Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic concept builds a bridge between the past and future

The look of a 300 SL, with a futuristic reimagining

Mercedes-Benz paid tribute to one of its classics while offering a glimpse into its future with the unveiling of the Vision Iconic concept.

The German brand says it is entering a new era of design that ‘builds a bridge between past and future’ and uses the latest technologies, including Solar Paint, Level 4 automated driving and neuromorphic computing. This is certainly evident in what has been presented, with the black gloss finished concept paying homage to the 300 SL, albeit much bulkier.

Iconic grille reimagined

There is also a reinterpretation of the iconic Mercedes-Benz radiator grille, which has also been used on the upcoming electric GLC, due in 2026. Used by the brand for over 100 years, the grille draws inspiration from legendary models of the past, like the W 108, W 111 and 600 Pullman. The chrome frame incorporates contour lighting to combine the past and future of Mercedes design and will feature a series of digitally animated lighting sequences.

The grille is complemented by slim, modern headlights, and they won’t be the only features lit up, with the Vision Iconic going even further by illuminating the star within the badge on the bonnet.

Interior

Inside, thanks to the more advanced automated driving offered (more on that later), Mercedes has presented a lounge-like interior with unprecedented levels of luxury.

Inspired by Art Deco opulence, the Vision Iconic concept showcases the finest craftsmanship and materials, with the floating glass instrument panel combining digital and analogue instruments as the centrepiece. More like a theatre show than an interior, the show starts when the door is opened, seeing the instrument cluster come to life with an animation inspired by high-end chronographs. The screen is pillar to pillar, with one of the four clocks in the middle acting as an AI assistant.

The steering wheel is a throwback to that seen on the 1950s 300 SL, and the upholstery on the floor and seats is an even further throwback to designs seen in the 17th century.

Solar Coating

As well as viewing the exterior and interior purely as designs, Mercedes has looked into its use of materials and how these can assist the brand in an ever-changing automotive landscape.

This is where Mercedes’ research on innovative solar modules comes in with a process called ‘Solar Coating’, which can be applied to the bodywork of its EVs. Similar in texture to a wafer-thin paste and easily recyclable, it can be applied to the entire surface of a car, harnessing the sun’s rays to provide extra range to that given by the battery. Mercedes says a mid-sized SUV surface area (around 11 square metres) could produce nearly an additional 7,500 miles under ‘ideal conditions’ and even when the car is switched off.

Neuromorphic Computing

Yes, the name also confused me at first.

Mercedes has acknowledged that a vehicle which incorporates greater use of technology and specifically features like autonomous driving will require significantly more energy. Therefore, the brand is looking into how to make its future models as efficient as possible and has researched artificial neural networks. This looks at mimicking how the human brain functions to make AI calculations quicker and up to ten times more efficient.

Recognising traffic signs, lanes, and other road users, even in bad conditions, will be easier thanks to neuromorphic computing’s ability to reduce the energy requirements for data processing.

While Mercedes will soon be able to offer Level 2 assisted and automated driving systems as standard, it is the aim to prepare Vision Iconic with a Level 4 system, which could deal with traffic in real time, park the car perfectly and even allow the driver to take a nap on an upholstered rear bench seat and let the luxurious interior work its magic.

What are your thoughts on the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic concept?

words: Mike Booth
pictures: Mercedes-Benz