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Style and Substance
Materials showcased in Vision SLR
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The Mercedes-Benz Vision SLR's secondary controls are grouped together as round islands on the center console and its one-piece carbon-fiber seats have individual adjustable cushions.
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The instrument panel dominates the interior of the Mercedes-Benz Vision SLR, which is characterized by a wide center console in an aluminum-look material. The instrument's design was consciously reduced to essentials: two round units with a classic chronometer look. However, both the instruments and the center console are equipped with very modern technology, from the central display for the navigation system, to the COMAND multimedia display that automatically opens when the driver enters the car. Traditional needles indicating vehicle and engine speed are replaced with indicators that move on transparent plastic discs, allowing an unhindered view of the displays. Anodized-aluminum electronic starter, keys for automatic transmission range selection, light switch, and air-conditioning controls are grouped together as round islands on the center console. The "tip shift" lever for five-speed automatic transmission control is positioned on the right side of the steering wheel.
The one-piece carbon-fiber seats, with their special multi-layer fiber construction, have their origins in racing. In addition to conventional height and length adjustment, backrest angle can be adjustedŃa first for a one-piece bucket seat, says the company. Special "spring absorber" units below the seat ensure isolation from vibration. Traditional foam and upholstery are replaced by several individual cushions distributed over the seat, the positions of which can be adapted to the occupant's individual anatomy. This concept offers a weight savings of about 25% compared to conventional car seats.
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