Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR
Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR
Concept vehicles introduced at major motor shows in the U.S. during the 2020/2021 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 Leland Chapter of the Society of Automotive Historians, Brian Baker, selected 19 finalists.
The limited number of concept vehicles and events in 2020 confused many of us in the design community. However, the announced collaboration of the AVATAR film series with the Mercedes -Benz Design team was a rare breath of fresh air into the concept vehicle arena.
The combination of organically inspired styling and a integration of sustainability seems particularly poignant in this time of a global pandemic. The 35 small flaps on the back of the body seem to bristle with the flow of air across their surface like a field of poppies. The dampened movement of the butterfly doors mimics nature rather that a mechanical function. The dreamlike color scheme sets the occupant in the world of the Avatar films. Well done Mercedes-Benz. Congratulations!
This year’s 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
