Mercedes Maybach 6 almost 6 meters long.

Manufacturers are quick to say that a certain car is “the ultimate in luxury”.  Maybach’s new concept car is extraordinary. The Vision Mercedes Maybach 6 (which measures almost 6 metres in length), is probably the closest I’ve seen to truly fit this description. The cool and minimalistic throwback to the aero-coupés of days gone by, is done beautifully by Maybach. I love the elongated bonnet, low roofline and rearward positioning of the greenhouse, and the narrow technoid lights. A reinterpretation of the Mercedes-Maybach radiator grille with fine, vertical struts instantly draws attention to the nose. It is said to have been inspired by a pinstripe-suit. The rear window is split, adding to its Art Deco appeal. Dramatic gullwing-doors open to reveal an interior that is almost alien-like in its futuristic execution.

A design of sensual purity

Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG says that it perfectly embodies their “design philosophy of sensual purity” and “pursuit of aerodynamic efficiency”.

The Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 is designed as an electric all-wheel-drive car, with a 500 km range. The output of the drive system is 550 kW, and will accelerate to a 100 km per hour in under 4 seconds.

Being a concept car, every radical idea has been implemented to make it as outrageously high-tech as possible. The front windscreen serves as a transparent display. Driving related data as well as geographical info is shown across its full width. Featuring full gesture control, you will be able to set preferences and give instructions to the system by swiping with your hands, for example. The Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 can be driven in full autonomous mode.

The interior has body sensors to monitor vital functions

The padded leather upholstery also serves another purpose apart from enveloping its seat occupants in luxury. Leather buttons are not particularly functional. This has been replaced by tiny ‘body sensors’. These are able to monitor the occupants’ vital functions, and in turn are able to activate comfort and convenience features such as seat climate or its massage function. The centre tunnel is transparent, visualising the drive system’s electrical energy flow to the lucky occupants’ delight.

The Mercedes-Maybach 6 is set to make its debut at Monterey Car Week, taking place on the Monterey Peninsula until August 21st, 2016.