Maro Engel has once again raised the bar for performance vehicles, achieving a remarkable lap time of 6:29.090 minutes in the Mercedes-AMG ONE at the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife. This achievement beats his previous record by over five seconds, solidifying the hypercar’s status as the fastest production car on this iconic track.
Since claiming the title in October 2022, the Mercedes-AMG ONE has remained unbeaten, with its only competition being its own extraordinary performance. As the first road car to surpass the coveted 6:30-minute mark, it has set a new standard for hybrid supercars. The AMG ONE showcases globally unique Formula 1™ hybrid drive technology, bridging the gap between the racetrack and the road.
Michael Schiebe, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, expressed pride in the team’s efforts, stating, “We’ve held the record for road vehicles for almost two years now. But at AMG, we always want to push the boundaries of what is possible to the maximum or even push them a little further.”
Engel’s record-setting lap was executed on September 23, 2024, under ideal conditions with air temperatures at 15 degrees Celsius and asphalt temperatures at 20 degrees Celsius. The track was completely dry, providing exceptional grip. Engel utilized a strategic approach, effectively managing the hybrid drive’s electrical energy throughout the 20.832-kilometer course. This meticulous energy management was crucial, given the demands of such a lengthy track.
To optimize performance, Engel took advantage of the AMG ONE’s four-stage Energy Flow Control (EFC) system, incorporating techniques like “lift and coast” to maximize energy recuperation during braking. The record run was officially documented and certified by TÜV Rheinland to ensure compliance with standards set by Nürburgring 1927 GmbH & Co KG.
The Mercedes-AMG ONE stands out not only for its impressive speed but also for its advanced hybrid powertrain. Combining a turbocharged combustion engine with four electric motors, the hybrid system generates a staggering 782 kW (1,063 hp) and boasts a top speed of 352 km/h. The car features cutting-edge technologies, including a carbon monocoque chassis, active aerodynamics, and a fully variable all-wheel-drive system.
During the record-setting lap, Engel selected the “Race Plus” driving program, optimizing the vehicle’s aerodynamics and chassis settings. The Drag Reduction System (DRS) was activated to reduce drag on the straights while enhancing downforce in corners, showcasing the hypercar’s engineering prowess.
The AMG ONE’s hybrid drive technology draws directly from Formula 1™, featuring a 1.6-liter V6 engine that revs up to 11,000 rpm. It utilizes an electric turbocharger for rapid response and efficient performance. The system captures energy from the exhaust flow to generate electricity, further enhancing the vehicle’s capabilities.
With its state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery, the AMG ONE offers a purely electric range of 18.1 kilometers and utilizes direct cooling technology to maintain optimal performance and safety. This innovation is crucial for high-power applications, ensuring that the battery operates within a consistent temperature range for maximum efficiency.
In summary, the Mercedes-AMG ONE’s record-breaking lap not only highlights the incredible engineering behind the vehicle but also sets a new benchmark for production hypercars. This achievement is a testament to Mercedes-AMG’s relentless pursuit of performance, precision, and innovation on the road and the racetrack.
Source: Mercedes-AMG
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
