Forget the stretch limo and cancel the S-Class - Mercedes has revealed a super-luxury electric people carrier concept car, complete with 65-inch cinema screen, surround-sound system with 42 speakers and seven projectors.
The Mercedes Vison V hints at the next generation of EQV and Vito van models based on its new Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), which are both due in 2026.
The company’s future passenger models will range from practical, entry-segment family vehicles and exclusive VIP shuttles to luxurious limousines – as well as a the usual vans.
The Vision V show car provides a glimpse of the ultimate top-end version. The large, automatically opening “portal” door on the right-hand side and the illuminated, retractable running board ensure easy access to a rear lounge area.
A switchable glass wall separates the “Private Lounge” from the driver, as in a traditional limo. If desired, the glass can be changed from transparent to opaque, either completely or in sections.
The “Private Lounge” has traditionally crafted materials blended with modern design elements, such as white Nappa leather and silk contrasted open pore burr wood which is designed to resemble an antique sideboard. Display cabinets provide space for personal accessories such as a handbag, sunglasses or smartphone.
The first-class style seats are reminiscent of elegant lounge chairs and rest on polished aluminium bases. Made from highly flexible tubular cushions, they have a unique futuristic design. Additionally, they can be reclined into a comfortable flat position to pamper the occupants.
A game controller for racing games and one of the 42 loudspeakers of the surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos are also integrated. Additional speakers are mounted in round glass enclosures on handmade design brackets that protrude from the side walls.
The centre console between the two individual seats is also designed as a display cabinet. It has a touchpad for operating the infotainment system as well as a fold-out table.
The highlight of the “Private Lounge” is the retractable, 65-inch cinema screen – with split-screen functions – located under the floor. As soon as the passengers are inside and the doors are closed, it glides up from a console designed with burr wood and Nappa leather.
The surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos offers a total of 42 loudspeakers, including exciters in the seats, which turn music into a haptic experience. Seven projectors in the headliner and floor expand the field of vision. The side windows become additional “screens” and create a digital 360-degree experience.
Like the partition wall to the driver's area and the floor slats in the “Private Lounge,” the windows can be switched to opaque. The exterior design of the Vision V is pretty bold too, with a massive illuminated chrome radiator grille with three horizontal illuminated glass louvres. Almost 200 of these technical-looking light elements also surround the chrome frame. In a pronounced gap below the bonnet, there are a further 190 or so illuminated louvres. At the reat, the large rear window is framed by over 450 three-dimensional illuminated louvres which serve as taillights and brake lights.
There is no information yet on the powertrain for either the passenger or commercial versions which will reach production.
