emrich transport design :: mercedes A Class

Steve Mattin: Mercedes A Class

Eight months prior to the first showing of Mercedes-Benz's 'Vision A Concept' in 1993, Steve Mattin conceived several ideas that were close relations of the final design of the A-Class. The actual design was a proposal by Mattin in 1994, chosen in preference to ideas by competing designers.

Financial and structural requirements brought the rear window back from the rear doors; despite this and other changes, the A-Class remained very close to the original idea.

"Mercedes has changed the way design is done. It's now much easier to get ideas pushed through. If the design is harmonious, they will push it through rather than do a mixture of ideas."

The unusual reverse c-pillar is possibly the most significant part of the design. It is this feature that distinguishes the A -Class from its rivals. Mattin comments:
"With conventional A and C pillars the A-Class wouldn't stand out. It's a much more dynamic design like this".

Mattin's interest in car design took hold in 1982. Having jointly won the first BP styling competition, Mattin chose to pursue car design in preference to architecture. In 1986, in the third year of the transport design course at Coventry, Mattin was placed with Mercedes for five months. However, it wasn't until his degree show in 1986 where he met Johann Tomforde, a senior Mercedes designer, that there was a suggestion of him working for them. Mattin began work for Mercedes immediately, giving up the opportunity to study at the RCA with Opel sponsorship.

At Mercedes Mattin has been involved in work and proposals for the SLK and C,E and S classes.
"Designers at Mercedes have the chance to work on everything - if they have the time."