The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE made its grand debut at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, marking a pivotal moment for the performance brand as it celebrated its 50th anniversary. This two-seater supersports show car isn’t just another concept; it’s a bold statement, bringing cutting-edge, fully-fledged Formula 1 hybrid technology from the racetrack to public roads with astonishing fidelity. Representing the zenith of AMG’s golden jubilee, the Project ONE boasts a high-performance hybrid powertrain churning out over 1,000 horsepower, capable of exceeding speeds of 217 mph (350 km/h). This groundbreaking vehicle masterfully merges unparalleled racetrack performance with the day-to-day usability of Formula 1 hybrid technology, all while achieving exemplary efficiency – a true world first. Mercedes-AMG spearheaded the overall realization of Project ONE, engaging in intricate development work in close collaboration with Formula 1 experts at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth and the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport Formula 1 team in Brackley. Alongside the AMG GT Concept four-door, the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE show car offers a compelling glimpse into the future performance-hybrid drive strategy that Mercedes-Benz envisions for its sports car lineage.
Image alt text: Front view of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE showcasing its aggressive aerodynamic design and large air intakes, embodying Formula 1 inspired aesthetics.
From Race Track to Road: The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE Vision
The age-old aspiration of engineers has been to transpose motorsport technology onto road-legal vehicles. Mercedes-AMG is realizing this ambition at the highest echelon. Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, encapsulates this vision: “Motorsport is not merely an end goal for us. Driven by intense competition, we pioneer technologies that subsequently enrich our production vehicles. Drawing upon our triumphs and insights from securing three constructors’ and drivers’ world championships, we are now, for the first time, channeling Formula 1 technology directly to the road in the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE.”
Ola Källenius, Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, further emphasizes the groundbreaking nature of this project: “The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is essentially a Formula 1 car cleared for road use. Our highly efficient hybrid system originates from motor racing, and the electrically driven front axle creates an enthralling blend of performance and efficiency. With a system output surpassing 1,000 hp and a top speed beyond 217 mph (350 km/h), this hypercar’s handling is as breathtaking as its appearance.”
Image alt text: Side profile of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE highlighting its sleek, low-slung silhouette, carbon fiber elements, and the Formula 1 inspired air intake on the roof.
Unveiling the Hypercar: Performance and Benchmarks
This concept car provides concrete indications of what to anticipate from the forthcoming production model. Tobias Moers, Head of Management at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, describes the Project ONE’s significance: “This hypercar stands as the most ambitious undertaking we have ever embarked upon. It signifies another pinnacle in the triumphant, strategic evolution of Mercedes-AMG into a preeminent performance and sports car brand. Project ONE elevates the benchmark for technological feasibility and, through its fusion of efficiency and performance, establishes an absolute standard. Simultaneously, Project ONE offers a preview of how AMG will define driving performance in the years to come.”
Powertrain Deep Dive: Formula 1 Hybrid Technology
The high-performance plug-in hybrid drive system within the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is a direct descendant of Formula 1 technology, meticulously crafted in collaboration with motorsport experts at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth. It comprises a highly integrated and intelligently networked unit featuring a hybrid, turbocharged combustion engine alongside a total of four electric motors. One motor is integrated within the turbocharger, another is directly mounted on the combustion engine with a connection to the crankcase, and the remaining two power the front wheels.
The 1.6-liter V6 hybrid gasoline engine, incorporating direct injection and electrically assisted single turbocharging, is derived directly from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 racing car. Spur gears drive the four overhead camshafts, and pneumatic valve springs replace mechanical valve springs to enable exceptionally high engine speeds. Positioned mid-engine, ahead of the rear axle, the vehicle can effortlessly attain engine speeds of 11,000 rpm, a figure unparalleled in a road-going vehicle. For enhanced durability and compatibility with commercially available “Super Plus” gasoline, as opposed to racing fuel, the maximum engine speed is deliberately set below the Formula 1 engine speed limit. The electric motors on the front axle are equally remarkable in their rev capabilities, reaching rotor revolutions up to 50,000 rpm, significantly exceeding the current state-of-the-art speed of 20,000 rpm.
Turbocharging Innovation: Eliminating Turbo Lag
A high-tech turbocharger further augments the high-revving engine. The exhaust gas and compressor turbines are physically separated and strategically positioned relative to the exhaust and intake sides of the V6 engine, connected via a shaft. This shaft integrates an electric motor producing approximately 90 kW. Depending on operational needs, this motor electrically drives the compressor turbine at speeds up to 100,000 rpm – particularly during initial acceleration or in response to load variations. In Formula 1 nomenclature, this unit is designated MGU-H (Motor Generator Unit Heat).
The primary advantage of this sophisticated engine is the complete elimination of turbo lag – the delayed throttle response caused by the inertia of a conventional large turbocharger. Throttle response time is drastically reduced, surpassing even that of a naturally aspirated V8 engine. The electric turbocharger introduces another benefit: it harnesses surplus energy from the exhaust system to generate electricity. This electricity is either stored in the high-voltage lithium-ion battery as part of energy recuperation or channeled to an additional electric motor to provide supplementary drive power. This additional motor generates 120 kW, is directly integrated with the engine, and connects to the crankshaft via a spur gear (MGU-K = Motor Generator Unit Kinetic) – another technology mirroring Formula 1 engineering for peak efficiency and performance.
Image alt text: Close-up view of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE’s engine, highlighting the complex integration of the 1.6-liter V6 hybrid engine and Formula 1 derived technology, showcasing the MGU-H and MGU-K units.
Electrified Front Axle: Advanced All-Wheel Drive
Further enhancing performance are two 120 kW electric motors located at the front axle. Each motor independently drives a front wheel via a reduction gear. This fully electric front axle enables individual wheel acceleration and braking, facilitating selective torque distribution (torque vectoring) for exceptional vehicle dynamics. Under typical daily driving conditions, these axle motors are estimated to recuperate up to 80 percent of braking energy, storing it in the battery and extending the electric driving range. Each electric motor is governed by its own power electronics, positioned proximally in the floor assembly.
Thermal Efficiency: Setting New Standards
The thermal efficiency of the combustion engine, incorporating the electric turbocharger (MGU-H) and the electric motor on the crankshaft (MGU-K), surpasses 40 percent. This unprecedented figure for series production vehicles underscores the drive system’s dominance in efficiency. The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE show car extracts significantly more drive energy per liter of fuel compared to conventional vehicles, achieving both economy and formidable power. In contrast, conventional series production engines typically exhibit thermodynamic efficiency in the range of 33 to 38 percent.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
| Mercedes-AMG Project ONE show car | |
|---|---|
| Rear-wheel drive | 1.6-liter V6 with direct injection, four valves per cylinder, four overhead camshafts and electrically boosted single turbocharger, electric motor connected to the crankshaft |
| Engine capacity | 1,600 cc |
| Rear-wheel drive output | > 500 kW |
| Front-wheel drive output | 2 x 120 kW |
| System output | > 740 kW (> 1,000 hp) |
| Electric range | 25 km |
| Drive system | Variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with hybrid-drive rear axle, electrically driven front axle and torque vectoring |
| Transmission | Automated AMG SPEEDSHIFT 8-speed manual transmission |
| Acceleration 0-200 km/h | |
| Top speed | > 350 km/h |
Battery and Electrical System: Formula 1 Derived
The battery cells, their configuration, and the cell cooling system directly mirror those utilized in the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 racing car. However, the quantity of battery cells in the AMG Project ONE show car is scaled to enhance everyday practicality. The lithium-ion, high-voltage battery, along with the DC/DC converter supporting and charging the 12 V onboard electrical system, are compactly housed in the vehicle floor behind the front axle, optimizing space utilization.
Another pioneering aspect is the high-voltage EQ Power+ drive system’s operation at 800 volts, doubling the standard 400 volts. This elevated voltage level enables significant reductions in cable diameters, consequently saving design space and weight, contributing to overall vehicle efficiency.
Intelligent Driving Dynamics and Transmission
The high-performance EQ Power+ plug-in hybrid drive system incorporates numerous intelligent operating strategies, finely tuned for diverse application scenarios. Driving modes range from purely electric operation to a highly dynamic mode mirroring Formula 1 qualifying settings for optimal lap times. Despite the system’s complexity, the driver consistently receives the ideal balance of performance and efficiency, tailored to real-time demands. This sophisticated management leverages Mercedes-AMG engineers’ extensive experience and expertise gleaned from Formula 1, the SLS AMG Electric Drive, and Daimler AG’s broader research and development initiatives.
For instance, the vehicle can initiate motion in purely electric mode, initially utilizing only the front axle electric motors, with the crankshaft-mounted electric motor assisting during brief acceleration bursts. Upon firmer accelerator input demanding greater output, the V6 engine seamlessly engages. The powertrain unleashes its full potential as engine speed escalates. The Race Start function enables breathtaking acceleration figures, propelling the car from zero to 124 mph (200 km/h) in under six seconds. Conversely, when the driver releases the accelerator for coasting, the system reverts to electric drive at the front axle. During normal driving braking, up to 80 percent of energy is recuperated and fed back into the battery.
Power is channeled to the rear wheels via an 8-speed manual transmission, custom-developed from the ground up for the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE. It features hydraulic actuation and can be operated in automated mode or manually using shift paddles, offering both convenience and driver engagement.
Image alt text: Interior view of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE showcasing its minimalist, Formula 1 inspired cockpit design, featuring bucket seats integrated into the monocoque and twin digital displays.
Chassis and Suspension: Engineered for Performance
The exceptional driving dynamics of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE are rooted in its lightweight, high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque body, another technology transfer from Formula 1. The integration of the engine and transmission also mirrors Formula 1 practice, with both components serving as load-bearing elements, fully supporting the rear suspension.
Suspension development was approached with equal rigor. Multi-link designs are employed at both front and rear axles. The adjustable coil-over suspension incorporates unique features, notably push-rod spring struts installed transversely to the direction of travel. This innovative spring/damper unit arrangement replaces conventional tubular cross members, effectively mitigating rolling movements even during rapid directional changes without compromising ride comfort. The overall spring and damper setup is meticulously calibrated for balanced, predictable, and decidedly sporty handling characteristics, further enhanced by all-wheel drive and torque vectoring. ABS is standard, with ESP® offering three selectable modes: ESP® ON for maximum safety, ESP® SPORT HANDLING MODE allowing greater yaw angles for spirited driving, and ESP® OFF for track-focused driving on closed circuits.
Wheels, Tires and Brakes: Precision Components
The 10-spoke forged aluminum wheels with center locks are a bespoke development exclusively for the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE. They feature radial carbon-fiber semi-covers with an aerodynamically optimized shape, enhancing the car’s aerodynamic profile and reducing drag by streamlining airflow around the wheels. Simultaneously, three flat ventilation slots per spoke section ensure efficient heat dissipation from the brakes, demonstrating AMG’s meticulous attention to detail in optimizing hypercar efficiency. The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is fitted with size 10.0 J x 19 front wheels and 285/35 ZR 19 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and 12.0 J x 20 rear wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 335/30 ZR 20 tires, both tire sets exclusively developed for this hypercar.
An advanced, weight-optimized ceramic high-performance compound braking system is employed. Its low weight reduces unsprung masses, improving driving dynamics and agility. Furthermore, ceramic brakes offer extended service life, superior corrosion resistance, and enhanced thermal stability. “AMG Carbon Ceramic” lettering and specially painted brake calipers visually distinguish this exceptional braking system.
Exterior Design: Where Beauty Meets Beast
The show car’s design is undeniably inspired by top-tier motorsport, embodying the Mercedes-AMG ethos that fascination is inextricably linked to function. Every design element serves a specific purpose. The resulting mid-engine concept showcases aggressively muscular proportions, with a forward-positioned cockpit, prominent wheel arches, a wasp waist, and an elongated rear end.
Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG, describes the Project ONE’s aesthetic impact: “The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is the most exhilarating and visually striking car we have ever conceived. It seamlessly blends our Sensual Purity design philosophy with the raw performance of our Formula 1 racing cars, perfectly embodying Performance Luxury. This hypercar’s radical design marks a design milestone – characterized by fluid lines and an interior stripped down to the bare essentials.”
Front View: Functional Aerodynamics
The front view is defined by a broad front fascia, with extensive air inlets spanning the vehicle’s width. A trapezoidal center section prominently displays a large white AMG logo, with the Mercedes star positioned above on the vehicle body. The signature AMG A-wing beneath the center section creates a silver accent, seamlessly merging into the front fenders. Large, prominent air inlets flank the A-wing, framed by U-shaped flaps and subdivided by dual black horizontal fins. Sleek LED headlamps integrate seamlessly into the body contours. Black air outlets in the hood channel hot airflow around the driver compartment sides, ensuring unobstructed fresh airflow to the driver compartment and the roof-mounted intake tract. Downforce at the front axle is enhanced by an automatically extending front splitter and active ventilation louvers within the front wheel arches, contributing to the car’s optimized aerodynamic balance.
Side Profile: Sensual Purity and Functionality
The low, dynamic greenhouse features a distinctive spherical architecture with a unique window pattern. Large dark areas highlight crucial technical functions, creating a visual contrast with the vehicle’s clean, flowing lines. The roofline is dominated by a Formula 1-derived air intake, feeding substantial air volumes to the engine. This black intake gracefully transitions into a black, vertical shark fin, enhancing lateral stability during high-speed cornering. The rear window, set well back, is integrated into the intake/roof-fin unit, offering a view of the powertrain. Two large NACA air inlets ensure optimal airflow to the engine and transmission oil coolers located at the rear. The side view also exemplifies a sensual, clean surface design harmonized with functional features. Tautly recessed vehicle flanks, with black carbon-fiber surfaces, redirect airflow around the body, mirroring motorsport aerodynamic principles. Petronas green paintbrush design elements on the flanks, created by the artist responsible for the Formula 1 racing car livery, add a distinctive touch. All four wheels are enclosed by tightly sculpted, muscular fenders, conveying a sense of dynamic readiness. As in motorsport, the doors open both forwards and upwards, adding to the vehicle’s dramatic presence. The fuel filler flap is located at the rear right, while the charge socket for the plug-in hybrid battery is positioned at the rear left.
Rear Design: Aerodynamic Dominance
The sharp, vertical spoiler lip and the substantial two-section diffuser, bisected by the central exhaust tailpipe, alongside the two-stage extendable rear aerofoil, all contribute to aerodynamic efficiency and high-speed performance. The exhaust tailpipe design, featuring a large round outlet and two smaller round apertures, is directly adopted from Formula 1 cars. The muscular rear appearance is further amplified by a rear fascia incorporating large black mesh and carbon-fiber components. The rear lights each feature three rhomboid lighting elements, echoing the graphic design of the AMG brand logo and the headlamp design.
Image alt text: Rear view of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE emphasizing its wide stance, prominent diffuser, central exhaust, and the Formula 1 inspired rear wing, showcasing aerodynamic functionality.
Interior Design: Formula 1 Cockpit for Two
The interior design concept prioritizes racetrack functionality, expressed through a radical design idiom. Formula 1 technology is authentically tangible both on the racetrack and on the road. Every detail serves a function; superfluous visual elements are eliminated. Within the monocoque interior, minimalist design and functionality emphasize reduced componentry.
The ergonomically contoured interior accommodates two occupants. Bucket seats with adjustable backrests are integrated into the monocoque. Adjustable pedals and steering wheel allow drivers to achieve an ideal driving position. The center tunnel visually separates driver and passenger zones, seamlessly integrating into the seat structure and adhering to minimalist principles with its gently rising contour.
Functional and Minimalist Cabin
Lightweight construction is evident in the dashboard’s slim, wing-like profile, appearing light and free-floating. As a functional structural component, it enhances the monocoque’s rigidity. Two high-resolution, free-standing 10-inch displays – one slightly elevated for the driver, the other angled towards the driver on the center console – are mounted with high-quality, weight-optimized solid metal components. A double-nozzle ventilation unit is suspended beneath the center screen, resembling a gondola, with the screen and nozzles forming a unified element, underscoring the lightweight design ethos. The displays’ rectangular form is mirrored in the ventilation nozzles and the center console, housing the start/stop button. A seamlessly integrated unit also includes a high-quality stowage compartment with a transparent lid, a streamlined switch array, and the engine start button.
Formula 1 Inspired Steering Wheel
The steering wheel, featuring flattened upper and lower sections and an integrated airbag, offers motorsport functionality. Two integrated controllers enable adjustments to driving modes, suspension setup, and the LED shift display in the upper steering wheel area.
Technology and Convenience
Door panels are constructed from functional, high-grade carbon-fiber, seamlessly integrating into the sporty interior. Mirroring exterior aero winglets, door paneling is visually interrupted to create space for technical elements and a generously concave door center panel. An aluminum cassette integrates air vents and deeply recessed rectangular power window switches.
Materials and Colors: Racing DNA
Mercedes-AMG developers have ensured everyday usability and operational convenience. Small items can be stowed in two compartments located behind the seats. Air conditioning and power windows are standard, while the COMAND infotainment system provides optimal connectivity. The user interface is designed as an autonomous concept, prioritizing essential information displayed in the driver’s line of sight above the steering wheel to minimize distraction. Rear visibility is optimized via a screen replacing the interior mirror, displaying real-time rear images from a mirror cam. The aluminum screen housing is fully integrated into the roof and also houses additional controls. The color and material palette draws inspiration from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 racing car. Sculptured racing seats are upholstered in slip-resistant black microfiber, establishing a clear link to motorsport. Seat surfaces are accented with magma grey nappa leather and sporty textile mesh inlays, enhancing seat ventilation. Yellow contrasting topstitching provides further visual highlights.
The Future of Driving Performance: Project ONE’s Legacy
The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE transcends being merely an ultimate driving machine that directly transfers current Formula 1 hybrid technology to the road, blending top-tier racetrack performance with everyday usability. Its purpose extends to gathering extensive data on performance-oriented plug-in hybrid drive technology, advancing suspension designs, and developing enhanced onboard electronics, all intended to benefit future series production AMG vehicles. The Project ONE team is diligently working to bring this visionary concept to fruition on public roads, paving the way for the future of driving performance at Mercedes-AMG.
