This study is a one-off creation by Mercedes-Benz which revives the tradition of large luxury convertibles. Not having to work to a design brief or production specifications left the designers free to get on with the job of developing the world's most comfortable and elegant convertible.

Design

As a four-door convertible, the Concept Ocean Drive belongs in a luxury genre that has almost disappeared from our roads, featuring elegance and exclusiveness.

The Concept Ocean Drive has an all-new body with an almost classic flavour and with clearly defined lines and two-tone paintwork.

The Concept Ocean Drive represents "an open invitation to go on a "topless" cruise along the world's finest ocean promenades."

Apart from the four doors, the outward distinguishing marks of the concept car include a very large and upright radiator grille, LED headlamps and taillights, two-tone paintwork and a striking interplay between taut lines and large, restful surfaces.

According to Mercedes-Benz, "this lends the one-off special an air of effortless superiority, power, elegance and forward-flowing energy."

The long side-window opening which, typically of a convertible, is not interrupted by a B-pillar or window frames, ensures seamless continuity between the exterior and the interior, even when the top is up.

Extensive use of high-value materials –such as finest-quality leather, 3D-effect materials and large bird's eye maple trim panels (in the interior and even on the soft-top compartment cover) – and many other thoughtfully designed interior details, highlight the luxurious, unique character of this design study.

The Concept Ocean Drive isn't just designed to inspire dreams and fantasies; it also serves a very practical purpose.

Because design studies are always a good opportunity for designers to play around with less familiar themes, to see things from new angles and to explore new ideas.

Not just a pure design exercise, they are also a way of stimulating a closer dialogue with customers and of trying out new ideas on the general public. This helps the designers get a feel for future styling trends and to develop and implement new design idioms.

Technical Features

The design study is based on the twelve-cylinder Mercedes-Benz S 600, on account of this model's long wheelbase.

The technical highlights include:

• the innovative soft-top mechanism resulting in smooth operation and fast closing times;
• the innovative AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, which is featured on all four seats, allowing occupants to enjoy top-down motoring even in the colder months of the year.

The on-board equipment also includes the latest features developed by Mercedes-Benz, including Brake Assist PLUS, the innovative PRE-SAFE® brake system (in combination with radar-based DISTRONIC PLUS) and the PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system.

(Source: Mercedes-Benz)