Mercedes-AMG has revealed its latest set of F1 safety cars as the long-running succession of GTs that has headed the Formula 1 field steps up to the latest top level Black Series.
The new, 730PS (537kW), Black Series machine replaces the old AMG GT-R which acted as the safety car, alongside Aston Martin’s Vantage, in 2021. As well as a series of performance upgrades, that means that Mercedes’ version of the Safety Car will also look visually more impressive.
The Black Series spec comes with a much more aggressive front splitter and giant, angled rear wing. And will be bright red instead of the classic silver, a change made in 2021. In case the extra aero didn’t make it obvious enough that Mercedes wants to make a statement.
Mercedes’ medical car will also change, with the old AMG C63 estate ditched in favour of the four-door version of the AMG GT, this time in 63 S 4Matic guise. The medical car will also be swathed in vivid red, but will not feature decals from sponsor CrowdStrike.
Aston Martins support cars will continue unchanged, with the Vantage acting as Safety Car and the DBX SUV as the Medical car. The two brands, which are linked through an engine deal, will alternate at races, with Mercedes first event coming at Bahrain before Aston Martin takes over in Australia.
Other changes to the safety car for 2022 include an addition of more lights inside the windscreen of the AMG GT Black Series and the removal of the top light bar, instead replaced with spoiler mounted, rear-facing lights, which should be easier for drivers to see. The new F1 Safety Car will make its debut at the Bahrain Grand Prix on 20th March.
Keyword: The new F1 safety car is an AMG GT Black Series