Concept Cars

Meet the Vision Mercedes Simplex

Eileen Falkenberg-Hull
Sep 30, 2019, 9:54 am

The Vision Mercedes Simplex is a fresh take on old meets new.

Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

To cross the road, you should first look one way then the other. A glance tells you what is coming and what has passed by. That same idea is what has inspired the Vision Mercedes Simplex, a concept vehicle and sculpture by Mercedes-Benz.

"Only a brand that is as strong as Mercedes-Benz is capable of the physical symbiosis of history and future. The 'Vision Mercedes Simplex' symbolizes the transformation of the brand-specific luxury of Mercedes-Benz", said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer, Mercedes-Benz.

Vision Mercedes Simplex tire axleThe new concept car plays on old themes, reminding the audience of the company's automotive heritage.Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

The Simplex, as Mercedes refers to it, redefines the historic look of a car for the modern era. It's a two-seater with freestanding wheels. Designers point to the vertical color separation between the white front section and the black rear section to show the historic side of the vehicle while transparent rims and sleek aerodynamic attributes are from the modern playbook.

At the vehicle's front is a rose gold radiator frame, which pays homage to the bronze radiator rings of years past. Inside the ring is a digital display of the classic Mercedes script.

Vision Mercedes Simplex buttonsSleek, simple controls are apparent on the dash.Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

There is no windscreen, nor any doors. There are simple switches in the cabin area, where focus is nearly purely on the wheel, so the driver can theoretically focus exclusively on the road ahead. Remember those days? Driving in its purest expression.

Vision Mercedes Simplex steering wheelThe model took design influence from yachts.Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz

The car's steering wheel was based on nautical and racing design. Finishes are emblematic of those lifestyles with contrasting colors, soothing color schemes, and high-end finishes. The car's bench seat features hand-made Chesterfield quilting. Its azure blue is inspired by the colors of the Côte d'Azur.

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2023 Mercedes-AMG C 43 SedanThe car's electric turbocharger is a first in a production car. Mercedes-AMG

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