Mercedes Simplex Concept Is A Retro-Inspired Roadster With A Futuristic Twist

Mercedes-Benz Design has created a one-off concept for Design Essentials 2019.

Dubbed the Vision Mercedes Simplex, the concept is a retro-inspired roadster that pays “homage to the historical legacy and the birth of the brand.”

As a result, the model draws inspiration from the 1901 Mercedes 35 PS which dominated the competition at Race Week in France. Mercedes says the model is “acknowledged as the first modern car,” so they’ve decided to pay tribute to it with a new concept.

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Designed to showcase how Mercedes can “set new standards in mobility … yesterday, today and tomorrow,” the Simplex has a prominent rose gold grille surround which is designed to recall the bronze radiators of a century ago. However, the center section has been replaced by a digital display that shows Mercedes lettering as well as animations which provide information about the car’s status.

More notably, the concept has four freestanding wheels with unique tires that feature the Mercedes star emblem. They’re presumably powered by electric motors, but the company would only say the concept has an “alternative drive” system.

Moving further back, we can see a retro-inspired hood which is held down by leather straps and rose gold buckles. The two-seater also lacks a windshield and has a two-tone paint job which echoes classic race cars.

The streamlined styling continues in the cabin as there’s a minimalist dashboard with rose gold colored instruments that have information projected onto them. Mercedes calls this approach “hyper analogue” and the company said the car only displays information when it is needed.

Besides the high-tech displays, the concept has a retro-inspired clock and a bespoke steering wheel with wood trim. The model also has a bench seat with azure blue upholstery and Chesterfield quilting.