This concept is so appealing, we want to see another TRON movie.
We are able to peruse the Mercedes-Benz press release on this stunning concept car and find many highbrow phrases such as organically evolving and aesthetic dynamicm. Perhaps our favorite, luxurious generosity combined with aerodynamic elegance in perfect harmony. This sounds magnificent, but let me give a shout out to the high-brow Mercedes PR team. The car speaks for itself this time.
The Vision EQS is Merc’s version of an electric -Class car. This isn’t far off though. It doesn’t have a self-driving car with a morphing interior or a powertrain that’s derived from science fiction. Mercedes actually tells us that the EQS uses a pair electric motors at the front and rear, with a battery embedded in the floor between them.
It sounds like something you could get today, with its 469-horsepower (405-watt) power rating. The range of 435 miles is also impressive, but not too much. It is possible to get there by car. Tesla Model S The Long Range model can do almost the same now. When the power runs out the EQS has 350 kW charging capacity to reclaim 80 per cent power in under 20 minutes.
The powertrain of this concept is not what grabs our attention. These sweeping lines, which Mercedes calls one-bow design language, are stunningly appealing. But the lights literally and metaphorically bring this concept to life. The illuminated grille is not the only thing that makes it unique. Instead, there’s a continuous, 360-degree illuminated blue strip that separates the two-tone silver/black finish. Mercedes claims it gives the illusion that the black is floating on top of the silver. This is similar to elegant generosity and aerodynamic elegance in perfect harmony. It looks amazing to us.
Let’s talk about that grille. The black-panel section houses 940 LEDs and 188 circuit boards. Digital headlights give the front clip a 3D effect. Mercedes engineers installed 229 LEDs flush to the bodywork at the rear. They are all three-pointed stars. Mercedes is a little too narcissistic in this installation. It could be, but we prefer to refer to it aesthetic dynamicm.
The interior is very similar to a concept car layout, but we would be happy to see a functional dashboard and vehicle controls. Mercedes claims that this design is an attempt to keep drivers involved in driving. Therefore, the proposed autonomous systems will stop at level 3. This allows for full autonomy in limited situations. Mercedes also took inspiration from yachts for the greenhouse. The flat floor and four-seater layout have a cabin cruiser vibe.
Tech-wise, Mercedes’ MBUX system will be evolving in the future, with almost everything available through digital layouts. It all has a very organic flavour.
The Vision EQS is definitely something to see. Mercedes could have a much worse future, but it will be a great attraction at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show, September 12-12.