Mercedes-Benz’s Vision Iconic is a show car that’s hard to miss
Mercedes-Benz has just unveiled its new Vision Iconic show car, flaunting a futuristic design that also honors the brand’s past. The vehicle’s defining elements include, but aren’t limited to, solar paint that generates electricity from sunlight, Level 4 autonomy, neuromorphic (human brain-inspired) computing, a modern take on the company’s traditional chrome grille, and a lounge-like interior balancing digital and analog luxury.
This car’s front grille makes a bold first impression with its upright shape, following in the footsteps of classic Mercedes-Benz models such as the W108, W111, and 600 Pullman limousine. The grille also features a wide chrome frame, a smoked-glass lattice structure, integrated contour lighting, and high-tech pixel graphics creating dynamic patterns. An illuminated standing star on the hood and deep black high-gloss paint unify the exterior’s appearance and enhance the car’s futuristic feel.
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Vision Iconic interior spotlight
Inside, the lounge-inspired design is influenced by the advancement of self-driving technology. Art deco design cues and a floating glass structure instrument panel with digital and analog controls strike a balance between the future and tradition, while opening the driver’s door triggers an analog animation inspired by high-end chronographs and analog-style timepieces. The door panels boast pearl-like trim, and the brass door handles are finished with silver-gold tones. The front seats feature a bench configuration with blue velvet upholstery, and the floor is adorned with elaborate straw marquetry, a luxurious decorative technique dating back to the 17th century and revived in the 1920s.
“Inspired by the golden era of automotive design of the 1930s, this show car embodies the pure essence of Mercedes-Benz. With its hood giving it a majestic presence, sculptural flowing lines, and a touch of Art Deco, it rises to become a true icon of automotive beauty. The interior, with its continuous bench seat and the elegant rear, evokes memories of the legendary 300 SL,” said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
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The Vision Iconic’s unique approach to range generation, AI computing, and handling
Mercedes-Benz is researching solar modules that could be seamlessly applied to the body of electric vehicles, similar to a wafer-thin paste, to extend their range. For example, a mid-size SUV fitted with these solar cells could provide 7,450 miles of extra range per year in ideal conditions. The Vision Iconic show car’s entire surface features this technology, which doesn’t contain rare earth materials or silicon and is easily recyclable. This vehicle’s solar cells also generate energy when the car’s off.
The Vision Iconic’s use of neuromorphic computing to mirror human brain function can make energy-demanding AI calculations in areas such as safety systems faster and more efficient. Mercedes-Benz estimates that neuromorphic computing could lower energy requirements for data processing in automated driving by 90% compared to today’s systems, helping support the car’s Level 4 autonomy. This show car also features steer-by-wire technology, which replaces a physical steering column with sensors that send a driver’s steering inputs as electronic signals to actuators that turn the wheels, increasing cabin space and reducing physical effort during steering.
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Final thoughts
The Vision Iconic shows how promising Mercedes-Benz’s future is. The vehicle showcases the automaker’s skill in paving new design paths while simultaneously honoring its heritage. At the same time, a commitment to advanced technology, inside and out, optimizes the car’s form and function in areas like lighting, range, digital processing, and handling.
“Vision Iconic embodies our vision for the future of mobility. With groundbreaking innovations such as neuromorphic computing, steer-by-wire, solar paint, and Level 4 highly automated driving, along with state-of-the-art technology, we are setting new standards for the electric and digital age,” said Markus Schäfer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes‐Benz Group AG.
