Concept vehicles introduced at major motor shows in the U.S. during the 2017/2018 season were deemed eligible for our Concept Vehicle of the Year. Our team of six experienced and respected jurors, led by former GM designer (SSR) and current director of the Leeland Chapter of the Society of Automotive Historians, Brian Baker, selected 19 finalists.

Our jurists all have global experience in the field: former designers, a former V.P. of design of design and academic leaders in automotive design. Ultimately, this year’s winner was selected after careful consideration – the Vision Mercedes-Maybach 6 Cabriolet, a stunning luxury roadster from the German manufacturer that was first presented at the famous Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance.

Said chief judge Brian Baker, “The impact of this beautiful car enticed our judges to select it for its classic proportions, stellar white interior and imposing presence. The attention to detail of this roadster gives it a grace that our judges selected over many other worthy vehicles. ‘Vehicles’ is the correct word because this year’s nominees included, autonomous concepts, SUV’s, and even an aerial drone concept for carrying passengers. Nominees represent a broad range of vehicles that reflect the changing landscape of vehicle design, giving all the more reason to applaud the efforts of the design team that created this classically beautiful cabriolet from Maybach.” Congratulations Mercedes-Benz Maybach!

This years Chief Judge is Brian C. Baker, Founder of AutoArcheology

Judging Team
Bob Boniface, veteran designer for Chrysler and GM, Retired
Wayne Cherry, GM Vice President of Design, Retired
John Manoogian II, adjunct faculty at College for Creative Studies
Paul Snyder, former designer at Ford and Honda, faculty member at the College for Creative Studies
Keith Nagara, designer at Chrysler and Ford, founder and director of the Transportation Design and Industrial Design Programs at Lawrence Technological University