New York Yankees Welcome the Pope
A few months ago, I detailed the new Popemobile , an open-top Mercedes G Class painted Vatican White. The new vehicle is used for the Pope’s official Wednesday public appearances at the Vatican.
The Popemobile is steeped in historical tradition. In ancient times, popes were carried on mobile thrones. Since the advent of motor vehicles, it has been a tradition for popes to appear in open-top vehicles. Recent security concerns have resulted in specially designed, bullet-proof vehicles, but the open-top tradition remains.
Pope Benedict XVI is currently in the midst of his first visit to the United States since taking office. Though the official new Popemobile remains at the Vatican, Pope Benedict also owns a pair of specially designed Mercedes-Benz ML430 SUVs. One of these vehicles has been shipped to the United States and will serve as the Popemobile during his stay in the United States.
While the official Popemobile has a fully open top, the ML430s feature a nod to increased security in the form of a bulletproof transparent capsule on top. The vehicles also feature steps leading up into the passenger compartment and a handrail for the Pope to balance against.
As part of his tour, the Pope plans to give a public Mass at historic Yankee Stadium. A special podium was built over second base for his appearance. However, even the Pope is not permitted to break a basic rule: No driving on the grass. Instead, he will make a lap around the field’s edges.
While the Popemobile and related vehicles are custom-designed, one of a kind items, they are based on readily available Mercedes-Benz vehicle models. If you would like to own your own version of one of the Pope’s cars, why not stop by our convenient local dealership? We would be happy to help you find the best vehicle for you.
Filed Under: Mercedes-Benz Vehicles
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