Mercedes-AMG’s 50th anniversary was marked in spectacular fashion with the unveiling of the Project One Mercedes at the Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA). This groundbreaking two-seater supersports show car represented the pinnacle of automotive engineering, bringing Formula 1 hybrid technology directly from the racetrack to public roads. The Project ONE Mercedes isn’t just a car; it’s a statement, a hypercar boasting over 1,000 horsepower and capable of speeds exceeding 217 mph (350 km/h). It seamlessly blends unparalleled racetrack performance with the usability required for everyday driving, all while showcasing exemplary efficiency – a true world first. The responsibility for this ambitious undertaking rested squarely on Mercedes-AMG, who collaborated closely with Formula 1 experts at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth and the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport Formula 1 team in Brackley. Alongside the AMG GT Concept, the Project ONE Mercedes provides a tantalizing glimpse into the future of performance-hybrid drive strategies for Mercedes-Benz’s sports car division.
Alt text: Project One Mercedes front profile, highlighting aerodynamic features and large air intakes.
The dream of translating motorsport technology to road cars has been a long-held ambition for engineers since the dawn of racing. Mercedes-AMG has now elevated this aspiration to its zenith with the Project ONE Mercedes. Dr. Dieter Zetsche, then Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, articulated this vision: “Motorsport is not merely an end in itself for us. In the face of intense competition, we develop technologies that subsequently benefit our production vehicles. We are leveraging our experiences and triumphs from three constructors’ and drivers’ world championships to bring Formula 1 technology to the road for the first time, embodied in the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE.”
Ola Källenius, Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, further emphasized the car’s unique nature: “The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is essentially the first Formula 1 car with street legal approval. Its highly efficient hybrid system is derived directly from motor racing, and the electrically driven front axle delivers a captivating combination of performance and efficiency. With a system output surpassing 1,000 hp and a top speed exceeding 217 mph (350 km/h), this hypercar performs exactly as its striking appearance suggests: it is breathtaking.”
This concept car served as a concrete preview of the production model to come, setting incredibly high expectations. Tobias Moers, then Head of Management at Mercedes-AMG GmbH, described the Project ONE Mercedes as their most ambitious project ever: “This hypercar marks another milestone in the successful and strategic evolution of Mercedes-AMG into a leading performance and sports car brand. Project ONE raises the technological bar to unprecedented levels, establishing a new benchmark through its fusion of efficiency and performance. Simultaneously, Project ONE offers a perspective on how AMG will define driving performance in the years to come.”
Formula 1 Powertrain: A Hybrid Heart
At the core of the Project ONE Mercedes lies a high-performance plug-in hybrid drive system directly descended from Formula 1, a result of close collaboration with the motorsport experts at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth. This sophisticated system is an intricately integrated and intelligently managed unit, featuring a hybrid, turbocharged combustion engine working in harmony with not one, but four electric motors. One electric motor is ingeniously integrated within the turbocharger itself, another is mounted directly on the combustion engine and linked to the crankcase, and the remaining two power the front wheels, creating an advanced all-wheel-drive system.
Alt text: Project One Mercedes engine detail, showcasing hybrid technology and turbocharger integration.
The heart of this beast is a 1.6-liter V6 hybrid gasoline engine, complete with direct injection and electrically assisted single turbocharging – a direct relative of the engine used in the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 cars. Spur gears drive the four overhead camshafts, and in a departure from conventional road car engines, pneumatic valve springs replace mechanical ones to enable incredibly high engine speeds. Positioned mid-engine, ahead of the rear axle, this powerplant can effortlessly reach 11,000 rpm, a figure virtually unheard of in road-legal vehicles. However, for increased durability and to allow the use of readily available “Super Plus” gasoline instead of specialized racing fuel, the maximum engine speed is deliberately set significantly lower than the limit in its Formula 1 counterpart. The electric motors on the front axle are equally impressive in their high-revving nature, capable of reaching rotor speeds of up to 50,000 rpm, far exceeding the typical state-of-the-art speed of 20,000 rpm.
Electric Turbocharging: Eliminating Turbo Lag
Boosting the already potent high-revving engine is a cutting-edge turbocharger. The exhaust gas and compressor turbines are physically separated and positioned optimally on the exhaust and intake sides of the V6 engine respectively, connected by a shaft. This shaft incorporates an electric motor producing approximately 90 kW (120 hp). Depending on driving conditions, this motor can electrically drive the compressor turbine at speeds up to 100,000 rpm – for instance, during initial acceleration or when responding to sudden changes in load. In Formula 1 terminology, this unit is known as MGU-H (Motor Generator Unit Heat).
Alt text: Project One Mercedes powertrain diagram, illustrating hybrid engine, electric motor, and battery layout.
The primary benefit of this advanced engine design is the complete elimination of turbo lag – the delayed response traditionally associated with accelerator pedal input due to the inertia of large turbochargers. Throttle response becomes exceptionally quick, even faster than that of a naturally aspirated V8 engine. The electric turbocharger offers another crucial advantage: it recovers surplus energy from the exhaust system to generate electricity. This recovered energy is either stored in the high-voltage lithium-ion battery as part of regenerative braking or used to provide additional drive power by feeding it to another electric motor. This additional motor generates 120 kW (163 hp), is directly mounted on the engine, and connects to the crankshaft via a spur gear (MGU-K = Motor Generator Unit Kinetic). This further exemplifies the Formula 1-derived technology aimed at maximizing both efficiency and performance.
Electrified Front Axle: All-Wheel Drive and Torque Vectoring
Further enhancing the driving dynamics of the Project ONE Mercedes are two additional 120 kW (163 hp) electric motors positioned at the front axle. Each motor is connected to a front wheel via a reduction gear. This fully electric front axle enables independent acceleration and braking of each front wheel, facilitating selective torque distribution – known as torque vectoring – for exceptional levels of vehicle dynamics and cornering agility. Under typical daily driving conditions, these axle motors are estimated to recuperate up to 80 percent of braking energy, which is then stored in the battery, contributing to an extended electric driving range. Each electric motor is governed by its own dedicated power electronics, located in close proximity to the motors within the vehicle’s floor assembly.
Unprecedented Thermal Efficiency
The thermal efficiency of the combustion engine, when combined with the electric turbocharger (MGU-H) and the electric motor on the crankshaft (MGU-K), exceeds 40 percent. This represents a previously unattainable peak value for series production vehicles, underscoring the drive system’s dominance in efficiency. In practical terms, the Project ONE Mercedes extracts significantly more drive energy from each liter of fuel compared to conventional cars, making it both remarkably powerful and surprisingly economical. For comparison, typical thermodynamic efficiency in conventional production engines ranges from around 33 to 38 percent.
Project ONE Mercedes: Technical Specifications
| Mercedes-AMG Project ONE Show Car | |
|---|---|
| Rear-wheel drive | 1.6-liter V6 with direct injection, four valves per cylinder, four overhead camshafts and electrically boosted single turbocharger, electric motor connected to the crankshaft |
| Engine capacity | 1,600 cc |
| Rear-wheel drive output | > 500 kW (> 680 hp) |
| Front-wheel drive output | 2 x 120 kW (2 x 163 hp) |
| System output | > 740 kW (> 1,000 hp) |
| Electric range | 25 km (approx. 15.5 miles) |
| Drive system | Variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive with hybrid-drive rear axle, electrically driven front axle and torque vectoring |
| Transmission | Automated AMG SPEEDSHIFT 8-speed manual transmission |
| Acceleration 0-200 km/h (0-124 mph) | < 6 seconds (estimated) |
| Top speed | > 350 km/h (> 217 mph) |
Formula 1 Battery Technology
The battery technology within the Project ONE Mercedes is a direct carryover from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 racing car, utilizing the same battery cells, arrangement, and cell cooling system. However, the Project ONE features a greater quantity of battery cells, making it more practical for everyday use and extending its electric range. This lithium-ion, high-voltage battery, along with the DC/DC converter that supports and charges the 12 V onboard electrical system, is efficiently packaged within the vehicle floor behind the front axle, minimizing space intrusion.
A further innovation is the high-voltage EQ Power+ drive system, operating at 800 volts instead of the more common 400 volts. This higher voltage level offers several advantages, including a significant reduction in cable diameters, resulting in space and weight savings.
Intelligent Operating Strategies
The high-performance EQ Power+ plug-in hybrid drive system employs a suite of intelligent operating strategies finely tuned for diverse driving scenarios. Driving modes range from purely electric operation to a highly dynamic mode mirroring Formula 1 qualifying settings for optimal lap times. Despite the system’s complexity, the driver is always presented with the ideal balance of performance and efficiency, adapted to the prevailing driving demands. This sophisticated management system leverages Mercedes-AMG engineers’ extensive experience and knowledge derived from Formula 1, the SLS AMG Electric Drive, and Daimler AG’s broader research and development initiatives.
For instance, the vehicle can initiate movement in purely electric mode, utilizing only the front axle electric motors, with the crankshaft-mounted electric motor providing momentary acceleration assistance when required. Upon pressing the accelerator more firmly and demanding greater power, the V6 engine seamlessly engages. As engine speed builds, the full might of the hybrid system is unleashed, enabling astonishing acceleration figures, with the Race Start function facilitating a 0-124 mph (200 km/h) sprint in under six seconds.
When the driver eases off the accelerator, allowing the car to coast, the system reverts to electric drive via the front axle. During typical braking scenarios, up to 80 percent of the kinetic energy is recuperated and fed back into the battery, maximizing energy efficiency.
Bespoke 8-Speed Manual Transmission
Power is channeled to the rear wheels through a newly developed 8-speed manual transmission, designed specifically for the Project ONE Mercedes. This hydraulically actuated transmission can be operated in automated mode or manually via shift paddles, offering driver engagement and control.
Formula 1 Chassis and Suspension
The exceptional handling characteristics of the Project ONE Mercedes are rooted in its lightweight, high-strength carbon-fiber monocoque body, another technology directly borrowed from Formula 1. Similarly, the engine and transmission are integrated as load-bearing components, directly supporting the rear suspension.
The suspension system itself is a masterpiece of engineering. Multi-link designs are employed at both the front and rear axles. The adjustable coil-over suspension incorporates unique push-rod spring struts mounted transversely to the direction of travel. This innovative arrangement of the spring/damper unit eliminates the need for conventional tubular cross members, effectively counteracting body roll during rapid directional changes without compromising ride comfort. The overall spring and damper setup is meticulously calibrated to deliver balanced, predictable, and, above all, sporty handling dynamics, further enhanced by the all-wheel-drive system and torque vectoring. ABS is standard, and the ESP® (Electronic Stability Program) system offers three user-selectable modes: ESP® ON for maximum safety, ESP® SPORT HANDLING MODE for increased yaw angles and a sportier driving style, and ESP® OFF for track driving on closed circuits.
Aerodynamic Wheels and High-Performance Brakes
The Project ONE Mercedes features exclusive 10-spoke forged aluminum wheels with a center lock design. These wheels are further enhanced with radial carbon-fiber semi-covers, aerodynamically sculpted to optimize airflow around the wheels, improving the car’s overall aerodynamic efficiency and reducing drag. Three flat ventilation slots per spoke section ensure efficient heat dissipation from the high-performance brakes.
Alt text: Project One Mercedes wheel detail, highlighting carbon fiber cover and brake cooling vents.
The Project ONE Mercedes is fitted with size 10.0 J x 19 wheels at the front, shod with 285/35 ZR 19 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires developed exclusively for this hypercar, and larger 12.0 J x 20 wheels at the rear, equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 335/30 ZR 20 tires. Braking is handled by an advanced, weight-optimized ceramic high-performance compound braking system. The reduced weight of these brakes minimizes unsprung masses, contributing to improved driving dynamics and agility. Ceramic brakes also offer enhanced durability, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability. The “AMG Carbon Ceramic” lettering and specially painted brake calipers visually distinguish this exceptional braking system.
Exterior Design: Functional Beauty
The design of the Project ONE Mercedes is undeniably inspired by top-tier motorsport, embodying the Mercedes-AMG principle that aesthetic appeal must always be intertwined with functional purpose. Every design element serves a specific role, resulting in a mid-engine layout with aggressively muscular proportions, a forward-positioned cockpit, prominent wheel arches, a tapered waistline, and an extended rear section.
Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer Daimler AG, described the Project ONE Mercedes as their most captivating design to date: “The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE is the most extreme and desirable car we have ever designed. It merges our Sensual Purity design philosophy with the raw performance of our Formula 1 racing cars, perfectly embodying Performance Luxury. This hypercar’s radical design represents a milestone, characterized by minimalist lines and an interior stripped down to the absolute essentials.”
The front view is dominated by a broad front fascia featuring numerous air inlets spanning the vehicle’s width. The trapezoidal center section prominently displays a large, white AMG logo, with the Mercedes star positioned above it on the body. The signature AMG A-wing below the center section provides a silver accent, seamlessly merging into the front fenders. Large, prominent air inlets flank the center section, framed by U-shaped flaps and subdivided by twin black horizontal fins. Slim LED headlamps are seamlessly integrated into the body contours. Black air outlets in the hood channel hot airflow around the sides of the driver compartment, ensuring unobstructed fresh airflow to the engine intake on the roof. Downforce at the front axle is enhanced by an automatically extending front splitter and active ventilation louvers in the front wheel arches, contributing to the car’s optimized aerodynamic balance.
The low, dynamic greenhouse exhibits a distinctive spherical architecture with a unique window pattern. The expansive dark area highlights key technical functions, creating a visual contrast with the vehicle’s clean lines. The roofline is defined by a Formula 1-derived air intake, feeding substantial air volumes to the engine. This black intake flows gracefully into a black, vertical shark fin, enhancing lateral stability during high-speed cornering. The rear window, positioned further back, is integrated within the intake/roof-fin assembly, offering a view of the powerful engine. Two large NACA air inlets ensure optimal airflow to the engine and transmission oil coolers located at the rear.
The side profile reveals a sensuous, uncluttered surface design combined with functional elements. Recessed flanks and black carbon-fiber surfaces redirect airflow around the vehicle body, mirroring motorsport designs. The Petronas green paintbrush design on the flanks is a stylistic link to the Formula 1 racing car livery. Muscular fenders tightly enclose all four wheels, conveying a sense of pent-up energy. In a nod to racing cars, the doors open both forwards and upwards. The fuel filler flap is located at the rear right, while the charge socket for the plug-in hybrid battery is on the rear left.
The rear end emphasizes aerodynamic efficiency and high-speed performance through a sharp, vertical spoiler lip and a large, two-section diffuser bisected by the central exhaust tailpipe. A two-stage extendible rear aerofoil further contributes to downforce. The exhaust tailpipe design, featuring a large, round outlet with two smaller round apertures, is directly inspired by Formula 1 cars. The rear fascia, with its large black mesh and carbon-fiber components, reinforces the muscular stance. The rear lights each incorporate three rhomboid lighting elements, echoing the AMG brand logo and headlight design.
Interior: Formula 1 for Two Occupants
The interior design of the Project ONE Mercedes prioritizes racetrack functionality, expressed through a radical and minimalist design language. Formula 1 technology is authentically conveyed both on the track and on the road. Every interior detail is functional, devoid of purely decorative elements. The monocoque interior emphasizes essential components with a minimalist aesthetic, both in design and function.
The ergonomically sculpted interior accommodates two occupants. Bucket seats with adjustable backrests are integrated directly into the monocoque structure. Adjustable pedals and steering wheel allow drivers to achieve an ideal driving position. The center tunnel visually divides the driver and passenger areas, blending seamlessly into the seat structure and adhering to the principle of minimalism with its gently rising contour.
Lightweight construction is evident in the slim, wing-like profile of the dashboard, which appears light and floating. As a functional structural component, it also enhances the rigidity of the Mercedes-AMG Project ONE monocoque. Two high-resolution, free-standing 10-inch displays – one positioned slightly higher in front of the driver, the other on the right of the center console angled towards the driver – are integrated using high-quality, weight-optimized solid metal components.
A double-nozzle ventilation unit is suspended beneath the center screen, resembling a gondola. The screen and nozzles form a unified element, reinforcing the lightweight design ethos. The rectangular form of the displays is echoed in the ventilation nozzles and the center console, which houses the start/stop button. A high-quality stowage compartment, a minimal switch array, and the engine start button are also seamlessly integrated as a single unit. The stowage compartment features a transparent lid.
The steering wheel, with flattened upper and lower sections and an integrated airbag, provides motorsport-derived functionality. Two integrated controllers on the steering wheel allow adjustments to driving modes, suspension setup, and other vehicle functions, while an LED shift display is positioned at the upper steering wheel rim. Door panels are crafted from functional, high-grade carbon-fiber, blending seamlessly with the sporty interior. Mirroring the aero winglets of the exterior, the door paneling is visually interrupted to create space for technical elements and a generously concave door center panel. An aluminum cassette integrates air vents and power window switches, recessed as rectangles.
Mercedes-AMG engineers prioritized everyday usability, incorporating stowage compartments behind the seats, air conditioning, power windows, and the COMAND infotainment system. The user interface is designed for minimal driver distraction, with essential information displayed in the driver’s line of sight above the steering wheel. A screen replaces the traditional rear-view mirror, displaying real-time images from a mirror cam for optimal rear visibility. The aluminum screen housing is integrated into the roof, also containing additional controls.
The color and material choices draw inspiration from the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 racing car. Sculpted racing seats are upholstered in slip-resistant black microfiber, creating a clear link to motorsport. Seat surfaces are accented with magma grey nappa leather and sporty textile mesh inlays to optimize seat ventilation, complemented by yellow contrasting topstitching.
Project ONE Mercedes: Shaping the Future of Performance
The Mercedes-AMG Project ONE transcends its status as an ultimate driving machine, bringing Formula 1 hybrid technology to the road and merging top-tier racetrack performance with everyday usability. It serves as a vital research and development platform, generating invaluable insights into performance-oriented plug-in hybrid drive technology, advanced suspension designs, and sophisticated onboard electronics. These advancements will ultimately benefit future series production AMG models, ensuring that the spirit of innovation and performance embodied by Project ONE Mercedes continues to shape the future of driving. The Project ONE team remains dedicated to successfully realizing this ambitious vision and bringing it to discerning drivers worldwide.
