AMG is all set to launch their first ever hybrid car in India on 11th April 2023. This will be the second launch from Mercedes this year out of the 10 scheduled under their growth strategy for 2023.
It’s called the Mercedes-AMG GT 63S E-Performance, come on Mercedes, I think you forgot to add two three more words to the model name. Might I suggest ‘pro max?’
But seriously, that is the only laughable thing about the car because it is a beast that has been bred in Affalterbach with the intention of making occupants soil their pants.
The E-Performance gets minor design changes over the standard car, including new bumpers, badging, exhausts and wheel designs. The only other visual change on the outside of the car is a small flap at the back which covers the charging port for the PHEV system.
Similar to the exteriors, the interiors also get minor changes. All these changes are software based in the MBUX and the digital drivers’ console. These include range and battery charge level indicators among others.
Under the hood however, things are drastically different. AMG’s first hybrid is also their most powerful vehicle ever. Powered by a 4.0L twin turbo V8 in tandem with an electric motor, the two power sources produce 639hp and 204hp respectively. So, with a total system output of 843hp and upwards of 1400Nm of torque, this sports sedan propels from 0-100 kmph in 2.9 seconds. And it will keep pulling up to 319 kmph where it will hit its electronically limited top speed.
The electric powertrain is powered by a 6.1kWh battery that runs on a 400V architecture. Mercedes says that the entire system weights just 89kg. So, 6.1kWh battery on a 204hp electric motor. Goodbye range and hello anxiety! But hey, that’s why you have that V8 right? The car does only a claimed 12km on electric power. Expect more like 1.2km if you’re planning on having fun. Of course the fun will also be limited because the electric motor on its own can only take the car to 130kmph.
This Mercedes will rival the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, which is priced at INR 2.71 Crore (Ex-Showroom). So that’s a heavy price tag, and we all know how expensive Porsche’s options can get. I think Mercedes could have a winner at their hands if they price it right!
Words: Sresht Garg
