# Character-Wrapped Auto Collaborations Mercedes-Benz and VERDY Launched Its Tokyo Studio Project By Adam Harrie | Written with AI assistance | Published 2026-09-23 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/character-wrapped-auto-collaborations References: [stupiddope](https://stupiddope.com/2026/09/verdy-x-mercedes-benz-brings-vick-and-visty-into-the-automotive-world)  Mercedes-Benz and Japanese artist VERDY presented the 'VERDY meets Mercedes-Benz STUDIO TOKYO' project, which placed the characters VICK and VISTY across apparel, objects, artwork, and two full-size automobiles, featuring original camouflage treatments by VERDY. The project launched on September 12 at Mercedes-Benz STUDIO TOKYO and paired VICK with the [next-generation CLA](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mercedesbenz-cla) and VISTY with the G-Class. A [compact merchandise capsule](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/volvo-capsule) anchored the exhibition: two T-shirt designs and a keyring. The VICK x G-Class T-shirt came in ten colorways, including Black/Blue, White/Green, White/Blue, White/Yellow, and White/Orange, while a white-and-black VERDY x Mercedes-Benz T-shirt offered a more restrained option. A separate VICK x G-Class artwork directly linked the character universe to Mercedes-Benz design heritage. As automakers increasingly turn to [character-driven collaborations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kith-and-bmw-chapter-iv) to reach culture-forward audiences, the exhibition format let visitors experience the graphics at scale across objects rather than as a single product, applying playful, collectible-ready layers to production vehicles without compromising each car's identity. Image Credit: Mercedes-Benz ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 8.0/10 - Popularity: 81% | Activity: 67% | Freshness: 91% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Character-wrapped Vehicles:** Automotive brands are using recognizable character IP to transform vehicles into culture-led collectibles with crossover appeal beyond traditional car marketing. - **Experiential Merch Capsules:** Limited apparel, accessories, and artwork tied to physical exhibitions create layered brand ecosystems where fans can engage with a collaboration at multiple price points. - **Artist-led Auto Design:** Contemporary artists are reshaping luxury vehicle storytelling by applying visual languages that connect high-end engineering with street culture and fandom. ### Where This Applies - **Automotive:** Carmakers have room to expand lifestyle-driven collaborations that make production models more emotionally resonant for younger, design-conscious audiences. - **Fashion:** Streetwear and apparel labels can benefit from automotive partnerships that turn vehicle graphics into wearable collectibles and limited-edition merchandise. - **Art and Collectibles:** Character-based artwork connected to premium mobility brands strengthens the market for hybrid collectible formats spanning physical objects, vehicles, and branded spaces. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Collector-Edition Racing E-Bikes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/V17-E-Bikes.md) - [Auto-Inspired Luxury Fashion Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/sergio-hudson.md) - [Ribbon Graphic Fashion Capsule](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bott-verdy.md) - [Art Deco Show-Car Statements](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/vision-iconic.md) - [Playful Art Character Cars](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/porsche-labubu-project.md) - [Collaborative Exhibition Caps](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/peaceminusone-x-verdy.md) - [Artful Car-Themed Capsule](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cao-fei-art-car.md) - [Character-Driven Merchandise](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/characterdriven-merchandise.md) - [Bold Graphic Streetwear](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tokyo-drive-car-club-ss26.md)