The 1,642 piece LEGO Mercedes-AMG W14 E Performance will arrive in March 2024

Posted on 09/02/2024 by Gaurav Sood

LEGO Technic has found a deep-rooted fancy for motorsports lately with the release of the McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna LEGO set and Speed Champions 2023 McLaren. Now the group has revealed the Mercedes-AMG W14 E Performance and a smaller pull-back version. The scaled replica of Lewis Hamilton’s 2023 Mercedes-AMG W14 F1 car is highly intricate and one to get for Formula-1 fans who follow the sport passionately.

The seven-time world champion sparked the interest of audiences worldwide with his domination at the pinnacle of motorsports for nearly a decade. This has earned the team millions of fans who come to witness the driving craft of Lewis and his machine. Sadly the team has tumbled from the top spot as Red Bull hit back with a flurry of wins but that doesn’t take anything away from the champion and his glory years. This LEGO set celebrates that winning spree and domination etched forever in the hearts of Mercedes fans.

Designer: LEGO Group

LEGO Technic is expanding its ever-growing collection of motorsports replicas with the Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance LEGO set. The 1/8 scale model can be built piece by piece from the individual 1,642 LEGO bricks to form the W14 measuring 13 cm tall, 63cm long and 26 cm wide. Symbolized by the black color to keep the carbon parts from being painted to reduce that minuscule amount of weight, the F1 car is crafted to the most fine details.

The see-through V6 engine has moving piston parts, a working steering wheel, suspensions, differential, slick tires (without the Pirelli branding) and a DRS rear wing to complete the build. The original livery in the form of stickers has been replicated on the bodywork, making it a very inviting final form if you love the Silver Arrows for what they are.

The LEGO set will be released on March 1, 2024, for interested buyers and I’m sure there will be many takers. Also, LEGO will release a smaller version for kids in a pull-back form to have maximum fun.

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Terracamper turns Mercedes G Wagon into an equipped off-grid camper van with Tecrawl conversion kit

Posted on 20/12/2023 by Gaurav Sood

We have seen some interesting and capable camper vans through 2023. A successful year for the industry is about to wrap up but Terracamper – based out of Germany – wants it should do so on a high. It is therefore giving Mercedes enthusiasts, others of course included, the opportunity to enhance their outdoor activities this winter, and going forward into the summer, with the new Tecrawl G-Camper kit.

Yeah, it’s the G Wagon and not the ideal and beloved Sprinter van that forms the basis for this conversion. The 4×4 G Class Mercedes has been outfitted with a basic layout and modular accessories to make a camper van worthy of being taken out for a longer spin than a weekend.

Designer: Terracamper

Taking of which, the German camping marque has just about done justice to incorporate the luxury a Merc may demand. The idea of the conversion kit is to keep things simple yet focus largely on utility. The Tecrawl, therefore, comes with a full thermal insulation pack for the colder months and a 31-L compressor cool box for the summery days. The power requirement is taken care of by the optional solar energy system and the integrated 150Ah lithium battery.

The renewable energy system renders the Tecrawl capable of camping off the grid. For comfort inside, the Tecrawl provides the G Wagon with a comfortable sleeping unit for three people. The main sleeping section is crafted in the provided rooftop tent – accessible via a ladder – while the convertible dining table morphs into a sleeper for the third person. This table also fulfills the third function: It flips into a work desk beside a side sofa ideal for the needs of a mobile workaholic.

Terracamper furnishes the Tecrawl G-Camper with decent interior storage and provides a retractable awning to extend the living space when you’re camped. Here you can also pull out the kitchenette from within the camper van for the culinary requirements. The pull-out kitchen offers a two-burner gas stove, fold-out counters, a prep area, and a utility fridge. The water requirement is catered to by a removable 20-L fresh water canister and a portable dry toilet space you trip outdoors. Given its merits, the Tecrawl G Wagon camper van conversion kit starts at €11,000 (roughly $11,900).

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Boschert B300 Gullwing is a classic remake that entices car mod enthusiasts

Posted on 28/10/2023 by Gaurav Sood

In the world of automotive remakes, there are classics, and then there are those rare gems that redefine what a classic can be. The Boschert B300 Gullwing falls squarely into the latter category. This remarkable creation embodies the dreams and ingenuity of its creator, making the ride a desirable creation for car mod aficionados.

So, what makes the Boschert B300 Gullwing such a standout in the sea of customized vehicles out there? Well, it all starts with the base—a 1988 Mercedes 300CE. At first glance, you might mistake it for the modernized DeLorean. The unassuming Mercedes-Benz has undergone a transformation that takes it from the mundane to the extraordinary realm.

Designer: RM Sothebys

The most eye-catching feature of the modded B300 is its gullwing doors. These iconic doors harken back to the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300SL, adding an air of sophistication and intrigue to this unique creation. They’re not just for show; they’re fully functional and serve as a captivating entry point to the driver’s seat. Under the hood, the B300 retains its Mercedes-Benz heart, which has been tuned and enhanced to unleash its full potential.

Considerable reengineering efforts were dedicated to this bespoke vehicle. The initial doors of the donor car were carefully removed, necessitating a forward movement of the C-pillar by 9.9 inches (25 cm) to accommodate the installation of the new roof-hinged gullwing doors. These doors, impressively large, offer simultaneous access to both the front and rear seats. Additionally, 9.9 inches were skillfully trimmed from the rear overhang to enhance the vehicle’s road-handling capabilities. Furthermore, the sills were repositioned and the unibody was substantially reinforced.

A striking touch is the grafting of the front end of a Mercedes R129-generation SL onto the vehicle’s front. These structural modifications are substantial, and it’s evident that Zagato played a significant role in the design and execution. The final result is so refined that it could easily be mistaken for a creation from Mercedes themselves. Inside, the B300 maintains a classic vibe while incorporating modern conveniences. The cabin is a tasteful blend of vintage charm and contemporary luxury, creating a comfortable and stylish environment for the driver and passengers.

What truly sets the Boschert B300 Gullwing apart is its exclusivity. This one-off creation will be a prized possession for those dreaming of owning a piece of automotive history, that dream might soon become a reality. The Boschert B300 Gullwing is set to go under the hammer at an upcoming auction in November for an expected price of €250,000-300,000 ($265-318k) – about a tenth of the price of a real 300SL Gullwing.

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Mercedes concept influenced by WW2 fighter planes missed out on wings – obviously!

Posted on 02/05/2023 by Gaurav Sood

Back in the 1930s Mercedes-Benz introduced T80, a crazy six-wheeled concept vehicle that had the DB-601 aircraft engine derivative powering the Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighter jet. The iconic vehicle proudly makes its deserving place on display at the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart-Bad Cannstatt.

It’s been unheard of vehicle-powered by a warplane by the German automotive marque since then but a concept by the creative digital artist known for his cool designs, now demands attention. Color it in matte black and a Batmobile version for Matt Reeves to derive inspiration for The Batman – Part II slated for 2025 release is not out of the question.

Designer: Al Yasid

I’ve always appreciated what this designer manages to put on the digital drawing board with attention to detail matched with a sense of realism. With this Mercedes concept design philosophy follows suit as Yasid unearthes memories of the super stretchy T80. Since he’s a fanatic of World War 2 planes, the Mercedes was the right vehicle to experiment with a fusion.

A car being inspired by a WW2 plane (minus the wings) is not very common especially when not a single plane, rather quite a few of them are the influence. Yasid in a very short Instagram post says that this concept has the clear looks of a vintage fighter plane with “the canopy style greenhouse, the very elongated front end, the rear wing, and the front side exhausts.”

The V12 engine of this Mercedes protrudes from the hood much like a dragster or a muscle car, lending it a very intimidating stance. That bubble canopy-like door offers all-around visibility and fluid aerodynamics while at high speeds. This canopy stays properly sealed at all times during the drive, something that a claustrophobic rider won’t fancy any given day. The tailfin acts as a rudder for keeping the car on the track and not going off the balance if somehow the traction control system malfunctions.

All of this is topped off by the muscular body that curves around the middle and then again opens going to the rear. The anatomy is complemented by the silver and yellow skin, adding a dynamic character to the concept design. However, the yellow inserts on the front grille could have a more subtle fade out to go with the concept body’s fluidic nature.

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This shape-changing Mercedes-Maybach has a canvas for digital artists to explore

Posted on 04/11/2022 by Gaurav Sood

There are eye-popping concept cars, and then there are some that are totally bonkers. This Mercedes-Maybach concept is exactly what I mean. The grand tourer coupe for high-class nomads is straight out of “The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen” handbook with its extra-elongated shape, and that’s where it’s Cyberpunkish appeal lies.

The core motivation for such an automotive design has to be a passion for artwork, and that’s what the Mercedes-Maybach SHOWMATIC precisely is. It’s a four-wheeled electric hunk to show off art on the flexible Showmatic Display surface embedded right between the front hood section and the windshield.

Designer: MINHYEOK KIM and Janchi

For onlookers to have an optimum view of what the rider wants them to see – things like custom designs, brand logos, or subtle artwork – the front facia of this coupe is very low. On the inside, the driver has an expansive display to create artwork and also define the 3D surface to bring a compelling depth to the view. The flexible surface can adopt any shape just like the canvas of 3D modeling software.

The cabin for a single person is a relaxing place to be in, perfectly in line with the future vision of lounge interiors for self-driving vehicles. Moreover, the cool display across the dashboard doubles as an immersive drawing board to bring pure creative juices out. Multiple menus on the interface can be accessed to make stunning artwork that is worthy of appreciation for the crowd. Since the front section is where all the magic happens, the rear and the floor are reserved for housing the powertrain and the batteries.

Coming onto the vehicle design, it has a resounding Batmobile-like presence, mixed with the sophistication of something like a VISION AVTR or the Vision Duet. The advantage of SHOWMATIC lies in its ability to have varying looks on demand, and also the possibility of being the best show car out there to promote brands in a very unique manner.

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Retired Swiss fire engine transformed into a mobile home with spacious interiors to accommodate family of five

Posted on 23/07/2022 by Gaurav Sood

Back in the day you’d say, home is where the family is. Today, with life on the fast lane and homeowners downsizing to smallest convenience possible; home is where there’s least intrusion. If your idea of a home is a mobile facility you can live in on the fast lane, hop onto this incredible motorhome that once served as a Swiss fire engine.

The mobile home is the brainchild of Collectief Soepel. It is tiny and compact on the outlook but by virtue of immaculate engineering and architectural perfection, the living space promises a functional home with accommodation appropriate for a family of five.

Designer: Collectief Soepel

Netherlands-based Collectief Soepel is not a household name. But it has been relentlessly catering to the adventure enthusiast; in the wake, it already has its sixth camper ready to roll. For the love of renovation, this one is perhaps the brand’s most special offering. There are two reasons to that: It is tailor-made for a family of five; and that it’s based on a 4X4 Mercedes Vario, retired as a Swiss fire engine.

To make the tiny space comfortable for five members of a family, the interior of the recreational vehicle is realized in a sublime balance of practical usage and sense of space. With use of natural shapes and materials, the space looks far from crampy. There is a birch plywood kitchen provided with ash wood worktop and cabinets sufficing the storage needs spanning the entire length below. Small rectangular and circular windows along with a couple of sky lights allow ample natural light into the living space.

Many details in the interior are created with Platowood however the doors of all the wall units are finished in 100 percent recycled GOGO plastic. What really strikes the eye is a cozy double bed built in the alcove, accessible by climbing handles, and the transforming dinning/living space that accommodates for the sleeping needs of the other family members. A short ladder leads one into the mobile home and on the right side of the entry is the toilet provided with a commode and shower.

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Mercedes Vision AMG is a teaser of the brand’s performance EV future

Posted on 23/05/2022 by Gaurav Sood

Mercedes -AMG has just pulled the drapes off of its futuristic electric sedan concept slated for the 2025 release, and it’s going to be the first dedicated electric vehicle in the performance division.

According to Philipp Schiemer, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, this is the first glance at the metamorphosis of the AMD DNA into the all-electric future. The sporty EV is based on the dedicated AMG.EA architecture consisting the drivetrain made from scratch. According to Mercedes, the axial flux motors produce way more power than the conventional electric motors. Now, that very well justifies its AMG DNA, doesn’t it?

Designer: Mercedes-Benz

This car looks like it time-traveled to a parallel dimension, and couldn’t hide its superior alienated looks. There’s a very animated character to it, but mind you this is how the EV is going to look when it finally rolls on the tarmac. Those triangulated projector lamps (resembling the Mercedes Benz star logo), matte black glasses, and the elongated tail which add to the dynamic appeal. Everything right from the long wheelbase to the contrasting short overhangs or the low-slung body – give it a domineer way above its punching weight (if that’s not too judgmental).

Being a hardcore F1 fan, I can’t help but notice the highlighting fender covering the humungous wheels, and the teal accents on the side sills and diffuser reminiscent of the ones on Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 car. If we move on to the front section, the Vision AMG has a Panamericana grille with vertical slats. As we move to the rear, the tapered roof embodies into the teardrop shape at the rear end. Those illuminations on the tip encapsulate the body flank running smoothly to the rear wheel well. The tail has three brake lamps on either side, and the three-dimensional design of the lights can be mistaken for exhaust pipes, but actually, they aren’t.

Unfortunately, in the press release, Mercedes has not revealed any of the interiors of the Vision AMG concept – leaving us all wanting for more of this upcoming hot EV. One thing is for sure though, the car follows in the footsteps of the EQXX concept, and I can presume the interiors are going to be as swanky (or even better) than the sedan.

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Mercedes 190 EVO II restomod wrapped in classic Nike Sneaker inspired skin

Posted on 18/02/2022 by Gaurav Sood

The high-performance sports saloon 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II burst into the scene in 1990 with only 502 examples made to date. That’s how rare and wantable the aura of street DTM racer actually was. Now an automotive concept artist elevates the coolness of 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II to unprecedented levels with a restomod any automotive fanatic will fall for instantly.

An iconic set of wheels in its own rights, this Mercedes was ahead of its time in terms of automotive design, and that swag factor. No doubt it was the dream car for many enthusiasts and collectors alike who would literally dry out their fat bank accounts to park one in their garage back in those times. Khyzyl Saleem has managed to capture the nostalgic spirit of the original EVO2 while infusing a refreshing swanky aura. The original body lines of the Merc have been maintained, and at the same time modernizing the overall flow. Nothing here hints the EVO2 has been pushed beyond its comfort level, and that’s a big brownie point I appreciate.

Designer: Khyzyl Saleem

Khyzyl drapes the EVO2 in a trending palette that’ll give motorheads goosebumps. Boy, that side profile silver with the mint green on the decals, pillars, roof and rear wing; matched contrastingly to the matte black on the front section is a makeover a hotshot Nike sneaker would be proud of. The wheels get the street racing treatment with fat volume and rims that are absolutely sick. Up front, the halogen lights have been replaced with mean LED lights adding more character to this ride.

Honestly, I can barely wait to see this restomod come to life by tuning shops. That’s if one can find the rare 190 E 2.5-16 Evolution II to tinker with. Till then enjoy the Mercedes 190 EVO II in these surreal concept renders. Perhaps you could make them your desktop wallpaper – I’m clinging on to that idea right away!

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

Posted on 02/12/2021 by Gaurav Sood

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

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The Mercedes-Benz EQX Concept’s dynamic character gives the German automaker fresh new “VISION” to chase

Posted on 14/09/2021 by Gaurav Sood

A futuristic Mercedes-Benz concept car that uses the VISON AVTR as a canvas for extending the prototype’s possibilities for an even better human-machine interaction.

Back in January 2020, Mercedes-Benz showed to the world VISION AVTR concept inspired by the blockbuster movie Avatar. The idea revolves around a cohesive bond between humans and machines with a brain-computer interface (BCI) to control the vehicle just with mere thoughts. Now, designer Xiqiao Wang takes this future-forward vision a step further with the Mercedes-Benz EQX concept. The awe-inspiring sci-fi coupe understandably has the Mercedes-Benz EQ influence written all over it.

Mercedes-Benz EQX Concept by Xiqiao Wang

The idea here is to employ futuristic automotive technologies and modern-day design prowess to redefine the travel experience. This is done by amalgamating autonomous driving and unified infotainment systems to build an integrated information space. The airy character of the transparent cabin is reciprocated by the exterior having a glossy metal body and glass screen windshield extending from the wheel arches to the taillights for light refraction on a whole. Therefore, bringing to the fore contrasting internal and external design language.

Mercedes-Benz EQX Concept by Xiqiao Wang

Mercedes-Benz EQX’s voluptuous curved body shape evokes a sense of sensual purity, running back to the rear which lights up gradually from the interior cabin to signify emotional integration of man and machine. The designer fully adapts the VISION AVTR’s design for the individually steered wheels of the car which perfectly compliment the flowing aerodynamic body.

Mercedes-Benz EQX Concept by Xiqiao Wang

Xiqiao with this concept has managed to strike a good balance between a futuristic automotive character and an airy interactive interior that evokes one to jump right into the driving seat and take it for a spin into the woods on a golden sunset draped landscape. Perhaps, Mercedes-Benz could draw some inspiration from his concept to take their highly acclaimed VISION AVTR to the next level!

Designer: Xiqiao Wang

Mercedes-Benz EQX Concept by Xiqiao Wang