Russell left stunned by Mercedes, as the Germans' mission is revealed!

11:50, 25 Aug

byNorberto Mujica

Mercedes-AMG has once again raised the bar of automotive performance, this time with the CONCEPT AMG GT XX, a technology pioneer that has obliterated long-distance records and proven the endurance of the brand’s upcoming all-electric architecture.

At the Nardò high-speed test track in Italy, the CONCEPT AMG GT XX covered a staggering 5,479 kilometers in 24 hours – smashing the previous EV benchmark by more than 1,500 km.

But that was only the beginning. Over an eight-day marathon, the car clocked 40,075 kilometers – the equivalent of driving around the world – in just seven days, 13 hours, 24 minutes and 07 seconds, well under its target of eight days.

The feat required relentless speed and charging cycles. Drivers maintained 300 km/h for nearly all of the run, stopping only to recharge with an average power of 850 kW, far beyond what today’s public charging network can deliver.

Two cars completed the test, finishing just 25 km apart after more than a week of non-stop running.

Mercedes' mission revealed

Mercedes executives hailed the achievement as proof of the brand’s future readiness.

Markus Schäfer, Chief Technology Officer, said: “Now, with the CONCEPT AMG GT XX technology programme, we are entering a new dimension of performance – this time with fully electric drive.

"Our mission: to redefine the very standards of performance with groundbreaking technologies and innovations.”

Michael Schiebe, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, stressed the importance of drivetrain innovation.

“An AMG has always been defined by its drivetrain. In the electric world, too, our drive system must be convincing across the board.

"That’s why we’re the first manufacturer to use axial flux motors and directly cooled batteries in fully electric models.”

Russell left stunned by Mercedes' new car

Mercedes F1 driver George Russell, who also took part in the test, was equally impressed.

“The axial flux motors respond as immediately and precisely as a Formula 1 drivetrain, but with an endurance that I have only ever experienced with combustion engines.

"This technology will revolutionise the driving experience – both on the racetrack and on the road.”