Revealed at the Frankfurt International Motor Show last month, the Mercedes Benz “Concept Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile” (Concept IAA) is two cars in one, capable of switching from design mode to aerodynamic mode at the touch of a button.

Upon reaching 80km/hr, the Concept IAA performs a transformation, changing from a captivating four-door coupe into an aerodynamic world champion. Eight segments extend at the rear, increasing the length of the car by up to 390 millimeters; front flaps in the front bumper extend by up to 25mm to the front and 20mm to the rear, while the Active Rims alter their cupping from 55m to zero. Finally, the louvres in the front bumper moves from 60mm to the rear, improving the underbody airflow.

“Fascinating and technically sophisticated cars form the core of Mercedes-Benz. The “Concept IAA” applies intelligent innovations to resolve the conflicting aims of functionality and aesthetics and shows that we still have plenty of ideas on how to achieve further improvements in efficiency,” says Prof. Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Daimler Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

The concept design is a reflecting of the technological changes that are taking place within the automobile industry, with digital advancements shaping the entire development process, from production to marketing and sales.

The systematic digital networking of different specialist departments helped develop the design and aerodynamic shaping of the Concept IAA, with designs employing the very latest algorithmic methods to handle complex geometric designs by using individually developed software.

Although perhaps not apparent at first glance, the Concept IAA offers a unique look into the future. It features Car-to-X technology, which allows communication with other vehicles or other sources of information. This helps in avoiding accidents, as obstacles and events which may not ordinarily be visible to the vehicle can be detected.

The exterior design represents a classic sports car in a modern vein, with the long bonnet flowing into the compact set back greenhouse while its elegantly sloping roof ends in an airflow breakaway edge.

The elegant side view boasts a sporty, minimalist shape with a striking “shark-nose” profile. The illuminated ring running around the rear end adds the finishing touch to the high-tech appearance.

The interior combines stylish sportiness with modern day luxury, continuing the design of the s-class and s-class coupe while providing an idea of what the interior of a business saloon might look like in the near future. The choice of colors and carefully chosen high quality materials promise a striking finish.

“The “Concept IAA” continues our series of visionary concept cars,” explains Gorden Wagener, Head of Design at Daimler AG. “The symbiosis of alluring forms showcasing intelligent aerodynamics is an expression of our unique Mercedes-Benz design philosophy.”

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