Photo Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz has created its own dedicated design wing called Mercedes-Benz Style. It can now compete in the design consulting business along with the likes of Porsche Design and BMW's DesignworksUSA.
Mercedes-Benz Style's first project is meant to convert a Eurocopter EC145 into a helicopter that symbolizes its own design and principles when it comes to luxury. The EC145 "Mercedes-Benz Style" was introduced during the 2011 European Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (EBACE).
Mercedes-Benz Style created the design based on the brand's standards related to comfort and quality. Mercedes-Benz asserts that the helicopter features certain Mercedes-Benz design elements but the only external sign that indicates that it's different is its silver paint scheme. But when it comes to the interior, the influence becomes more obvious. The helicopter features an extensive use of wood, leather and other materials that are typically used in the brand's sedans. Its interior is fit for a true VP with as it is luxurious as well as roomy.
Prof. h.c. Dr. Gorden Wagener, head of design at Mercedes-Benz, said that the interior design of the EC145 "Mercedes-Benz Style" helicopter stands for the "classic passion" of the Mercedes-Benz design language. The passenger cabin is luxurious but it’s also very versatile.
Its seats are attached to rails and they have a variety of arrangements to seat from four to eight passengers. So that there’s more space for luggage, the seats may be removed completely. The company said that the broad array of interior configurations enhances the helicopter’s versatility so that it can be suited for family trips as well as business travel.