HWA AG has achieved another major milestone in the OEM-grade development of its street-legal HWA EVO super saloon, completing a series of TÜV Süd crash tests with full success. The rigorous process reflects HWA’s reputation for engineering precision and motorsport-derived excellence.
Reimagining a Motorsport Icon
Inspired by the legendary Mercedes-Benz 190E 2.5-16 EVO II, the HWA EVO merges heritage design with cutting-edge technology. Every aspect of the project reflects a pursuit of modern performance, comfort, and safety while staying true to the spirit of the original touring car legend.
OEM-Level Validation and Safety Testing
HWA’s development program sets a new benchmark in the high-performance niche. Unlike most limited-production cars, the EVO has been subjected to a comprehensive OEM-grade testing regime that mirrors the standards of mass-produced vehicles.
Central to this phase was a complete series of homologation crash tests performed with TÜV Süd. An additional prototype chassis was dedicated solely to safety validation. During the steering column intrusion test at 50 km/h, results confirmed the car’s advanced structural integrity, with the column exhibiting minimal movement and the front crash structure absorbing energy exactly as simulated.
Testing Beyond the Norm
The prototype underwent a demanding sequence of over 60 evaluations, including seat anchorage and belt pull tests, ISOFIX validation, and rear seat bench load analysis. Every assessment confirmed the EVO’s exceptional structural rigidity and engineering accuracy.
Following successful certification, development has shifted toward refining handling dynamics and performance. Current prototypes are undergoing testing at the Nürburgring, with winter trials planned in northern Europe and southern Spain before advanced calibration with Bosch Engineering at the Boxberg proving grounds.
Engineering Dedication and Leadership
HWA’s CEO, Martin Marx, stated: “HWA has gone to unprecedented lengths to make the EVO worthy of the HWA name. Our motorsport DNA and engineering heritage demand nothing less.”
CTO Gordian von Schöning added: “We’ve applied the same rigorous standards as we do for our work with global automotive manufacturers. The EVO’s crash test results confirm our uncompromising approach to quality and innovation.”
Performance and Driving Experience
The HWA EVO combines advanced safety with precision dynamics. Designed for an analogue yet refined driving experience, it aims to deliver the visceral engagement of a true driver’s car while offering modern control systems and aerodynamic efficiency. The result is a car engineered to perform at the highest level, both on road and track.
Showcasing the HWA EVO Around the World
Throughout 2025, HWA’s prototypes have appeared at major European automotive gatherings such as the Tutto Bene Hill Climb in Italy and the Supercar Owners Circle Weekend in Sardinia. These events provided enthusiasts a firsthand look at the car’s craftsmanship and dynamic character.
The HWA EVO is currently on a North American tour covering the U.S. and Canada through spring 2026. Appearances include Lime Rock Park, Mercedes-Benz Danbury, and the Concours of Highlands in New York. The tour continues with stops in Montreal and Toronto before heading to the Wynn Hotel Las Vegas Concours and the SEMA Show.
Summary
With TÜV Süd crash testing completed and dynamic validation underway, the HWA EVO progresses toward final production. Limited to just 100 units, it stands as a statement of precision engineering and motorsport-inspired craftsmanship, representing the next evolution of performance born in Affalterbach.
Disclaimer: Content on this site is for informational purposes only. Vehicle specs, pricing, and availability may change. Always verify details with official sources before making decisions. Opinions are those of the authors.
Source: HWA
