In a heartwarming yet humorous video titled “Retirement Is About Exploring Your Wide Open Future”, BMW recreated Dieter Zetsche’s last day at the Stuttgart headquarters.The video featured a lookalike of Zetsche, complete with his signature walrus mustache and funky glasses. As the scene unfolded, “Zetsche” bid goodbye to his employees, surrounded by applause from numerous colleagues. He handed over his company ID card and steped into a Mercedes-Benz S-Class, ready to head home.
But as they mentioned, retirement is about exploring new horizons, and BMW had something special in store. As the garage door opened at Zetsche’s home, the title card read, “Free at last.” And there it was—a striking metallic-orange BMW i8 Roadster, waiting to whisk him away. The cheeky caption captured the moment perfectly: “Free at Last.”
The doppleganger of ex Mercedes-Benz CEO Dieter Zetsche driving off the BMW i8 roadster into the sunset. Source: BMW/X
The video concluded with a heartfelt note of gratitude: “Thank you, Dieter Zetsche, for so many years of inspiring competition.” Despite their fierce rivalry, BMW managed to blend respect, humor, and creativity into this farewell tribute.
Watch it here:
Not to be outdone, Mercedes-Benz had its own witty comeback. On social media, they retweeted BMW’s video with a playful twist: “Thanks @BMW for the kind suggestion – but we’re 100% sure he already decided to #switchtoEQ,” hinting at their own electric mobility brand.
This playful exchange between the two automotive giants showcased that business rivalries need not always be cutthroat. Despite their fierce rivalry, BMW and Mercedes-Benz have found ways to show mutual respect. Back in 2016, during BMW’s 100-year anniversary, Mercedes invited all BMW employees to visit its museum in Stuttgart, waiving admission charges. Those arriving in a BMW were even granted prime parking spots directly outside the entrance.
Dieter Zetsche, who held the CEO position for the last 14 years, passed the reins to Ola Källenius on May 22nd, 2019. Källenius now leads both Mercedes-Benz AG and Daimler AG. Zetsche’s legacy lives on, not only in the automotive industry but also in the playful banter between two iconic brands.
As the automotive world said goodbye to to Dr. Z, BMW’s tribute reminds us that even fierce competitors can share a smile and a nod of respect. Retirement, after all, is about embracing new adventures—whether in a Mercedes or a BMW.
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