Mercedes-AMG has recently set a groundbreaking record with its Concept AMG GT XX, completing a journey around the Earth in less than eight days. Covering a distance of 40,075 kilometers (the Earth’s circumference) in just 7 days, 13 hours, 24 minutes, and 7 seconds, the achievement highlights Mercedes-AMG’s commitment to innovation in high-performance electric vehicles.
Technological Innovations at Play
The success of the Concept AMG GT XX can be attributed to several advanced technologies that pushed the limits of electric vehicle capabilities:
Axial Flux Motors and Directly Cooled Battery:
The vehicle utilized three axial flux motors, a configuration that allows for a higher power output in a more compact design. This technology, combined with a directly cooled battery, enabled the car to maintain an impressive average speed of 300 km/h throughout the journey. The battery’s cooling system is pivotal, as it manages heat generation and allows for rapid charging at 850 kW, ensuring optimum performance during extended periods of high-speed driving.Advanced Cooling Systems:
Unique cooling solutions were essential during the record attempt. A passive cooling plate located beneath the vehicle complemented a direct liquid cooling system for the battery, ensuring that all components remain within operational heat thresholds. The ability to target cooling for individual components as needed ensures that performance doesn’t wane during grueling conditions.Aerodynamic Design and Drag Coefficient:
At high speeds, controlling drag becomes crucial to efficiency. Approximately 83% of the vehicle’s energy was dedicated to overcoming aerodynamic drag. The engineering team achieved a remarkable drag coefficient of 0.19, significantly enhancing the vehicle’s performance. Research indicates that reducing the drag coefficient by 0.001 is akin to eliminating 90 kg from the vehicle’s weight when cruising at 300 km/h—an impressive feat that contributes substantially to fuel efficiency.Augmented Reality and Ergonomics:
The innovative design wasn’t solely focused on the vehicle’s mechanics. The use of augmented reality was integrated into the driver’s experience via specially developed racing helmets. These helmets enhance situational awareness by providing key information in real-time. Ergonomically designed 3D seat pads ensured comfort during the lengthy journey, essential for maintaining peak performance levels.- Biotechnology-based Materials:
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in automotive development, and the Concept AMG GT XX incorporated biotechnology-based materials in its design. This not only helps reduce weight and improve performance but also aligns with environmental goals.
Corporate Leadership and Vision
Markus Schäfer, the Chief Technology Officer of Mercedes-Benz, remarked that this project signifies a new era for performance innovation. “Mercedes-AMG and Formula 1 stand for pushing boundaries. With the CONCEPT AMG GT XX, we redefine performance in the age of electric drives,” he stated. The historical context of Mercedes-Benz’s achievements, including past record-setting vehicles like the C111, underscores their legacy of pushing technological limits.
Future Implications for Commercial Vehicles
The implications of the technology developed for the Concept AMG GT XX extend beyond record-breaking feats. Michale Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG, noted that many of these innovations would soon be integrated into production vehicles. This means that customers can expect to benefit from advanced features such as the revolutionary axial-flux motors and high-capacity battery systems as soon as next year.
The data and experiences gathered from the Nardò record attempt are also expected to influence future high-performance architectures, notably the AMG.EA. This development promises an entirely new dimension of sustained electric performance for consumers who seek both luxury and functionality in their vehicles.
Conclusion
The record set by the Concept AMG GT XX is a significant milestone in the automotive world, not only for Mercedes-AMG but also for the broader electric vehicle market. With its combination of advanced technology, aerodynamic design, and focus on sustainability, the vehicle showcases what is possible when innovation meets ambition.
This achievement is not merely about breaking records; it reflects a commitment to redefining performance standards in electric mobility. As Mercedes-AMG prepares to bring elements of this visionary technology into production cars, the future of high-performance driving looks promising, blending sheer power with cutting-edge innovation.
