Mercedes Magic Sky Control is a unique technology developed by Mercedes-Benz that allows for the electrically controlled tinting of panoramic sunroofs. This innovative feature gives car owners the ability to adjust the level of sunlight that enters the cabin by simply pressing a button. One of the main advantages of Mercedes Magic Sky Control is the distinct lack of the need for traditional sunshades or blinds. Instead, the glass roof itself can be instantly transformed from transparent to opaque with a simple command. This provides a seamless and elegant solution for those looking to control the amount of sunlight that filters into the interior of their vehicle. The technology behind Mercedes Magic Sky Control relies on the use of particles embedded within the glass roof.
When the roof is in the dark mode it acts as tinted glass and blocks the sunlight entering the cabin. The glass is capable of blocking 95 % of light and UV rays, it also helps to keep the interior of the vehicle cool. The load on the air conditioning systems is also reduced.
Before putting cars into serial production, Mercedes-Benz put the MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof using SPD-SmartGlass technology through rigorous durability and performance testing in some of the most extreme conditions on Earth. The press release from Mercedes-Benz when the SLC was first announced stated, A feature that continues to be unique to the SLC is the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL -- this glass roof is lightened or darkened at the touch of a button.
The technology behind Mercedes Magic Sky Control relies on the use of particles embedded within the glass roof. These particles can be aligned to allow light to pass through or shifted to a position that blocks the light. By changing the alignment of the particles, the level of tinting can be adjusted to suit the driver's preferences.
Mercedes-Benz Premieres Refreshed SLC Model Featuring MAGIC SKY CONTROL Using SPD-SmartGlass Technology at Detroit Auto Show
Two days ago, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Mercedes-Benz premiered the new Mercedes-Benz SLC, which will be available in the spring of 2016.
The press release from Mercedes-Benz when the SLC was first announced stated, "A feature that continues to be unique to the SLC is the panoramic vario-roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL -- this glass roof is lightened or darkened at the touch of a button.
This means that it provides an open-air feeling at any time, but when required gives welcome shade under a hot sun." The MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature, using Research Frontiers SPD-SmartGlass technology, is a carry over from the SLC's predecessor model, the SLK roadster. The SLK was originally introduced with MAGIC SKY CONTROL in 2011.
Joseph M. Harary, President and CEO of Research Frontiers, the company which invented the SPD-SmartGlass technology used in Daimler's MAGIC SKY CONTROL panoramic roofs, noted: "It is great to see Research Frontiers' patented SPD-SmartGlass technology featured so prominently here at the Detroit Auto Show in a growing number of Mercedes-Benz vehicles."
The SLC, as well as the other vehicles at the Detroit Auto Show showed the popular MAGIC SKY CONTROL option, including the newly refreshed SL Roadster, the S-Class Coupe (which offers the world's largest single piece of SPD-SmartGlass ever put into serial production by the automotive industry) and the Mercedes-Maybach S600, will be available for viewing at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit from January 11-24.
Please see this video to see SPD-SmartGlass in action in the automotive, aircraft, yacht, museum and architectural industries.
The MAGIC SKY CONTROL feature uses patented SPD-SmartGlass technology developed by Research Frontiers to turn the roof transparent by electrically aligning tiny particles in a thin film within the glass. With the touch of a button, drivers and passengers can instantly change the tint of their roof to help keep out harsh sunlight and heat, and create an open-air feeling even when the sunroof is closed. Glass or plastic using Research Frontiers' patented SPD-SmartGlass technology effectively blocks UV and infrared rays in either mode, helping keep the cabin cooler, and protecting passengers and interiors. These benefits become even more important when a car uses large surface areas of glass, especially in warm climates.
SPD-Smart technology has proven itself in many aspects, from durability and performance, to sales. MAGIC SKY CONTROL is now in use on thousands of SL's, SLK's, Mercedes-Maybach's and S-Class models around the world. Before putting cars into serial production, Mercedes-Benz put the MAGIC SKY CONTROL roof using SPD-SmartGlass technology through rigorous durability and performance testing in some of the most extreme conditions on Earth.
This included testing in the arctic cold of Scandinavia (with temperatures below -22ºF/-30ºC) and the blistering desert heat of Death Valley, California (with temperatures exceeding 122ºF/50ºC). MAGIC SKY CONTROL blocks over 99% of harmful UV radiation and substantially reduces heat inside the vehicle. Test data published by Mercedes-Benz shows the ability of the roof to reduce sun exposure to 1/20th of direct exposure levels (from over 1,000 watts/square meter to less than 50 watts/square meter).
When compared to conventional automotive glass, Mercedes-Benz reported that the use of SPD-SmartGlass significantly reduces the temperature inside the vehicle by up to 18ºF/10ºC. This increases passenger comfort and reduces air conditioning loads, thereby saving fuel and reducing CO2 emissions.
600 450 Research Frontiers Inc. 2016-01-14T12:00:00Mercedes-Benz Premieres Refreshed SLC Model Featuring MAGIC SKY CONTROL Using SPD-SmartGlass Technology at Detroit Auto Show glassonweb.com
Apart from the Glass in the Vario roof, Magic sky uses a dedicated control unit that is connected to the interior CAN network. The switch to control the Magic sky is located in the overhead control panel and the signal from the switch is transferred over the CAN bus.
This dynamic tinting capability ensures that passengers can enjoy the benefits of a panoramic sunroof without compromising on comfort or privacy. In addition to the aesthetic benefits, there are also practical advantages to Mercedes Magic Sky Control. By reducing the amount of sunlight that enters the cabin, the technology helps to minimize the build-up of heat and reduces the need for air conditioning. This can lead to improved energy efficiency and contribute to a more comfortable driving experience during hot weather conditions. Overall, Mercedes Magic Sky Control represents a significant leap forward in automotive innovation. By offering car owners the ability to instantly adjust the tint of their panoramic sunroof, Mercedes-Benz has provided a solution that combines practicality with style. This technology has become a sought-after feature for those who desire a luxurious and technologically-advanced driving experience..
Reviews for "Mercedes Magic Sky Control: Elevating the Driving Experience"
1. Emma - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with Mercedes' magic sky control feature. Firstly, it didn't function as smoothly as I expected. There were times when the roof got stuck halfway and I had to manually adjust it. Secondly, I found it quite unnecessary and more of a gimmick than a useful feature. It added weight to the car and increased the price, without providing any real value. Overall, I wouldn't recommend opting for this feature if you're considering buying a Mercedes.
2. David - 3/5 stars - While Mercedes' magic sky control sounded intriguing, I found it to be more of a hassle than a benefit. The glass roof didn't offer enough shading during bright days, and I still needed to use my sun visor. Additionally, it seemed like an unnecessary luxury that added to the overall cost of the car. It's a nice gimmick to show off to friends, but not something that enhances the driving experience significantly.
3. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I was really excited about Mercedes' magic sky control, but it turned out to be a letdown. The glass roof was supposed to offer the ability to control the transparency, but it didn't work as advertised. Sometimes it would get stuck and remain in one position, while other times it would become completely opaque when I wanted some natural light. For a feature that comes with an extra cost, I expected better functionality and reliability. I regret opting for this add-on.
4. John - 2/5 stars - Mercedes' magic sky control was marketed as a groundbreaking feature, but in reality, it felt more like a gimmick. The roof control system was not user-friendly and required multiple steps to operate. Moreover, the glass roof didn't provide sufficient protection from the sun's heat and glare, making it uncomfortable during sunny days. Overall, it seemed like a feature that was added just to make the car seem more luxurious without any real practical benefits.
5. Michelle - 3/5 stars - I was intrigued by Mercedes' magic sky control concept, but it fell short of my expectations. The glass roof had limited transparency options, and I found it too dark even on the lightest setting. Additionally, it added extra weight to the car, which affected fuel efficiency. While it had the potential to be a unique feature, it lacked the functionality and practicality that would make it worth the additional cost.