Mercedes Unveils The Race-Inspired Project Geländewagen

Following a lengthy teaser campaign, Mercedes has officially unveiled Project Geländewagen.

Billed as a conceptual design project that explores ways of “disrupting future perceptions of luxury,” the model was developed as part of a collaboration between Mercedes Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener and fashion designer Virgil Abloh.

While it isn’t exactly a thing of beauty, Project Geländewagen features a streamlined exterior as the mirrors, indicators and brush bar have all been removed. The G-Class has also been equipped with an aggressive body kit that features wider and taller bumpers as well as matching side skirts and fender flares. The door handles have also been removed and replaced by simple straps.

Also Read: Mercedes-AMG Teases Retro-Inspired G63 Developed With Fashion Designer Virgil Abloh

Of course, the most unique feature is unfinished appearance. According to Mercedes, the paintwork was partially sanded to create a “sense of timeless simplicity” and the “welds are celebrated as key design motifs.” The company added the “final design lays its construction methods bare, and celebrates the handcrafted imperfections that make it unique.”

Moving into the cabin, the interior has been stripped of luxury and tech features. In particular, the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system have been replaced by analogue gauges and toggle switches.

Elsewhere, there’s an F1-inspired steering wheel and sport seats with five-point harnesses. Other notable features include a roll cage, a fire extinguisher and a cargo compartment which holds a single jerrycan.

Mercedes didn’t mention specifications, but Gorden Wagener said “With Project Geländewagen, we create[d] a unique artwork that showcases future interpretations of luxury and the desire for beauty and the extraordinary. The result is something between reality and future.”

While you can’t buy the actual vehicle, Mercedes revealed a replica will be auctioned by Sotheby’s and all proceeds will benefit a charity that supports international creative communities. Bidding is slated to begin on September 14th.