© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Vision Tokyo
The latest in a series of Vision Concepts from Mercedes-Benz made its debut Wednesday at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. This concept’s styling follows the same lines as the Concept IAA shown in Frankfurt last month, but the actual vehicle is quite different. Appropriately named Vision Tokyo, the concept is a large vanlike vehicle designed to drive autonomously, providing space for five occupants to lounge on couchlike seating.
© Mercedes-Benz Japan
For a Younger Generation
Aimed at Generation Z — those born since 1995 — the Vision Tokyo gives travelers a place to “chill and chat.” Passengers access the interior lounge through a large upward-swinging door on the left.
Seating is unconventional; rather than rows of seats, a large oval-shaped couch allows occupants to socialize while the autonomous Vision Tokyo takes them to their destination.
© Mercedes-Benz Japan
High-Tech Displays
Large wraparound LED screens envelop the passengers. Apps, maps and displays from the entertainment system can be shown on the screens, or presented as three-dimensional holograms within the interior space.
© Mercedes-Benz Japan
Manually Driven
If a situation arises that requires the Vision Tokyo to be driven manually, a seat facing the direction of travel can be released from the center of the couch. The steering wheel gets moved from its standby position into driving position.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Unique Styling
Instead of a conventional windshield, the Vision Tokyo features a continuous stretch of glass. The monochrome Alubeam paintwork emphasizes the spaciousness of this concept, further enhanced by screen-printed side windows. These windows also give passengers privacy while still providing an unimpeded view out. Large 26-inch wheels and side skirts complete the picture.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Fuel Cell
The Vision Tokyo utilizes a hydrogen fuel-cell powered electric-drive system. The electric hybrid system has a total range of more than 600 miles — about 120 miles are courtesy of battery power, and around 500 miles on the electricity produced by the fuel cell.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Not Ready for Prime Time
Like other models in the Vision series, the Vision Tokyo won’t go to production as seen in Tokyo. However, certain design aspects and featured technologies are likely to make it to production in some form. As appealing as this concept might be to Generation Z, most folks are probably not ready to give up driving yet.
Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo concept
Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo concept
Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo concept
Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo concept
Mercedes-Benz Vision Tokyo concept
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