The Mercedes AMG GT XX Concept features active aerodynamic wheels and boasts an impressive 1,341 horsepower.

      Mercedes-AMG

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      Following last week's teaser, we are now introduced to the “sedan” version of what will ultimately be a pair of high-performance AMG vehicles utilizing the company’s new electric architecture, officially known as AMG.EA. Mercedes has named its initial model the AMG GT XX, and this four-door concept serves as a precursor to two upcoming production vehicles expected to launch next year. The second model will be an SUV aimed at competing with the BMW XM, likely showing early hints either late this year or early next year.

      Electric vehicle platforms tend to be quite dynamic due to the rapidly changing environment, but AMG.EA features a series of important advancements throughout its ecosystem, including batteries with an entirely new chemistry and a newly designed compact axial flux motor—an advantageous feature when attempting to accommodate multiple motors. Picture a disc brake assembly that propels a vehicle instead of halting it. The surprising part? Each motor can generate hundreds of horsepower. Mercedes claims that each of the three motors in the AMG GT XX measures less than 3.5 inches in width.

      Indeed, three motors generating a total of 1,341 horsepower. They are divided into two distinct drive units (one at the front and one at the rear), with two of the three motors located in the rear drive unit. This configuration not only shifts the power distribution toward the rear but also allows each motor to play a role in a near-infinitely variable torque-vectoring system at the rear “axle,” along with dynamic distribution between the front and rear drive units. Both have their own dedicated cooling circuits to sustain consistent torque output. Mercedes claims it will achieve a top speed of 223 mph—quite impressive for a four-door EV. For comparison, the Taycan Turbo reaches a maximum of 190 mph, while the Model S Plaid hits around 200 mph.

      The power source for all this is a new NCMA (nickel/cobalt/manganese/aluminum) battery chemistry. According to Mercedes-Benz, the 3,000-cell battery pack is directly cooled and optimized for power density, charging speed, and longevity. The GT One XX is also capable of 850kW (over 1,000 amps) rapid charging, which can replenish 400 km (approximately 248 miles) of range in just five minutes. This is based on WLTP calculations and depends on having a charger that can deliver that much power, so it should be taken with caution. Nonetheless, impressive. As for the wheels? They feature active aerodynamics, with vanes adjusting according to the driving mode. For efficiency, they close to minimize drag, while for performance, they open to enhance airflow to the brakes. Individual generators driven by the wheels supply electricity to operate the small actuators situated in their hubs.

      As hinted by Mercedes last week, the GT XX will produce sounds. However, the specifics of this implementation have not been disclosed. The initial announcement made no reference to a dedicated “exhaust” sound system but noted that the GT XX is equipped with external speakers in its headlight housings capable of emitting “driving sounds.” While it may seem unconventional, this could explain why the teaser featured the vehicle's front rather than the rear. Mercedes indicates these speakers can also serve other necessary exterior sound functions, such as pedestrian warning signals.

      Inside, the GT XX incorporates various newly developed and more eco-friendly materials, including synthetic “leather” created from recycled rubber, vegetable proteins, and biopolymers, as well as 100% biodegradable “silk” threading produced with the help of genetically modified bacteria.

      Unfortunately, Mercedes does not yet have metrics for some key figures, including overall range estimates and most performance metrics, including 0-60 mph times. However, with three motors and over 1,300 horsepower, it’s reasonable to anticipate it will accelerate exceptionally quickly off the line—and at nearly any point, including the charging station.

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