The Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA Transforms Its Shape in the Name of Aerodynamics

The Frankfurt Motor Show is currently under way, showcasing some of the finest cars and concepts to hit our roads in the near future. One of such concepts is this: the Mercedes-Benz Concept IAA. While most will assume the IAA stands for the show’s full German title “Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung,” the cleverly convenient acronym actually stands for “Intelligent Aerodynamics Automobile.” Accordingly, once the IAA hits a set speed of about 50 mph (or manually triggered), its tail section will extend almost 15 inches away from its core chassis, allowing for a much higher degree of rear downforce and a drag coefficient of a mere 0.19. While this technology is not new (the SLS AMG, also manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, has an adaptive rear spoiler that would deploy at 75 mph), a transformation of this magnitude is definitely a feat of engineering. Along with the rear, aerodynamic flaps in the front and rear bumper also activate to force wind away from the “active rims,” thus reducing turbulence. Due to the conceptual stage of the IAA, no release date or pricing is available, but keep an eye out for this new technology in the near future.