LAS VEGAS -- Mercedes-Benz laid out its vision to transition from automaker to purveyor of mobile experiences at a glitzy keynote address on the sidelines of the CES consumer electronic show on Monday night.
The automaker unveiled a suite of technologies and a next-generation interior through a concept vehicle inspired by Hollywood blockbuster movie "Avatar." Daimler CEO Ola Kaellenius and Oscar-winning filmmaker James Cameron appeared on stage with the VISION AVTR concept.
The vehicle, which draws design inspiration from the creatures of the fictional world of Pandora, is a peek into the distant future -- where the car is not a box on wheels, rather an extension of the office suite, or living room.
The concept’s pod-shaped interior cocoons its occupants in an immersive experience, where the driving is relegated to the computer and the drive is a sensory overload of virtual reality and scenes of Pandora.
Instead of a conventional steering wheel, a palm-size device in the center console serves as a control mechanism, helping to steer the vehicle and to control the curved dashboard display.
The VISION AVTR demonstrates new ways to interact with the vehicle. For instance, occupants can manipulate images on the dashboard display with the flick of their hand, or control vehicle functions via a menu selection projected onto the palm of their hand.
Thirty-three multi-directionally movable surface elements on the back of the vehicle serve as bionic flaps and are reminiscent of scales of reptiles.
The VISION AVTR’s front and rear axles can be driven in the same or opposite directions, allowing the vehicle to move sideways by about 30 degrees.
