Mercedes-Benz Vision SLR

Wild Benz GT Hints at Future Mercedes Sports Cars

DETROIT - Mercedes-Benz pulled the wraps off a futuristic vehicle it claims points the way toward the company's sports cars of tomorrow during a press conference Monday at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The striking Vision SLR is, in DaimlerChrysler's words, "the study of a Grand Turismo for the 21st century."

Blending stylistic elements of the SLR racing cars of the 1950s with today's Formula 1 Silver Arrow, the Vision SLR's corporate 'face' introduces the eye immediately to a Formula 1-inspired double-spoiler theme found throughout the car. The familiar Mercedes-Benz quad headlamps are accounted for on the concept vehicle and automatically track the steering angle to provide optimal lighting during cornering and turning.

The long, bulging hood, faired-in headlamps, substantial side vents, upswept doors, winged mirrors, unidirectional wheels, and scalloped fenders all contribute to a look that makes the Vision SLR appear as though it is traveling 100 mph even when standing still. The body is made from fiber-reinforced compounds and aluminum.

Inside, fuzzy suede and an oval steering wheel, which Mercedes designers must have found in an old 1960s parts bin after the merger with Chrysler Corporation ruin the SLR's interior. Gauges recall pricey chronometers in appearance, while circular control pods on the center console operate secondary functions. The integrated navigation and audio system from the 2000 S-Class sits high in the dash, utilizing fiber optic technology and voice commands to select the proper route or radio station.

Astounding performance is a hallmark of the Vision SLR. A supercharged, intercooled, 550-horsepower, 5.5-liter V8 gets the vehicle from rest to 60 mph in four seconds. An electro-hydraulic braking system employs discs made of fiber-reinforced ceramics to withstand extreme use. Microprocessors determine the proper amount of braking pressure based on the driving situation.

Deliciously styled and a thrilling performer, the Vision SLR portends good things for Mercedes-Benz sports car design in the decade to come. The interior concept, however, needs to be completely rethought.