TEAM McLAREN MERCEDES AND STEINMETZ ADD ICE TO SPARKLING
40TH ANNIVERSARY
Monte Carlo, Wednesday, 24th May 2006: Team McLaren Mercedes
and Steinmetz unveiled their latest collaboration earlier
today in the build-up to the 2006 Monaco Grand Prix.
Steinmetz has worked in conjunction with Team McLaren Mercedes’
engineers to manufacture a Diamond steering wheel. The Mercedes-Benz
star on both Kimi Raikkonen's and Juan Pablo Montoya's steering
wheels have been emblazoned with round, brilliant cut, white,
natural diamonds, expertly cut by Steinmetz, creating a visual
impact inside the cockpit never seen before.
To announce the creation of the Diamond steering wheels,
Steinmetz commissioned the creation of an exact replica of
this year’s Team McLaren Mercedes Formula 1 car, made
from two tonnes of ice, into which Kimi Raikkonen, the ‘Iceman’,
climbed. The ‘Iceman’, in his ice car, with his
‘iced’ steering wheel – a suitable way to
announce to the world Steinmetz and Team McLaren Mercedes’
new Formula 1 creation.
Steinmetz, creators of the world’s finest diamonds,
and Team McLaren Mercedes are both leaders in their respective
fields, which although very different, rely on many similar
principles. Flawless engineering, groundbreaking design and
unparalleled performance are all traits the partners share
in common.
Nir Livnat, CEO of Steinmetz, “We are extremely proud
to have worked with Team McLaren Mercedes on such a truly
bespoke and unique creation. Not only is it personal to the
driver and fundamental in the racing of the car, but it also
shows the expert level of patience, craftsmanship and engineering
that is necessary for cutting and polishing diamonds. We hope
that the steering wheels help the Team McLaren Mercedes drivers
steer their way to another victory this year”
This collaboration marks the continuation of the relationship
between Team McLaren Mercedes and Steinmetz which began in
Monaco, with the creation of Steinmetz’s Diamond Helmets
last year. The helmets have now been sold and $400.000 have
been raised for four charities nominated by Kimi, Juan Pablo
and Ron Dennis; 'The Senna Foundation', 'Tommy's', 'Formula
Smiles' and 'SOS Kinderdorf International'.
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