The Electric Revolution: Mercedes-AMG's Powerful Entry into the EV Arena
The Electric Revolution: Mercedes-AMG's Trailblazing Entry into the High-Performance EV World
Mercedes-AMG has come a long way in the realm of electric vehicles (EVs) since its initial foray into this electrifying world in 2013 with the SLS AMG Electric Drive. Back then, this move was rather modest, with only nine lucky customers getting their hands on these groundbreaking machines, making them even rarer than the elusive Audi R8 E-Tron, of which fewer than 100 examples were ever built.
Fast forward to the present day, and the high-performance aficionados at Affalterbach still lack a fully-fledged AMG EV, as models like the EQE 53 and EQS 53 are not considered bespoke AMGs. However, there's a shimmering glimmer of hope on the horizon.
Enter the dedicated AMG.EA platform, which Mercedes has been teasing for some time. Last year, they offered a tantalizing glimpse with a striking four-door concept. And just recently, our eagle-eyed spy photographers caught a prototype undergoing testing for the very first time, set to make its grand entrance in the market in 2025. While Mercedes has been keeping its cards close to its chest regarding the exact specifications, Autocar has some compelling insights.
A Thrilling Powerhouse
The AMG.EA platform promises to be a powerhouse, embodying the spirit of AMG with electrifying gusto. Yasa, a UK-based electric motor manufacturer acquired by Mercedes in 2021, has spilled the beans. They revealed that AMG intends to employ an electric motor that is incredibly lightweight, tipping the scales at a mere 53 pounds, yet it packs a punch with a whopping 480 horsepower and a staggering 590 pound-feet of torque. Picture this: one motor commanding the front wheels, while another propels the rear, potentially culminating in nearly 1,000 hp.
These figures begin to approach the realm of the formidable AMG One hypercar, which boasts 1,049 hp, thanks to its F1-derived turbocharged 1.6-liter V6 gasoline engine and four electric motors. In terms of torque, we're looking at a jaw-dropping 1,000 pound-feet, delivered instantaneously, as is customary with EVs. The result? Supercar-worthy acceleration, even in a sizeable and weighty sedan.
A Vision of Electrification
To gain a better perspective on this electrifying future, let's revisit the Vision AMG concept. This visionary concept showcased Yasa's Axial Flux Motor in a speedy EV measuring an imposing 200.8 inches in length and boasting a generous 118-inch wheelbase. It's slightly larger than the AMG GT 4-Door Coupe currently available, which has already embraced electrification through a plug-in hybrid E Performance variant, delivering an impressive 843 hp and 1,084 lb-ft of torque.
Now, for those who revel in astronomical numbers, it's worth noting that archrival BMW has claimed to possess the technology for an EV with a staggering 1,341 horsepower. However, the first fully-fledged electric M car, anticipated around 2027 or 2028, is unlikely to reach such monumental power levels. Insiders suggest that the forthcoming electric M3 will wield approximately 700 hp, which is still a formidable figure in the electric performance arena.
In conclusion, Mercedes-AMG's bold venture into the world of high-performance electric vehicles is poised to redefine the automotive landscape. With lightweight, potent electric motors and the promise of remarkable power and acceleration, AMG's EV offerings are set to leave an indelible mark in the annals of automotive history. Prepare for an electrifying future where AMG's hallmark performance meets emission-free driving.
Comments