AHEAD of the 2018 Formula 1 season, which begins in Melbourne this weekend, Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the most powerful official safety car ever, with the 430kW AMG GT R set to take to the track from tomorrow.
The top-of-the-line AMG GT model will ensure maximum safety for the Formula 1 field at all 20 race weekends, continuing a tradition that began in 1996 and sees the official safety and medical vehicles coming from the Mercedes-AMG stable.
With a top speed of 318km/h, the AMG GT R features the driving dynamics of the AMG GT3 racing car, and spent a large part of its development time in the “Green Hell” of the Nürburgring.
“I am very much looking forward to my new company car. It is an absolute highlight in terms of driving dynamics and is one level higher up still than the AMG GT S of recent years,” says Bernd Mayländer, who will again be the driver of the Official FIA F1 Safety Car this season.
“Of course, ideally the safety car should be deployed as rarely as possible – but when we have to safely bunch up the Formula 1 field and lead it around the track, we will be superbly equipped with the AMG GT R.”
The AMG GT R is loaded with motor sport technology. The front-mid-engine concept with transaxle, the powerful 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine, the elaborately designed chassis, the sophisticated active aerodynamics and the intelligent lightweight construction lay the foundations for an especially dynamic driving experience.
Wide front and rear wings allow an increased track width for optimum grip and even higher cornering speeds while lightweight forged wheels are likewise designed for maximum driving dynamics.
The same applies to the active rear-wheel steering, the nine-way adjustable traction control system and the adjustable coil-over suspension with additional electronic control.
Alongside the safety car, the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Estate is on hand to provide emergency care as the Official FIA F1 Medical Car of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.
It is crewed by up to three medics. At the wheel is racing driver Alan van der Merwe, whilst his co-driver is FIA F1 deputy medical delegate Dr Ian Roberts. The rear seats accommodate one or two assistant medics.
