The Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR is the concept inspired by the 2009 “Avatar” blockbuster. How how does it actually drive?
Mercedes-Benz revealed the Vision AVTR in January at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Even though it may seem that the name is an acronym of the movie designation, it actually refers to Advanced Vehicle Transformation.
Engineers and designers from Mercedes-Benz partnered up with the team that worked on the movie more than a decade ago to create the concept. Today, two journalists get onboard the model.
How does the Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR work?
The futuristic concept, designed by a team coordinated by Designer Chief Officer, Gorden Wagener, detects their presence and reacts accordingly. It lights up and springs its doors up. They go inside the transparent shell that is the body.
It may look like a toy, like a banshee or ikran vehicle from “Avatar”. But it does work.
At the rear, there are the 33 multi-directionally movable bionic flaps that mimic the scales of a reptile. They move simultaneously to steer the air flow around the vehicle and from outside, it seems a living creature. When the driver brakes, they light up in red, like any brake lamp.
The infotainment system displays holograms and integrates a real-time 3D display.
With a 2+2 layout, the cabin is actually a luxury minimalist lounge. The multi-functional control element in the center console allows the driver to intuitively control de vehicle. This is how he wakes up the car.
The driver has no pedals, but the hand control that commands everything, including steering, braking and reversing, for example. It can also be controlled from what we are used to call “the passenger seat”.
How much does the Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR drive?
The concept is autonomous and electric. A battery with a capacity of 110 kWh provides it with a range of up to 700 kilometers.
The Vision AVTR is powered by two electric motors, each developing 476 horsepower.
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