Sources at Mercedes-Benz have apparently confirmed to AutoWeek (Detroit automagazine) that the Maybach brand will officially be killed in 2013. The decision comes after 10 years of disappointing sales of its Maybach 57 and 62 sedans.
Daimler AG CEO Dieter Zetsche has decided against developing successors to Maybach modes, which were supposed to hit roads in 2014. Word has it that Zetsche would much rather focus the attention and resources towards Mercedes-Benz.
What happened to all those reports we heard about Aston Martin working with Mercedes-Benz to develop a next-generation line of Maybachs? The source says all those talks were killed off in early 2011.
“We’ve come to the conclusion that it is better to cut our losses with Maybach than to continue into an uncertain future with a brand that has failed to live up to original sales expectations,” the insider told AutoWeek. “Plans are already in place to fill the void left by the axing of the Maybach 57 and 62 with the next-generation S-class, which will be offered in three wheelbase variations and six different body styles, including a top-of-the-range S600 Pullman.”
Mayback was brought back to life by Mercedes-Benz in 2002 after the company failed to buy Rolls-Royce and Bentley from Vickers – which sold the two brands to Volkswagen. Volkswagen eventually sold Rolls-Royce to BMW.
Nice knowing you Maybach.
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See more pictures of 2011 Maybach 62S –
Source – AutoWeek
