Swedish designer Gustaf Westman has reimagined the Mercedes-Benz CLA into a playful, all-pink concept car that merges automotive innovation with outdoor living. Unveiled recently in London, this eye-catching vehicle integrates a rooftop tent and a pull-out picnic table, making it a perfect companion for nature lovers who want comfort and practicality on the go. More than just a car, Westman’s creation invites users to experience a seamless blend of travel, leisure, and design, all wrapped in a warm, welcoming bubblegum pink hue.
A concept born from nature
For Westman, the inspiration behind this unique CLA concept car is rooted in his love for nature. “Where I get my inspiration is when I’m going out into nature,” he explained during the unveiling. The car is thoughtfully designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, offering not just a mode of transport but a mobile space to relax and enjoy the natural world. Central to this vision are features like the dome-shaped tent attached to the roof and a pull-out picnic table located at the rear of the vehicle.
The tent is more than just an aesthetic addition—it is fully functional. It includes a central pole adjustable to different heights, allowing the fabric to stretch or contract for visibility or shade. This design ensures that users can enjoy views of their surroundings while also having a cozy, darker space to retreat to when needed. Westman’s intention was to create a car that seamlessly blends the experience of driving with the pleasures of camping and picnicking.
Playful pink and practical details
The car’s bubblegum-pink color was chosen deliberately to emphasize its shape and personality. Westman described pink as a color that evokes a “warm, welcoming feeling” and “kindness,” while also satisfying his passion for “cute stuff.” The soft hue not only highlights the sleek, rounded contours of the CLA but also sets a cheerful, approachable tone that stands out from typical car designs.
Practicality was a key concern in the car’s design. Oversized rearview mirrors with smooth, rounded edges—Westman’s design signature—improve visibility and add to the car’s playful character. Additional features such as wine holders protruding from the back enhance the picnic experience, underlining the vehicle’s role as a companion for outdoor leisure rather than just transportation.
Beyond the car: A full outdoor lifestyle
Westman’s creativity extends beyond the vehicle itself, with a curated collection of picnic accessories designed to complement the car. This includes two plates, a mirror, and a picnic blanket—all crafted to elevate the outdoor dining experience. The integration of these accessories reflects Westman’s commitment to creating a cohesive lifestyle product rather than simply a car.
This project is part of Mercedes-Benz’s ongoing “Class of Creators” series, which invites diverse creators—from rappers like Ice Spice to fashion designers like KidSuper—to reinterpret the CLA model through their own artistic lenses. Previous collaborations have included partnerships with design studio MSCHF and fashion house Moncler, highlighting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to blending automotive engineering with contemporary culture and creativity.
Gustaf Westman’s pink Mercedes-Benz CLA represents more than a concept car; it’s a celebration of nature, design, and playful innovation. With integrated features tailored to outdoor living and a bold, welcoming color, it invites drivers to rethink what a car can be—a versatile, joyful companion for adventures beyond the road. As the “Class of Creators” series continues, this visionary project marks an exciting step forward in automotive creativity.
