Mercedes-Benz Style and Lufthansa Technik are developing a VIP cabin concept for short- and medium-haul aircraft. The design has a spiraling layout that eschews the traditional separation of ceiling, sidewall and floor. The floor, walls and ceiling instead flow into each other, creating independent zones. The new sense of space is reinforced by Mercedes’ typically strong emphasis on contrast in terms of materials, colors and lighting.
The cabin windows are concealed by black panels, inspired by screens in the S-Class car. Mercedes-Benz’s Magic Sky technology allows the panels to be dimmed electrically, from black to transparent. The companies say displays and touchscreens could be integrated into the black panels.
“It was an inspiring challenge to transfer our design philosophy of sensual purity into the area of aeronautical engineering,” said Gorden Wagener, vice president, design, Daimler. “The spectacular architecture of the interior shows creativity and modernity. Sensual surfaces and clear forms, combined with intelligent high-tech features and perfectly shaped modern luxury are the characteristic features of Mercedes-Benz design.”
“The purpose of our cooperation with Mercedes-Benz Style is to unite the two companies’ innovative expertise in the areas of design and technology,” said Walter Heerdt, senior vice president VIP and Executive Jet Solutions, Lufthansa Technik. “Our goal is to offer a highly discerning global clientele a standard of interior design that leaves nothing to be desired. Whether for private or business use, our modular completion concept perfectly fits every purpose.”
In the coming months, the two companies will evaluate the general level of customer interest on the VIP market, and develop the details of the concept.
May 29, 2015
