Mercedes-AMG has unveiled the CONCEPT AMG GT XX, a pioneering technology programme that provides a compelling glimpse into the future of high-performance electric mobility. This four-door coupé is not merely a concept car; it’s a rolling showcase of revolutionary technology destined for series production, built upon the brand’s new, dedicated high-performance AMG Electric Architecture (AMG.EA). It signals a new dimension of performance, combining extreme power with hyper-fast charging and a highly emotional design.
A Revolutionary Heart: The Axial Flux Drivetrain
At the core of the CONCEPT AMG GT XX is a groundbreaking drive concept that redefines electric propulsion. “The heart of an AMG was always the motor, and that will remain so with our in-house electric architecture,” says Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH. The concept features three innovative axial flux motors, developed in collaboration with British specialist YASA, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz AG.
These motors offer significant advantages over conventional radial flux designs, boasting approximately three times the power density while being two-thirds lighter and occupying only one-third of the space. In an axial flux motor, the electromagnetic flux runs parallel to the motor’s axis of rotation, allowing for an extremely compact and powerful package. This innovative design enables a combined peak output of over 1,000 kW (>1,360 hp), propelling the concept to a top speed of more than 360 km/h.
The powertrain is configured into two High Performance Electric Drive Units (HP.EDUs). The rear unit houses two axial flux motors, while a single motor at the front acts as a booster, engaging only when extra power or traction is needed. A Disconnect Unit (DCU) decouples the front motor during steady driving to reduce drag and improve efficiency. The production of these advanced motors will take place at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Berlin-Marienfelde, utilizing innovative manufacturing processes, including new laser technologies and AI.
Formula 1-Inspired Battery Technology
To support this immense power, Mercedes-AMG developed a completely new High Performance Electric Battery (HP.EB), leveraging expertise from its Formula 1team at HPP in Brixworth and engineers in Affalterbach. The result is a battery that not only delivers exceptional, repeatable performance but also recharges at an incredible rate. The concept can gain approximately 400 kilometres of range (WLTP) in just five minutes, roughly the distance from Affalterbach to the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. Crucially, the vehicle can deliver full power immediately after this rapid charge.
This capability is achieved through several key innovations:
- Advanced Cell Design: The battery uses tall, slim cylindrical cells with laser-welded aluminum housings, which are lighter and offer superior thermal conductivity compared to traditional steel containers.
- Direct Cooling: A non-conductive, high-tech oil coolant flows around each of the more than 3,000 individual cells, ensuring they remain in the optimal temperature window even during intense driving and fast charging.
- High-Performance Chemistry: The cells utilize a unique NCMA (nickel/cobalt/manganese/aluminium) chemistry combined with a silicon-content anode. This provides a high energy density of 300 Wh/kg and supports powerful, sustained performance.
- High-Voltage Architecture: The system operates at over 800 volts, which contributes to higher continuous power output, shorter charging times, and reduced weight due to lighter cabling.
The Embodiment of AMG Design
The CONCEPT AMG GT XX translates the brand’s design vision into the electric era. Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer for Mercedes-Benz Group AG, notes that the vehicle embodies the “hot part of our design philosophy of sensual purity” and connects it to brand icons like the 300 SL and legendary Silver Arrows. The four-door coupé is packed with innovations inside and out, presenting a vision for series-production models based on the AMG.EA platform, which are set to enter production in 2026.
Ultimately, the CONCEPT AMG GT XX is a clear statement of intent. It demonstrates how Mercedes-AMG is leveraging its deep engineering expertise and motorsport heritage to push the boundaries of electric mobility, ensuring the future of performance is not only sustainable but also more thrilling than ever before.
