Honda has released today initial info and photos for its' CR-Z (Compact Renaissance Zero) concept car to be unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in two weeks. Referred to as a next generation lightweight sports car, the CR-Z is clearly influenced by the compact front-wheel-drive sports car, CR-X (Civic Renaissance Model X), which was built from 1983 to 1991.
Honda highlights futuristic design, sporty driving dynamics and hi-tech user interface as well as a small environmental footprint. However, Honda is putting additional emphasis on the design approach of the CR-Z as it seeks to challenge compact car stereotypes. Honda states in the press release, “CR-Z - an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals. ”
Honda is attempting to offset any negative “small car” vibes, which the original CR-X suffered, by emphasizing an interior which is open and spacious as opposed to claustrophobic and confined. This is achieved with the panoramic windshield, sun roof and lift gate which almost form a continuous sheet of glass. Combined with sporty driving dynamics and hybrid power plant the CR-Z sets to change the boring driving image of small hybrid cars.
A CR-X successor has been much anticipated for many years and with Honda's excellent brand image, particularly in the U.S, the return of the CR-X couldn't be timed better as hybrid popularity continues to increase.
Detailed content
‘CR-Z’ stands for ‘Compact Renaissance Zero’—an expression intended to capture the idea of a renaissance in the design of compact cars that begins anew from fundamentals.
This design research model of a lightweight hybrid sports car features advanced technologies that deliver enjoyable driving for all while reducing the vehicle’s environmental footprint.
Exterior design
Designed to be ‘Futuristic and Dynamic’, the CR-Z combines powerful performance in a compact form with a futuristic image. For its frontal view, an over-sized grill with a high- performance look is offset by openings on each side that lighten the overall feel. In the rear, tube-shaped rear combination lamps ensure better rearward visibility. Design details emphasizing the CR-Z’s advanced image include door mirrors that provide high visibility in a stylish form, LED headlights patterned after luminous bodies to convey a sharp impression, and jaunty fin-shaped sub-lights. Large, 19-inch wheels are ready for dynamic driving performance.
Interior design
The key words for the CR-Z’s interior design are ‘Hi-tech and Sporty’. The goal was to create an all-new sporty interior that fuses the liberating feel of airy spaciousness with an advanced interface that brings out the fun of the drive. Mesh material on a simple framework construction is used throughout the interior to convey a light, sophisticated image without being oppressive. In the cockpit, the meter unit conveys the image of advanced technology ensconced in a piece of glass artwork, offering the functionality of immediate recognition while enhancing the driving experience with a futuristic and exhilarating feeling.
Honda has lifted our spirits this morning by revealing first details of Honda CR-Z Concept but has since crushed them with their second Tokyo Motor Show concept premiere, the PUYO. Ironically Honda states in the press release, “The PUYO was designed based on out-of-box thinking to provide fun for both the vehicle owner and people around them as well.” They had to think “out-of-the-box” to create a box?
It's no stunner, but closer look of the minimalist design has us moving past first impressions as the PUYO shows some interesting ideas for the “cornerless soft box” whose goal was to “create a personable design with the feel of an adorable pet”.
On the outside the PUYO has a gel body as a safety feature which is also luminescent. It can change color to communicate the vehicles condition as well as guide people into the proper operating position. This is important because the PUYO has four-wheel-steering which allows the entire vehicle to pivot 360 degrees.
With the entire upper half of the vehicle made of glass, the PUYO gives a sense of transparency while the interior seeks a “silky feel”. Interior features such as instrument panel monitor, elastic controls which rise up when started, luminous fluid displays and a joystick which replaces the traditional steering wheel all add to the overall mentality of the fun and friendly vehicle.
Detailed content
'PUYO' is a Japanese onomatopoeia that expresses the sensation of touching the vehicle's soft body. It is meant to convey a warm, friendly impression.
The PUYO represents a new idea in mobility that brings together ‘clean’, ‘safe’ and ‘fun’ functionality in an environmentally responsible, people-friendly minimalist design featuring an ultra-high efficiency, small frame and fuel cell technology to please both users and onlookers alike.
Exterior design
The development theme for the PUYO exterior was to create a cornerless, ‘Seamless Soft Box’ form that is kind to both people and the environment. The goal was to create a personable design with the feel of an adorable pet, while taking advantage of the maximum spaciousness of the box-shaped design. The PUYO’s ‘gel body’ features soft materials to promote greater real-world safety. Moreover, the body has been made luminescent to guide people into the proper operating position and notify them of the vehicle’s condition, facilitating a more intimate relationship between people and their cars.
Interior design
Developed to have a ‘Silky Feel’, the PUYO’s interior is designed to provide a refreshing, people-friendly space imbued with a feeling of transparency. Features such as an instrument panel monitor, controls that take advantage of the elastic qualities of cloth to rise up when the vehicle starts up, luminous fluid meter displays, and a joystick for intuitive operation are all designed to gently support occupants’ senses and sensibilities.
In recent days, Japanese automakers have been releasing the details of concept cars to be unveiled at the upcoming 2007 Tokyo Motor Show (October 26 to November 11). Here is a roundup of some of the more fantastic designs.
——————–
- Toyota RiN
Designed to promote harmony with nature and evoke a warm, fuzzy feeling inside, the eco-friendly Toyota RiN concept car features heated ergonomic seats, an oxygen level regulator, a spot humidifier, a “mood training” steering control system that monitors the driver’s psychological state, and greenish glass that protects against UV and infrared light while enhancing the natural beauty of the view outside. The exterior design was inspired by Japan’s old-growth Cryptomeria trees known as yakusugi, which are found on Yakushima island, a natural World Heritage Site known for its pristine, ancient forests.
——————–
- Toyota Hi-CT
The Toyota Hi-CT, billed as a cool and fun next-generation urban assault vehicle, is built specifically for narrow city streets and features a hybrid engine you charge by plugging into a wall outlet. Batteries are stored under the floor for a more compact, upright design, and interior 100V AC outlets provide passengers a convenient way to power their portable electronic devices. The rear deck is big enough to haul bicycles and surfboards, or it can be outfitted with a detachable luggage trunk.
——————–
- Mazda Taiki
(Mazda Taiki) The hyper-aerodynamic Mazda Taiki is the fourth vehicle in Mazda’s Nagare series of cars based on the concept of “flow.” Inspired by Japanese koinobori (decorative carp-shaped streamers), Taiki’s design is meant to visually express the flow of air (incidentally, taiki means “atmosphere” in Japanese). With outstanding environmental and driving performance, Taiki’s next-generation rotary engine and front-engine rear-drive layout may well figure into Mazda’s future sports cars designed to help achieve a more sustainable society.
——————–
- Honda PUYO
The eco-friendly design of the Honda PUYO fuel-cell vehicle is meant to create a soft, friendly impression and entertain the occupants as well as the people around it. The “seamless soft box” design gives PUYO a spacious interior and the charm of a cute pet that begs to be touched. PUYO’s “gel body” made from soft materials is designed to enhance safety, while embedded headlights and other illumination shine through the soft, translucent skin in the hope of fostering a more tender relationship between human and machine.
——————–
- Nissan Pivo 2
Like Nissan’s original Pivo, the electric-powered Pivo 2’s four individually-powered wheel units turn 90 degrees to move the car in any direction, while the 360-degree rotating cabin allows the driver to face forward at all times. Pivo 2’s most notable upgrade is the dashboard-mounted NEC Papero robotic agent who can carry on conversations and read facial expressions to monitor the driver’s condition. In addition to assisting with basic vehicle functions, Papero can help navigate streets and look for parking spaces, suggest where to stop for coffee if the driver looks sleepy, and lighten the mood by nodding and acting happy. (Watch video of Pivo 2.)
——————–
- Daihatsu Mud Master-C
Daihatsu worked with mountain bike star Raita Suzuki to design the Mud Master-C, a compact and lightweight transporter ideally suited for MTB support duty. The Mud Master-C features a tough body-on-frame construction, an innovative hub reduction system and 16-inch off-road tires that provide more than 37 cm (14.5 inches) of ground clearance, allowing it to venture deep into mountain bike territory. Three giant gull-wing doors make it a snap to load and unload cargo.
——————–
- Mitsubishi i MIEV Sport
A pair of in-wheel motors drive the front two wheels of the eco-friendly Mitsubishi i MIEV Sport electric minicar, while another motor drives the rear wheels. The i MIEV Sport has a range of 200 kilometers (120 miles) and is powered by lithium ion batteries, with extra juice provided by auxiliary solar cells mounted on the roof, a generating fan mounted in the front grille, and a regenerative braking system that recovers energy as the car slows down. Further efficiency is achieved with power-saving LEDs and heat-absorbing window glass, and the interior features lots of bioplastic components.
——————–
- Suzuki X-HEAD
The versatile Suzuki X-HEAD crossover utility vehicle is built for off-road adventure and city cruising, and can be outfitted with a variety of load-bed units suitable for different situations. The “Camper” unit can be attached to provide sleeping space for two adults, the “Fashion” unit allows for stylish urban mobility, and the “Rescue” unit is ideal for emergency rescue operations in extreme environments.
——————–
- Suzuki Sustainable Mobility (PIXY + SSC)
Suzuki’s Sustainable Mobility concept vehicle consists of two units — a low-speed personal transport pod called the “PIXY” and a minicar-based mobility unit called the “Suzuki Sharing Coach” (SSC). Ideal for short trips around town, the PIXY is designed to transport individuals along sidewalks and into buildings. The PIXY fits inside the SSC for longer trips, and a shared control system allows the driver to operate the SSC from inside the PIXY. The PIXY can also be coupled with a sports car unit called the SSF and a boat unit called the SSJ.
Mercedes-Benz announced today that it will offer the SLR McLaren super sports car in the form of a roadster. Showcasing the latest in Formula 1 technology, the SLR McLaren is constructed almost entirely of carbon fiber, providing a very high degree of safety as well as extreme torsional rigidity for outstanding handling characteristics. Powered by a supercharged (Kompressor) 5.5-liter, 617-hp AMG V8 engine, the SLR McLaren Roadster can achieve a top speed of 207 mph. Thanks to its fully retractable top, the Roadster offers undiluted open-air driving pleasure at the highest level, providing occupants with a comfortable open-air experience suitable for everyday use. U.S. deliveries of this new model will begin in Fall 2007.
Like the SLR coupe, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster once again unites the legend of the successful SLR racing models from the 1950s with the innovative technology of modern Formula 1 vehicles from the Vodafone-McLaren-Mercedes racing team. Distinctive stylistic elements such as the arrow-shaped tip of the Formula 1 Silver Arrow, establish a visual link with the racing cars. The SLR legend of the ‘50s lives on stylistically in the distinctive lateral louvers, side pipes behind the front wheels and the wide-opening gullwing doors.
Apart from two aluminium engine frames, its body is made entirely of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) materials, making the vehicle an exception among high-performance sports cars. The result is low weight, extremely high occupant safety as well as a degree of torsional rigidity not possible in traditional open-top vehicles.
Top Designed for High-Speed
The exceptional qualities of the Roadster are attributable also to the fully-retractable top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing silhouette of the SLR McLaren. Its newly developed roof material - which is available in three different colors - not only guarantees complete practicality for everyday, but also endows the high-performance sports car with characteristics previously associated with closed cars. In fact, conversation is still possible at well over 120mph on open-air journeys thanks to the favorable aeroacoustics. The semi-automatic roof opens or closes in less than ten seconds, providing a perfect combination of convenience and open top driving pleasure. To open, the roof simply needs to be unlocked from the windshield frame and be briefly raised, after which it folds away electrically. Since an aluminium cover is integrated into its front section, the roof elegantly closes off the top when retracted.
Sophisticated Aerodynamics and Racing-Type Chassis
In the wind tunnel, the Roadster has been optimized for high speeds to achieve remarkable levels of handling, aeroacoustics and aerodynamic efficiency. The Roadster also employs the aerodynamic concept employed on the SLR coupe, including an airbrake integrated into the access lid and a diffuser in the rear bumper to provide increased downforce on the rear axle.
The open two-seater is equipped with a racing-type chassis featuring high-performance carbon-ceramic brake discs for remarkable braking performance, while its unique front-mid-engine design provides for optimum weight distribution. With 617-hp and a maximum torque of 575 lb.ft, the supercharged (Kompressor) 5.5-liter, AMG V8 engine is coupled to an AMG Speedshift R five-speed automatic transmission, propelling the Roadster from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds.
Unique Safety and Exclusive Fittings
A high degree of safety is ensured by unique carbon-fiber crash elements, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed roll-over bars. The comprehensive specification also features adaptive airbags, knee and side airbags as well as seat belt tensioners and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
The exclusive standard equipment includes semi-aniline-leather-upholstered carbon-fiber bucket seats which can be individually adapted to the driver and front passenger by means of differently sized seat pads; dual-zone automatic air-conditioning; a high-quality BOSE premium sound system and a multifunction sport steering wheel with shift paddles.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster is produced at McLaren's Formula 1 factory in Woking, England, in accordance with stringent Mercedes-Benz quality criteria.
Mercedes-Benz announced today that it will offer the SLR McLaren super sports car in the form of a roadster. Showcasing the latest in Formula 1 technology, the SLR McLaren is constructed almost entirely of carbon fiber, providing a very high degree of safety as well as extreme torsional rigidity for outstanding handling characteristics. Powered by a supercharged (Kompressor) 5.5-liter, 617-hp AMG V8 engine, the SLR McLaren Roadster can achieve a top speed of 207 mph. Thanks to its fully retractable top, the Roadster offers undiluted open-air driving pleasure at the highest level, providing occupants with a comfortable open-air experience suitable for everyday use. U.S. deliveries of this new model will begin in Fall 2007.
Like the SLR coupe, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster once again unites the legend of the successful SLR racing models from the 1950s with the innovative technology of modern Formula 1 vehicles from the Vodafone-McLaren-Mercedes racing team. Distinctive stylistic elements such as the arrow-shaped tip of the Formula 1 Silver Arrow, establish a visual link with the racing cars. The SLR legend of the ‘50s lives on stylistically in the distinctive lateral louvers, side pipes behind the front wheels and the wide-opening gullwing doors.
Apart from two aluminium engine frames, its body is made entirely of carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) materials, making the vehicle an exception among high-performance sports cars. The result is low weight, extremely high occupant safety as well as a degree of torsional rigidity not possible in traditional open-top vehicles.
Top Designed for High-Speed
The exceptional qualities of the Roadster are attributable also to the fully-retractable top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing silhouette of the SLR McLaren. Its newly developed roof material - which is available in three different colors - not only guarantees complete practicality for everyday, but also endows the high-performance sports car with characteristics previously associated with closed cars. In fact, conversation is still possible at well over 120mph on open-air journeys thanks to the favorable aeroacoustics. The semi-automatic roof opens or closes in less than ten seconds, providing a perfect combination of convenience and open top driving pleasure. To open, the roof simply needs to be unlocked from the windshield frame and be briefly raised, after which it folds away electrically. Since an aluminium cover is integrated into its front section, the roof elegantly closes off the top when retracted.
Sophisticated Aerodynamics and Racing-Type Chassis
In the wind tunnel, the Roadster has been optimized for high speeds to achieve remarkable levels of handling, aeroacoustics and aerodynamic efficiency. The Roadster also employs the aerodynamic concept employed on the SLR coupe, including an airbrake integrated into the access lid and a diffuser in the rear bumper to provide increased downforce on the rear axle.
The open two-seater is equipped with a racing-type chassis featuring high-performance carbon-ceramic brake discs for remarkable braking performance, while its unique front-mid-engine design provides for optimum weight distribution. With 617-hp and a maximum torque of 575 lb.ft, the supercharged (Kompressor) 5.5-liter, AMG V8 engine is coupled to an AMG Speedshift R five-speed automatic transmission, propelling the Roadster from zero to 60 mph in 3.8 seconds.
Unique Safety and Exclusive Fittings
A high degree of safety is ensured by unique carbon-fiber crash elements, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed roll-over bars. The comprehensive specification also features adaptive airbags, knee and side airbags as well as seat belt tensioners and a tire-pressure monitoring system.
The exclusive standard equipment includes semi-aniline-leather-upholstered carbon-fiber bucket seats which can be individually adapted to the driver and front passenger by means of differently sized seat pads; dual-zone automatic air-conditioning; a high-quality BOSE premium sound system and a multifunction sport steering wheel with shift paddles.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster is produced at McLaren's Formula 1 factory in Woking, England, in accordance with stringent Mercedes-Benz quality criteria.
Generously proportioned interior is a world in itself
The interior of the new Maybach flagship model is also truly special, displaying stylish elegance and the ultimate in perfection in every detail. Pure, unadulterated luxury is the order of the day – discreet yet unmistakable. The overriding aim – maximum comfort for all the occupants – has clearly been achieved, thanks largely to the extremely generous amount of space available, especially for the rear passengers. This is just one of the benefits of designing the Maybach 62 S first and foremost as a chauffeur-driven saloon. A glance at the dimensions alone shows that the Maybach 62 S is in a class of its own when it comes to spaciousness: measuring 6165 mm long, 1980 mm wide and 1573 mm high, it gives passengers all the room they need to relax in comfort in the 2.68 metre long interior. Rear passengers in particular get the full VIP treatment and are able to enjoy all the benefits of a luxury lounge on wheels.
![[maybach01_270x180(D).jpg]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiw88QBLWkR20BFsxrMoVhWHLfNGwS6gT9PGr3g6NowYdeD6XxOM2G7s4MmNJumd261Mmdx9vgAgR2ZanbzUjlg-49jeZNJ7xoiLMlPj37vxfMQ1TEOLSGh8CWeaU_SwJfCQ8fBgRwjfTc/s1600/maybach01_270x180(D).jpg)
A refined blend of carbon and piano lacquer
The exquisite ambience of the new-look interior comes courtesy of a mix of the finest materials, a sophisticated colour scheme and impeccable finishing, unmistakably demonstrating the high quality-awareness and craftsmanship in which Maybach Manufaktur takes such pride. The new Maybach 62 S is a shining example of how high-end dynamism can harmonise perfectly with impeccable luxury.
The unique character of the Maybach 62 S interior is in large measure due to the vertical surfaces coated in piano lacquer and the carbon rather than fine wood trim, which especially emphasises the horizontal surfaces. The centre console is a prime example of great attention to detail: this innovative composition of piano lacquer and carbon elements lends another powerful and energetic highlight to the interior as a further visual emphasis of the car's impressive performance potential. On request, Maybach customers are also able to order the new version with a poplar wood trim in anthracite as an alternative to carbon.
Perfectly coordinated with this colour scheme, the leather upholstery is available in black, "Vesuvius Black" with black or silver piping and "Aspen White" with black piping. In keeping with the overall design, the shift lever is trimmed in the interior colour, while the steering wheel is lined with black, partially perforated leather.
New high-gloss leather
For the first time, Maybach is offering its customers optional high-gloss black leather appointments with a greater depth of colour for the luxurious interior of the 62 S. In addition, silver-coloured decorative piping provides a handsome contrast and lends added emphasis to the shape of the Maybach seats. This exquisite material blends in superbly with the carbon or anthracite poplar wood trim elements and, above all, with the black piano lacquer-trimmed surfaces that are available as an alternative for the Maybach 62 S interior.
The Maybach designers drew their inspiration from luxury fashion articles such as handbags, shoes and belts. This new individualisation option is based on the semi-aniline leather already familiar from other Maybach saloons. The leather is made exclusively from the hides of young southern German bulls – the best raw material on the market. In an additional process, this immaculate natural product is further refined and upgraded, and the leather becomes even more lustrous and smooth, resulting in another highly attractive interior styling option.
First-class comfort and functionality for the rear passengers
The interior design of the new Maybach 62 S was inspired by one aim in particular: to provide the greatest possible level of comfort and well-being for the car's passengers. This not only applies to the selection and preparation of the fine materials, it also relates to the seats, the climate control and, of course, the exemplary acoustics.
Like the 62 model, the new Maybach 62 S features two elegant, individual rear seats with a unique and ingenious reclining facility that allows even the tallest of occupants to savour a level of comfort matched only by the armchair-style seats seen in the first-class compartments of modern passenger jets. Rear passengers can call up a pre-set reclined position at the push of a button, whereupon the backrest smoothly tilts backwards by up to 47 degrees whilst, simultaneously, a lower-leg support and footrest extend forwards. This means that occupants can enjoy the ride in an extremely relaxed reclined position. Of course, the seat can easily be adjusted to each passenger's own particular comfort needs. The following individual settings are possible:
-
The fore/aft position of the rear seat can be adjusted by up to 135 mm
-
Depending on the individual settings, the backrest can be inclined at an angle of between 25 and 47 degrees
-
The head restraint is adjustable for height (by 115 mm), fore/aft position (by approx. 60 mm) and angle (by 25 degrees). Its side bolsters are also individually adjustable in order to improve lateral support for the head when the seat is reclined
-
If required, the seat cushion can be extended by up to 60 mm when the seat is in the upright position, while its inclination can be varied by between 14 and 24 degrees
-
The position of the thigh support can be altered by up to 85 mm when the seat is in the reclined position
-
The lower-leg support features a two-stage telescopic arm that allows the fore/aft position to be adjusted by up to 240 mm. The inclination of the lower-leg support can be adjusted by up to 75 degrees
-
The angle of the footrest can be individually adjusted up to 110 degrees
Seven electric motors are used to operate this technological masterpiece – three of which can operate simultaneously, depending on the commands input by the occupant. An electronic control unit monitors the complex series of movements and controls the logical sequence. The kinematics of the individual seat components are programmed to ensure that the occupant's body – including the lower legs and feet – is fully supported at all times, even in intermediate positions between the normal upright position and the maximum reclined position.
Adjustment of the comfortable reclining seats is made easier by a memory function that is capable of storing five individual sitting positions. A mere push of a button is then all that is required to move the seat to the position in which the occupant feels most comfortable.
Multicontour backrest for a relaxing back massage at the push of a button
Seat comfort is further enhanced by pneumatically adjustable air cushions in the backrest and a program-controlled massage function. Pressing the "Pulse" button inflates and deflates the central air cushion in the lumbar region at precisely defined intervals and with varying intensity. As confirmed by orthopaedic experts, this pulsating action relieves stress in the back muscles and boosts the metabolism of the intervertebral discs. Each relaxing back massage lasts for five minutes and can be repeated as often as required.
If requested, Maybach can also equip the reclining seats with an active ventilation system, consisting of eight mini ventilators in each of the two rear seats, which allows an even flow of air through the perforations in the seat surface. Thanks to an ingenious system of air ducts, the airflow cools the contact areas between the passengers and the seats, all of which makes for an extremely pleasurable experience. There are three airflow speeds to choose from.
Sophisticated integral system with crash-responsive backrest for outstanding safety
As well as being exceptionally comfortable, the reclining seats in the Maybach 62 S offer an outstanding level of safety – in any position. The restraint system incorporating the belt tensioner, belt-force limiter and sidebag is integrated in the backrest, meaning that the rear passengers can enjoy optimal protection even when the seats are fully reclined. Further safety features include a crash-responsive backrest which is moved into an upright position in the event of a frontal impact and the tensioners on the belt buckles which also tension the lap belt in the event of an accident.
Alternative rear seat configuration
For customers who require space for up to three passengers in the rear, Maybach offers an alternative seat configuration as an option, featuring a third seat in the centre of the rear compartment. If this arrangement is specified, the two luxurious individual seats are retained, while an additional seat is added in place of the standard-fit centre console. The back of this third seat is designed to ensure that all three rear passengers are seated comfortably at all times. If three rear seats are ordered, the controls for the curtain, the lights and the entertainment systems – usually housed in the centre console – are integrated in the centre console drawer unit.
A robust work surface with an exquisite wood finish
Because Maybach 62 S owners will sometimes need to work while on the move in the prestigious luxury saloon, the engineers in Sindelfingen have developed a folding table for each of the two rear seats by drawing on the know-how of their counterparts in the aircraft industry. Lavishly finished aluminium is the material used in this case. The two-piece table surfaces are trimmed with carbon or fine wood on the top side and nappa leather on the underside. Both folding tables are infinitely adjustable for fore/aft position and inclination and are suitable for use as a storage area, a desk or a worktop for a notebook PC. They are housed in special compartments on both sides of the rear centre console, to save space, and can be easily pulled out and folded up by means of an elegant leather loop.
The rear console is the centrepiece of the entertainment and communications package.
Numerous storage compartments enable the rear passengers to easily stow large and small items alike. The exquisitely designed interior door panels alone house ten stowage compartments, complete with flap-style lids and a smooth opening action triggered at the push of a button. However, it is the multifunctional centre console between the seats that forms the heart of the stowage concept in the rear of the luxury saloon.
This is where the Maybach engineers have incorporated all that is needed for the rear passengers' entertainment and enjoyment, including a DVD player, six-disc CD changer, one or two telephone systems, a refrigerator box with its own compressor and an intelligent system which holds glasses and champagne bottles securely in position. The champagne flutes – specifically designed for the Maybach using high-grade sterling silver – are held by clips that automatically grip them (and other stemmed glasses) above the base when they are put down. The clips are released as soon as the rear passenger picks up the glass or flute again.
In addition, the rear centre console contains a range of storage compartments and a keypad with controls for the central locking, interior lighting, intercom system (if the Maybach 62 S is specified with a partition) and the curtains on the rear windscreen and rear side windows. Sockets for connecting a camcorder, an MP3 player or a games console are also provided.
Rear passengers can also keep a constant eye on the current road speed, outside temperature and time as the engineers have developed three elegant, circular dials which are mounted in an overhead panel in the luxury high-end saloon. Similarly, the rear passengers can monitor and control the navigation system, which offers extremely accurate positioning courtesy of state-of-the-art receiver technology, from the luxurious comfort of their seats.
Maybach 62 S customers can also order an optional compass which is mounted on the centre console in front of the rear seats. Developed especially for Maybach, it is based on the same highly precise GPS technology as the satellite navigation system. An elegantly designed compass face indicates the direction of two different destinations to the rear passengers – one destination is variable, the other fixed. By way of example, the needle can be set to always point towards Mecca, thus allowing those of Islamic faith to choose the correct praying position regardless of where they are in the world. In the variable mode, the needle can indicate the direction of the owner's house or the vehicle's final destination; once this point has been reached, the ingenious compass signals this to the rear passenger(s) by rotating its face.
Exterior and interior
-
Muscular radiator grille and distinctive rear end symbolise performance potential
-
Lavish first-class comfort for the rear passengers
-
Carbon, piano lacquer and high-grade leather set the tone
The designers have accentuated the dynamism of the new Maybach 62 S by incorporating discreet visual touches which are fully in keeping with the high design standards of the Maybach brand in terms of both style and material selection.
Prominent exterior features include a radiator grille with pronounced twin louvres spaced widely apart, closely resembling the familiar brand design yet creating an even more striking and powerful impression at the front end of the 62 S. In addition, the headlamp surrounds are painted in the body colour, enhancing the visual prominence of the twin headlamps and emphasising the forward-flowing dynamism of the car. This highly distinctive front aspect is elegantly and dynamically rounded off by fog lamps with shining chrome surrounds positioned low down in the front apron.
Eye-catching features of the side design include 20-inch eleven-spoke light-alloy wheels developed specifically for the Maybach 57 S and the Maybach 62 S, which lend the car a road-hugging appearance, as well as dark-tinted glass for the rear side windows and rear windscreen (not in the US), which affords the occupants of the large saloon some much-welcomed privacy.
The rear end is characterised by a new-look rear apron which integrates the two visible, trapezoidal chrome exhaust tailpipes on the left and right into the vehicle contours and thereby particularly accentuates their visual effect. Plus the boot lid bears the lettering "Maybach" and "62 S", the model designation also being repeated on the side wings beneath the A-pillars.
A single-tone paint finish – in "Baltic Black" or "Nevada Silver", both of which are available exclusively for the 57 S and 62 S models – confirms the special position of the 62 S within the luxury car line-up produced in Sindelfingen. Alternatively, an elegant, sporty metallic paint finish in shimmering white ("Antigua White Metallic") can be specified as an option. The appearance of this particular shade changes subtly, depending on how the light strikes it, and is especially lustrous in bright sunlight.
