AMG, the performance division of German automaker Mercedes-Benz, celebrated its 50-year anniversary in 2017. This week the manufacturer lifted the veil on a stunning new supercar, the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE. It was part of a trio of new vehicles the company introduced for the first time in Canada on the occasion of the 2018 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto.
This two-seat, mid-engine supercar concept weds exceptional track-inspired performance with Formula 1-developed hybrid technology that makes it a realistic daily-use proposition. The 1.6L direct-injection turbocharged V6 and the electric motor together generate over 1,000 hp, transmitted to the rear wheels via an 8-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes a mere six seconds, and the car can attain a top speed of 350 km/h.
The high-performance plug-in hybrid system is part of the automaker’s new EQ electric banner.
The design of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is as remarkable as its powertrain, its most notable elements being the highly muscular proportions, forward cockpit, oversized wheel arches, and a wasp waist and extended rear end for the body.
Toronto also hosted the Canadian debut of the third-generation new 2019 Mercedes-Benz CLS. It combines the brand’s new style language, characterized by clean contours and subtle lines, with the previous version’s arching midsection, flat side window lines and low greenhouse.
In its CLS 53 4MATIC+ version, a new 3.0L twin-turbo makes use of an exhaust gas turbocharger and an additional electric compressor. The EQ Boost starter-alternator briefly delivers an added 21 hp and a boost in torque of 184 lb-ft of torque; it also feeds the 48V onboard electrical system. The 6-cylinder in-line engine produces 429 hp and a maximum of 384 lb-ft of torque. Rounding out the powertrain are the AMG SPEEDSHIFT TCT 9G transmission and the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive system.
Mercedes wasn’t done wowing the crowds in Toronto either. Also present at its stand is the reimagined G-Class SUV, just recently unveiled for the first time in Detroit. Click on the link to learn more about this luxury all-terrain utility model.
