Every car aficionado expects greatness from Mercedes-Benz, but even the most hardcore fans were pleasantly surprised when the German brand presented in prototype form the Mercedes-AMG One. The spectacular machine resulted from the collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and the Petronas Motorsport team and has a striking Formula 1 engine that would make any Lewis Hamilton-wannabe driver feel like the King of the Road.
Unfortunately, Mercedes has decided to produce only 275 units of the One and even if some fans are lucky enough to have $2.72 million lying around, money can’t buy them the right to drive this beast on American roads; thus, European millionaires will have better luck with driving this exotic car in their countries.
A Long Way From Shocking Prototype To Dream Production Spec
At the 2017 International Motors Show Germany, Lewis Hamilton joined Dieter Zetsche on stage to present a hypercar that seemed cut out from a Sci-Fi movie. The concept was so groundbreaking that many argued that this is simply one of Mercedes utopian dreams. As times passed, several car fans wondered if the hypercar will ever see the light of the day, especially when the launch was constantly pushed to further away.
Naturally, the global pandemic and the supply chain disruptions have delayed the manufacturing process, but there were also road-legal considerations that needed to be considered. Additionally, Mercedes had to pay attention to its bottom like and the release of new models that were easier marketed to consumers took priority.
Meanwhile, AMG engineers had to focus on the development of other Mercedes-branded cars that had an electrified powertrain. Fast-forward to 2022, and Mercedes has finally announced that this fantastic Formula 1 inspired racing vehicles will go into production later this year. Unfortunately, all 275 units are already sold out.
Why We Love The Mercedes-Benz AMG One
This is the closest that a street-legal vehicle can get to a Formula 1 engine, so every driver that loves speed will want to have this beauty in his collection. Moreover, wealthy investors and bankers who are environmentally conscious will probably feel better knowing that they drive a hybrid car. The e-turbocharged 1.6-liter V6 hybrid engine generates over 1,000 horsepower and helps this super car achieve the top speed of 217 miles per hour. And if that wasn’t enough, the hyper also speeds up from o to 124 miles per hour in less than 6.0 seconds. Anyone would feel like Hamilton in this hypercar, but let’s hope they also drive like him.
The hypercar also has the four electric motors for a combined 450 kW. Drivers may drive for around 15 miles using only electricity, although this is only when the Mercedes-Benz AMG One is fully charged.
If the car’s performance is its best-selling point, the interior is also unrivaled. The Formula 1 style notes are everywhere, from the steering wheel with integrated controllers and LED shift display to the lightweight bucket seats. The reversing camera is a great touch as it helps drivers achieve a more accurate view of their surrounding, and especially at 200 miles per hour, having a clear view of obstacles is very important.
The cabin is surprisingly spacious for a car that resembles Formula 1 vehicles. However, passengers shouldn’t expect too much storage space.
As for the exterior, the design conjures images of the most epic Formula 1 races, so it is understandable that the sight of the Project One would make people think of Adelaide 1986 or Mexico 1964. The proportions are muscular but refined. Take, for example, the flat-LED headlamps, which seem to merge with the body, being perfectly incorporated in the design. Other elements like the 10- spoke forged aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires and the beautiful-shape roofline make the Formula 1 soul even more visible.
This Is Why Mercedes-Benz AMG One Won’t Be Sold In The U.S.
As mentioned earlier, the Jeff Bezos-like characters in the U.S. won’t be able to drive this furious beast on the American roads too soon. It’s been widely noted that “regulation kills innovation,” and in this case, it “kills” even the addictive rush and fun of driving a super-fast car.
“In order to preserve the unique character of [the One's] Formula 1 powertrain, we have concluded that meeting U.S. road standards would significantly compromise its performance and its overall driving character,” AMG said in a letter to its American customers. “We have taken the strategic decision to offer the car for road usage in Europe, where it meets applicable regulations.”
In conclusion, American Mercedes-Benz AMG One fans can either relocate to Europe to drive this beast on the German highways or wait and hope that legislators will change their minds and allow the hypercar on our roads.