Mercedes-AMG, will.i.am Collaborate for Future of Innovation
“The Flip” is a one-off masterpiece designed for a meaningful purpose.
Mercedes-AMG debuted the WILL.I.AMG, a 362HP turbocharged ride with a 116.2-inch wheelbase, based on the Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 4-Door Coupe. The car’s name is a clever blend of the Mercedes-AMG brand and musician will.i.am’s moniker. The seven-time Grammy-winning producer was deemed last September to be Mercedes-AMG’s new brand ambassador for electrified cars.
The joint project, known as “The Flip – Innovation for Purpose,” was publicized by Mercedes in a press release. Tweeting the announcement, Mercedes-AMG called will.i.am’s design a “unique masterpiece”—which is no exaggeration. The tech entrepreneur worked with West Coast Customs to convert the body of the silver AMG GT from four doors to two. The mod can be seen in a photo accompanying the press release, with the rear-hinged, suicide-style doors stretched open like welcoming arms.
The one-of-one concept also features a distinctive split-center glass roof. Its boxy front end is more reminiscent of a truck than a car, though the round headlights contrast the overall square-like shape. The WILL.I.AMG seems inspired from existing Mercedes schemes, especially the G-Wagen. The AMG GT concept’s 3.0-liter inline-six was left alone, resulting in an overall output of 362 horsepower. 
One of the stand-out aspects of the WILL.I.AMG is its exclusive grille design. Enthusiasts can see the iconic three-point Mercedes star has been replaced with the image of a bear. Upon a closer look, the bear’s nose and mouth are made up of the Mercedes star. The switch, evidencing will.i.am’s philanthropist side, symbolizes the phrase “Bear Witness.” It’s also the name of the limited-edition apparel and accessories line available online. The sales of the Bear Witness campaign benefit the i.am/Angel Foundation, which the Black Eyed Peas founder fosters to develop a STEAM-ready talent pool.
Mercedes-AMG states in the press release that the Flip undertaking with will.i.am is to help more students from disadvantaged communities gain access to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) education. “Our cooperation with will.i.am has reached a new peak with ‘The Flip’. We have inspired and motivated each other in the realization of this holistic concept, which is far more than an exceptional automotive one-off. We take our responsibility to society seriously. The success of Mercedes-AMG as a Performance Luxury brand also depends to a large extent on inspiring the next generation and giving them easy access to the latest technologies and digital progress. It is part of our tradition to always be pioneers and to dare to do something new. We are continuing this legacy into the future together with will.i.am and ‘The Flip’.”
Reportedly, Mercedes purchased the WILL.I.AMG (the car will go into the Mercedes museum in Stuttgart, Germany), financially facilitating 50 to 100 robotics programs in underserved communities for ten to twenty kids to attend each program. The educational endeavor supports students to develop the relevant skills necessary for both future technology dependent jobs and innovation—and to create a path out of poverty for themselves and, by extension, their communities.
Photos: Mercedes-Benz