In 1990 Jim Rogers set out to circle the globe on a motorcycle and published a bestseller (Investment Biker) about his exhilarating around-the-world motorcycle odyssey in 1994. For his newest 3 year adventure journey around the world Jim and girlfriend Paige Parker wanted a more comfortable vehicle. Jim had a vehicle in mind which should feature a rugged 4WD drive train. For creature comfort he visualized a convertible body with retractable hardtop mounted atop the frame. A custom built trailer should make up for the limited cargo space. In April 1998 Jim visited the International Off Road Show in Munich, Germany, to seek expert advice for his project. He then contracted Harold Pietschmann, an internationally known four wheel drive expert in Los Angeles. Gerhard Steinle, former president of Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design of North America, was won to develop the concept further and design a suitable trailer. Harold and Gerhard, now president of prisma design international, proposed to mate the world's most capable 4WD vehicle, the Mercedes-Benz Geländewagen, with a Mercedes-Benz SLK convertible - after all, they both are exquisite automobiles and share the same wheelbase for a perfect match. To ensure full functionality of the hybrid vehicle and the finest craftsmanship available, Metalcrafters of Fountain Valley, California, was contracted to create a happy "marriage" between a short wheelbase G300 DT and a bright yellow SLK 230 Compressor. Several other companies were won to contribute to the GLK project. First test drive is scheduled for early November in the world's toughest off-road arena: Baja California. Flawless performance is anticipated. Jim's trip around the world started January 1, 1999 in Iceland.
The entire journey will be broadcasted on the internet |
updated 7-31--99
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