Mercedes-Benz->ke187 continues its longtime partnership with the famed explorer, adventurer, and extreme athlete Mike Horn with his “Drive 2 Climb 2 Ski K2” expedition as he and his companions traveled across eastern Europe and central Asia with the ultimate goal of skiing down the world’s second-highest mountain.

Horn, along with Fred Roux and Kobi Reichen, plan to climb the 28,251-foot mountain called K2 where they will then be the first trio to attempt the feat. And of course, a small fleet of Mercedes-Benz G-Wagens->ke1712 is providing the transportation. Modified with a small suspension lift, BFGoodrich All-Terrain tires, roof racks, off-road lights, and plenty of extra gear, the G-Wagens provide the expedition with capable transportation over the terrain that is often times nearly impassable.

The journey is taking the team through 12 countries and over 10,640 kilometers, or 6,611 miles, on only 15 days’ time. “The off-road capability and innovative technology of this car are simply unbelievable. The car is my perfect, motorized alter ego," says Horn. The explorer gives credit to the G-Wagen’s ability to trek up 54 percent inclines and ford two feet of water thanks to its 4WD, locking differentials, and tall ground clearance.

The expedition started on May 14, 2015 from Château-d’Oex, Switzerland and has continued through Germany, Poland, Lithuania, Latvia, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kirgizstan, China, and Pakistan.

Horn says one of his main reasons for embarking on the journey is to draw attention to the remote regions of the world and the Earth’s beauty. "Everybody should know what the world looks like, so that the desire arises to protect it,” he says. “Accordingly, I could hardly wait to set off on this new challenge.”

You can follow Horn's progress on his the Mercedes-Benz G-Class Facebook page here.

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Why it matters

The G-Wagen might be the oldest luxury SUV->ke145 on the market, but it is one of the strongest and most capable ever produced. Even despite its high price and leather-lined interior, the G-Wagen still shows its military heritage.

2016 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

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