45 years of AMG: growth with performance
Affalterbach – As part of the anniversary marking “45 years of AMG”, Mercedes-AMG is providing an exclusive glimpse of the highlights of the A 45 AMG.
With the powerful new top-of-the-range A-Class model, the performance brand from Mercedes-Benz is marking the start of a new era.
For the first time in the 45-year history of the company, AMG will offer an exciting high-performance vehicle in the compact class. The A 45 AMG is representative of the ambitious future strategy entitled “AMG Performance 50”, leading up to the 50th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
Based on a unique model offensive comprising additional high-performance compact cars as well as a number of AMG cars in higher classes featuring highly efficient drive systems, the company from Affalterbach is giving out clear signals for dynamic growth. And the offensive is all set to get under way this summer with new models including the SLS AMG GT and the GL 63 AMG.
The AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine specially developed for the A 45 AMG is expected to set new standards in its displacement class: with maximum torque significantly above 400 Nm and low consumption levels, AMG is aiming to take the leading position among the competition.
“Our goal is to build the most dynamic, most powerful and at the same time most efficient four-cylinder series production compact car. Together with other future high-performance compact cars, the new A 45 AMG will embody exclusive dynamism and the “AMG Performance 50″ growth strategy.
With this passionate commitment to what for us is a new vehicle segment, Mercedes-AMG plans to make a significant contribution to the growth of Mercedes-Benz Cars”, according to Ola Källenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
Perfect power transmission is ensured in the A 45 AMG thanks to the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with dual clutch technology and performance-oriented all-wheel drive.
The ideal basis for high cornering speeds and exciting, agile handling also comes courtesy of the AMG sports suspension with independently developed front and rear axles, electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering, AMG high-performance braking system and 3-stage ESP® with “SPORT Handling” mode.
Driving performance for the new generation – world premiere in the first quarter of 2013
With the new A 45 AMG – the top-of-the-range Mercedes-Benz A-Class model – Mercedes-AMG is addressing a new target group: falling within an age range from 30 up to around 45, the target group is younger than the classic AMG customer.
Professionally successful and independent, these customers are looking for a compact, dynamic and individual vehicle. They want to express their stylish, trend-oriented lifestyle with a car from a recognised performance brand. By being available at an attractive price, the A 45 AMG will appeal to prospective new customers and help to open up new markets.
The A 45 AMG will celebrate its world premiere in the first quarter of 2013. Further AMG high-performance compact cars with a variety of different characteristic features are already in the pipeline and will follow on the heels of the A 45 AMG.
When it came to the development of the compact Mercedes-Benz vehicle architecture for front and all-wheel drive, Mercedes-AMG has been involved from the very beginning.
The most dynamic versions of the A-Class, namely the A 250 Sport and the A 220 CDI Sport – both “engineered by AMG” – currently already feature a front axle developed by AMG as well as a correspondingly tuned suspension, AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels with 235/40 R 18 tyres all round, painted in high-gloss black and with a high-sheen finish, and also red-painted brake callipers.
The “Sport” designation is always used to characterise the most dynamic model series versions in the Mercedes-Benz product range.
Even more future AMG models with all-wheel drive
All-wheel drive is set to play a bigger role at Mercedes-AMG in the future too – being offered not just for SUVs and off-road vehicles, but also for other AMG high-performance vehicles. Mercedes-AMG currently has four all-wheel-drive models in its range: the ML 63 AMG, the G 63 AMG, the G 65 AMG and the GL 63 AMG. To mark the start of the new era, in 2013 the new A 45 AMG will be launched with a performance-oriented all-wheel drive system as standard.
Consistent growth strategy: “AMG Performance 50”
AMG is enjoying strong demand for its vehicles, particularly in its three largest markets where the performance brand has witnessed extremely dynamic growth in the past year. Sales have increased by seven percent in the USA, 15 percent in Germany and almost 50 percent in China.
This growth is continuing in 2012. In the first quarter of the year AMG recorded growth of more than 30 percent, making it the best first quarter in the company’s history. As a result AMG is looking to continue its consistent growth beyond 2012 and to make a significant contribution to the sales achieved by Mercedes-Benz Cars.
Based on the ambitious future strategy entitled “AMG Performance 50”, in the coming years AMG will be launching further unique high-performance models. According to Ola Källenius: “We have decided to expand our model range from its current level of 22 vehicles to around 30 vehicles in the future.
We are looking to increase our global sales, which today stand at around 20,000 vehicles, to more than 30,000 vehicles by the time of our 50th anniversary, and thereby assert our leading position in this exclusive segment.” In addition to the new performance compact car, the SLS AMG GT and the GL 63 AMG, in the future the S-Class segment will play an even greater role at AMG.
The current offering comprising the S 63 AMG and S 65 AMG, as well as the CL 63 AMG and CL 65 AMG, will be extended further over the coming years.
To meet the increasing demand, AMG is also expanding its production capacity accordingly. As a result, the new AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine will be produced at the Mercedes-Benz MDC Power engine production plant in Kölleda.
This is where four-cylinder engines for the A- and B-Class are normally produced, and a specific assembly line is being set up for the new AMG engine. Of course the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engines will also be produced in line with the traditional AMG philosophy of “one man, one engine”. A characteristic feature of this production principle is the AMG engine badge bearing the signature of the responsible engineer.
Around 350 AMG Performance Centers by the 50th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG GmbH
The “AMG Performance 50” growth strategy also includes opening up new dynamic markets. AMG see significant potential for increasing demand in countries such as China, Russia, Korea and Brazil. Playing a central role as part of this strategy are the AMG Performance Centers: some 270 Centers have been opened in 24 countries around the globe since 2008, and there are plans to increase this number to around 350 Performance Centers by 2017.
A current example for the regional growth strategy is China: the new AMG Performance Center Beijing Sanlitun opened on 22 April 2012 is situated in an exclusive prime location in the luxury Sanlitun Village North shopping mall, and reflects the pioneering role played by AMG when it comes to design and technology in a modern setting. Unlike previously, the new store in Beijing is not integrated into a Mercedes-Benz dealership as part of a “shop-in-shop” system. Instead, it is based on a so-called standalone concept, and focuses exclusively on the products and features of the AMG performance brand.
Expansion of the excellent service quality enjoyed by all AMG customers
An important part of the “AMG Performance 50” dynamic growth strategy is the expansion of the excellent service quality enjoyed by all AMG customers. With immediate effect, more intensive customer care will allow for vehicles to be collected direct from the AMG headquarters – where AMG customers can learn all about the spirit of Affalterbach in the AMG theme area. In a new, 360-square-metre delivery hall, AMG customers can now take receipt of their new high-performance vehicle direct from AMG.
After being welcomed by a personal customer service attendant in the AMG Private Lounge, which was opened in 2011, the programme comprises an exclusive tour of the plant. This also includes a visit to the AMG Performance Studio, where individual and one-off AMG vehicles are developed and produced in limited numbers. This is followed by a tour of the AMG engine production facility: here AMG customers have the unique opportunity to meet the engineers who have produced the engine of their high-performance vehicle by hand in accordance with the traditional philosophy “one man, one engine”.
“AMG Performance 50” helps to reduce fleet consumption
Another goal of “AMG Performance 50” is the consistent reduction of fleet consumption. According to Ola Källenius: “By the 50th anniversary of AMG, we want to achieve CO2 emissions of around 200 grams per kilometre for the entire AMG model range.
Our new AMG compact cars will of course help us to achieve this ambitious plan, but we are also aiming for a significant reduction in fuel consumption for other model series too. Many AMG models are currently already the “best in class” when it comes to consumption, emissions, maximum performance and torque. Our success is based on state-of-the-art technology.”
Acting as a role model in this area is the SLK 55 AMG. The eight-cylinder roadster incorporates Formula 1 technology for the road. It uses the world’s most fuel-efficient V8 engine which features the newly developed AMG Cylinder Management cylinder shut-off system.
Adapted from the world of Formula 1, this technology enables the SLK 55 AMG to achieve a fuel consumption level which at 8.4 litres is 30% lower, and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre (NEDC combined).
The technology is used in a similar way in the approx. 750 hp Mercedes-Benz V8 engines found in Formula 1. As efficiency also plays a major role at the pinnacle of motor racing, four cylinders are disabled by shutting off the fuel injection when the driver has lower load demands.
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL is further proof of the pioneering role played by Mercedes-AMG in the development of intelligent drive concepts. The drivetrain with high-voltage lithium-ion battery for the new SLS AMG E-CELL is produced in cooperation with experts from Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth in the UK.
The SLS AMG E-CELL will celebrate its premiere this autumn at the Paris Motor Show. Mercedes-AMG will be launching a series production run of the first purely electric driven super sports car, and the first customers are expected to take delivery of this gullwing model with electric drive in 2013.
Both the SLS AMG E-CELL and the V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system in the SLK 55 AMG are examples of the goal to achieve a sustainable improvement in efficiency and a reduction in fleet consumption.
“AMG Lightweight Performance” design strategy
A further building block adopted from the world of motorsport is in the area of lightweight construction – less weight means better performance and lower fuel consumption. As part of its ambitious “AMG Lightweight Performance” lightweight construction strategy, Mercedes-AMG will continue to apply consistent measures to reduce vehicle weight.
Through their experience with the SLR, the AMG Black Series vehicles and in motorsport, Mercedes-Benz and AMG have accumulated more than 10 years of expertise in working with carbon-fibre materials.
AMG currently makes the propshaft for the SLS AMG, for example, out of carbon fibre. In the SLS Roadster, the supporting structure for the draught-stop is made as standard as a carbon-fibre sandwich structure.
This component, with extremely short cycle times in an industrially oriented manufacturing process, already demonstrates what will be possible in the future. Carbon-fibre is also used in the SLS AMG E-CELL: the carbon-fibre monocoque for the battery is an integral part of the body shell and connected to the aluminium spaceframe.
In the case of the SL 63 AMG and SL 65 AMG, for the first time the internal support for the boot lid is mass-produced from a lightweight carbon-fibre composite material. A completely new feature is the carbon-fibre rear panel with roll-over bar, available from the AMG Performance Studio as an exclusive optional extra for the C 63 AMG Coupé AMG Black Series.
The high-strength, elegantly designed carbon-fibre component forms an integral part of the body and helps to reduce the vehicle weight by more than seven kilograms compared with a regular rear panel made of sheet steel.
Future strategy for all V12 engines lies with Mercedes-AMG
In the future, both the development responsibility as well as the production competence for all Mercedes-Benz-brand V12 engines will lie with Mercedes-AMG. Currently AMG produces the M 279 AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine motor for the S 65 AMG, CL 65 AMG, SL 65 AMG and G 65 AMG.
In the future, all twelve-cylinder engines for upcoming Mercedes models will be developed in Affalterbach, and manufactured in the AMG production facility in accordance with the traditional philosophy “one man, one engine”.
AMG Sports package as a factor of success
A further component of the “AMG Performance 50” growth strategy is the consistent enhancement of the AMG Sports package. This dynamic optional extra is available for numerous Mercedes models and includes such attractive options as AMG bodystyling, AMG light-alloy wheels and the AMG sports suspension.
The continually increasing demand for the AMG Sports package has induced Mercedes-AMG to enhance the range further. Currently around 25 percent of all Mercedes vehicles worldwide are delivered with the AMG Sports package – in 2011 alone more than 300,000 customers opted for a Mercedes-Benz with the AMG Sports package.
An attractive entry into the world of AMG is currently already afforded by the A 250 Sport and the A 220 CDI Sport, as well as the special variants of the C-Class, the C 250 Sport and C 250 CDI Sport, in whose development the performance specialists of AMG have been consistently involved.
In addition to the visually enhanced AMG Sports package Plus, both models comprise a host of technical features developed exclusively by AMG to increase driving pleasure.
AMG Driving Academy on the road to success
The AMG Driving Academy also focuses on providing an intensive experience. The wide-ranging programme of events, which is being continually expanded, not only meets the most diverse requirements but also represents the very embodiment of pure excitement.
Events on offer include enjoyment-oriented EMOTION tours, special winter driving training sessions in Swedish Lapland and exciting events on legendary racing circuits such as the North Loop of the Nürburgring, the Hockenheimring or Zandvoort. A particular highlight is the MASTERS programme, at which participants are able to drive the SLS AMG GT3, the racing version of the gullwing model.
Participants who are resident in Germany also have the chance to acquire a national DMSB (German Motorsport Federation) driver’s licence.
All of the AMG Driving Academy’s events in Europe represent the perfect combination of driving pleasure and environmental awareness. The quantity of CO2 emissions of a Driving Academy event is determined on the basis of its so-called “carbon footprint” and this can be offset by involvement in climate protection projects.
AMG Driving Academy training events now take place in Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Austria, Sweden and Spain, as well as the USA, China and India. Based on increasing customer interest, Mercedes-AMG is currently working on expanding the programme to such markets as Australia, Japan, Russia and the United Arab Emirates.
In addition, the AMG Driving Academy also offers tailor-made events for corporate customers as well as a variety of other different markets. Demand is constantly on the increase and reflects the impressive success story which the AMG Driving Academy has enjoyed. In 2011 more than 7000 participants attended an AMG Driving Academy event – and this trend is on the up.
Motorsport serves as a source of inspiration for the AMG engineers
AMG was founded in 1967 by Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, and from the very outset has achieved numerous successes in the field of motorsport. Today, as in the past, a commitment to the race track continues to form the brand’s main source of inspiration.
The former two-man company currently employs a workforce of more than 1000 at its plant in Affalterbach, and over the past 45 years has become the technological spearhead and a one hundred percent subsidiary of Daimler AG. The professionalism of Mercedes-Benz’s performance brand is defined by its pursuit of high performance, precision and efficiency.
As the first vehicle developed independently by Mercedes-AMG, the SLS AMG super sports car unveiled in 2009 proves to impressive effect the competence and passion which exists at the company headquarters in Affalterbach. The AMG brand promise of “Driving Performance” stands for state-of-the-art technology and pure driving excitement.
With its roots seated firmly in motorsport, the AMG performance brand has been at home on the race track for decades – from its position as the most successful brand in the history of the DTM, through to its global commitment to customer motorsport at the highest level with the SLS AMG GT3.
Having secured 26 victories and the FIA GT3 European championship, the SLS AMG GT3 was the most successful newcomer in the 2011 motorsports season. When it comes to Formula 1, AMG has been an official partner for 17 years, and has been helping to ensure that safety is maintained on the racing circuits by providing the Official F1™ Safety Car and the Official F1™ Medical Car since 1996.
And since the start of 2012 the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 team with Nico Rosberg and Michael Schumacher has also been lining up on the starting grid too.
The new SLS AMG GT
Enhanced driving dynamics
The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT boasts enhanced driving dynamics and even better race track performance. With a maximum output of 435 kW (591 hp), the optimised AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission and the redeveloped AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension, the SLS AMG GT – which is available both as a Coupé and a Roadster – has raised the bar even higher. As a further highlight, the new high-quality AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather is now also available as an optional extra for all SLS AMG models. According to Tobias Moers, Board Member and Head of Overall Vehicle Development for Mercedes-AMG GmbH: “The new SLS AMG GT demonstrates the sort of potential which lies in AMG’s super sports cars. With its even higher levels of performance, the SLS AMG GT excites out on the race track in particular by providing an emotionally enjoyable and passionate driving experience.”
Masculine and decidedly athletic: with darkened headlamps and tail lights as well as red-painted brake callipers, the new SLS AMG GT also features a unique look. The wing-shaped cross fins and the star recess in the radiator grille also retain a high-gloss finish, as do the exterior mirrors and the fins on the bonnet and wings. The AMG logo on the right of the boot lid also features the additional letters “GT”.
One look at the technical specifications highlights the fact that AMG has succeeded in enhancing the dynamic profile of the SLS AMG GT even further. The maximum output of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine is 435 kW (591 hp) at 6800 rpm, while the maximum torque is 650 Nm at 4750 rpm. The SLS AMG GT accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.7 seconds, and can reach a speed of 200 km/h in 11.2 seconds.
The key data at a glance:
| Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT | |
| Cylinder arrangement | V8 |
| Valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Displacement | 6208 cc |
| Bore x stroke | 102.2 x 94.6 mm |
| Compression ratio | 11.3:1 |
| Output | 435 kW (591 hp) at 6800 rpm |
| Max. torque | 650 Nm at 4750 rpm |
| Fuel consumptionNEDC combined | 13.2 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions | 308 g/km |
| Acceleration 0-100 km/h | 3.7 s |
| Top speed | 320 km/h* |
* electronically limited
Mercedes-AMG has achieved the output of 435 kW (591 hp) through in-engine dethrottling measures in conjunction with an increase in peak pressure. The GT version of the AMG 6.3-litre eight-cylinder front mid-engine responds with even greater agility to accelerator pedal movements and excites with even sportier-tuned performance characteristics.
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7‑speed sports transmission located on the rear axle is more direct and spontaneous in the manual “M” transmission mode: thanks to newly developed gear change functions and optimised transmission control, it has been possible to shorten reaction time significantly.
When changing gears manually via the real metal shift paddles on the AMG Performance steering wheel, control commands right through to the noticeable gear change are executed markedly quicker than previously – all of which is ideal when striving to achieve some ambitious lap times on a closed-off race circuit.
The reaction time experienced by the driver is made even more emotional as a result of more distinct gear changes. The automatic double-declutching function when shifting down is also more pronounced in the SLS AMG GT.
Due to an increase in engine torque in manual mode, the shift procedure is even quicker than previously – and is accompanied by some passionate acoustic feedback for the driver. Overall, the optimisation of the dual clutch transmission complements the sporty nature of the SLS AMG GT perfectly.
New AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension
But it is not just the AMG 6.3-litre V8 front mid-engine and the optimised dual clutch transmission which are responsible for increasing the driving dynamics of the SLS AMG GT. The newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension also enhances the vehicle’s sportiness.
In the case of the SLS AMG GT, Mercedes-AMG has combined the sophisticated suspension layout with twin aluminium wishbones all round and variable, electronically controlled damping. Compared with the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension, the new AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension features basically stiffer spring/damper tuning and dispenses with “Comfort” mode.
“Sport” mode is recommended as the optimum setting for undulating road surfaces and routes requiring increased suspension travel – such as found on rural roads or the legendary North Loop of the Nürburgring, for example. The control algorithm of the AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension reacts best to fluctuations in the road surface with a tendency towards lower damper force levels.
The resulting effect is the best possible performance by effectively preventing rolling and pitching and providing excellent contact with the road when adopting a sporty driving style. The enhanced driving dynamics and even better race track performance are measureable: as part of an internal comparison with the SLS AMG, the SLS AMG GT was able to achieve faster lap times on a race track.
“Sport plus” provides higher damping forces and features specific control algorithms which have been adjusted for a decidedly sporty driving style on routes with a level road surface – such as when trying to achieve ambitious lap times on a race circuit such as Hockenheim.
Selection of suspension modes via the AMG DRIVE UNIT
Depending on the driving conditions, speed and vehicle load, the AMG RIDE CONTROL Performance suspension adjusts the damping characteristics at lightning speed and automatically reduces the roll angle of the body. The two modes can be selected via a button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT. The activated suspension mode is indicated by means of indicator lamps on the button and the display in the AMG main menu.
As standard, the vehicle comes with 265/35 R 19 tyres on the front and 295/30 R 20 tyres on the rear, fitted to weight-optimised AMG forged light-alloy wheels featuring a 10-spoke design and painted in matt black and with a high-sheen finish. Three additional AMG light-alloy wheels are also available.
Interior with consistently sporty highlights
The interior too features a consistently sporty design: the SLS AMG GT combines the high-quality, exclusive ambience of a true AMG model with the functional atmosphere of a racing car. The sports seats not only have an embossed badge on the head restraints, but the centre sections are also finished in Alcantara®.
Continuing the theme, Alcantara® is also found on the door centre panels. The black interior appointments are combined with red seat belts, plus all of the contrasting stitching on the AMG sports seats, the centre console and the door panel lining is finished in red too. The floor mats also feature red edging.
The high-gloss black AMG trim on the centre console and door panel lining perfectly matches the high-gloss black edging on the adjustable cross-shaped air vents and the high-gloss real metal insert on the AMG Performance steering wheel with flattened lower section. The grip area is finished in Alcantara®, while the upper part of the steering wheel has a red 12 o’clock marking.
The AMG instrument cluster is fitted with a black faceplate – at the top it also features an upshift indicator with seven LEDs.
AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather for all SLS AMG models
Also now available for all SLS AMG models is a new, highly exclusive optional extra in the form of AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather. This high-quality extra is available in single or two-tone finishes and comprises distinctive upholstery with a diamond design with contrasting stitching. The lavishly finished diamond design features not only on the AMG sports seats, but also
on the door centre panels.
Other highlights include a designo leather finish for the entire dashboard, the beltlines and door armrests, the handrest on the centre console, AMG floor mats in black with porcelain leather edging, roof lining in Alcantara® porcelain, and the parcel shelf (Coupé) or roll-over bar (Roadster).
Seams finished in contrasting colours create exciting highlights and underscore the high-quality, hand-finished nature of this new leather package. Available colour combinations include mocha brown/porcelain, titanium grey pearl/porcelain and mystic red/porcelain. The colours of all of the elements of the interior appointment such as the roof liner, carpet and centre console are perfectly matched to each other.
Other attractive optional extras for all SLS AMG models include (extract):
- AMG carbon-fibre exterior mirrors
- AMG carbon-fibre engine compartment cover
- AMG Interior Carbon-Fibre package (carbon-fibre trim, trim on seat backrest and side, door sill panels)
- AMG ceramic high-performance composite braking system
- AMG Performance Media
- AMG 10-spoke forged wheels in other colour variants
- AMG carbon-fibre trim
- AIRSCARF (Roadster)
- Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound system
The market launch of the SLS AMG GT will commence in October 2012. An overview of the pricing for Germany is as follows (incl. 19% VAT):
SLS AMG GT 204,680 euros
SLS AMG GT Roadster 213,010 euros
AMG designo Exclusive STYLE leather 5771.50 euros
Six SLS AMG models
The SLS AMG Coupé presented in 2009 was the first vehicle developed independently by Mercedes-AMG. The spectacular gullwing model was followed in 2011 by the open-top SLS AMG Roadster as well as the
SLS AMG GT3 customer sports racing car.
Having secured 26 victories and the FIA GT3 European championship title, the SLS AMG GT3 was the most successful newcomer to the world of motorsport in 2011. With the new SLS AMG GT, available as a Coupé and Roadster, the model range has now grown to five variants.
The sixth model is expected to follow in 2013 in the form of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL: Mercedes-AMG is planning an exclusive series-production run of the purely electric-driven super sports car.
The specific assembly area for the SLS AMG is located in the largest Mercedes-Benz production plant in Sindelfingen. The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine comes directly from the AMG engine workshop in Affalterbach, where it is hand-assembled according to the traditional “one man, one engine” philosophy.
40 significant awards for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG
The SLS AMG has succeeded in winning numerous comparison tests against
a host of international competitors conducted by the international specialist media – both as the gullwing model and the Roadster. Since its world premiere at the IAA International Motor Show in Frankfurt in 2009 and the presentation of the SLS AMG Roadster in May 2011, the super sports car from Mercedes-AMG has picked up a total of 40 awards – including such major prizes as the “German Design Award”, the “Red Dot Design Award”, the “Golden Steering Wheel 2009”, “Classic of the Future”, “Sports Car of the Year”, “Best Performance Car” and “Legends on Wheels”.
Tradition and the brand
45 years of performance and exclusivity – the AMG story
- “Driving Performance” as the brand promise of AMG
- 1967: Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher founded AMG
- 1999: gradual integration of the brand into the Daimler group began
- 2009: the plant in Affalterbach demonstrated its competence with the SLS AMG
- 2012: the current AMG model range is becoming even larger and more varied than ever
AMG – around the world, these three distinctive letters embody automotive high performance, exclusivity and dynamic driving pleasure. In 2012 the company founded in 1967 by Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher is celebrating its 45th anniversary.
The image of AMG as the successful performance brand of Mercedes-Benz is reflected in its impressive successes in the world of motorsport and its unique vehicles. Today it is a one hundred percent subsidiary of Daimler AG and is the group’s technological spearhead in the high-performance car segment. The AMG brand promise of “Driving Performance” stands for state-of-the-art technology and pure driving excitement.
First cooperation agreement in 1990, integration from 1999
The cooperation agreement concluded between what was then Daimler-Benz AG and AMG in 1990 was followed in 1993 by the C 36 AMG as the first jointly developed vehicle. The gradual integration into the Daimler group began in 1999 and was finally completed in 2005. Today the management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH comprises the members Ola Källenius (43 years of age, Chairman) and Tobias Moers (46 years of age).
SLS AMG as the first independently developed vehicle
Today Mercedes-AMG GmbH is firmly anchored in the development processes of Mercedes-Benz and boasts a unique portfolio of high-performance vehicles. As the first vehicle developed independently by Mercedes-AMG, the SLS AMG super sports car unveiled in 2009 proves to impressive effect the competence and passion which exists at the company headquarters in Affalterbach.
The spectacular gullwing model was followed in 2011 by the SLS AMG GT3 customer sports racing car as well as the open-top SLS AMG Roadster. In 2013, the SLS AMG E-CELL will celebrate its market launch: following a decision about production, Mercedes-AMG is working hard and with precision on the exciting super sports car with electric drive.
Six SLS AMG models each with individual strengths reflect not only the ongoing innovative strength of Mercedes-AMG GmbH but also its role as a true trendsetter in the super sports car segment.
AMG Performance Studio for unlimited individuality
Anyone looking for something special will also be able to find precisely what they want thanks to Mercedes-AMG: the AMG Performance Studio develops and produces limited numbers of individual AMG vehicles – a trend which is on the increase.
Enjoying an almost legendary status in particular are the exceptionally sporty Black Series vehicles. In response to customer requests, the AMG Performance Studio also produces one-off vehicles to a high level of hand-finished craftsmanship, while at the same time observing the strict safety standards of Mercedes-Benz.
“Best in class” in terms of fuel consumption, emissions, maximum performance and torque
Mercedes-AMG GmbH currently employs a workforce of more than 1000 at its plant in Affalterbach. The professionalism of AMG is defined by its pursuit of high performance, precision and efficiency. Every AMG high-performance car promises to provide outstanding performance, exciting driving pleasure and ultimate quality down to the finest detail.
As part of the “AMG Performance 50” strategy, every new AMG model strives to be the market leader in terms of fuel consumption and emissions. Many AMG vehicles currently already enjoy “best in class” status when it comes to consumption, emissions, maximum performance and torque.
The new SLK 55 AMG is impressive proof of this: it boasts the world’s most fuel-efficient V8 engine featuring the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder shut-off system, a technology inspired by Formula 1.
AMG Driving Academy offering unique driver training and events
The AMG Driving Academy is one of the central pillars of the AMG experience. Whether enjoyment-oriented EMOTION tours, special winter driving training sessions in Swedish Lapland or exciting events on legendary racing circuits such as the North Loop of the Nürburgring – the range of unique driver training sessions and events is even more diverse than ever.
A particular highlight is the MASTERS programme, at which participants are able to drive the SLS AMG GT3, the racing version of the gullwing model. Training events take place not only Europe, but also in the USA, China and India.
The 270 AMG Performance Centers in 24 countries are designed not only to appeal to potential AMG customers but also to provide high levels of customer care to existing AMG customers. First-class customer support along all contact points with the customer is a key component of the AMG brand claim of “Driving Performance”.
The sales rooms of the AMG Performance Centers are characterised by a uniform, independent AMG brand presence. Premium materials, exclusive furniture and the world of colours typical of AMG create an exquisite ambience for conversations with customers. Targeted training of AMG sales and service experts by a coaching partner (obeying a worldwide uniform standard) ensures consistently first-class customer care.
Commitment to motorsport through Formula 1, DTM and customer sport
With its roots seated firmly in motorsport, the AMG performance brand has been at home on the race track for decades – from its position as the most successful brand in the history of the DTM, through to its global commitment to customer motorsport at the highest level with the SLS AMG GT3. Having secured 26 victories and the FIA GT3 European championship, the SLS AMG GT3 was the most successful newcomer in the 2011 motorsports season.
With 167 victories in 345 races since 1988 (as at May 2012), as well as
32 driver, manufacturer and team titles, Mercedes AMG is the most successful brand in the history of the DTM. In 2012 Ralf Schumacher and Jamie Green are competing in the DTM Mercedes AMG C-Class Coupé.
The AMG brand is also represented in Formula 1 in the 2012 season by the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS team and the engine manufacturer MERCEDES AMG High Performance Powertrains. In addition, AMG has been providing both the Formula 1 Safety Car and the Formula 1 Medical Car since 1996.
22 AMG vehicles ranging from 310 kW (422 hp) to 463 kW (630 hp)
As AMG celebrates its 45th anniversary, the model range is now not only larger and more diverse than ever before, but also tailored to the many different wishes and requirements of customers. The range comprises 22 AMG high-performance vehicles with power outputs from 310 kW (422 hp) to 463 kW (630 hp).
The selection of models on offer includes saloons, coupés and SUVs as well as roadsters and also the SLS AMG, the first vehicle developed independently by Mercedes-AMG. Each AMG model is an all-round performance vehicle which excites with unique power delivery, tantalising engine sound, excellent handling and a direct driving sensation.
The proverbial exclusivity also comes as standard, as do outstanding quality and precise workmanship. In brief: all AMG models embody the levels of engineering and craftsmanship which are typical of the brand.
An attractive AMG Performance package is also available for a variety of models, enabling the vehicle’s dynamism and suitability for race track use to be enhanced even further. Exclusive optional extras from the Performance Studio also allow AMG vehicles to be customised even further ex-factory.
