Mercedes-Benz and smart pick up a string of high-class design awards

Mercedes-Benz and smart build the most exciting vehicles: this is the conclusion suggested by the results of the latest design competitions. With the '2012 Green Good Design' award, the 'Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design' has paid tribute to the one-off
Mercedes-Benz Biome and smart forvision vehicles, as well as the smart ebike. The jury praised the exceptionally environmentally-friendly and sustainable designs of these vehicles in particular. In the 'Automotive Brand Contest 2012' meanwhile – held by the German Design Council – Mercedes-Benz has made it onto the list of winners no less than 16 times. 

Hundreds of products from numerous countries were put to the vote for the '2012 Green Good Design' award. A jury comprising some of the world's leading design experts crowned the one-off Mercedes-Benz Biome and smart forvision vehicles as winners, along with the smart ebike, awarding them the internationally renowned prize - ranked among the oldest and most famous awards for designers. In addition to their design, the vehicles were primarily assessed in terms of such criteria as energy efficiency, recycling and sustainability.

Mercedes-Benz Biome grows organically
The one-off Mercedes-Benz Biome concept is the revolutionary vision of a vehicle which, taking its inspiration from nature, is fully integrated into the ecosystem, from the moment of its creation right through to the end of its service life. The Mercedes-Benz Biome grows in a completely organic environment from seeds grown in a nursery. Out on the road the car emits pure oxygen, and at the end of its lifespan it can be simply composted or used as building material

smart forvision stands for energy efficiency
 The smart forvision is also a one-off vehicle concept which combines a futuristic design with technologies relating to energy efficiency, lightweight design and temperature management. One particular eye-catching feature is its roof made of transparent organic solar cells. It allows light to pass through and at the same time generates energy which is used to power the multimedia components as well as the fans which assist with climate management in the vehicle interior.

smart ebike – unconventional, high-performance 'pedelec'
The smart ebike boasts an unconventional design in line with the style of the popular brand as well as functions appropriate for city use. These come courtesy of high-quality components such as the hydraulic disc brakes, LED light with daytime driving light function and also an exceptionally high-performance drive system with a completely maintenance and oil-free carbon toothed belt. For infotainment there is also a USB connection. The smart ebike is already available, with prices in Germany starting at 2,849 euros (including VAT).

Posted in: 2012 Green Good Design Award,Automotive Brand Contest 2012,Award,ebike,Electric Vehicle,EV,International,Luxury,Mercedes-Benz,Mercedes-Benz Biome,Smart,Smart ebike,Smart forvision