Frankfurt 2017: Mercedes-AMG Project One hypercar unleashed

Earlier this month, Mercedes-Benz’s high-performance division Mercedes-AMG got generous and teased us it’s upcoming hypercar concept. Now, the German automaker has unleashed the 1000 hp car dubbed as Project One.

As teased last week, the Project One is the German brand’s latest machine to bear a full-fledged Formula 1 (F1) hybrid technology. The idea was to take an F1 race machine off the track, add an extra seat, and take it to the road. The result is a 1000 hp hypercar that boasts a top speed beyond 350 km/h.

The high-performance hypercar was developed under the close cooperation of F1 experts at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth and the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Motorsport F1 team in Brackley, England. No wonder the Project One bursts out F1 DNA inside and out. We’re talking about a turbocharged engine accompanied by 4 electric motors, an all-wheel drive with pure electric front axle, among others.

The main source of power is a 1.6-liter V6 hybrid gasoline engine with direct injection. Apart from this are 4 electric motors that add power to the V6.

Further innovation found in the Project One is the EQ Power+ drive system, which offers more intelligent operating strategies for applications on different scenarios. From purely electric operation to highly dynamic mode, the system simulates an F1 setting. For example, you can drive the car off with pure electric mode, with only the electric motors operating for acceleration. For more power, you can then switch to the V6.

There’s so much going on inside and under the Project One’s complete form, but now, onto the exterior. Present on the Project One’s outer shell are its unique proportions, where its cockpit was adjusted forward. The concept car also has large wheel arches, what Mercedes-AMG calls a ‘wasp waist,’ and an extended rear end.

On the front end, the partially-electric hypercar is fitted with a large air intake. The center section houses the AMG badge, printed on the grille’s screen. Right above it, the brand’s Star logo sits at the center of everything. On the side of it are a set of sharp-looking headlights.

Intricate design continues to flow on the side. A light blue wing-like decal on the lower door panel gives it an illusion of movement even if the car is parked. More importantly, the rear gives intimidating impressions to anyone who tails the German road-legal, 2 seater F1-inspired car. The taillights blend to the large rear vents, while a huge central exhaust is being enclosed by the rear diffuser. Not to mention, it also has a rear spoiler which lets you read: AMG.

The cockpit, which functionality was taken from an F1 car, offers an ambience of minimalist style. The cabin seats 2 occupants on the comfort of bucket seats with adjustable backrest – thus, acquiring the description of “Formula 1 for two.” The pedals and steering wheel are also adjustable to adapt various driver positions. For infotainment, the interior has 2 high-resolution, free-standing 10-inch displays.

Check the video below to see the Project One in action.