Mercedes-AMG’s AMG One: The Ultimate F1-Infused Hypercar Experience
Mercedes-AMG’s AMG One hypercar, featuring an actual F1 engine, was introduced in September 2017 after overcoming numerous engineering challenges. Production began in August 2022, with F1 champion Nico Rosberg ordering his in 2018 and waiting six years to collect it. A new video showcases the intricacies of this F1 car for the road, including a unique startup procedure that must be followed precisely.
The turbocharged 1.6-liter V-6 engine of the AMG One requires a rebuild every 31,000 miles, but the startup process is equally critical. If not handled correctly, shutting off the car prematurely before the engine reaches optimal temperature could potentially “brick” the vehicle. In such a scenario, the owner would need to contact Mercedes for assistance in unfreezing the car with a laptop.
It takes 5-8 minutes for the combustion engine to reach optimal temperature when stationary, while driving can reduce this time to 2-5 minutes. The hypercar always starts in fully electric mode, with the internal combustion engine activating once the catalytic converter reaches 932°F, making the vehicle behave like an EV initially. Once the engine starts, the AMG One unleashes impressive power and a spectacular engine sound.
The AMG One’s engine noise can reach up to 120 decibels, prompting Mercedes-AMG to provide noise-canceling headphones with the vehicle. Despite the loudness, the sound is entirely mechanical, with no artificial enhancements through speakers. Developing the software for the hypercar was deemed the most challenging aspect of its creation, with adjustments made to lower the engine’s idle speed from 5,000 rpm to 1,250 rpm.
With only 275 units being hand-built, the AMG One is a highly exclusive hypercar. The vehicle’s complexity led Mercedes-AMG to declare it as a one-of-a-kind creation that will not be replicated due to stringent emissions regulations. F1 drivers like Nico Rosberg and David Coulthard have also secured their own AMG One models, with unique customization options available, such as a hand-painted black three-pointed star on Nico Rosberg’s hypercar.
The Mercedes-AMG AMG One hypercar represents the pinnacle of automotive engineering, blending F1 technology with street-legal capabilities. Its unique startup process, impressive engine sound, and limited production make it a rare and highly sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts and collectors alike. Driving the AMG One is not just an experience; it’s a showcase of innovation and performance that sets a new standard for hypercars in the modern era.