The "Mercedes-Benz style" edition of the midsized, twin-engined helicopter - which can accommodate eight passengers - was designed at the automotive manufacturer's studio in Como, Italy.

The modular, high-end design was inspired by Mercedes-Benz's R-Class range of cars. It is intended to optimise interior space, and to be suited to business, VIP, or leisure travel.

Seat upholstery is available in deluxe materials and a range of colours. For the floor, operators can choose between various types of wood. Wood panels are also used in the ceiling

All seats are mounted on rails to ease reconfiguration, and each of three multifunction boxes is equipped with a cool box, cup holder, table, monitor and DVD player, with extra storage space provided by drawers.

A partition wall with windows separates the cabin from the cockpit. The cabin deploys the same ambient cabin lighting used on Mercedes-Benz E-Class and S-Class vehicles.

The EC145's aft cabin provides a high-capacity luggage compartment with numerous attachment points on the floor and walls for baggage, golf clubs and other outsized articles.

More than 315 EC145s have been sold around the globe. The order book for Mercedes-Benz style EC145s "opens now", says Eurocopter. Deliveries could start in the fourth quarter of 2011.

In a bid to take maximum advantage of its design expertise, Mercedes-Benz is seeking to develop interiors and exteriors for aerospace and maritime vehicles, as well as its own automotive offerings.

Source: FlightGlobal