Schumi’s New Ride

“Schumi, turn your eyes to the sky, it’s the only one thing bigger than you.” These words were emblazoned on a banner held by adoring Tifosi at the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix, the last time we thought we’d ever see Herr Schumacher wearing the red Puma takkies.

So now he’s back. Don’t worry, this isn’t going to be an article debating whether he deserves to be driving again, whether he’s slapping Ferrari in the face or whether he’s the Stig, it’s just about the fact that he’s the new safety car driver.

Naah he’s not really, but he has appeared in quite an epic advertisement for the Formula One safety car, the Mercedes SLS AMG Gullwing. If you haven’t seen it, YouTube the following: Mercedes-Benz.tv: Michael Schumacher in the SLS AMG tunnel experiment (long version). Or click here.

The ad was made in antici…pation for his new season with Mercedes after F1’s Michael drought of three years and without a doubt, it is an epic ad. I’m quite fond of the design of the SLS, though admittedly it’s not a touch on the looks of the old 300SL. Arguably it does look more Monte Carlo than the previous Mercedes SL63 AMG safety car, plus as a bonus, it can go upside down in a tunnel.

The ad is definitely worth a look if you’re the kind of person that likes the sound of a good V8 and good effects. Just ignore the rather crass wink he gives at the end. On to more obvious details, surely it can’t be a real stunt?

Searching Google and all its depths the most I managed to discover were some pictures of old bald men building a scale miniature of the ramp in the tunnel. Granted I am studying a BA so if there’s anyone out there with a solid basis in physics ready to venture whether it’s complete balderdash or an actual driving feat, I’m all ears? I‘m not saying it was done in this particular video, but is it even possible given the right conditions?

If it’s true and the SLS really can grip to a concrete ceiling like wet toilet paper, maybe Michael should take a swing in one for this weekend’s German Grand Prix – who knows, he might get even get a taste of champagne.

Desiree Schirlinger

Photo Credit: Quickpic