lower. In July 2007, the U.S. Army announced a limited competition between the M4 carbine, FN SCAR , HK416, and the previously shelved HK XM8 . Ten examples of each of the four competitors were involved. Each weapon fired 60,000 rounds in an extreme dust environment. The shoot-off

7584-478: The same special edition treatment to the G 500/G 550 even though the five-door long wheelbase station wagon would continue for several more years. As a brand awareness collaboration for the Fashion Week, Mercedes-Benz Japan and mastermind JAPAN built five units for the Japanese market. Externally, the chrome trims and wheels were done in black paint finish, and two stickers were affixed to the side panels at

7680-497: The same standard location. The original concept for the MR556 did not allow for this, as the take-down pins were located in a "non-standard" location. The MR223 maintains the "non-standard" location of the pins, disallowing attachment of the upper receiver to the lower receivers of any other M16/M4/AR-15 family of rifles. As of 2012, the MR556A1 upper receiver group fits standard AR-15 lower receivers without modification, and functions reliably with standard STANAG magazines. HK-USA sells

7776-408: The same year, the 100,000th G Model was built in Graz and in 1994, the model line was officially renamed the G-Class. Ventilated front disc brakes and a driver's air bag became standard. In 1996 the automatic transmission became an electronically controlled 5-speed unit and headlamp washers, cruise control, and a front passenger's air bag were added. In 1998, the range-topping G 500 with a 296 hp V8

7872-404: The stock features a storage space for maintenance accessories, spare electrical batteries or other small kit items. It can also be switched out for other variations like Magpul stocks. The trigger pull is 34  N (7.6  lb f ). The empty weight of a HK416 box magazine is 250 g (8.8 oz). The HK416's barrel is cold hammer-forged with a 20,000-round service life and features

7968-554: The team in Graz developed the production plans. The first wooden model was presented to Daimler-Benz management in 1973, with the first drivable prototype beginning various testing including German coalfields, the Sahara Desert, and the Arctic Circle in 1974. Construction commenced on a new production facility in Graz, where the new cross-country vehicle would be assembled nearly entirely by hand in 1975, with production of

8064-510: The upgrade kit. In 1999, the luxuriously equipped G 500 Classic Special-Edition model was unveiled to mark the 20th anniversary of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. All Classic Special-Edition models were equipped with the 500 V8 engine, all of them received a special Almandinschwarz-Metallic (182) paintwork, which in certain lighting conditions looks black or dark aubergine purple. This limited series design inherited everything from

8160-601: The use of several hinges while the weapon does not have to be dismounted. Additionally, the VECTOR can be transported in a 20-foot container . Mercedes-Benz G-Class#W461 (1992–2022) The Mercedes-Benz G-Class , colloquially known as the G-Wagon or G-Wagen (as an abbreviation of Geländewagen ), is a four-wheel drive luxury SUV manufactured by Magna Steyr (formerly Steyr-Daimler-Puch ) in Graz , Styria , Austria and sold by Mercedes-Benz . Originally developed as

8256-527: The vehicle can be fitted with counter-IED equipment and signals jammers . The VECTOR is fitted with blackout lighting and infrared lighting for tactical situations that require the usage of night-vision goggles . The rear and sides of the vehicle are fitted with external weapon mounts for personal weapons, such as the HK416 , and short-range anti-tank weapons , such as the M72 LAW and AT4 . The VECTOR

8352-598: The weapon. In December 2017, the Marine Corps revealed a decision to equip every Marine in an infantry squad with the M27. The HK416 uses a proprietary short-stroke gas piston system that derives from the HK G36. The HK system uses a short-stroke piston driving an operating rod to force the bolt carrier to the rear. This design prevents combustion gases from entering the weapon's interior—a shortcoming with direct impingement systems. The reduction in heat and fouling of

8448-553: The wings. The interior has designo leather in the colour "chablis" and designo trim in anthracite poplar wood. Like the LIMITED.30 special edition, the "Edition 79" is exclusive to the Middle East market, celebrating the sales launch in 1979. This edition includes designo magno alanite grey paint finish, a crash bar at the front, carbon fibre side trim stripes, 19-inch AMG wheels with titanium finish, chrome protection grilles for

8544-401: Was Alcantara in anthracite colour. The sales price was ¥ 13,900,000 JPY. To commemorate the production end of the two-door cabriolet, Mercedes-Benz introduced the "Final Edition 200" with the G 500 being the only model variation. All of the 200 units had been sold out prior to its premiere at 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show . Externally, the soft top and tonneau cover are beige in colour, the grille

8640-448: Was G 350 CDI BlueTEC. This farewell special is distinguished by body-coloured AMG flared wheel arches with 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, carbon optics stripes, an AMG radiator grille, 18-inch alloys, extra chrome trims inside and outside, black leather interior offset by walnut burr veneers and ambient lighting. At the same time, Mercedes-Benz offered the "Edition Select" special for the five-door model, G 500. Edition Selection applies

8736-481: Was for assessing future needs, not to select a replacement for the M4. The XM8 scored the best, with only 127 stoppages in 60,000 total rounds, the FN SCAR Light had 226 stoppages, while the HK416 had 233 stoppages. The M4 carbine scored "significantly worse" than the rest of the field with 882 stoppages. However, magazine failures caused 239 of the M4's 882 failures. Army officials said, in December 2007, that

8832-420: Was introduced for series production. For 1999 a limited run of V8 powered "G 500 Classic" special editions marked the model's 20th anniversary. A multifunction steering wheel was added to all models. Later in the year, the new G 55 AMG debuted as the most powerful G-Class yet, with 354 hp. The U.S. market launch of the G-Class took place in 2001. New alloy wheels, a chrome grille and body-colour bumpers plus

8928-484: Was introduced in 1989 with an extensively updated chassis and a revised front end, the production of the W460 ended in 1991 and was replaced by the W461. The W461 has essentially the same chassis as the W460 but with the powertrain of the W463 and the body of the W460. While the W463 is aimed at consumers who seek more creature comforts and better driving dynamics, the W461 is built specifically for military, public authorities, and non-governmental organisations. That included

9024-608: Was the Argentine Army (Ejército Argentino) beginning in 1981 with the military model 461, at least one of these was captured in the Falklands and subsequently served with the Royal Air Force . The development of the G-Class started in 1972 with a cooperative agreement between Daimler-Benz and Steyr-Daimler-Puch in Graz, Austria. Mercedes-Benz engineers in Stuttgart were in charge of design and testing, while

9120-403: Was the case with the Mercedes-Benz 380 SEL in the early 1980s. The 200 GE was built specifically for Italian markets and other markets where a heavy tax penalty was incurred for engines larger than 2 litres. The 300 GD was the most popular model while the 280 GE was the most powerful. Despite the availability of turbocharged diesel engines in other Mercedes-Benz vehicles, one was never fitted to

9216-559: Was then an entry in the Individual Carbine competition to replace the M4. The weapon submitted was known as the HK416 A5 . The Individual Carbine competition was cancelled before a winning weapon was chosen. The HK416 chambered for 5.56×45mm NATO is offered in multiple barrel lengths available to the military and law enforcement market only. The HK416C "C" for Compact is an ultra-compact version that only remained as

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