In a spectacular union of automotive and fashion excellence, Mercedes-Benz and Moncler introduced the “Project G-Class Past II Future,” a unique concept bridging 1990s nostalgia with modern urban style. This captivating new art piece and brand campaign debuted at “The City of Genius” show in Shanghai on October 19, 2024, where renowned streetwear designer NIGO took the lead in this reimagination. The event marked a pivotal moment in the partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Moncler, showcasing a limited-edition G-Class alongside an exclusive capsule fashion collection inspired by the decade’s cultural legacy and future-forward aesthetics.
A Tribute to Iconic Design: The Limited-Edition G-Class
The limited-edition G-Class Past II Future, crafted as a tribute to the 90s classic, features meticulously restored elements combined with bold design cues from NIGO’s artistic vision. Wrapped in an olive green and grey two-tone palette with black steel wheels and vintage accents in gold, this new G-Class radiates modern elegance and sophistication. Only 20 models of this exclusive series will be available, promising a rare collectible for luxury aficionados. This new model is inspired by a one-off art piece, showcasing the perfect blend of nostalgia and contemporary appeal.
Gender-Neutral Capsule Collection with Urban Edge
Previewed at the Shanghai event, the Mercedes-Benz x Moncler x NIGO capsule collection, set to launch in April 2025, embodies a fresh take on 90s streetwear. Gender-neutral and effortlessly chic, the collection includes college jackets, hoodies, checked shirts, and classic parkas. Each piece captures a blend of vintage nostalgia with modern flair, crafted for discerning tastes. The colour palette features classic blues, blacks, greens, and whites, complemented by striking orange accents and elaborate prints merging archival photos from both brands.
A Multifaceted Brand Campaign: Past Forward
Accompanying this exciting launch is the campaign, “Past Forward: Where the Future is Driven by the Past,” which visually captures the timeless influence of 90s culture while highlighting the future-facing creativity of Mercedes-Benz and Moncler. The campaign, led by creative director Thibaut Grevet, showcases the collection against the backdrop of a city rooftop, symbolizing urban roots and cultural renaissance. A campaign film and behind-the-scenes footage delve deeper into the collaboration’s creative journey.
Art Piece and Collaborative Spirit
NIGO’s creation of the Project G-Class Past II Future art piece is the second collaboration of its kind between Mercedes-Benz and Moncler, following the PROJECT MONDO G unveiled in London in February 2023. Measuring 4.5 meters in length, this art piece features a minimalistic matte colour palette, with design elements that reflect the classic G-Class cabriolet. The interior has also been reimagined with a state-of-the-art sound system by G-Class enthusiast Devon Turnbull, reinforcing the vehicle’s immersive and contemporary character.
Insights from the Creative Minds
Bettina Fetzer, Vice President Communications & Marketing Mercedes-Benz AG, expressed the essence of this collaboration, stating, “NIGO’s immense creative talent and our co-creation with Moncler are taking us into an exciting urban setting. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class Past II Future is a very special new ‘twist’ on our icon. This limited edition is a fresh take on 90s style and the character that’s made the G-Class a timeless favourite.”
NIGO, reflecting on his creative vision, noted, “For me, the 90s were among the most influential decades from a cultural and creative standpoint. Electronic music and the hip-hop scene arose as a new expression of urban character. I wanted to integrate that vibe and energy into the design of the Project G-Class Past II Future by interpreting that legacy for a new contemporary era.”
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
As a crowning moment in the 45th anniversary year of the G-Class, this collaboration showcases how timeless this brand icon remains and how it adapts to contemporary lifestyles. Both the limited-edition G-Class and the capsule collection will be available for purchase in April 2025, marking an important step in the ongoing creative cooperation between Mercedes-Benz and Moncler, inviting luxury aficionados to celebrate the past while embracing the future.
