Where technology meets tradition
About 118 years ago, Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft would introduce a car that no one else had seen before. Emil Jellinek was the first to introduce the Mercedes 35 PS. It would change the way people see cars, removing the old designs that looked similar to motorized carriages. The Mercedes 35 PS was revealed in Nice during Race Week. It featured a flat vehicle design, a lightweight high-performance engine, and an integrated radiator to the front. This layout was the first to introduce the modern car. Mercedes’ current concept recalls this historic moment.
The “Vision Mercedes Simplex” concept aims to communicate the message that Mercedes-Benzhas always represented luxury and innovation. Mercedes-Benz is the only brand capable of achieving the physical symbiosis between history and the future. Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, says that the “Vision Mercedes Simplex”, symbolises the transformation and brand-specific luxury of Mercedes-Benz. The monocoque frame is topped by a two-seater seat with four large, freestanding wheels and a modern driving display. The concept’s front is white while its back is black. This is a continuation of the original design. The vehicle has a lot aerodynamic surfaces and the wheels are transparent. This conveys lightness.
A radiator in rose gold with a digital 3D screen in front shows off a digitally superimposed Mercedes lettering. It also features vehicle status animations. A leather bag is also found at the vehicle’s tail. The cabin design was focused on seamlessness and fluidity. It features a steering column, switches and an instrument panel that is inspired by nautical and motorcycle designs. The azure-blue upholstery and luggage openers show handcraftsmanship. The driving display displays only the relevant information at a specific time or driving situation. This allows the driver to concentrate on the road and still take in the information.
The sculpture on wheels will be displayed for the first-time at Design Essentials 2019, in Nice, France.