Mercedes Vision Iconic: Electric Coupe - a Harbinger of the S-Class

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the Vision Iconic prototype – a harbinger of the new generation S-Class Coupe, which is expected to hit the market in 2028. The concept car, defined as a neoclassical electric coupe, promises to transform the luxury segment and set new standards for elegance and technological excellence.

Unlike the current generation S-Class, which began production in 2020 and does not offer a coupe or convertible, only sedan versions, including the luxurious Mercedes-Maybach, the future model will bring back the iconic shape of the coupe. This is clearly demonstrated by the Vision Iconic, which serves as an inspiration for the upcoming flagship of the brand.

According to information, the next generation S-Class Coupe will be significantly more exclusive, with limited production and a higher price compared to its predecessors. The company Mercedes-Benz seems to have set a goal to make a significant profit from each car sold.

The design of the Vision Iconic is inspired by the golden age of car manufacturing, more precisely from the 1930s, according to Mercedes-Benz chief designer Gordon Wagener. This is visible in every line of the car, with the emphasis placed on luxury and elegance.

The first thing that catches the eye is the massive illuminated radiator grille, a reference to the classic chrome grilles that distinguished the S-Class between 1959 and 1972. This vision draws inspiration from the iconic vertical grilles of models such as the Mercedes-Benz 600 Pullman (W100), W108 and W111.

Imagine how the Vision Iconic appears before your eyes – the huge grille, with its chrome frame and smoked glass structure, glows in the night. The integrated contour lighting adds an extra dose of sophistication. The grille itself is constructed of a chrome frame, inside which are horizontal slats shaped as illuminated panels of frosted glass. The spaces between these slats are filled with illuminated pixels that can create dynamic effects.

In this regard, the first production car that will feature a similar grille is the Mercedes-Benz GLC crossover with EQ Technology, which made its debut in September. The three-pointed star, the symbol of the brand, is elegantly mounted above the grille, emphasizing the luxurious character of the car.

The design of the headlights and taillights is extremely minimalist, giving the car a modern look. The rear of the Vision Iconic is reminiscent of the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL coupe, with its distinctive silhouette. It is important to note that the Vision Iconic does not have "gull-wing" doors, but instead has doors that open sideways, in the opposite direction of travel, similar to those of the Rolls-Royce Spectre.

An interesting detail is the roof of the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic, which is equipped with a retractable Lidar sensor. This sensor is essential for autonomous driving from level 4 and is integrated in such a way that it does not violate the overall silhouette of the car when not in use.

The body of the coupe is covered with photovoltaic paint, which generates electricity using sunlight. This innovative solution increases the range of the electric vehicle. According to Mercedes-Benz calculations, this paint can provide up to 12,000 km of additional range per year when used in the Stuttgart, Germany area. By comparison, in sunny Los Angeles, USA, the potential is even greater - up to 20,000 km per year.

The atmosphere in the cabin is taken from the art deco era. The driver and the only passenger are seated on a comfortable sofa, reminiscent of the furnishings of a luxury hotel. The floor is covered with decorative wood inlay, which adds an extra touch of elegance. The dashboard has a transparent structure, shaped like a zeppelin, hence the nickname "Zeppelin".

The "Zeppelin" features analog clocks, a chronograph-style instrument panel, and an interesting cylinder with 3D images. The dashboard itself is one large projection screen, providing information and entertainment. The steering wheel, distinguished by four spokes, has no mechanical connection to the wheels – the control is entirely electronic. The Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic features all-wheel steering, which improves the dynamics of the car.

The propulsion system of the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic remains a mystery, but it is assumed that the car will have extremely powerful characteristics. The concept model is also expected to include an energy-efficient artificial intelligence with neuromorphic computing technology. This innovative technology will aim to simulate the work of the human brain and control the autopilot, assisting with parking and navigation.

The new S-Class, which will include design elements from the Mercedes-Benz Vision Iconic, is expected to hit the market in 2028. It will be all-electric and will complement, not replace, the current internal combustion engine model, which is expected to undergo significant improvements.

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