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Mercedes-AMG is set to introduce a new supercar, but it will not feature the company’s traditional thunderous V8 engines. Instead, the upcoming model will embrace an all-electric design. According to AMG CEO Michael Schiebe, “It’s clear that we are going all-electric,” as he shared with Autocar. Surprisingly, Schiebe expresses confidence that this change will not dishearten AMG enthusiasts, who are accustomed to the brand’s powerful V8s.
“Customers who joined the brand because of the V8 did not come solely for the engine size,” Schiebe explained. “They were drawn to the innovative technology we incorporate into our vehicles. Therefore, when it comes to electric driving, I’m confident they will embrace this new technology, as it will represent the pinnacle of automotive advancement.”
While it may seem presumptuous to second-guess AMG’s understanding of its customer base, one might question whether buyers truly prioritized technology over the allure of potent V8 engines. Historically, AMG was established by two former Mercedes engineers with the goal of crafting V8 racing engines. Over time, the company evolved to develop engines for high-performance Mercedes vehicles. In the early 2000s, Mercedes acquired AMG, during the DaimlerChrysler era, and began creating Mercedes-AMG models predominantly powered by V8s. Although AMG has diversified its engine offerings, the powerful V8 has been a fundamental aspect of the brand’s identity from its inception to the present. The notion that customers were more interested in technology than V8 performance is indeed surprising.
Under the hood of a Mercedes-AMG, a small metal plaque reads “Handcrafted by” followed by the name of the engine builder, highlighting the brand’s commitment to its “One man, one engine” principle. This signifies that each AMG engine is meticulously assembled by a single individual, showcasing not just the performance of the engines, but also their craftsmanship.
In defense of Schiebe, one must consider what alternatives he had. It’s unlikely he could publicly acknowledge that AMG customers primarily desire V8s, yet the company is pivoting to electric vehicles. This transition is a necessity for remaining competitive as the automotive industry evolves. The new electric supercar is expected to boast impressive performance, leveraging axial-flux motors from Yasa (the same manufacturer supplying motors for the Koenigsegg Regera), which Mercedes has recently acquired. Reports suggest that the Yasa-AMG motors generate 489 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque while weighing a mere 53 pounds. Just imagine the output of three or four of these motors combined.
Will these motors also feature their own little metal plaque, akin to the engines? It’s a possibility. “This is part of our DNA. We will develop something in the future that is comparable to ‘one man, one engine,’ and it won’t just be a marketing strategy,” Schiebe shared with Autocar.
Thus, there is still hope for Mercedes-AMG’s forthcoming performance vehicles, even in the absence of V8 engines. However, devoted AMG aficionados might be willing to sacrifice some power and performance for the brand’s iconic sound.
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