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| Robert Lesnik (centre) & Gorden Waggoner (right) |
Mercedes-Benz
Design studio in Stuttgart has traditionally been the main driver of new models.
Head of Design Gorden Waggoner, and Chief Exterior Designer Robert Lesnik
developed the new C-Class, S-Class coupe and the new E-Class in Germany, however it’s
clear that the company’s newly-opened design center in China, led by Olivier
Boulay, will provide significant influence on future models.
The
F800 concept (above) was completed in the Beijing studio, which boasts over 10 staff
from different countries, including France, China, Malaysia, Japan and the
Philippines.
Professor Boulay said,
“With Beijing being a dynamic and vibrant megacity, it is progressively
shaping future design trends, making the establishment of our Advanced Design
Center here timely.
“As
designers, we need to ‘live in the future’, thinking at least two or three
vehicle generations ahead. For us, that means considering every aspect of
future mobility, including things such as town planning and improvements in
infrastructure.”
According
to Boulay the new Beijing-based Advanced Design Centre will serve as a
seismograph, recording and analyzing stylistic trends and incorporating them
into the creative process.
In
particular, the design team will strongly draw on inspiration from their
surroundings in China, such as road congestion and lack of parking.
Annual
sales in China are anticipated to exceed 300,000 units by 2016, when it is
expected to be Mercedes-Benz’ largest market globally.
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