AMG ONE Breaks Its Own Nürburgring Lap Record

The Mercedes-AMG ONE has once again proven its dominance in the world of hypercars. It broke its own lap record at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, one of the most challenging racetracks in the world. This earns it bragging rights in the world of hypercars.

On September 23, 2024, professional driver Maro Engel, a Mercedes-AMG brand ambassador and DTM driver, set a new record by completing the 12.944-mile (20.832-kilometer) circuit in 6:29.090 minutes. This new lap time beats the AMG ONE's previous record, set in 2022, by more than five seconds.

The feat cements the AMG ONE's place as the fastest road-legal production car to race on the Nürburgring. It also makes it the first production vehicle to break the 6:30-minute barrier on the demanding track.

The Nürburgring, often called "The Green Hell," is known for its complexity and high-speed corners, making it the ultimate testing ground for automotive performance. Breaking a record at this circuit is considered a significant achievement in the automotive world.

Formula 1 Technology Meets the Road

At the heart of the Mercedes-AMG ONE's success is its E PERFORMANCE hybrid drive system, which combines one 1.6-liter V6 turbocharged engine, directly derived from Formula 1, with four electric motors.

This hybrid system generates a massive 1,049 horsepower (782 kW), providing incredible acceleration and a top speed of 218 mph (352 km/h). It also incorporates Energy Flow Control (EFC), a technology that carefully manages energy usage. This allows the car to maintain peak performance throughout the lap.

For the record-breaking lap, Engel used the car's Race Plus drive program, which optimizes the AMG ONE's aerodynamics by lowering the chassis, extending the front diffuser, and deploying the rear wing for maximum downforce.

This mode unlocks the full potential of the car's hybrid system, combining the electric motors' instantaneous torque with the engine's raw power for peak acceleration and handling. In addition, the Drag Reduction System (DRS) retracted the aerodynamic elements at high speeds to reduce drag. This allows the car to reach maximum speed on the straights while maintaining stability through the corners.

A Perfect Day for a Record

The conditions on the day of the record were ideal for a high-speed run. Air temperatures at 59°F (15°C) and the asphalt at 68°F (20°C) offered optimal grip. Engel guided the AMG ONE around the track's layout, precisely navigating its tight turns, bends, and elevation changes.

The car had custom-designed MICHELIN Pilot Sport Cup 2 R MO tires, specifically developed to offer maximum grip and stability.

Engineering Excellence at Its Finest

The AMG ONE's performance on the Nürburgring showcases the car's revolutionary design and engineering. Its carbon monocoque construction makes the car light and stiff, improving its acceleration and handling.

Beyond its technical achievements, the AMG ONE is an example of how Formula 1 technology can be adapted on the road. The car's hybrid powertrain, energy management systems, and advanced aerodynamics are all inspired by Mercedes-AMG's experience in F1, where speed, efficiency, and precision are crucial to success.