Exciting, energising, and breathtaking – the Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed concept car is the star attraction in the lead-up to the Formula 1™ Monaco Grand Prix. This radical, open, two-seater performance car, devoid of a roof or windscreen, pays homage to motor racing with its daring design and cutting-edge technology. Unveiled on a floating pontoon in Monaco’s harbour, the PureSpeed concept has captured the attention of enthusiasts and racing legends alike, including Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell.
The Essence of PureSpeed
“The Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed offers a glimpse of what is probably the most direct way to experience performance and driving pleasure. Radically open, neither a roof nor the windscreen separates the two passengers from the elements. You can experience light, air, and passion unfiltered with all your senses. As the concept of our first Mythos vehicle, it embodies the highest level of exclusivity. Design elements such as the HALO also create a Formula 1 feeling. There is therefore no better place for its world premiere than Monaco.”
- Michael Schiebe, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Head of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes Maybach divisions
A Tribute to Racing Heritage
The Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed celebrates Mercedes-Benz’s rich racing heritage through its uncompromising design, innovative materials, and advanced technology. As the first model in the limited Mercedes-Benz Mythos series, it sets a new standard for exclusivity, with only 250 units available to the most dedicated enthusiasts and collectors.
Inspired by legendary race cars, the PureSpeed concept marries unrivalled racing aesthetics with dynamic performance, creating a unique driving experience for connoisseurs. Its design elements, such as the HALO system, directly derive from Formula 1™, ensuring a thrilling, authentic racing feel.
HALO System and Safety
A standout feature is the HALO system, replacing the traditional A-pillar. This safety element, a staple in Formula 1™ since 2018, protects the driver’s head in the event of an accident. The HALO system in the PureSpeed concept consists of an aerodynamically optimised bracket connected to the vehicle’s body, providing safety without compromising style. Two specially designed helmets, included with the car, enhance the Formula 1™ experience for both passengers.
Design and Aerodynamics
The PureSpeed concept draws inspiration from the Mercedes-AMG ONE hypercar, featuring a low silhouette and sharp, visible carbon fibre parts in the vehicle’s lower section. This contrasts with the sensual, rounded shapes of the upper part, creating a visually striking profile.
The design includes unique carbon fibre cladding on the front and rear wheels, with closed rear wheel covers for improved aerodynamics and open front wheel covers to optimise airflow for brake cooling and downforce. The long bonnet, low front end, and pronounced “shark nose” further enhance its sports car appeal.
Additional design highlights include small, transparent deflectors that direct wind over the cockpit, side-sill panelling with aero flics, and muscular shoulders above the wide-track rear wheels. These elements merge seamlessly into the elegant boot lid and width-emphasising rear apron.
Homage to Legendary Mercedes Models
The PureSpeed concept features two flying buttresses behind the seats, reminiscent of the legendary 300 SLR in which Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson won the 1955 Mille Miglia. The vehicle’s paintwork – a gradient from Le Mans red to graphite grey with a black AMG pattern – pays homage to the victorious Mercedes car at the 1924 Targa Florio race. The number 10 on the front wings references this historic victory.
A Unique Interior
Inside, the PureSpeed concept continues to impress with a unique colour and equipment concept, including a custom clock designed by IWC Schaffhausen on the dashboard. The interior’s design and materials echo the vehicle’s exterior elegance and performance.
Specifications
- Model: Concept Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed
- Seating Capacity: 2
- Body Style: Open, roofless and windscreen-less design
- Series: Mercedes-Benz Mythos (first model in this series)
- Production Limit: 250 units
Performance
- Engine: High-performance powertrain inspired by Mercedes-AMG ONE
- Transmission: Single speed, fixed ratio transmission
- Power Output: Specific details yet to be announced, expected to deliver exceptional performance akin to other AMG models
- Drive Mode: Sport, Eco, and Traffic modes
- Safety System: HALO system (replacing conventional A-pillar for enhanced safety)
- Charging: 6.6kW AC charging and CCS rapid charging
Design
- Exterior Features:
- Low silhouette with aerodynamic enhancements
- Carbon fibre cladding on wheels (closed rear wheel covers, open front wheel covers)
- Long bonnet, low front end with “shark nose”
- Transparent deflectors for wind management
- Aerodynamic bonnet with additional air outlet
- Muscular shoulders merging into an elegant boot lid and rear apron
- Interior Features:
- Unique color scheme with custom clock by IWC Schaffhausen
- Custom-designed helmets included
- No roof or side windows for an unfiltered driving experience
Historical Inspirations
- Design Homages:
- Flying buttresses behind seats reminiscent of 300 SLR (1955 Mille Miglia winner)
- Paintwork inspired by the 1924 Targa Florio winning Mercedes car (Le Mans red to graphite grey gradient with AMG pattern)
- Number 10 on front wings referencing the historic Targa Florio victory
Additional Highlights
- Exclusivity: Available only to the most dedicated Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and collectors
- Premiere Location: World premiere held on a floating pontoon during the Formula 1™ Monaco Grand Prix
- Formula 1™ Influences:
- Design elements and safety features derived from Formula 1™ technology
- HALO system for enhanced safety
- Aerodynamic optimisations for performance and safety
The Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed concept is more than a car; it’s a celebration of Mercedes-Benz’s illustrious racing history and a glimpse into the future of high-performance, open-air driving. With its limited production run, this vehicle is destined to become a coveted classic among enthusiasts and collectors, embodying the pinnacle of exclusivity and driving pleasure.
Photos source: Mercedes-AMG
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