AI to Replace Car Designers? Mercedes-Benz Chief Predicts 10-Year Timeline

The future of automotive design is facing a potential upheaval, according to Mercedes-Benz’s design chief, Gordon Wagener. He predicts that within a decade, artificial intelligence could take over the role of car designers, potentially rendering them obsolete. Wagener shared this view at a recent event in Miami, highlighting the rapid transformation of the industry driven by electrification and advanced technologies.

Historically, designers have been crucial in shaping the unique identities of vehicles. As the automotive world transitions to electric powertrains, where mechanical differences become less pronounced, the role of design might seem more vital than ever. However, Wagener envisions a future where AI handles the majority of design work.

He acknowledged that Mercedes-Benz already utilizes AI, emphasizing its ability to generate vast amounts of design possibilities. While much of this output is deemed “crap,” the AI also produces valuable ideas that contribute to ongoing learning and refinement. Wagener believes that AI’s capabilities are improving daily, leading to his prediction that it will dominate design within ten years. He even joked that his successor would likely be a machine, a more cost-effective solution for the company.

Also Read: Toyota EV Reveal: Concept Car Comes to Life on March 11th

The question remains whether AI can truly capture the nuanced desires of human consumers and infuse vehicles with personality in the same way human designers do. This remains to be seen in the coming decade.

In the same interview, Wagener offered insights into Mercedes-Benz’s approach to other emerging technologies. He stated that the company will continue to incorporate physical controls in its vehicles for the foreseeable future, dismissing the notion of fully self-driving cars as still being a distant and expensive “science fiction” concept.

Also Read: Audi A6 Avant 2026: First Official Teaser and Leaked Design Details

Regarding the complete removal of steering wheels and gear shifters, Wagener acknowledged that it might happen eventually, but not in the near term. He emphasized that the steering wheel will remain a fixture for the foreseeable future, while the car of the future is evolving to be more of a “smart home” on wheels, rather than just a “smartphone on wheels.”