Automakers have to do a lot of crazy stuff to create buzz in between new car debuts. One of these “stunts” a few years ago included Mercedes Benz teasing a pick up truck concept.
The reaction in many cases, was full on eye roll status. Now, MB has both confirmed the truck’s development and recently showed the production version in the flesh:
So this is happening people. It’s called the X-Class & they’ll start shipping to Europe & Australia next year. The reaction amongst most people I know, was disgust.
“Shoulda been a BMW, that’d be cooler” said the enthusiast.
“That’s b*llsh*t, whose gonna buy that?” said the skeptic.
“Oh, that’s awesome” said the female car blogger. Sorry to be contrarian kids, but I’m totally into it. Here are a few fantastic reasons why:
- Mercedes Benz has a strong truck history. In fact, they are credited with making the first diesel truck in the world. So while we here in America think truck = International or Ford, I know three stars that beg to differ.
- They’re leading the truck game. Just with many more wheels. Daimler Trucks (which is part of the Daimler AG, Mercedes Benz’s parent company) is currently the second largest truck manufacturer in the world. So if they can make an 18 wheeler that can transport 100 cows, I think they can handle your Home Depot run.
- Mercedes likes it rougher than you think. If you think the most durable Mercedes on the road is the G wagon, I got news for you kids. Not only do they produce the indestructible Unimog (see my Unimog post here) but also aircraft, tank & submarine engines. So if their vehicles can invade Poland, I’m pretty sure they’ll make it to your lake house.
Mercedes-Benz X Class (photo: Mercedes Benz) - Daimler has a self driving truck. This same truck company was also granted the world’s first license to drive self driving big rigs on public roads in Nevada (see video here). So maybe someday you’ll be able to assemble your Ikea dresser while your truck drives you home. Oh, Hemnes yeah!
- Luxury pickups are a thing— whether you like it or not. The same enthusiast that dismissed this concept is the same guy that drives a certain GM truck whose interior is wrapped in leather, features butt warmers and a premium sound system. If you don’t think he’ll be tempted by this, I’ve got a Prius to sell you:
Mercedes-Benz Concept X-CLASS interior (photo: Mercedes Benz)
As usual another great post along with good reasoning. I loved your pointy word play on the Brooklyn Bridge.
So this car would feel at home in a NASCAR track parking lot as well as the polo field’s parking lot and might very well get keyed in either one.