In February 2022, Mercedes-AMG announced the sales launch of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance, billed as a new milestone for the company. The AMG-GT 63 S E Performance is the first performance hybrid for the brand while being its most powerful series production model with a total output of 843 hp.
However, even as AMG lovers gear up to order the new benchmark, which sees a 4.0-liter V8 at the front, Mercedes-AMG engineers are transitioning to pure electric cars, with the first Mercedes-AMG GT Electric (unofficial name) model anticipated mid-decade promising more thrills.
What is the criterion for an electric Mercedes-AMG model?
The Mercedes EQS does not fit the ’63’ name as it is not track-focused. Image: Mercedes-Benz
Speaking to Whichcar.com.au, Jochen Hermann, Chief Technical Officer of Mercedes AMG, first brought up the nomenclature, which has sparked a debate among enthusiasts. Hermann says for an AMG model to be called a ’63’, it has to be track-capable, and that is why the Mercedes AMG EQS 53 is not called a 63.
Adhering to this philosophy, Hermann indicates that Mercedes-AMG electric cars will focus on power-dense battery packs (i.e.) those capable of supplying high-performance motors at high-performance rates. Generally, these battery packs forego range and efficiency and instead focus on delivering high power for long durations without any deterioration in their output.
What can we expect from the Mercedes AMG-GT Electric?
The future Mercedes-AMG GT EVs will not witness the largest battery pack but one that can keep up with powerful motors. In addition, state-of-the-art DC fast-charging will be seen on electric AMGs, with engineers wanting to install the best technology available at the time. What the AMG-GT EV will not pursue will be range. Hermann believes around 310 miles (500 km) of range will satisfy buyers. Large capacity batteries add weight to lower efficiency, and the car’s handling suffers.
Derivative AMG EVs like the AMG EQS 53 are a stop-gap until the dedicated AMG.EA platform arrives mid-decade. Image: Mercedes-Benz
Interestingly, parent Daimler (now Mercedes-Benz Group) acquired a UK-based company called Yasa in July 2021. Yasa has been developing axial flux motors, which, compared to the radial flux motors being used currently, offer packaging advantages and could also be packaged into in-wheel motors. However, this is something Mercedes has not confirmed yet.
The Mercedes-AMG GT electric sports car will use the Mercedes AMG.EA platform that was announced in July 2021 for an entry into service around 2025. While Mercedes has not gone into detail about the specifics of this platform, Hermann hints that it may offer the emotional elements of driving an ICE car, stating that the company will use senses (felt through one’s ears, eyes, hands, back, chest) to create an experience similar to an ICE AMG. The new platform is developed to offer the best efficiency and aerodynamics for future Mercedes-AMG GT EVs.
Mercedes-AMG GT Electric FAQs
What is the Mercedes AMG-GT Electric release date?
An electric Mercedes-AMG GT is expected during the second half of the decade.
What will be the price of the Mercedes-AMG GT Electric?
The AMG GT Electric could be priced north of USD 200,000.
What will be the Mercedes-AMG GT Electric rivals?
Audi e-tron RS GT, the future electric BMW M5, Tesla Model S, Porsche Taycan, & a Panthera-based Jaguar.
Featured Image: Mercedes-Benz
Keyword: Mercedes-AMG GT Electric to ride on the AMG.EA platform