The
cute little hot rod you’re looking at is dubbed the Vision Mercedes Simplex and
has been introduced by the automaker at the Los Angeles Auto Show as a way to
symbolize the transition into a new era of design and technology. We first
heard about the Simplex back in September, but now we get a much better look at
it.
Inspiration
has been drawn from the Mercedes 35 PS, unveiled back in the spring of 1901. At
Race Week in Nice that year, the 35 PS developed by Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft
was unveiled and caused a stir unlike any other vehicle at the event. The
vehicle ushered in a new era of vehicle design and the Vision Mercedes Simplex
has a very similar shape to this icon.
Most
notably, the battery-powered concept features freestanding wheels and is a
two-seater with a completely open cockpit. Dominating much of the front is a
grille frame finished in rose gold and complete with digitally superimposed
‘Mercedes’ lettering. The concept also complete omits a windshield and lacks
headlights.
The
classic design continues across the dashboard where instruments inspired by
both motorcycles and nautical design are featured. Small details include
precision screws throughout the cabin and across the bench seat inspired by
stylish furniture and complete with hand-made Chesterfield quilting. Minimalism
was the name of the game for the instrument cluster with a physical rose
gold-colored instrument where dynamic digital content is projected.
