Mercedes’ Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile changes shape with the push of a button

By Andrew Hard September 14, 2015

If you thought retractable spoilers were cool, you’re going to love Mercedes-Benz’s Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile, also known as Concept IAA.

The sleek one-off, described by Mercedes as a “digital transformer,” is a showcase of the brand’s aerodynamic prowess, as it boasts a drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.19. For reference, the Porsche 911 Turbo — which is by no means an open parachute — has a figure of 0.31 Cd.

To accomplish this unprecedented level of slipperiness, Mercedes employed a dynamic, adaptable body structure that literally changes shape with the push of a button. When prompted, eight segments at the car’s rear extend by about 15 inches to reduce turbulence, and special flaps on the bumper activate to improve airflow around the nose and front fenders. Even the wheels — called Active Rims — reduce their indentation to become completely flat, allowing air to slip evenly down the car’s sides without interruption.

1 of 9

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 1 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 2 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 3 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 4 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 5 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 6 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 7 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 8 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

mercedes benz intelligent aerodynamic automobile pictures frankfurt iaa concept 9 — Ronan Glon/Digital Trends

“The Concept IAA applies intelligent innovations to resolve the conflicting aims of functionality and aesthetics and shows that we still have plenty of ideas on how to achieve further improvements in efficiency,” said Prof. Dr. Thomas Weber, Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

Left to its own devices, the car will undergo this transformation automatically when it reaches 80 kph (49.7 mph)

Whatever configuration the Concept IAA is in, the vehicle’s minimalist design is certainly no chore to look at. Outside, the four-door boasts a classic sports car silhouette, with a long hood, flared wheel arches, and a set-back greenhouse presenting a classically athletic profile. Inside, the ultra-modern IAA takes cues from the S-Class with its two-part screen, but adds unique cut glass and aluminum finishes to embody the luxury sedan of the future.

The Concept IAA is currently being showcased at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Andrew first started writing in middle school and hasn't put the pen down since. Whether it's technology, music, sports, or…

Cars

Mercedes-Benz EQG: range, price, release date, and more

Concept image of the larger electric G-Wagon

The G-Class is going electric. We already knew that Mercedes-Benz was working on an electric, small-size G-Wagon, but it looks like the company is also working on a larger G-Class SUV, in the form of the EQG. In fact, Mercedes has gone as far as to show off a concept version of the off-roader.

While there's much we don't know about what will become the production model of the EQG, Mercedes has also shared a lot about it. Curious about whether the Mercedes-Benz EQG could be the EV for you? Here's everything we know so far.
Design
Fear not -- the EQG will retain many of the design aspects of the G-Class that you already know and love but with a modern face-lift. The EQG will keep the boxy design that gives the G-Class a classic look but with some additional modern styling, at least if the concept version is anything to go by.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs. Kia EV9: battle of affordable electric SUVs

Kia EV9 GT-Line Three Quarters

The long-awaited Rivian R2 has finally been announced, and it's an excellent option for those who want an electric SUV that doesn't completely break the bank. Sure, the R2 isn't cheap -- but it's a whole lot cheaper than most other EVs out there, especially when it comes to SUVs. But Rivian isn't the only company trying to tackle the problem of the budget electric SUV. The Kia EV9 is finally available, and it too offers a modern design and a range of helpful features.

Given the fact that the Rivian R2 and Kia EV9 are two electric SUVs in a similar price range, you might be wondering which is better for your needs. That's why we put the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 head-to-head.
Design
Both the Rivian R2 and the Kia EV9 are actual SUVs -- not crossovers pretending to be SUVs, like plenty of other EVs out there. The two vehicles offer big, boxy designs and plenty of interior space, making them excellent options for families or those who need that extra storage.

Cars

Rivian R2 vs R1S: How will Rivian’s cheaper SUV compare?

The front three-quarter view of a 2022 Rivian against a rocky backdrop.

Rivian has finally unveiled the R2, its long-awaited attempt at a more affordable electric SUV. The new vehicle may not be available just yet, but fans of Rivian's design aesthetics and feature set are already looking forward to being able to order the new car. The R2 is targeted at being a more affordable take on the electric SUV and will sit alongside the flagship-tier R1S.

Let's get this out of the way right now: The R1S is most likely going to be a better vehicle than the R2. Rivian isn't replacing the R1S with the R2 — it's releasing the R2 as a more affordable alternative, and there will be some compromises when buying the R2 over the R1S.