Mercedes Benz is typically very careful with whom it develops other projects with. Being at the pinnacle of German automotive design since creating the world’s first automobile is not something to take lightly. Last year, Mercedes developed an open ocean racing boat with the Cigarette Racing team. Cigarette is also world renowned and therefore made the collaboration a match made in heaven. This year Mercedes has teamed up with a high-end helicopter manufacturer to create a luxury version of their mid-size helicopter offering.
The Eurocopter was created in 1992 and was crowned as the world’s number 1 manufacturer in 2009. The Mercedes Advanced Design Studio in Italy was commissioned to develop a high end interior for the EC145 helicopter. Since Eurocopter provides transportation for many VIP clients, they felt it would be a great chance to build upon the success of both companies. The interior of the EC145 is large and gave the design team plenty of chances to create a unique and inviting space.
Mercedes is going to be introducing a new version of its R-class in the near future and decided to take some of the styling cues from that model and incorporate them into the helicopter.
The seats will be covered in genuine Mercedes leather available in many colors, but they are also mounted on a rail system so that the interior can be easily reconfigured. Multiple storage boxes in between the seats act as a fridge, cup holder, table, and armrest for passengers. Much like a Mercedes Limousine, a television and DVD player have also been included. The rear of the helicopter has also been optimized to handle luggage and anything a VIP client may want to bring with them, such as golf clubs.
The head of design at Mercedes Benz, Professor h.c. Gorden Wagener said, “Both (Eurocopter and Mercedes) are renowned for groundbreaking innovation and trend-setting products. We are delighted to join Eurocopter in unveiling the first product of our new Mercedes –Benz style.”
The production model of the helicopter will be available for personalization and sale in the fourth quarter of 2011.
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