IAA 2011: Tuners of the Frankfurt Motor Show

The Frankfurt Motor Show is the showcase for the German automotive industry and that includes the tuners just as much as the mainstream manufacturers. If you had any doubts about the might of these aftermarket boys just check out the size of some of the stands.

Brabus is always a big-hitter and is here with its latest CLS-based Rocket. This one has 800hp from a 6.3-liter bi-turbo V12 that’s limited – limited – to 811lb ft from a 1000lb ft+ in standard tune. It’ll hit 230mph but looks relatively restrained.

Techart’s 720hp GT2 RS is rather less subtle but also debuts here at the show and is good for 219mph. Carlsson’s stand reflects changing tastes and developing markets with a special GL for China and its own mega CLS with ‘just’ 649hp. And Ruf? It’s here with an electric car. How times change!