A single Mercedes-AMG One hypercar, part of an exclusive production of just 275 units, has tragically succumbed to flames inside a car carrier in England. As reported by The Sun, this Formula 1-powered hypercar, valued at $2.7 million, was engulfed in a sudden inferno while being transported within a closed car carrier, resulting in the destruction of both the car and the trailer. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Although specifics are still unclear, Mercedes UK has acknowledged the incident. A spokesperson from Mercedes UK informed The Sun, “We have been made aware of this incident involving a car in transit within a closed trailer as part of the assembly process. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported thus far.”
While initial assumptions may point towards a battery or hybrid system malfunction as the cause of the fire, especially given that this particular car was not yet fully assembled, it is premature to speculate.
“At present, the cause of the fire remains unknown, and, if necessary, we are prepared to cooperate with the insurance company’s investigation,” the spokesperson added.
The images released by The Sun reveal the extensive damage incurred by both the vehicle and the trailer. The intensity of the blaze reduced the AMG One to its structural frame and power components. The once-enclosed trailer now showcases a mere skeleton of its former self, with the roof structure, chassis elements, engine, and intricate suspension system all melted away. Everything else has been consumed by the fire.
Mercedes
It would be ironic if a battery fire was the reason behind the destruction of the rare AMG One, as its hallmark feature is the hybrid powertrain. This hypercar utilizes an authentic Formula 1 powertrain, featuring the same 1.6-liter turbocharged V6 engine found in Lewis Hamilton’s F1 race car. Complemented by four electric motors producing over 1,000 horsepower collectively, and revving up to 11,000 rpm, it boasts one of the most intricate production automotive powertrains globally. Nevertheless, the complexity of this system has encountered technical challenges, raising the possibility of the hybrid powertrain as the likely cause of this incident.
Witnessing the destruction of such an extraordinary and exclusive vehicle is truly disheartening. Let’s hope Mercedes can identify the issue and prevent any recurrence in the future.
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