The AMG brand has been giving motoring enthusiasts, particularly Mercedes-Benz fans, a lot of reasons to go out and enjoy their cars. It has not only made the three-pointed star offerings more powerful but has likewise endowed them with desirability to match. But while we all know of Mercedes-AMG’s rich history, one has to wonder what lies ahead for the Affalterbach-based tuning brand?
Wonder no more, as Mercedes-AMG has just unveiled the AMG GT Concept at the ongoing Geneva Motor Show. The show car is a virtual crystal ball into the future of the brand and shows us that despite a few changes, we need not worry about losing touch with the pleasure of driving.
The showcase begins with what lies under the metal—the innovative new hybrid powertrain known as EQ Power. Don’t let the H word put you off, though, as this one boasts of a 4.0-liter biturbo motor mated to an electric mill. This is enough to rocket the Mercedes-AMG GT Concept from 0-100kph in a supercar-like time of less than two seconds. Thank the instantaneous power of the electric motor for this.
In true Mercedes-AMG fashion, driving dynamics are still part of this futuristic concept. The balanced axle load, 4Matic+ all-wheel drive, and individual torque distribution to each wheel all conspire to ensure excellent handling and responsiveness. And of course, the hybrid motor means exceptional fuel economy.
What’s really cool about this gas-electric system is that it can be charged while driving. Just like the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 car, the battery on the GT Concept can be topped up as you drive, as well as via the usual braking regeneration. This not only translates to worry-free economical motoring but added pleasure since it affords the driver instant gratification when accelerating hard.
Of course, the Mercedes-AMG GT Concept has the looks to match its cutting-edge power unit. The four-door design isn’t your typical conservative Mercedes sedan, mind you. This one is a mix of AMG sleekness with swoopy curves and lines in all the right places, along with the Merc brand flair. The Panamericana vertical ribbed grille, the side grille, sweeping headlights, the low-slung hood, rakish front and rear windshields, and that curvaceous rear end that emulates the AMG GT sports car’s tail all give the car a distinctive sporty touch.
Mercedes-AMG is likewise unveiling a new lighting technology dubbed Nano Active Fibre. Seen on the daytime running lights, it not only provides excellent safety and visibility but gives the car a lighting signature all its own.
The drive systems may change. But the Mercedes-AMG GT Concept, which is the third model after the SLS AMG and AMG GT, clearly shows that AMG will do all it can to continuously offer driving fun—no matter what’s under the hood.
