M ER C ED E S G
ENTD E C KE R EXPEDITION VEHICLE 2013 VERSION
M ER C ED E S G
ENTD EC KER EXPEDITION VEHICLE
THE CONCEPT “ENTDECKER” is German for explorer and discoverer. An appropriate name for a vehicle designed, accessorized and built in Germany/Austria and created by a team with over 30 years of experience in G-wagen based overland adventure travel. The “Entdecker” is the ultimate safari vehicle in terms of performance, comfort and reliability - allowing complete independent and self sufficient travel almost anywhere on the planet. This vehicle uses the latest version of the legendary Mercedes Benz/Styer Puch G 461 model ,the G 280-G300 CDI , professional/ Green Line with military specifications. The G461 professional / green Line model distinguishes itself from the standard 463 series mainly by a more rugged finish as well as its reinforced chassis and axles. It also comes equipped with a special electrical system which provides both a 24V and a 12V circuitry. From this starting point all the necessary expedition accessories have been added to create the ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE. Particular attention has been paid to keep the highest possible robustness and strength while minimizing overall weight. The additional accessory weight exists mostly at the lowest center gravity point and between the axles - in order to ensure best possible off-road capabilities and handling.
THE HISTORY : 1980-2008
NEW ROADS ...
EARLY MERCEDES G WAGENS IN ACTION WHY APPROPRIATE TIRE PRESSURE CAN BE SO IMPORTANT...
EARLY GPS...
YEAR AFTER YEAR, ADVENTURE AFTER ADVENTURE, KILOMETER AFTER KILOMETER, THIS GROUP OF ADVENTURERS LEARNED , THE FUN WAY WHAT IT WOULD TAKE TO CREATE THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE.
30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE THIS IS WHY HAVING A SPARE WINDSCREEN CAN BE SO USEFUL !
DRIVING AND TESTING THE G-WAGENS TO THEIR LIMITS..
THE HISTORY 1980-‐2008
30 years of designing, tes1ng, and dreaming... Now you can explore the earth on your terms, on your 1me, in this state of the art Overland Expedi1on Vehicle.
2008 - 2010 : THE FIRST SERIES OF PRODUCED ENTDECKERS IN ACTION
Between 2008 and 2009 the first group of Mercedes G Entdeckers were first conceived and then produced. Since then they have been successfully in use under all sorts of extreme and harsh conditions while efforts for further development and improvements have not stopped !
2008 - 2010 : THE FIRST SERIES OF PRODUCED ENTDECKERS IN ACTION
THE G “ ENTDECKER”
THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE
THE G “ ENTDECKER”
THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE
THE G “ ENTDECKER”
THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE
THE G “ ENTDECKER”
THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE
SPECIFICATIONS SPECIFICATIONS The lightweight and compact V6, CDI diesel engine, with 3 liters capacity, offers superb performance (183 Hp/400 Nm) with excellent fuel economy. The G300 CDI is capable of achieving 13-14 liters per 100 km. The motor also meets EURO IV or V fuel emission limits (depending on configuration). Cruise control can also be fitted as an option.
The Entdecker comes with 2 separate factory fitted electrical circuits,including 2 alternators (one with 12V and one with 24 V),and 3 batteries as well as many other heavy-duty �military� options.
The gearbox is an automatic 5-gear tip-tronic used in the latest military version - with low and high range gears. All 3 differentials are 100% electrically lockable.
Motor starter is 24V operated, however if the 24 V power supply is flat ,an emergency button (1) placed next to the steering wheel,temporarily joins the 12 V circuit and still allows starting.
SPECIFICATIONS
Should all batteries be flat ,a rapid jump starting can be operated via a so called 24V “Nato plug� which is factory fitted to each Entdecker by using a suitable jumper cable.
The vehicles are also factory fitted with battery isolator switches on the console that operates both the 12V and the 24V circuits.
The Entdecker is factory fitted with high performance air conditioning providing comfort in any environment even in extremely hot areas!
flexible brake pipes can be fitted as an option A moderate 30 mm body lift, is available upon request and achieved by mounting specially developed dense Polyurethane spring spacers which are mounted between axle and spring, Special bump stops have been fitted to reducing further vibration and shocks. protect axles.
SPECIFICATIONS FUEL We have extended the already generous traveling range of the standard 96 liter fuel tank by adding 2 additional fuel tanks: a permanent tank fitted under the rear bench seat which has a 64 liters capacity, as well as a second optional removable tank (that can be easily mounted anytime if there are no rear passengers traveling) which has a 70 liter capacity. The 70 liter tank is coupled to the 64 liters tank, allowing the vehicle to carry a total of 230 liters - giving the Entdecker a remarkable range without refueling or the need of carrying separate fuel jerry cans.
Filling of the 2 additional tanks is achieved by electrically pumping fuel from the main tank. This eliminates the possibility of any diesel smell during filling (or worse, as a result of spills), which often happens when filling auxiliary tanks from inside the passenger compartment.
Supplementary Removable 70 liter tank
Permanent 64 liter tank
SPECIFICATIONS
A supplementary 7 liter round jerry can has been fitted inside the spare wheel to carry spare engine oil, or emergency fuel. (A 9 liter version can be specially ordered) The jerry can is locked to the wheel and can be hidden under the spare wheel cover. Spare wheel carrier has been accordingly modified and reinforced to carry extra weight.
Example with only the one permanent 64 liter tank and rear passenger bench fitted
Safety ball valves are fitted under the floor of the vehicle to allow drainage and recovery of fuel even in the case of a main pump failure.
Permanent 64 liter tank
Example with both tanks (incl. supplementary removable 70 liter tank ) and fridge support shelf
Supplementary Removable 70 liter tank
A supplementary additional fuel filter with water separator and drainage can be fitted on request.
SPECIFICATIONS WATER
A lockable external inlet at the rear of the vehicle discretely hidden under a spade, makes filling the tank a breeze.
The vehicle is also equipped with a specially designed polyethylene water tank with a capacity of 86 liters.
This water is intended for cooking and washing purposes as we think that generally it is more practical to carry drinking water in recyclable plastic bottles. However, in case of emergency these 86 liters of water should be enough to sustain 2 passengers for almost 10 days - even under extreme conditions. The tank was manufactured out of polyethylene to ensure the quality of drinking water as well as for its lightness and ease to clean (by removing the 2 specifically made large threaded caps)
The tank is hidden by a specially designed platform, which covers and protects the tank the pump and the custom made drawer system and allows loading and securing of further cargo on top
DRAWER SYSTEM The ENTDECKER has been outfitted with a double drawer system. These heavy-duty drawers run on double ball sliders to ensure the smoothest action even under the heaviest loads. The left drawer is accessible from the outside of the vehicle by opening just the left half of the rear door - providing easy access to the frequently used accessories. The drawer system is locked by compression latches, preventing any rattles, and is secured to the back shelf which has a non slip deck surrounded by countersunk anodized black aluminum extrusions, the same fasteners used in airplanes to secure cargo.
DRAWER SYSTEM
A convenient water tap is fitted into the rear bumper, as well as quick coupling for connecting of a shower.
A specially designed adapter allows to hook shower head on the vehicle gutter, so that it can be positioned where most convenient .top surface is flat so it can be used to deposit soap or shampoo.
GAS SHOCKS OPERATED SELF OPENING TENT WITH CARBON FIBER SHELLS
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We asked Italy’s most experienced tent producer, AUTOHOME, to produce a special version of their AIRTOP tent for the Entdecker. Made with carbon fiber shells (powder The tent has 3 (OPTIONALLY 4 ) fully closable entry doors on each side of coated in the same color as the vehicle) for reduced weight and increased robustness, the the car, (all fitted with separate mosquito netting) as well as a windows in rooftop tent was designed to have the lowest possible weight on top of the roof (highest the front or rear for additional ventilation center gravity point of car).
The tent is also equipped with an internal light and is designed in such a way that sleeping bags, cushions and night clothing can be stored inside the tent even when the tent is closed for traveling. An elastic net is fitted to the top shell for storing shoes and other objects while using the tent. Opening and closing takes only few seconds and is very easy and simple.
ACCESSIBILITY TO TENT The new tent design allows entry also (besides from each side) from front and/or rear, allowing multiple ways of access. Accessing can therefore be achieved by a lightweight carbon fiber ladder placed on the side of the vehicle or alternatively by climbing over the optionally available walkable motor bonnet and then using a smaller more compact ladder, which hooks onto roof carrier and can be stored in the tent.
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ALTERNATIVE FRONT HINGED TENT MODEL WITH CARBON FIBER SHELLS Alternatively also a front hinged version of the, tent (which allows even easier opening and closing) can be fitted to the Entdecker; the tent has two side and one rear entries. The perfect solution to allow you to stop anytime anywhere for a comfortable sleep!!
A permanently fitted ladder attached to the rear door can be used to access tent through the rear entry. In this case there is no need to carry and store a separate ladder inside the vehicle, and access is immediate without the need of any set up.
WALKABLE BONNET This optionally available walkable motor bonnet , also serves as an excellent high positioned viewing point during daily activities ,and at the same time facilitates tent closing and opening operation.
In alternative to the heavy duty walkable bonnet, some customized aluminum plates can be attached to the bonnet to allow walkability.
INTERNAL NET STORAGE SYSTEM A storage system consisting of an adjustable elastic net sustained by 3 carbon fiber telescopic pipes has been developed and fitted to the Entdeckers. This is ideal for storing lightweight objects, such as Jackets, hats, blankets towels etc.
The strong but lightweight carbon fiber telescopic poles also allow the stowing , holding and securing of heavier objects, like sand plates, lightweight tables, ladders, fishing rods etc. The net is elastic and can also be tightened further as required.
THE G “ ENTDECKER�
Additional telescopic pipes can be fitted to hold various other objects, like kitchen paper, toilet paper etc. THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE SPECIFICATIONS
CUSTOM FRONT RUNNER ROOF RACK The South African specialist for “African terrain proof” roof carriers and 4x4 equipment, FRONT RUNNER, have produced a special model of roof carrier for the Entdecker and for the Autohome tent.
It is made entirely of welded and bent aluminum extrusions that are powder-coated to achieve a stylish and long lasting finish. Once again, every effort has been made to achieve a robust product that is light and at the same time aesthetically pleasing .
A total of 8 robust legs are used to hold the rack securely to the Entdeker’s roof gutters
SPADE a practical and easily accessible spade has been conveniently placed behind spare wheel. This allows easy access and no wind noise and also nicely hides and protects the lockable water filling point.
SAND PLATES Since the entdecker is able to cruise at considerably high speeds for a vehicle of this kind, in order to reduce wind noise and also with the advantage to avoiding interference when opening and closing the tent, the sand plates have now been moved from roof carrier sides. and accommodated either under the tent mattress or inside the vehicle cabinet (secured over the carbon fiber poles of the net system) . A special neoprene bag has been produced for this purpose..Various models of sand plates are available from Carbon fiber to other composite materials to help whenever additional traction is required.
DOUBLE REAR DOORS The vehicles have been ordered with 2 rear doors, to ease access and allow opening of the left door without having to disengage the spare wheel carrier. The draw storage unit is also split to allow the left-hand draw to open with just the left side door open.
FOLDABLE TABLES IN REAR DOORS Two very practical foldable table,have been developed to fold out from rear doors panels. The height of the folded out tables is slightly higher then the loading platform of boot compartment, allowing opening of draws even with the folded out tables, and resulting in table surfaces being at ideal height for use while standing behind the Entdecker. The empty internal part of the door can then be used for practical additional storage easy to access!
ADDITIONAL DUST FILTER An additional dust filter for the air that comes into the vehicle cabinet has been developed and fitted to the Entdeckers.
RECHARGEABLE TORCH An extra bright rechargeable torch (Li-ion battery and therefore without memory effect even under continuous charge) has been mounted under steering wheel ensuring additional lighting when needed
A practical 24 V socket has been fitted in the right rear door to allow easy connection of 24V kettle which can provide effortless boiling water in a matter of minutes. A coffee or tea break is possible almost instantly even in the middle of no-where !
AIR INTAKE WITH SNORKEL The air intake has been fitted with an original MercedesBenz snorkel (developed specifically for this G model) to allow deeper wading when crossing rivers and to supply less dusty air (due to its higher intake point) to the engine providing better efficiency and longer engine component life.
BARBECUE GRID A round barbecue grid, is attached to the spare wheel carrier. This is a convenient way to carry an item which is always dirty from ashes . Having fix legs (not foldable)this grid is very solid . At the same time it is easy to adjust the height (distance of cooking surface) from coals simply by pushing it at different depth into the soil.
Latest version is now made of stainless steel, with one solid section to facilitate cooking with pots and preparing certain type of food.
DUSTBIN BAG OVER SPARE WHEEL A spare wheel cover that includes a drained dustpan bag allows easy carrying of garbage outside the vehicles cabinet, saving space and avoiding the risk of unpleasant spills and smells.
ELBOW REST Practical patented arm rest fits between glass and door and allows positioning in desired position providing comfortable support for resting of elbow Available left and right as option.
ELECTRIC WINCH INTEGRATED IN FRONT BUMPER A 24 V electric winch fully integrated in a customized bumper is available as an option.the bumper maintains the same shape of the original factory fitted bumper and. is designed for additional very easy fitment (can be mounted just for specific trips) of a special bull bar, for protection of front of vehicle. Winch remote control plug, has been positioned in a protected position under the snorkel, which allows remote control operation also from driver seat.
EASY MOUNTABLE & REMOVABLE BULL BAR A lightweight but robust customized bull bar (not legal in certain countries) for radiator and lights protection is available for fitment when traveling to areas where this additional protection is desired . The bull bar can be easily fitted and removed with simple bolts, and no trace or mounting bracket are visible when removed. the plain bumper is left clean and tidy.
PROTECTION OF RADIATOR AGAINST GRASS AND SEEDS A practical and effective fine net is provided for mounting in front of radiators in case of crossing areas with high grass
ALUMINUM SPLIT RIMS WITH BEADLOCKS We have equipped the vehicles with specialized split rims fitted with beadlocks. These allow removing and replacing the tire in the event of a puncture without have to remove the actual rim from the vehicle.
Even more importantly, the beadlock allows reducing pressure inside the tires to values as low as 0.5 bars without the risk of the tires slipping off the rim. This provides major traction advantages when driving in deep sand or snow.
Touch screen programmable tire air pressure and temperature monitor is also part of the optional available accessories
TIRES As an option we can fit vehicles with larger tires such as 255/85/16 which result in additional ground clearance. These tires also allow to safely drive the G Entdecker ,at slightly lower tire pressure than the standard tires resulting in a softer and consequently more comfortable ride and reducing overall vibrations and wear.
ON BOARD TIRE PRESSURE ADJUSTMENT Each vehicle is outfitted with 2 separate powerful 24 volts operated air compressors and an air tank to provide pressurized air at all times. We have chosen to fit 2 smaller compressors (rather than one large model) to guarantee the ability to pump air in the case one of the compressors fail. These are coupled to a special pressure regulator that allows the pressure of all four tires to be simultaneously adjusted (increased or decreased) in minutes. This can be achieved by simply connecting our custom designed air hoses to quick couplings which are placed next to the rear doors on each side of the vehicle.
There is also an air nozzle gun that can be connected a 5th quick coupling directly connected to the air tank, which is very useful for blowing/ cleaning in and around the vehicle.
ADJUST PRESSURE OF ALL 4 TIRES SIMULTANEOUSLY WITHIN MINUTES Simply connect the 4 specially designed braided hoses to the quick couplings fitted by each of the rear doors and the valves of the tires and you can adjust pressure of all 4 tires simultaneously to the desired pressure. 2 powerful 24 volts operated compressor provide enough air to pump up tires quickly to normal levels once this is needed again.
LIFTING SYSTEM In an effort to reduce overall weight and make the process more user friendly we have replaced the traditional (very heavy and dangerous if used without the necessary attention) Hi lift jack with a special inflatable cushion as used by fire brigade and rescue forces. This cushion can be connected almost instantly to the on board pressurized air system. and is capable of inflating from original thickness of only 2,5 cm to about 22 cm ,of lifting over 20 tons of weight in seconds. one or more of these can be provided as an option, along with suitable connection hoses. being a quick and effortless instrument when vehicle needs to be lifted
original MB Jack is also maintained in its bracket under passenger seat compartment.
EMERGENCY FLEXIBLE SOLAR PANEL A flexible (rollable) solar panel is available as back up emergency to recharge vehicle batteries or to power / recharge electronic devices.
INTERIOR The Entdecker Interior is basic but robust. Windows are manually operated, with controls for only the most important features. There is however, the much-needed map reading light. There are both 24V as well as 12V plugs that are factory fitted on the dashboard. As an option we can fit a supplementary POD that is fitted on top of the dashboard, which offers additional space for extra controls or devices (in the picture IPHONE cradle, 2 way radio and Garmin GPS cradle). The POD can incorporate (contain internally) all the necessary transformers and cables for these supplementary devices, resulting in a neater central console. Several elastic nets, provide useful additional secure storage possibilities.
A C P O W E R S U P P LY: A powerful 24V inverter can be invisibly mounted on top of passenger foot compartment and provide 110 to 240 V AC for charging camera batteries or whatever needed.
Standard Mercedes G461 seats can be replaced with more comfortable Mercedes G 463 series seats
Additional very convenient and useful storage compartments are fitted between driver seat and the central 3rd battery /fuse compartment, behind same, and over each of the sun protection visors
COMPUTER AND NAVIGATION.As an option we can fit inside glove compartments a fan-less computer with integrated GPS and navigation, connected to a touch screen monitor that flips down from ceiling.
COMMUNICATION: A 2 way radio can be optionally fitted with removable control panel placed on central pod. A satellite phone with external antenna (placed in a protected position) can be fully integrated in vehicle CAMERA ON REAR BUMPER: An optional camera connected to the monitor can assist when reversing or also when driving ahead with obstructed rear view.
NIGHT VISION : An active infrared camera can be optionally fitted to allow or enhance night vision, being also useful in dust condition. Camera is mounted on special magnets and can be placed as required on bonnet or wings .Image is displayed on tilt down screen. Alternatively it can also be permanently incorporated in the front grill.
NATIONAL LUNA REFRIGERATOR / FREEZER We have equipped each vehicle with 2 separate stainless steel fridge-freezer units. These are connected to operate from the 24V circuit. Connection is through rugged military metal plugs and sockets with a unique water tight sealing cap that protects the socket when not in use. This keeps these accessories off the engine’s circuitry providing unparalleled reliability. We chose NATIONAL LUNA as they boast superior cooling power and exceptional efficiency even in the harshest environments.
Each of the 2 units can be easily set to work at positive (refrigerator) or negative (freezer) temperatures, to suit specific needs. We have designed a special platform for these 2 units to fit over the permanent auxiliary fuel tank when there are no rear passengers. This also allows easy access of these appliances from driver and co-driver seats. When more people are traveling and the rear bench is fitted, the units can be moved to the trunk/rear part of the vehicle. There is sufficient unused empty space in front of the fridge to store and secure traveling luggage and other supplies.
SECURING STRATCHIT SYSTEM An innovative strapping system called stratchit is available for securing cargo. The stratchit are made of an adjustable strap connected to a very strong elastic section. Tightening is achieved by pulling the strap and the elastic section ensures a constant pull action. Fastening-securing as well as releasing of cargo becomes effortless.
The chairs can support people that weigh up to 115 kg and once folded only occupies 43 x 5 x 40 cm of space!
Each ENTDECKER is equipped with 2 of Expander chairs. More are available as an option.
SUPER COMPACT CAMPING CHAIRS The EXPANDER is the perfect camp chair both comfortable and robust while small enough, once folded, to be easily stored. The Expander fits perfectly inside the ENTDECKER’S custom drawer system or it can be stored in the aluminum boxes that fit on top of the draw system.
SECOND SPARE WHEEL OR TIRE
The Entdecker comes with a second spare tire which can be fitted on or off a rim inside the luggage compartment, As an alternative, in order to gain more space inside it is also possible to fit a second complete spare wheel on a second twin swing holder on the left rear side of the vehicle.
CAD DESIGN There was only one way to design and deliver the ultimate expedition vehicle, which was using Computer Aided Design (CAD). This allowed us to optimize space utilization and provide a first time fit for all the accessories.
MERCEDES G ENTDECKER .... THE WORLD AWAITS YOUR ADVENTURE ! THE G “ ENTDECKER”
THE ULTIMATE EXPEDITION VEHICLE
MERCEDES G ENTDECKER .... THE WORLD AWAITS YOUR ADVENTURE !
MERCEDES G ENTDECKER .... THE WORLD AWAITS YOUR ADVENTURE !
FOR INQUIRIES CONTACT:
DIMES SA, Via Zurigo 35, 6901 Lugano, SWITZERLAND Phone +41 91 923 37 61 Fax +41 91 923 98 86
Email: dimes@dimes-lugano.net internet: www.mercedes-g-entdecker.com