The Mercedes-Benz C111 was a bold concept from the 1970s envisioning a future that never fully materialized. This unique vehicle served as the muse for the fresh Mercedes-Benz Vision One-Eleven Concept, a cutting-edge reinterpretation of one of the automaker’s most audacious designs.
The Vision One-Eleven continues the legacy of the C111 in various aspects. Just like its predecessor, the C111, which served as a platform for testing novel technologies like pioneering suspension systems and innovative diesel and rotary powertrains, the Vision One-Eleven debuts revolutionary axial flux motor technology expected to become commonplace in future electric vehicles.
Developed by specialist motor company YASA, details on the exact power output of the motor remain undisclosed. Nevertheless, it promises a “racing-car-like power output from a significantly smaller unit.” The new motor boasts a weight that is a mere third of traditional designs of the same power output, occupying just a third of the space. Paired with a liquid-cooled cylindrical-cell battery pack inspired by Formula 1 cell chemistry.
Aesthetically, the concept faithfully echoes the C111’s design ethos with its daring elements like a spacious bubble cockpit and an imposing front air dam. The front end even features a display embedded in the air dam that can showcase messages or illuminate pixelated digital headlights. The splitter and side skirts resemble those seen on Time Attack Cars, while the front sports twin air ducts cascading towards the windshield reminiscent of the C111.
Essentially, it carries the burnt orange-and-black color scheme with elegance, paying homage to the opulence of the C111’s own color palette. And yes, Mercedes hasn’t overlooked the iconic gullwing doors.
Internally, Mercedes nails the classic concept car nostalgia impeccably. Resembling a scene from The Fifth Element, it boasts vibrant white and orange accents and an LED matrix display for a retro-futuristic throwback. Steering is facilitated through a leather-trimmed yoke furnished with an array of controls resembling a spacecraft’s cockpit.
It resembles a high-end F1 steering wheel design. The seats are adorned with lustrous silver leather, enhancing its futuristic vibe. The aim of the design was to create a lounge-like atmosphere that could swiftly transition into a racing mode with more upright seating.
The user interface exudes a retro appearance and ambiance. The LED matrix with large pixels provides a vibrant and impactful display of information. Additionally, a high-resolution conventional display is placed adjacent to the steering wheel for more traditional usage.
To mark the debut of the concept, Mercedes has introduced an augmented reality (AR) presentation. By utilizing a Magic Leap 2 headset within the AR demonstrator, the driver can delve into a digital interface that transcends the confines of a screen. This immersive experience integrates the entire physical interior of the car into the user interface through the headset, enabling practical applications such as overlaying navigation instructions seamlessly with the surroundings. Contextual cues can also be superimposed around physical interface components like buttons and switches.
The Vision One-Eleven epitomizes an extravagant neo-futuristic concept that provides designers with boundless creative liberties. While the concept may not translate entirely into production as depicted here, the insights gained from its design will shape future Mercedes-Benz models, especially in leveraging novel technologies for enhancement.
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