Mercedes-AMG Unveils First Ground-Up SUV with 1,153 Horsepower

Mercedes-AMG has unveiled its first ground-up SUV, a high-performance electric vehicle that boasts an impressive 1,153 horsepower.

The new model is part of Mercedes' AMG performance brand and marks a significant milestone for the company, which has been developing high-performance vehicles for nearly six decades. The AMG GT SUV combines sports-car handling with full-size SUV practicality, thanks to its EA architecture.

The vehicle will be available in three trims: the GT 53, GT 55, and flagship GT 63 models. Each trim features three axial flux motors that deliver exceptional power and performance.

As part of its high-performance capabilities, the AMG GT SUV supports fast charging speeds up to 710kW on a large battery pack, making it one of the quickest-charging electric vehicles available.

The AMG GT SUV's advanced battery technology is a key factor in its impressive performance capabilities. The 128kWh battery pack features F1-inspired design elements, including NCMA cathodes and silicon-containing anodes, which enhance energy density and efficiency.

This innovative approach to battery design enables the vehicle to deliver continuous high-power output while maintaining long-term durability. To manage heat effectively, a specially developed oil flows directly around each individual cell, ensuring uniform thermal management.

The AMG GT SUV's battery pack is estimated to provide up to 435 miles of range in its top-of-the-line trim, making it suitable for extended road trips. With a large battery pack and high-performance capabilities, the vehicle can also support rapid charging speeds of up to 710kW.

Mercedes-AMG has made significant strides in battery technology with this new model, potentially giving it an edge over competitors like Porsche. The company's focus on innovative design elements and advanced materials is evident in the AMG GT SUV's high-performance capabilities and long-range potential.

The AMG GT SUV's weight is a notable aspect of its design, coming in at 5,941lbs. This places it slightly below some of its competitors, including the Lotus Eletre R and Lucid Gravity, but remarkably close to the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Electric.

To create an immersive driving experience, Mercedes has opted for a unique approach. Rather than relying on synthetic sounds, the AMG GT SUV incorporates actual engine noises from legendary AMG V8 and six-cylinder engines. This method aims to preserve the emotional connection drivers have with the brand's identity.

The system goes beyond just playing recorded sounds, offering adjustable profiles and simulating mechanical gear shifts through paddle controls. Additionally, physical seat vibrations enhance the illusion of a real engine under the hood, rather than the 78-liter frunk that actually houses it. This attention to detail is a hallmark of Mercedes' focus on innovative design.

The AMGFORCE Sport+ drive program is standard across all three trims of the Mercedes-AMG GT SUV, offering drivers an enhanced experience with every drive.

The Mercedes-AMG GT SUV's onboard AI system is capable of handling various tasks through voice commands, including adjusting HVAC settings, changing drive modes, and fiddling with lighting. This feature allows drivers to focus on navigating while the car takes care of other aspects.

In addition to these basic functions, the AMG GT SUV applies artificial intelligence to high-performance track driving through its Predictive Performance Manager system. By using data from track mapping, the PPM dynamically adjusts electric motor output based on topography, conserving battery energy in downhill or technical sections and making full power available on steep inclines.

This approach can lead to faster and more consistent overall lap times by preventing battery overheating and power throttling during track driving. Mercedes has yet to reveal official pricing for the AMG GT SUV, which will likely be announced closer to its launch date.