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2005 Mercedes-Benz Bionic Car Concept

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Khatir Soltani
In case you were wondering, the Bionic Car reaches 4,250 mm (167.3 inches) from end to end, 1,820 mm (71.7 inches) from side to
Odd yes, but the Bionic Car's SCR technology is at least on its way tobecoming mainstream, having already been incorporated into commercialvehicle fleets. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)
side, 1,600 mm (63.0 inches) from the base of its tires to the tip of its antenna, and features a wheelbase that spans some 2,570 mm (101.2 inches). That makes it 195 mm (7.7 inches) shorter than the Prius, but on the other hand 95 mm (3.7 inches) wider, while its also 110 mm (4.3 inches) taller. As expected when comparing overall lengths, it rides upon a 130 mm (5.1 inches) shorter wheelbase, but passenger volume, rated at 4,220 litres (149.0 cubic-feet), certainly didn't seem to hurt once inside, probably due to its substantial gains in width and height.
   
Still, the Bionic Car isn't about to go up against the Prius on the open market anytime soon. Rather, the diesel engine and its SCR technology is, so far, the most useful component of the
The Bionic Car, from a design and engineering standpoint, is stretching the boundaries of our imaginations. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)
project, being that it is already being incorporated into commercial vehicle fleets. We may, mind you, see some of its other technologies - say the unique scale-like body shell - show up as part of future M-B models.

The Bionic Car, from a design and engineering standpoint, does stretch the boundaries of our imaginations, however, which makes it a very significant vehicle in its own right, and critical as a muse for inspiring future Mercedes-Benz project cars as well as spurring on rival automakers to reach beyond preconceived notions, to rethink transportation in a new less inhibited fashion. And for this, we owe the tiny little Boxfish our sincerest gratitude.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada