Retro Meets Eco in Joystick-Controlled Mercedes Hybrid F-Cell Roadster
Katie Cordrey — April 1, 2009 — Autos
References: mbusa & fastcompany
In Benjamin Button fashion, old is new in the Mercedes F-Cell hybrid roadster. The car combines many aspects of the Benz patent motor car, shown with the roadster in the second and third photos of the gallery above, with seating and design features of Forumula One race cars.
Like a speeding herd of turtles, the roadster reaches a top speed of 15 MPH and boasts an operating range of 217 miles. A joystick replaces the steering wheel, so driving has a video game feel.
Coverage of the F-Cell begins at about the 1:49 mark in the video above.
Like a speeding herd of turtles, the roadster reaches a top speed of 15 MPH and boasts an operating range of 217 miles. A joystick replaces the steering wheel, so driving has a video game feel.
Coverage of the F-Cell begins at about the 1:49 mark in the video above.
Trend Themes
1. Retro-eco Cars - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop eco-friendly vehicles that combine retro design elements with modern technology to appeal to nostalgic consumers.
2. Joystick-controlled Cars - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create vehicles with joystick controls instead of traditional steering wheels to offer a unique driving experience and attract tech-savvy consumers.
3. Hybrid Roadsters - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Design roadsters that run on hybrid technology, offering both high performance and eco-friendly features to cater to the desires of luxury car enthusiasts.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporate retro and eco-friendly elements into car designs, tapping into consumer demand for sustainable and nostalgic transportation options.
2. Gaming - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop video game-inspired control systems for cars, merging virtual reality experiences with real-world driving to create a new form of entertainment and transportation.
3. Luxury Goods - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Combine hybrid technology with high-end design to create roadsters that appeal to luxury car enthusiasts seeking both performance and sustainability.
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