Mercedes F-Cell Roadster Detailed, Official Photos Released

Mercedes-Benz today presented the F-Cell Roadster, a special model with fuel cell drive designed by trainees of Daimler at the Sindelfingen production facility. More than 150 students were involved in this project, Mercedes said, as it includes junior employees from multiple sectors, including automotive mechatronics, model-building, electronics, coating technology, manufacturing mechanics, product design, and interior appointments.

"This project impressively demonstrates that the topic of sustainable mobility has become an integral part of our vocational training," said Human Resources Board member and Labor Relations Manager Günther Fleig. "I am delighted to see how much initiative and creativity the young people have put into this project."

The F-Cell Roadster boasts large spoked wheels with styling elements installed on cars launched in the past in various historical times. For example, it comes with carbon-fiber bucket seats with hand-stitched leather covers and styled fiberglass front section, similar to the parts found on Formula One racing cars.

The most interesting thing is that the car has no steering wheel, with control provided by a joystick mounted on the dashboard. Power comes from an emission-freel fuel cell system mounted in the back that produces around 1.2 kW (1.6 hp). This output helps the car reach a maximum speed of 25 km/h (15.5 mph), Mercedes said in a statement for the press.

Probably the most important aspect when talking about the car is the operating range. According to specifications provided by the German manufacturer, the F-Cell Roadster is capable of traveling for a maximum of 350 km (217.4 miles) while keeping emissions and fuel consumption down to zero.