Xenatech Creates $800,000 Maybach Coupe

WEINSBERG, Germany — The startup Xenatech Group has released its first creation, the Xenatech coupe, based on the Maybach 57S sedan, and plans to deliver the first customer car in July. The company said it plans to build and deliver another 20 cars by the end of the year but will limit production to 100 units. Prices start at just over $800,000, not including taxes.

The company's plant, located near Wilhelm Maybach's birthplace in Heilbronn, was acquired from ThyssenKrupp. The operation previously was part of the Drauz Nothelfer organization, which dates to 1900 and began by building custom bodies for NSU and later for Porsche and other customers.

The Xenatech coupe, which is being built only to customer order, is aimed at affluent buyers in the Middle East, Russia, Asia-Pacific and the U.S.

Xenatech maintains the original wheelbase and driveline of the Maybach 57S but dramatically alters the bodywork, with extensive changes to the roof and side panels. The company also fits new seats and other interior enhancements and offers such options as a glass roof and 21-inch wheels and tires.

Inside Line says: The legendary Porsche 356 Speedster Convertible was built here in the late '50s. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent