Electric Cars

Gorden Wagener, the recently retired head of Mercedes-Benz design, has unveiled a previously unseen concept car, a contemporary homage to the legendary “Red Pig.” This muscular sedan draws inspiration from the iconic 300 SEL racing variant developed by AMG in the early 1970s, celebrated for its distinctive red hue and imposing size. The newly revealed concept showcases a bold chrome grille, striking circular LED headlamps, and a powerful, sculpted body, bringing a classic racing legacy into the modern era of automotive design.

A Modern Reimagining of a Racing Legend

In the dynamic world of automotive design, many innovative concepts never progress beyond the drawing board or the digital realm. However, former Mercedes-Benz Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener, who recently concluded his tenure, brought to light one such compelling creation on Instagram. This impressive sedan concept is a direct tribute to the historic “Red Pig.”

The original Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3 AMG, affectionately known as the “Red Pig,” emerged during AMG's nascent years, long before its integration as Mercedes-Benz's official high-performance division. This unlikely race car achieved a remarkable second-place finish at the 1971 24 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, a feat that propelled AMG onto the global stage. Its vibrant paint scheme and formidable dimensions solidified its iconic status and earned it the enduring nickname, meaning “Red Sow” in German.

While Mercedes-Benz typically focuses on futuristic aesthetics, Wagener has previously explored modernizing the brand's heritage through various concept vehicles, including the vintage-inspired Vision Iconic and the C111-influenced Vision One-Eleven. This “Red Pig” homage seamlessly fits into this lineage, presenting a design that combines expansive, muscular bodywork with a broad, assertive stance.

The vehicle's front fascia is dominated by a square, chrome grille, reminiscent of the illuminated grille found on the new GLC EV. It is flanked by yellow LED lights that subtly evoke the Mercedes-Benz star emblem. Additionally, prominent circular auxiliary lights extend from the front, and the concept proudly sports a refined version of the original “Red Pig” livery. Although this visionary concept by Wagener will not enter production, its public unveiling, also featured in his book Iconic Design, offers a fascinating glimpse into the blend of history and innovation within automotive design.

Reflecting on Automotive Heritage and Future Visions

This unveiling of the modern "Red Pig" concept is more than just a design exercise; it's a profound statement about the enduring power of heritage in an industry constantly pushing boundaries. It reminds us that even as we strive for innovation, the stories and triumphs of the past continue to inspire. Wagener's concept not only honors a legendary race car but also challenges us to consider how iconic designs can be reinterpreted for a new generation. It highlights the delicate balance between reverence for history and the courage to envision a bold future, ultimately enriching the automotive landscape with both nostalgia and forward-thinking creativity.

Ford is setting the stage for the next generation of electric vehicles with its innovative electric pickup truck, anticipated to launch in 2027. This vehicle is being meticulously developed from the ground up, utilizing a 'clean-sheet-of-paper' approach that focuses on advanced engineering and sustainability. The company recently shared insights into its progress, revealing key aspects of the design and testing phases. Engineers are employing cutting-edge techniques to enhance aerodynamic efficiency, explore novel design concepts, and integrate powerful battery systems, all aimed at creating a highly competitive and environmentally conscious offering in the burgeoning electric truck market.

A significant focus of Ford's development efforts is on achieving superior aerodynamic performance for the new electric pickup. Prototype illustrations highlight sleek designs engineered to minimize drag, demonstrating the team's commitment to efficiency. Engineers are utilizing advanced tools like aero rakes, typically seen in Formula 1 racing, to precisely measure airflow, velocity, and pressure across the vehicle's surfaces during wind-tunnel testing. These temporary metal fixtures, equipped with probes, provide crucial data to refine the truck's shape and improve its performance.

The Ford Universal EV Platform team is also making considerable advancements in critical components. This includes the development of an underbody shield, essential for protecting the battery and improving airflow. Early design concepts showcase a forward-thinking approach to the truck's aesthetics and functionality. Furthermore, the E-box module, which manages power distribution and battery operations, is designed with practicality in mind, capable of supplying AC power to a home during outages, adding a valuable utility feature for consumers.

Innovation extends to even the smallest details, such as the wheel covers, which are being refined through prototype illustrations. The mirrors, for example, have been redesigned to be over 20% smaller than conventional mirrors. This reduction in size not only cuts down on mass and cost but also significantly improves aerodynamics, contributing an estimated 1.5 miles of additional range per charge. The Electric Vehicle Development Center team rigorously tests components like the charge port door to ensure durability and seamless functionality. During wind-tunnel testing, tires are sprayed with Teflon to replicate racing conditions, allowing for accurate assessment of aerodynamic impacts.

The choice of battery technology is another area of focus, with Ford opting for Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery cells. These cells are known for their enhanced safety, longer cycle life, and lower cost compared to other lithium-ion chemistries. Akshaya Srinivasan, who leads vehicle efficiency and performance for the Universal EV Platform team, is instrumental in identifying and implementing these innovative solutions. Todd Willing and Alan Clarke are among the key individuals within the Ford team dedicated to bringing this ambitious project to fruition, working diligently on various aspects of the truck's design and engineering.

Ford's upcoming electric pickup is a testament to its forward-looking vision, embracing new materials and sophisticated testing methodologies. The use of 3-D-printed components in wind-tunnel experiments underscores the advanced development process, allowing for rapid prototyping and iterative design improvements. Ati Tolou, a Vehicle Modeling Specialist, collaborates closely with the team to ensure that all efficiency targets are met, driving the project towards its ambitious goals. This comprehensive development strategy aims to deliver a revolutionary electric pickup that sets new benchmarks in performance, efficiency, and utility for the electric vehicle market.