In an era where speed and innovation go hand in hand, Mercedes-AMG has once again proven why it stands at the pinnacle of automotive excellence. The Mercedes AMG-One, a hypercar with Formula 1 technology, has shattered its own Nürburgring-Nordschleife lap record. Not only did it outpace its previous best, but it also became the first production car to conquer the 20.832-kilometre track in under 6 minutes and 30 seconds.

A New Record for the Ages

On September 23, 2024, DTM driver and Mercedes-AMG brand ambassador Maro Engel set a new record, clocking in a blistering lap time of 6:29.090 minutes. This incredible feat shaved more than five seconds off the previous record set by the same car in 2022.

The conditions were perfect – air temperature sat at 15 degrees Celsius, with the asphalt at 20 degrees, ensuring optimal grip on the challenging Nürburgring track. As a result, Engel, a seasoned driver with a passion for precision, pushed the car to its limits in a carefully orchestrated attempt that paid off in spectacular fashion.

Key Highlights of the Record-Breaking Lap:

Track Length: 20.832 kilometres

Lap Time: 6:29.090 minutes

Temperature: 15°C (air), 20°C (asphalt)

Driver: Maro Engel

The Technology Behind the Speed

The Mercedes-AMG ONE is a masterpiece born from Formula 1 technology. With a 1.6-litre V6 hybrid engine paired with four electric motors, this car delivers a jaw-dropping 1,063 hp. Designed to dominate both the track and the road, it incorporates features like active aerodynamics, a carbon monocoque, and a high-tech pushrod suspension system.

Here’s a closer look at what makes the AMG ONE a technological marvel:

Formula 1 Hybrid Drive

The AMG ONE brings Formula 1 technology directly to the road. Its powertrain consists of a 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 engine, accompanied by four electric motors, delivering 782 kW (1,063 hp). This allows the car to reach a top speed of 352 km/h, all while maintaining road legality.

Hybrid Power: 1.6-litre V6 engine + 4 electric motors

Power Output: 782 kW (1,063 hp)

Top Speed: 352 km/h

Aerodynamics at Its Finest

To hit such a high speed on a twisty, demanding track like the Nürburgring, aerodynamics play a crucial role. The AMG ONE’s advanced active aerodynamics system adjusts on the fly, retracting front wing louvres and adjusting the two-stage rear wing to reduce drag during fast sections. When more downforce is needed, the aero elements snap back into place, ensuring maximum grip in corners.

Driving Mode: “Race Plus” for maximum performance

Adjustable Aerodynamics: Retractable front louvres and rear wing

Downforce Enhancement: Automatic adjustments during cornering

Energy Flow Control (EFC)

One of the challenges Maro Engel faced during the record lap was managing the hybrid system’s energy usage. With a track as long and demanding as the Nordschleife, careful energy recuperation and deployment were critical. Therefore, the AMG ONE’s four-stage Energy Flow Control (EFC) system allowed Engel to extract every ounce of performance, making sure the car remained charged and ready to blast through the straights.

Four-Stage EFC: Manages energy flow and recuperation

“Lift and Coast” Technique: Optimises braking and battery recharge

The Track: Nürburgring-Nordschleife

Often referred to as “The Green Hell,” the Nürburgring-Nordschleife is one of the most demanding racetracks in the world. Its combination of tight corners, long straights, and elevation changes tests the limits of both driver and machine. The track’s length – over 20 kilometres – requires a unique set of skills, with drivers needing to balance speed and control.

Maro Engel’s expertise, paired with the Mercedes-AMG ONE’s cutting-edge technology, made this record-breaking performance possible. Furthermore, the effort wasn’t just about speed; it was about precision, energy management, and the ability to handle one of the toughest circuits in the world.

Nürburgring-Nordschleife Fast Facts:

Location: Nürburg, Germany

Length: 20.832 kilometres

Corners: Over 70

Nickname: The Green Hell

Record-Setting Tyres and Brakes

When you’re trying to break records, every component matters, and the tyres on the AMG ONE were no exception. Mercedes-AMG partnered with Michelin to develop the Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tyres, which were specifically designed for this hypercar. These tyres, combined with the AMG ceramic high-performance braking system, ensured optimal grip and braking performance, allowing Engel to extract the full potential of the car.

Tyres: Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO

Braking System: AMG ceramic high-performance brakes

A Road Car Like No Other

The AMG ONE may have Formula 1 DNA, but it’s also designed for the road. With its hybrid powertrain, drivers can switch between different driving modes, adjusting the car’s dynamics depending on the environment. This versatility makes it a one-of-a-kind experience – whether you’re cruising through city streets or tearing down a racetrack.

Key Features for Everyday Use:

All-Wheel Drive: AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system

Electric Range: 18.1 kilometres (pure electric mode)

Charging System: Onboard 3.7 kW charger for quick recharging

What Sets the AMG ONE Apart?

The Mercedes-AMG ONE is a hypercar that brings Formula 1 performance to the masses – well, to those lucky enough to get their hands on one of the limited production units. Moreover, with its high-revving engine, complex aerodynamics, and race-derived energy management systems, it’s truly in a league of its own.

Here’s why it stands apart from other hypercars:

Formula 1 Technology: Directly adapted from the racetrack

Energy Recuperation: Allows for optimal use of power across a long track

Track Performance Meets Road Usability: Fully legal for everyday driving

Pushing Boundaries and Setting Standards

The Mercedes-AMG ONE’s latest lap record at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife is a showcase of how far automotive technology has come. The blend of Formula 1 hybrid technology with road-legal usability is a remarkable achievement. As Mercedes-AMG continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible, it’s exciting to think about what the future holds for high-performance cars.

What Do You Think?

Have you ever driven on a track, or do you prefer the thrill of the open road? How do you think the future of hybrid technology will shape the next generation of hypercars? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

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