Lorinser - a behind the scenes look at the German tuner

Design, development and production - made in Germany

Lorinser has been a byword for highly developed automobile tuning for over 30 years

The technical and optical customisation of vehicles is often collectively referred to as tuning. This is a word that certainly applies to flagship companies in the sector, such as Sportservice Lorinser, as well, but this is only half of the story. Looking in more detail at the working methods of this Mercedes manufacturer, which was founded in 1977 in the southern German town of Winnenden, it very quickly becomes obvious why the company officially operates as a car manufacturer. This is particularly clear in the development of the both complex and distinctive aerodynamic components.

As with the creation of a new car, the design of a tuning package starts with a small work of art: the designer's sketches. A simple sketch then undergoes increasingly more detailed refinement right up to an almost realistic colouration. The two-dimensional image is then converted into a plastic 1:1 model, not yet on the computer but it is actually created by adding special easily and precisely mouldable clay directly to the vehicle. It is only at this stage that the digitalisation takes place in order to create the computer model. An engineer takes measurements and scans directly from the model and transfers these to a PC. The designer can then make any final alterations and adjustments before the data is transmitted straight to the machine tools. Care when taking measurements and processing data is the first step in ensuring a perfect fit for the finished product, which also depends on the use of high-quality materials. Instead of using basic ABS plastic, Lorinser has opted for GRP for many years and recently also started using the PU-RIM process. This involves shaping polyurethane using over 100 bar of pressure. The result is exceptionally precise and durable component parts.

In addition to bodywork components, the light metal rims also bear the distinctive Lorinser handwriting. Many of these, including the famous turbine wheel, have now achieved classic status, and the rims are also made using high-quality materials and a premium finishing coat, enabling the customer to enjoy their vehicle in both summer and winter.

Our vehicle tuning service in Winnenden is, after all, not purely a seasonal thing. The selection of materials for components in highly corrosive areas, such as exhaust systems, is especially important. Optically appealing and robust high-grade steel is the material of choice for these parts, so that the exhaust usually lasts as long as the car itself. This also plays an important role in the Lorinser performance enhancement.

In terms of performance, the qualities of design, fit and robustness are not enough. There is also a delicate technical balancing act required from the engineer: on one hand the customer wants as high a horsepower as possible, while on the other hand they do not want to compromise the durability of the engine. As a Mercedes dealer of long standing, which has been operating since 1930, the vehicle tuner is an expert in vehicle mechanics and knows exactly how far to go in each individual case. In the case of power kits for petrol motors, relevant hardware alterations, such as adjusted camshafts, are almost always used in order to create the best performance without affecting the life of the car. For Diesel engines Lorinser usually uses an electronic module. The benefits here are that there is no need to interfere with the sensitive engine electronics and the process is reversible at any time.

In all cases the customer can trust in the high quality of the parts and will also receive comprehensive warranties for all services. This is particularly comprehensive in the case of the vehicle parts Lorinser provides to increase comfort, which is, after all, one of the special characteristics of a Mercedes. The customer is not likely to have any reason to complain or make a claim in connection with Lorinser products, as they all go through extensive test cycles and detailed checks. Even shipment is controlled by the central office, so that no gaps appear in the quality chain.

Just as with the distinctive yet in no way overstated or excessive exterior, the particularly luxurious or sporty interior reflects the special flair of the brand with the star. The customer can also make requests to Lorinser fitting their exact wishes for the interior design. Depending on taste, almost any detail can be provided using high-quality leather of any texture and colour, in addition to decorative fittings and applications made from the best real wood, aluminium or carbon.

It is therefore no surprise that many noteworthy people from the world of sport, films and show business have succumbed to this temptation on four wheels: Bernie Ecclestone, Niki Lauda, Alain Prost, Paul Tracy, Shaquille O'Neal, Denzel Washington, Sharon Stone and Arnold Schwarzenegger. Fans of the brand come from all over the world: the company is therefore now represented in 45 countries. The most important markets are Western Europe, the USA, Japan and China. However, an increasing number of fans of Lorinser's high-class vehicle products can also be found in Russia, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, Dubai, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Good quality clearly gets around.