Mercedes Unveils EV Concept In Memory of Its Late Designer
Off road-themed Mercedes concept EV dubbed “Project Maybach” imagines the future of EV design with late designer Virgil Abloh.
Mercedes’ venture into the world of electric vehicles with the EQ lineup has us excited for the future. The thought of the iconic brand’s integration of their historic luxury driving experience blending with EV tech is amazing to think about. However, the offroad niche is one field we did not see coming from Mercedes in the EV world. We’re certainly not against it, and their newest EV concept seems to point in that direction.
Mercedes-Benz recently revealed this concept car, dubbed Project Mayback, to the world. Though we don’t have any specific details on motor configuration or power, the story that comes with this reveal is a great and somber one.
Project Maybach is a Joint Venture Between Mercedes-Benz and Late American Fashion Designer Virgil Abloh
This concept vehicle is a collaborative effort between Mercedes engineers and American fashion icon and artistic director for Louis Vitton, Virgil Abloh. Just a few days ago, Abloh passed away at the age of 41 after over two years of battling cancer.
“Mercedes-Benz is devastated to hear of the passing of Virgil Abloh. Our sincere thoughts are with Virgil’s family and teams. Now opening the world of our collaboration and Virgil’s unique vision to the public, we want to respectfully celebrate the work of a truly unique design talent, who created endless possibilities for collaboration through his unbridled imagination and inspired all that knew his work,” said Mercedes Representatives in a recent press release.
Furthermore, to commemorate Abloh’s life, Mercedes opted for a more humble approach at the reveal of Project Maybach. Instead of gathering press and making a big show of it, Mercedes made the vehicle viewable exclusively to students of local art schools at the Rubell Museum in Miami, Florida. 
Though Not Destined for Production, Project Maybach Is Quite Stunning
Despite not knowing any of the specific details, we can certainly still appreciate the creative design of this concept car. From its long flowing roof-line to its tail lights baring the traditional Maybach logo, it’s quite a sight to behold. Especially when you see the logo of some of the most expensive vehicles in the world paired with offroad tires and plenty of ground clearance.
However, it is very safe to assume that this vehicle will not make it to production in any form. Like most other-worldly concept vehicles, it’s really just a showpiece. In this case, it’s showcasing a beautiful collaboration between one of the most legendary luxury vehicle manufacturers on the planet and a staple of American fashion and history. So, despite the world likely never having a shot at buying one, we’re glad it exists.
Much like the world of high fashion, many may not understand the point. That’s fine, too. On the contrary, many automotive enthusiasts may just be excited to see the return of the Maybach name and logo.
Like art, this concept vehicle can draw different emotions and thoughts from a crowd, with each individual interpreting it in their own way. Isn’t that the point?
Photos: Mercedes-Benz