wxman
Veteran Member
Piece of Mind from Mercedes
You don't have to be a mind reader to understand where Mercedes-Benz might be heading, thanks to the F500 MIND. Described as a research show vehicle, the F500 demonstrates that "We are far from reaching the limits of our technology," asserted Dr. Thomas Weber, the DaimlerChrysler board member in charge of research and technology. About the most conventional feature is the car's CL coupe-style grille. In fact, the four-door has a very coupe-like body. Like many Tokyo show prototypes, the MIND has no B-pillar, but the rear door can either swing rearward to create a yawning entrance, or be opened like a conventional car door. The "mobile research laboratory" features a diesel hybrid-electric powertrain that can operate in battery-only mode to reduce emissions and maximize fuel economy. The diesel pumps out a full 800 N-m of torque. The F500 boasts an active infrared laser night vision system, by-wire steering and instead of conventional foot pedals, there are pressure-sensitive plates. A "cone of sound" aims navigation instructions and warning sounds reach the driver, but cannot be heard by others in the vehicle. As typical for Mercedes, this show car hints at technology under development - "not for the next generation, but the one after that," acknowledged the automaker's head of passenger car operations, Juergen Hubbert.
http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=6543
You don't have to be a mind reader to understand where Mercedes-Benz might be heading, thanks to the F500 MIND. Described as a research show vehicle, the F500 demonstrates that "We are far from reaching the limits of our technology," asserted Dr. Thomas Weber, the DaimlerChrysler board member in charge of research and technology. About the most conventional feature is the car's CL coupe-style grille. In fact, the four-door has a very coupe-like body. Like many Tokyo show prototypes, the MIND has no B-pillar, but the rear door can either swing rearward to create a yawning entrance, or be opened like a conventional car door. The "mobile research laboratory" features a diesel hybrid-electric powertrain that can operate in battery-only mode to reduce emissions and maximize fuel economy. The diesel pumps out a full 800 N-m of torque. The F500 boasts an active infrared laser night vision system, by-wire steering and instead of conventional foot pedals, there are pressure-sensitive plates. A "cone of sound" aims navigation instructions and warning sounds reach the driver, but cannot be heard by others in the vehicle. As typical for Mercedes, this show car hints at technology under development - "not for the next generation, but the one after that," acknowledged the automaker's head of passenger car operations, Juergen Hubbert.
http://www.thecarconnection.com/index.asp?article=6543