Ares Design is the newest coachbuilding company with its headquarters in Modena, Italy. Modena is well known for being the birthplace of many legendary sports cars so the location is a perfect choice.
Created by ex-Lotus boss Dany Bahar, Ares Design wants to offer a modern solution to the forgotten art of coachbuilding. The first vehicle released is called the X-Raid and is a 760hp monster based on a Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG. It features a carbon fiber and aluminum body to shave off weight. Over 200 kgs were lost in this process. Most of the parts have been re-designed; including headlights, rear lights, side skirts, front bumper, rear bumper and much more.
Powered by a tuned version of the already insane 5.5L V8 engine, the X-Raid has a power output of 760hp and a top speed of 155mph. The exterior and performance are not the only things that got upgraded; the interior received the Ares treatment as well. Instead of the traditional G-Wagen AMG steering wheel, a new sports one has been installed. The dashboard has been completely replaced to provide the driver with a state of the art driving experience. Everything is covered in luxurious nappa leather and there is even a single VIP seat in the back.
Dany Bahar said that the objective of Ares Design is to provide a unique offer for car enthusiasts. Soon after the X-Raid orders were commissioned; plans for other vehicles like a Mulsanne Coupe were revealed. Many famous names have joined the party with the likes of Andrea Galletti, ex-head of R&D of Pagani. As a car enthusiasts himself, Bahar states that creating Ares is a dreaming coming true for him.