Mercedes-Benz reveals Virgil Abloh’s Project MAYBACH coupe off-roader that showcases Virgil’s distinct design sense

A long hooded electric show car by late fashion designer Virgil Abloh intertwines the off-road aesthetics with the luxury of a two-seater coupe. Something only Virgil could think of!

Virgil Abloh left a gaping hole in the fashion design industry last week after his unexpected sad demise due to a rare form of cancer (cardiac angiosarcoma) at the age of 41. And out of the many unparalleled creations by the influential designer, the Project MAYBACH electric concept coupe is another example of his design sense. Created in collaboration with Maybach and Daimler AG chief designer Gorden Wagener, the off-roading coupe is a thumping statement in fashion and automotive design. The two-seater coupe is an undeniable reflection of typical Abloh work with the contrasting line and big proportions. It rides on chunky off-roading wheels and has got underbody paneling to take on any terrain in style. Then there is the sizeable roof rack and high-beam lights to make the off-roading escapade an exciting adventure.

Mercedes-Benz gave Abloh and Wagener complete freedom to go crazy with the 20-foot long Project MAYBACH, and the result is a long hooded electric coupe with circular headlights and chrome vertical grille trim pieces under the spanning light bar. The transparent hood conceals the solar cells underneath which extend its range a bit further. This Maybach was built from the ground up and the straight lines and sharp edges lend it a definitive style quotient aided by the dual-toned (black and tan) paint job. The rear section gives off a peculiar spaceship-like vibe.

The vanguard tan interior of the battery-powered zero-emission show car is dominated by the spartan-like styling with matching tan-colored leather seats. They recline fully flat for relaxing or enjoying the panoramic view courtesy of the all-glass roof flowing to the rear section. There’s plenty of storage on the inside thanks to the storage bins, or the special compartments to stow away tools or other essentials that you’ll carry along on a trip. The cinematic infotainment system on the center of the dashboard folds back into the compartment when not in use.

Mercedes-Benz thanked Virgil Abloh for the relentless inspiration to “explore every day the power of cross-industry dialogue to imagine a better, more inclusive future.” Back in October Virgil said, “The Maybach legacy celebrates exploration, pushing creativity to new places, living outside of the status quo. In this next phase, we’re embracing these ideals and bringing the Mercedes Maybach heritage into the future, inviting the next generation to join in revering this icon.”

To commemorate Virgil’s legacy and appreciate Gorden’s efforts for this design, Mercedes-Benz will unveil the Project MAYBACH at Miami’s Rubell Museum from December 1 to December 2. Exclusive access to local design students will be granted from 11:30 a.m. EST to 12:30 p.m. EST on December 1.

Designer: Mercedes-Benz/Daimler AG

The post Mercedes-Benz reveals Virgil Abloh’s Project MAYBACH coupe off-roader that showcases Virgil’s distinct design sense first appeared on Yanko Design.

Daimler Announces an Updated Version of eVito Electric Van

eVito Electric Van

Daimler announced a brand new version of eVito, a commercial electric passenger van. The parent company of Mercedes-Benz asserts the van can travel up to 421 kilometers after a single full charge. This changes the game for long distance travel on electric vehicles. The previous version of the eVito electric van could travel a distance of 150 kilometers on a singe complete charge. 

Here are some of the most important technical specifications of the new eVito electric van

  • The van achieves this distance capacity thanks to a new 90kWh battery pack. The previous eVito packed in only a 41kWh battery. 
  • The van weighs a massive 3,500 kilograms and can be used for transporting both humans and cargo
  • While the standard charging option is 50kW, customers can choose to upgrade to a 110kW fast-charging feature
  • With the fast charging add-on, the van can zoom from 10% to 80% in less than 45 minutes. 
  • The 150kW motor which generates 204 horsepower can transport nine passengers easily

What other features does the upgraded eVito come with?

The new eVito is a very luxurious vehicle. It comes with air suspension making rides smooth and comfortable. The active break assist ensures that there are no rough stops and that passengers will not notice anything unpleasant during a rough ride. It also comes with an adaptive cruise control for safer and worry-free highway travel. The 7-inch touchscreen is compatible with Apple CarPlay, and is perfect to keep the passengers and the driver entertained. The icing on the cake is the Mercedes PRO service, thanks to which fleet owners can manage operations in real time and track battery levels. 

Is the eVito only for commercial users?

This van is mostly for a commercial audience, and businesses will find it useful for transporting both humans and cargo. However, Daimler may be very close to working on a vehicle that is dedicated to general customers. Other companies such as Ford, Rivian and Nissan are working on electric vehicles as well. This should encourage Daimler to act soon and launch its own EV for general customers very soon. In short, eVito may help reduce our dependency on fossil fuel, and assist us in adopting a clean and green solution. 

The post Daimler Announces an Updated Version of eVito Electric Van appeared first on Walyou.

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