Daimler unveiled their F-CELL Roadster back in 2009, it was the latest in their line of “F-Series” concept vehicles (past Mercedes research models can be seen here), and as you’ll see, it drew its inspiration from a diverse variety of automotive eras. From a functional standpoint, it’s a roadster fitted with a 1.2 kW hybrid drive – one that allowed the F-CELL to reach a top speed of 15 mph and achieve an operating range of 217 miles. From a design standpoint, however, is where the F-CELL Roadster truly shined, as it managed to blend the overall aura of the original Benz patent motor car with the seating and fiberglass front section both drawn from elements of Formula One racing.
As for who was responsible for creating the unique F-CELL Roadster, that honor went to the trainees of of Daimler AG at the Sindelfingen plant, with more than 150 trainees and dual education system students having worked for about a year on the overall concept, development, assembly, and completion of the hybrid model. According to Human Resources Board member and Labor Relations Manager Günther Fleig in 2009: “This project impressively demonstrates that the topic of sustainable mobility has become an integral part of our vocational training. I am delighted to see how much initiative and creativity the young people have put into this project.”
