This completely new and fascinating illumination concept integrates adjustable transparency (of the roof glass), translucency (via a retractable sun blind) and adjustable luminescence (of the sun blind membrane) for the first time.
The result is that occupants of the Maybach 62 (the "chauffeur" variant) can create a light level ideally suited to their needs and mood, in sunshine, dull weather or at night.
The Panorama roof ranks as one of the most challenging projects ever undertaken by any roof-system supplier. It is the culmination of nearly three years' close cooperation between Webasto AG and DaimlerChrysler and was designed to fulfill the very highest requirements of comfort and quality.
The ability to create individual lighting conditions inside the vehicle was the main priority in the development of the Panorama roof, regardless of available sunlight. Maybach passengers had to be able to enjoy the same level of comfort in cloudy weather and at night.
Occupants can allow the sun to shine clearly through the Panorama roof's thick glass safety panels or with the touch of a button, diffuse the light, making the roof opaque.
In addition, an electrically operated translucent blind is provided. When closed, it obstructs the view of the sky and, at the touch of a button, the blind's lower surface can be made to glow at a choice of 16 different levels of brightness, thereby flooding the rear compartment with a soft, agreeable white light.
The glass panel of the Panorama roof over the front seats has photovoltaic elements that provide an energy source to power the air-conditioning system's ventilation fan when the Maybach is parked. As a result, a stuffy interior in summer can be significantly reduced in temperature and the humidity brought into the vehicle by passengers in wet and snowy weather can be channelled to the outside.
Webasto's All-Glass Panorama Roof Offers Maybach Buyers Fingertip Control of Light and Mood
Webasto's all-glass Panorama roof available on the new Maybach 62, which is making its debut in North America at January's North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, is the world's most advanced automotive roof system.