2016 Paris Motor Show: Mercedes-AMG confirms hybrid hypercar

Mercedes-AMG has dropped a bombshell by announcing it has a production hybrid hypercar in the works utilsing a variation of its F1 car’s 1.6-litre turbo V6 and electric motor powertrain.

Speaking at a media event ahead of the Paris motor show, Daimler AG board member responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development Dr Thomas Weber made clear links between the development of AMG’s first-ever hybrid and its F1 program.

“We have managed to put the best powertrain in the best racing car [and] the truth is we are racing with nearly a thousand horsepower every weekend in Formula 1 with the world’s most energy-efficient racing engine,” he started.

“[We have] a very successful performance car company in Affalterbach – and a very successful Formula 1 program in Brixworth and Brackley. Now I ask you: what would you do if you were looking for an AMG that has to redefine efficiency and performance? Exactly, you would combine the best of both worlds.”

As a sketch drawing of what is purported to be the production Mercedes-AMG hypercar appeared on a screen behind Dr Weber, he revealed: “We are going to create an AMG Performance Hybrid featuring our Formula 1 drivetrain technology.”

“Under the lead of AMG, out performance companies will join forces and create the most efficient and, at the same time, the best performing and most spectacular AMG of all time – some might even call it a hypercar.

“It will definitely show how we will take our performance brand into the future with extremely efficient and intelligent drivetrain technology. Of course, as you can expect from us, there will be no compromises in terms of the emotional appeal of this car.”

It is understood that 2018 is the target production date for the brand’s rival for the Ferrari LaFerrari, McLaren P1 and Porsche 918 Spyder – or future successors thereof – and that the powertrain is currently undergoing engineering redevelopment to meet emissions regs.

Lead development of the limited-run hypercar will be based at Mercedes-AMG headquarters in Affalterbach, Germany, in conjunction with UK-based Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains.

The last time Mercedes hooked up with an F1 partner for a road car was with 2003’s McLaren SLR. The new hypercar will also be AMG’s first ever hybrid model.