The Future in Art Deco

Mercedes-Benz has revealed its latest show car, the Vision Iconic, signalling a bold new design direction that bridges Art Deco elegance with advanced electric and autonomous technology. Inspired by the brand’s classic 1930s models, the Vision Iconic emphasises sculptural proportions, flowing lines and chrome detailing. Central to its identity is a complete reinterpretation of the classic Mercedes grille – now transformed into an illuminated smoked-glass panel with integrated contour lighting and a glowing bonnet-mounted star.

Inside, the Vision Iconic moves away from traditional driver-focused layouts towards a lounge-style environment, anticipating a future where automated driving reduces the need for constant driver interaction. A continuous velvet bench seat, floating glass instrument panel and extensive use of mother-of-pearl and brass create what Mercedes calls “hyper-analogue luxury” – blending digital interfaces with tactile craftsmanship. Notable details include a suspended Mercedes logo within a glass steering wheel hub, cinematic analogue animations on startup, and straw marquetry flooring — a decorative technique more commonly found in luxury furniture than automobiles.

Beneath the aesthetics, the Vision Iconic serves as a technology demonstrator. Mercedes is experimenting with solar-active paint capable of harvesting energy from the vehicle’s full exterior surface, potentially adding up to 12,000km of range annually under optimal conditions. The concept also showcases neuromorphic computing, a brain-inspired approach to data processing that could cut the energy demands of autonomous driving systems by up to 90% while improving response times in complex traffic scenarios. Level 4 automated driving capability, steer-by-wire control and advanced parking automation hint at the company’s ambitions for future production models.

The Vision Iconic is not a production preview, but rather a statement of intent – one that positions Mercedes at the intersection of heritage design and next-generation mobility. Whether such opulence translates into road-ready models remains to be seen, but it’s clear the brand has no plans to enter the electric era quietly.

Photos © Mercedes-Benz