Design and engineering for the future: F 200 Imagination study

Design for innovations - that was the motto in the development
of the F 200 Imagination concept study.

The two-door coupé is equipped with future-oriented systems which may become state-of-the-art on top-class models of the more distant future. Also, the study demonstrates new perspectives which are opened up by technical innovations in the design of future top-class cars. Form and function are therefore closely related in this show car - the coupé study reflects technological progress in both styling and engineering.

The F 200 Imagination is the result of a joint project of the Advanced Design Sector, the Mercedes-Benz Research Institute and the Pre-Development Sector of the Stuttgart-based motor manufacturer. The systems incorporated into this study car will improve the safety and comfort of passenger cars still further; Mercedes-Benz thus provides a glimpse of future technical milestones.

Driving seat: side-sticks replace wheel and pedals

Among the most important innovations on board the F 200 Imagination is a trailblazing control system which permits the driver to control all movements of the car by means of so-called side-sticks located in the interior door trim and centre console of the coupé study.

To steer the car, the driver moves the side-sticks to the left or right, for braking, he moves them backwards and forwards for accelerating. Conventional controls or connecting elements such as a steering wheel, steering column and pedals are not to be found in the F 200 Imagination - all of the driver's commands are transmitted electronically. The experts refer to "drive-by-wire".

In the F 200 Imagination coupé study, the Mercedes designers demonstrate the possibilities the omission of steering wheel and pedals offers in interior compartment design and the control of future cars.