2019 Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupé (UK-Spec)

2019 AMG GT C Coupé (UK-Spec)

• Prices for the GT C Coupé start at £130,530, while the GT C Roadster is available from £141,930
• It features AMG’s handbuilt 4.0-litre ‘hot V’ V8 petrol engine with an output of 557 hp and maximum torque of 680 Nm
• With an output of 557 hp and peak torque of 680 Nm, the AMG GT C is the most powerful Roadster variant and uses some of the technical refinements from the AMG GT R. These include active rear axle steering and an electronically controlled rear axle locking differential
• Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes just 3.7 seconds, and the GT C Coupé has a top speed of 197 mph (196 mph for the Roadster)
• The AMG GT C is 57 millimetres wider at the rear than the AMG GT and AMG GT S. This creates space for larger wheels and a wider track – ultimately leading to better traction and higher cornering speeds
• The GT C range comes standard with 19/20-inch alloy wheels (front/rear); Burmester surround sound; Parktronic with reversing camera; Keyless-Go package; AMG performance steering wheel finished in nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre; and red brake calipers with ‘AMG’ lettering

The AMG GT is the second sports car to be developed entirely in-house by Mercedes-AMG. In less than three years, it has evolved into a family which comprises eight models to date. It embodies the essence of the performance and sports car brand. The front mid-engine concept with transaxle dual-clutch transmission at the rear axle and the intelligent aluminium lightweight construction form the basis for a highly dynamic driving experience. The AMG GT family offers plenty of choice: Coupé and Roadster, four power ratings for the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine, the various applications of the engine as well as the optimally configured transmission, different variants with regard to suspension, tyres and aerodynamics, distinctive items of equipment, numerous technical innovations and the comprehensive range of options enable extremely individual customisation of the respective vehicles. The family further includes two customer sport racing cars for professional use in international GT3 and GT4 racing series and the AMG GT Concept, which offers a foretaste of the next member of the AMG GT family in the guise of the first four-door vehicle to be added to the range.

2019 Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupé (UK-Spec)

The combination of aluminium spaceframe, V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, differential lock, sports suspension with aluminium double wishbone axles and the low kerb weight provides for the ultimate in Driving Performance.

"In under three years, the second vehicle to be developed by us entirely in-house has grown into a family offering a highly dynamic driving experience in a variety of forms," observes Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The basic layout with front mid-engine concept and transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle enables an advantageous slightly rear-biased weight distribution. In conjunction with the vehicle's low centre of gravity, this translates into extremely agile handling and permits high cornering speeds. The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine delivers ample power right from the low rev range and enables outstanding performance. At the same time, the two-seater is a straightforward, comfortable and reliable companion for everyday motoring thanks to its easily accessible luggage compartment, a high level of comfort on long journeys and the extensive Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive assistance systems.

AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine

Choice of four output and torque ratings

The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine boasts outstanding power delivery, performance on a par with racing vehicles, lightweight design and a high level of efficiency and environment-friendliness. It features the brand's hallmark emotive V8 engine sound, along with immediate response and high pulling power.

There is a choice of four output and torque ratings: The entry-level AMG GT and AMG GT Roadster models generate 350 kW (476 hp) and peak torque of 630 Nm. The AMG GT S delivers an output of 384 kW (522 hp) and 670 Nm of torque. The C variants of the Coupé and Roadster define the next level, each with an output of 410 kW (557 hp) and peak torque of 680 Nm. The top of the line is the AMG GT R with 430 kW (585 hp) and 700 Nm of torque. The increase in performance for the AMG GT C; AMG GT R and AMG GT C Roadster has been achieved with the aid of new turbochargers with a modified compressor design, higher boost pressure and a smaller wastegate aneroid capsule. In addition, the exhaust ports have been optimised and the compression ratio adapted.

On all variants, the two turbochargers of the V8 engine are positioned not in the customary manner on the outside of the cylinder banks, but inside the "V" between the banks. Advantages of the "hot inside V": a compact engine design, spontaneous response from the turbochargers and low exhaust gas emissions thanks to optimum air flow for the close-coupled catalytic converters.

Multiple injection with piezo injectors

The combination of twin turbochargers and direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion increases thermodynamic efficiency and output. Particularly fast and precise piezo injectors spray the fuel at high pressure into the eight combustion chambers. Multiple injection occurs on-demand, ensuring a homogeneous fuel/air mixture. The delivery of fuel is electronically controlled and fully variable for a fuel pressure between 100 and 200 bar.

The aluminium crankcase is produced using sand casting technology and features a closed-deck design. This ensures extreme strength while keeping the weight as low as possible, and allows high injection pressures of up to 140 bar. The NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder liners is also used in the Formula One engines of MERCEDES-AMG PETRONAS. It is far harder than conventional grey cast-iron liners and therefore less susceptible to wear. In addition to this, its reduced friction in combination with the aluminium forged pistons helps to increase efficiency.

Four overhead camshafts control a total of 32 valves. Camshaft adjustment on the intake and exhaust side enables an excellent throttle response and optimises the gas cycle for each operating point.

Dry sump lubrication makes lower centre of gravity possible

The dry sump lubrication also ensures the oil supply even with high lateral forces and allows the engine to be installed lower, thus moving the centre of gravity closer to the road and forming the basis for high lateral acceleration.

The engines for the AMG GT family are also fitted by hand in the hand-finishing section of AMG's production plant in Affalterbach based on the "One Man - One Engine" philosophy. This means that each engine is assembled by a highly qualified engine builder who applies the strictest quality standards. This engineer is responsible for everything from installing the crankshaft in the engine block and assembling the camshafts to wiring the engine and filling it with engine oil as clearly evidenced by the signature on the AMG engine badge.

Pure sound: the AMG Performance exhaust system

AMG GT S, AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R feature the AMG Performance exhaust system as standard, for an even more emotional sound. Two infinitely adjustable flaps modulate the exhaust note authentically and directly. The flaps open and close depending on the selected AMG DRIVE SELECT mode, although they can also be controlled individually using a separate button in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. In the "Comfort" and "Sport" modes, the low-frequency sound typical of a V-8 emphasises comfort. In "Sport Plus" and "RACE" modes, meanwhile, the sound composition is far more emotive. The variable AMG Performance exhaust system is also available as an option for the AMG GT and AMG GT Roadster.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G

Seven-speed dual clutch transmission in transaxle configuration

For the purposes of power transmission on the AMG GT, the Mercedes-AMG engineers have opted for the combination of front mid-engine and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G sports transmission in transaxle configuration at the rear axle. The weight distribution with its ratio of 47 percent (front) to 53 percent (rear) benefits from this configuration. Thanks to the broad gear ratio spread, the pronounced torque plateau of the V8 turbo engine can be used to optimum effect.

The first gear of the dual-clutch transmission has a higher ratio on the AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R. Seventh gear and the final drive have lower ratios to allow a more agile acceleration experience overall and very spontaneous response to fast accelerator pedal movements. Shift performance and response time have also been taken to a whole new level.

Torque tube with carbon-fibre drive shaft between the engine and transmission

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G sports transmission forms a fixed unit with the V8 engine – with the torque tube serving as the connecting element. The engine and transmission (at the rear axle) are rigidly connected to each other and support each other, providing mutual resistance to bending and torque. This brings decisive advantages in terms of vehicle dynamics and ride comfort, as this sophisticated solution makes it possible to configure the entire powertrain with far less play. The 1.71-metre long torque tube consists of a single-piece sand-cast aluminium housing; on the AMG GT R it is made of carbon fibre.

Inside the tube, a drive shaft rotates at the engine speed. As on racing cars, the shaft is made of carbon fibre. This high-tech material has a major advantage: despite its high strength, the carbon-fibre shaft tips the scales at only 3.9 kilograms, making it markedly lighter than a variant produced in steel. A centrifugal pendulum integrated into the two-mass flywheel eliminates oscillations and vibrations to improve ride and noise comfort – especially in the fuel-efficient lower engine speed range.

Comfort and agility: the dynamic engine and transmission mounts

The engine and transmission mounts assume an important function in the case of a transaxle design: soft mounts improve comfort since they provide more effective decoupling of noise and vibration. However, handling and agility benefit from a generally stiffer mount set-up.

Mercedes-AMG reconciles these conflicting objectives on the AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R with the aid of standard-fit dynamic engine and transmission mounts whose stiffness is adjusted continuously and almost instantaneously to the given driving conditions and handling.

This function is performed by a special control unit, which identifies handling situations on the basis of CAN data, is connected to the electronic limited-slip rear differential and thus ensures optimum balanced driving dynamics. AMG has gone a step further in the implementation of this technology: the engine and transmission mounts are even actuated independently of each other. The advantage of this innovative solution is that it provides an additional substantial improvement in driving precision and lateral dynamics. For all other models of the AMG GT family, the dynamic engine and transmission mounts are available as part of the optional DYNAMIC PLUS package.

Driving dynamics programs

Choice of driving experience from comfortable to very sporty

The driver is able to adapt the AMG GT models according to his/her individual requirements using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT Controller. The three pre-installed drive programs "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus) and the individually programmable set-up "I" (Individual) allow a broad range of driving experiences from comfortable to very sporty. The "RACE" drive program (in AMG GT S, AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R) adapts the shift strategy of the dual-clutch transmission ideally to the requirements of race-track use – including the shortest shift times and a highly emotional engine sound.

Key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, steering, ESP® and drive system, are modified in all the programs. By pressing the separate "M" button in the centre console, the driver can activate the manual transmission mode in any drive mode to change gear using the steering-wheel shift paddles. The suspension set-ups can also be selected if desired.

"Comfort" is the well-balanced driving mode with a comfort-oriented suspension and steering set-up, as well as a fuel-efficient powertrain configuration and early upshifts – including smooth gear changes and a discreet engine sound. ECO start/stop function and coasting function activated: when the driver releases the accelerator in a speed range from 60 to 160 km/h, the engine is disengaged from the drive system. The electronics lower the engine speed to idling level.

The DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes "Sport" and "Sport+" are designed for high driving dynamics. This results from an agile accelerator pedal characteristic with direct set-up and emotional gear shifting with reduced shift times. The increased idling speed in "Sport+" additionally enables particularly fast acceleration from a standing start. The "RACE" drive program is additionally available for the AMG GT S, AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R. This program optimally adjusts the shift strategy of the dual clutch transmission to the needs of the race track – including very fast shift speeds and a highly emotive engine sound.

Suspension, brakes, steering

Numerous features adopted from motorsport

The AMG suspension also highlights the motor racing heritage of the AMG GT family. Wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers on the front and rear axles are made entirely from forged aluminium to reduce the unsprung masses. In addition, the wheels are located by double wishbones. The resulting camber and track stability allows high cornering speeds while giving the driver optimum, highly precise road feedback right up to the very high critical cornering limits.

The AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with continuously variable, adaptive damping features as standard for the AMG GT S and higher models. The electronically controlled system automatically adapts the damping on each wheel to the current driving situation, speed and road conditions. What's more, the customer can set the adaptive damping in three stages – Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus – to choose between relaxed comfort on long journeys and maximum sportiness.

The damping characteristics are modulated rapidly and precisely by two separate valves for the rebound and compression forces in the dampers. A harder damping rate, for example when cornering and braking, effectively reduces rolling movements. The continuously variable adjustment of the damping to suit the current speed also ensures the best possible road contact and thus enhances safety, even at high speeds.

AMG GT R with coil-over suspension and other modifications

The AMG coil-over suspension has been developed specifically for the AMG GT R. This technology, which is familiar from motorsport, enables a pre-set, individual set-up. The Uniball spherical bearings on the lower wishbones of the rear axle on the AMG GT R also originate from motorsport. They are significantly more wear-resistant than wishbone bushings and due to their design have no play, which means toe-in and camber do not change even under high loads. As a result, the AMG GT R can be driven with even more precision. In addition, the rear axle is fitted with a thicker tubular anti-roll bar. It has been adapted to the heightened driving dynamics requirements of the AMG GT R and saves weight due to its hollow design.

Even greater agility: the active rear-wheel steering

AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R respond even more sensitively thanks to the active rear-wheel steering which features as standard. For the AMG GT S, this feature is optionally available in combination with the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package. The system allows an even better combination of agility and stability – handling characteristics that are normally in opposition to each other.

Up to a speed of 100 km/h, the rear wheels point in the opposite direction to the front wheels. As a result, the car turns into corners with significantly higher agility, delivering even greater driving pleasure while requiring less steering effort. Under everyday driving conditions, the driver also benefits from a smaller turning circle, such as when turning or parking.

Once the car's speed rises above 100 km/h, the system points the rear wheels in the same direction as the front wheels for tangibly improved handling. At the same time, the lateral force on the rear wheels builds up considerably faster on changes of direction, thus speeding up the response to the steering. The driver will also notice that the car demonstrates extreme rear-axle grip and high stability when changing direction quickly, without the usual tendency for the rear end to break out.

Standard equipment: rear-axle limited-slip differential

The AMG GT and AMG GT Roadster feature as standard a mechanical rear-axle differential lock which is integrated in the compact transmission housing. On the AMG GT S, AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R this standard-specification differential lock is electronically controlled. Its sensitive and fast control raises the critical limit of vehicle dynamics to a new level. It not only further improves the traction of the drive wheels, but also increases the critical cornering speed.

The result: the driver is able to accelerate out of corners earlier and with more power thanks to the improved traction. The vehicle remains more stable when braking from high speed, while the limited-slip differential also improves traction from rest. The greatest benefit of the electronic rear-axle limited-slip differential is the even more sensitive and proactive control, which pushes the critical threshold higher, making it even easier to drive at the vehicle's limits. To deliver optimum cooling, the housing of the limited-slip differential has additional cooling fins.

Direct and with clear feedback: AMG speed-sensitive sports steering

The electromechanical speed-sensitive sports steering features a variable steering ratio, which enhances vehicle handling and agility at low speeds while maintaining driving safety at high speeds. It stands out thanks to the AMG-specific rack-and-pinion ratio with its precise, highly authentic feedback. The clearly defined steering centre and the authentic feedback likewise contribute to the optimum steering feel.

The power assistance is a particular highlight: it responds not only depending on the given road speed, but also according to the current lateral acceleration and the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive mode. As a result, the driver has a perfect feel for the vehicle thanks to the direct feedback from the road.

Good control and fade-resistant: the high-performance compound braking system

The large-sized high-performance compound brake system on the AMG GT models is reliable, quick and fade-resistant, even under high loads. The AMG GT and AMG GT Roadster have internally ventilated and perforated compound brake disks in size 360 x 36 mm with six-piston fixed callipers on the front axle and integral brake disks in size 360 x 24 mm with single-piston floating brake callipers on the rear axle.

AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R have compound brake disks in size 390 x 36 mm on the front axle and compound brake disks in size 360 x 24 mm on the rear axle.

All models also come with the option of the AMG high-performance compound brake system, with brake disks in size 402 x 39 mm on the front axle and 360 x 32 mm on the rear axle as well as specially painted brake callipers with "AMG Carbon Ceramic" lettering. Exceptionally short stopping distances, a precise pressure point and outstanding resistance to fading even under extreme operating conditions - the AMG ceramic high-performance compound braking system offers motorsport-like braking performance and weighs around 40 percent less than conventional compound brake disks.

More safety and driving enjoyment: three-stage ESP®

The three-stage ESP® allows significantly enhanced vehicle dynamics and driving enjoyment in ESP® Sport Handling Mode and with the ESP® OFF setting. The specific traction logic is active at all times: when a driven wheel starts to lose traction, ESP® applies the brakes in a targeted way for optimum transfer of the engine output to the road. In this way, the three-stage ESP® provides additional safety or more fun at the wheel to suit requirements.

• ESP® ON: for a high level of safety by adaptation to the sporty character of the car
• ESP® Sport Handling Mode: allows wider yaw angles before system intervention for a sporty driving style
• ESP® OFF: system deactivated for a sporty driving style on closed circuits. During hard braking, ESP® is switched back on temporarily.

AMG Lightweight Performance

Intelligent lightweight construction with high proportion of aluminium and carbon fibre

For the bodies of the AMG GT family, Mercedes-AMG has opted for an intelligent and particularly lightweight mix of materials with a high proportion of aluminium. Spaceframe and outer skin components are produced in aluminium; the tailgate on the Coupé is made of steel, while on the Roadster the tailgate has been produced for the first time in SMC (Sheet Molding Compound) with carbon fibre, while the front deck consists of magnesium. This extremely light element at the front reduces the inertia ahead of the front axle, thus improving the vehicle's agility.

The weight-optimised spaceframe is made of die-cast and extruded aluminium sections. The high bending and torsional strength of the entire design enables extreme linear and transverse forces from the drivetrain and suspension to be absorbed and transferred. Unwanted flexibility is thus reduced, with the vehicle responding precisely and directly. As a result, The driver experiences a sports car with maximum dynamics that responds with outstanding precision.

The bodyshell is additionally reinforced on the Roadster: side skirts with thicker walls and more chambers, additional struts between dashboard support and windscreen surround plus an additional strut tower brace between soft top and tank provide for enhanced rigidity. A cross-member behind the seats supports the fixed roll-over protection system.

Materials from motor racing

A host of further measures contributes to weight reduction as part of the AMG lightweight-performance strategy. A variety of components all play a role in this respect. The use of carbon fibre, the lightweight and high-strength material from motorsport, helps to achieve the ambitious goals. On the AMG GT R, for example, carbon fibre is used for the front wings and the torque tube between engine and transmission, which is a further 40 percent lighter than its aluminium counterpart. As a structural component of the transaxle drivetrain, it creates a connection between the engine and the transmission with extreme flexural and torsional stiffness. It permits a very direct connection of the drivetrain that is favourable to driving dynamics and also plays a role in the vehicle's balanced weight distribution.

Not only does the torque tube absorb the high forces and torques during driving, it also withstands the dynamic load changes and load peaks that come with a sporty driving style.

The AMG lightweight construction experts also use an intelligent material mix for the so-called wheel-catching struts made of a composite material. 50 percent lighter than the equivalent in steel, these composite components help to guide the front wheels onto the side members as part of the intended crash kinematics in an accident, and to hold them there.

Innovative composite material for the boot lid on the Roadster

The boot lid on the two Roadster models is particularly lightweight thanks to an innovative composite material. The load-bearing structure is of SMC (Sheet Moulding Compound) bonded with carbon fibres. These high-tech plastics excel with their lightweight design, high strength and outstanding surface quality. The innovative materials were developed by the Mercedes-Benz TEC factory in Sindelfingen, and brought to production maturity together with the AMG specialists in Affalterbach. This material combination is being used for the first time in the new AMG Roadsters.

Weight-optimised: the soft top on the roadster

The three-layered fabric soft top on the roadster is supported by a magnesium/steel/aluminium structure of low weight, which also helps to keep the centre of gravity low. Additional roll-over protection is provided by an integrated aluminium cross-member, while the inserted acoustic mat reduces the noise level.

Exterior and aerodynamics

Authentic sports car experience embodying sensual purity

From the expressive AMG Panamericana grille to the long bonnet and the muscular tail end, the two-seater guarantees a pure sports car experience even when stationary. Surfaces embodying a degree of tension endow the Mercedes-AMG GT family with sensual purity and lend all its members the appearance of individually designed sculptures.

The low-slung front section and the forward-inclined radiator grille create a distinctive "shark nose" impression and make the car appear to sit lower on the road. At the same time, this shape lowers the vehicle's back-pressure point, enhancing the flow of cooling air and the car's aerodynamic performance.

The AMG Panamericana grille underlines the vehicle's motor racing links: 15 chrome-plated, vertical bars cite the appearance of the current AMG GT3 customer sports racing car. The front apron in jet wing design emphasises the car's width, making it sit flatter on the road. The large outer air inlets guarantee the supply of cooling air to the engine. The LED High Performance headlamps offer more safety at night and an unmistakably sporty and distinctive look. Thanks to LED technology, they illuminate the road more effectively than conventional headlamps – with lower energy consumption.

Viewed from the side, the dome-shaped roof line (also on the Roadster when the soft top is closed) and the frameless doors are eye-catching features. The surfaces and lines of the side wall flow into the tail end with a dramatic tapered effect. The trimmed cab results in muscular shoulders, further underscoring the overall hot & cool impression. The long bonnet with its pronounced powerdomes, the greenhouse which has been moved far back, the large wheels and broad tail end also contribute to the distinctive looks.

AIRPANEL active air management system

A special technical highlight is the AIRPANEL active air management system which features as standard on all AMG GT models. Vertical louvres at the bottom of the front apron are opened and closed electronically by means of an electric motor in around one second to guarantee the required amount of cooling. Constantly achieving the ideal position calls for highly intelligent and fast control.

During normal driving with no increased cooling demand, the louvres are closed for reduced drag and the air is directed at the underbody. This improves the aerodynamic efficiency of the vehicles. Only when certain components reach predefined temperatures and the air demand is particularly high do the louvres open to allow the maximum cooling air flow to the heat exchangers.

The design of the clad underbody ensures an effective flow of air to the rear diffusor. All Mercedes-AMG GT models with the exception of the AMG GT R come with an extendable rear aerofoil that is integrated into the design profile as an active aerodynamic component. In combination with the rear diffusor, this minimises lift at the rear axle. With its broad shoulders and expressive tail light graphics, the rear end conjures up an emotional overall appearance.

57 millimetre wider rear sidewalls further emphasize the distinctive character of the AMG GT C, AMG GT C Roadster and AMG GT R. The muscular styling creates space for larger wheels and a wider track. Both measures increase traction and allow even higher cornering speeds. The rear apron is also wider, improving the airflow at the rear with large outer air vents.

Interior design

High quality and exclusive

The interior design echoes the design lines of the exterior. The dashboard places a firm emphasis on width, creating an impression of a powerful wing. The high beltlines, concave door panels, dynamically rising centre console and low seat position perfectly integrate the driver into the cockpit.

Anyone opening the door discovers an exciting interplay between the deep, sloping dashboard and a dominant, arched high centre console, a design which evokes emotions and impresses with its perfection. The sports seats, the Performance steering wheel and the instrument cluster also demonstrate outstanding precision and high-quality materials. The most important control for sports car fans is located in the AMG DRIVE UNIT on the left-hand side: the button for starting the engine, which is labelled "Engine Start Stop" and illuminated in red.

The optionally available AMG Performance seats provide even more lateral support with more heavily contoured backrest and seat cushion side bolsters. For the first time the AMG Performance seats in the Roadsters are also optionally available with the AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, which makes open-air driving enjoyable even in low outside temperatures. AIRSCARF is likewise optionally available for the standard-fit AMG sports seats in the Roadster. The air vent is seamlessly integrated into the seat's head restraint area. To meet the individual preferences of customers, the temperature of the warm airflow can be set in three stages.

Customers wishing to enjoy comfortable temperatures even on very hot summer days can also opt for seat climate control (in all AMG GT models except the AMG GT R), which is also available exclusively for the AMG Performance seats for the first time. The intensity of the climatisation can be set in three stages.

Impressive sound in the interior: External Coupled Subwoofer

The Burmester surround sound system and the Burmester high-end surround sound system ensure a very special musical experience. Both systems benefit from the innovative External Coupled Subwoofer (ECS) in all the models of the AMG GT family.

This new bass sound reproduction system with an extremely low bass range turns the open two-seater into a mobile concert stage. Instead of a subwoofer box of limited dimensions, ECS uses the entire interior as a bass box. This is made possible by a special aperture in the right rear wheel arch. The subwoofer is connected to the bodyshell via this aperture, transmitting the impressive sound.

AMG Future of Driving Performance

Mercedes-AMG GT Concept – Driving Performance of the future

• With the show car Mercedes-AMG GT Concept the sports car and performance brand is giving an indication of the alternative drive configurations AMG is designing. Over and above this, the four-door coupé heralds the further extension of the AMG GT family. The third model series after the SLS AMG and AMG GT is now being completely autonomously developed at the company’s headquarters in Affalterbach. The designation and fundamental design elements on the front and tail end denote the family affiliation to the AMG GT. The"EQ Power+" identifier on the mirror cam indicates the increased performance that can be expected from hybridisation at AMG.

"With the Mercedes-AMG GT Concept we are giving a preview of our third completely autonomously developed sports car. And extending the attractive AMG GT family to include a four-door variant. The GT Concept – like the AMG hypercar, which we are presenting at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt – also illustrates how we are defining performance of the future at AMG. Impressive driving dynamics coupled with high efficiency, resulting from an innovative drive system and tailored to the vehicle segment in question – that is Future Performance made by AMG. With our AMG GT Concept that means a combination of an ultramodern V8 petrol engine and a high-performance electric motor. Both intelligently networked and with a modular battery concept with a combination of extremely powerful yet light batteries. This performance hybrid powertrain delivers a convincing electric range and the possibility to generate a system output of up to 600 kW in its ultimate stage of development. It completes the sprint from 0-100 km/h in less than three seconds – on a par with super sports cars," says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The four-door sports car from Affalterbach will seamlessly continue the success story of the AMG GT. The dynamic fastback will also be highly suitable for everyday use thanks to the large tailgate and the variable interior and luggage compartment. The new coupé thus blends the high functionality of the performance cars with the sportiness of the AMG GT sports cars. The show car gives a sneak preview of the exterior design of the coming series production model.

Muscular proportions, large volume and clear surface designs

With the aid of the unmistakeable design idiom with a deeply drawn bonnet and powerfully raked windscreen, the AMG GT Concept is recognisable at first glance as a genuine AMG GT. The exterior design stands out with extremely muscular proportions, a large volume plus sensuous and simultaneously reduced surface styling. The concept car represents the design philosophy of Sensual Purity and lends it the added performance characteristic of AMG. "The AMG GT Concept embodies the most extreme expression of our design idiom and underlines anew the distinctive profile of AMG as a performance brand", said Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG. "Through perfect proportions it creates a puristic design with the emphasis on its surfaces, featuring sensuous shapes and is hot and cool at the same time."

Advanced AMG GT characteristics

The Panamericana grille with vertical ribs painted red on the sides, the new configuration of the extremely slim main headlamps and the side air gills with their dominant design in the front apron are hallmark AMG GT design characteristics which have been advanced to a new level here and express pure power. The bonnet reaching right to the wheel arches underscores the decidedly sports car genes together with the two powerdomes. This is also expressed in the extravagant paintwork in the colour shade hot red with a finish that shimmers in the light like liquid metal thanks to a special formulation. The Mercedes-AMG principle that fascination is always linked with function also applies to the study. Proof of this includes the moving radiator shutters in the centre and side air intakes, which improve the aerodynamic and thermal efficiency and are inspired by the active air control system AIRPANEL in the AMG GT R.

Rear assembly in hallmark AMG GT look

The width-biased rear assembly also cites the unmistakeable AMG GT look with the extremely slim horizontal tail lamps and the shape of the tailgate. Further design elements at the tail end are the wide carbon-fibre diffuser curved downwards at the sides and the centrally arranged tailpipe trim reminiscent of the Mercedes-AMG GT R. The crouched, dynamic greenhouse with its steeply sloping roof line and the slim layout of the frameless side windows emphasise the dynamic forwards thrust of the AMG GT Concept when seen from the side.

The tapered side drop and the broad rear shoulder in the area of the flared wheel arches reinforce the muscular expression. The function of the exterior mirrors on the study is taken care of by aerodynamically favourable miniature cameras, known as mirror cams. The roof, the A-wing of the front spoilers, the rear diffuser and the side sill panels in high-quality yet light carbon fibre establish the link to motorsport.

AMG Future Performance: forward-thinking hybrid drive system

The drive system of the AMG GT Concept represents a completely new development. With the SLS AMG Electric Drive back in 2010 Mercedes-AMG proved that a super sports car with a battery/electric drive system can be realised – with astounding performance and maximum driving pleasure. Formula 1 driving dynamics and efficiency are promised by the planned AMG Hypercar. It gives a sneak preview of the ultimate that is currently feasible with hybrid technology. Based on this experience, the AMG GT Concept study conveys an impression of the alternative drive configurations Mercedes-AMG is designing. Following the AMG brand pledge "Driving Performance", Mercedes-AMG will in future develop segment-specific hybrids with an impressive performance gain which not only ensure an incomparable output, but also maximum efficiency.

Innovative combination of combustion engine and electric motor

The performance hybrid system combines the powerful 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with an additional powerful electric motor and thus ensures extremely immediate response and offers an extraordinarily high system performance. The sprint from 0-100 km/h can be mastered at a super sports car level by the AMG GT Concept in less than three seconds.

Characteristically for the brand, the maximum Driving Performance in the form of extremely high driving dynamics is the Affalterbach engineers' focus. This is why the AMG GT Concept has a balanced axle load distribution. The fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive is also supported by the electric motor. It drives the rear wheels directly and has the effect of an additional booster. Besides this, according to the principle of Torque Vectoring, every wheel can be allocated torque individually. The result: the driver directly experiences a tangible increase in performance.

The scalable performance battery

It is set to extend the portfolio of Daimler AG to include a performance-oriented alternative: the energy storage unit is more powerful than conventional hybrid batteries, but at the same time more compact and lighter – further proof of the systematic way in which the AMG Lightweight Performance Strategy is being implemented. On a modular basis the system is scalable upwards, so that the performance and capacity of the battery can be adjusted to meet specific requirements of customers or certain markets.

The charging of the battery during the journey occurs on the one hand via brake recuperation, but on the other hand also with the aid of the combustion engine if the battery charge has dropped beneath a certain threshold value.

Power from two drive systems: performance operating strategy from Formula 1

The operating strategy of the AMG GT Concept is derived from the hybrid power unit of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 racing car. As in the champions league of motorsport, the battery is also charged whilst the vehicle is being driven so as always to have the full amount of electrical power available – and for instance to be able to accelerate out of bends in a flash with full thrust. The transfer of knowledge works through the cooperation with the development engineers at Mercedes-AMG HPP (High Performance Powertrains GmbH), meaning that the operating strategy of future performance hybrids from AMG will be perceptible all the time.

The electric drive unit

Three operating modes can be preselected via the electric drive unit: the AMG GT Concept either drives purely electrically or only with the combustion engine or it optimally combines both drive sources with one another as a hybrid.

The manifestation of the operating strategy, the definition of the drive programs and fundamental hybrid components are exclusive AMG developments, which all pursue the same aim: to facilitate a unique dynamic driving experience with Driving Performance in future, too.

(M-Benz UK Press Release)