AMG PureSpeed enters final development testing

After an initial unveiling in Monte Carlo’s marina during the Formula 1 Grand Prix weekend, the AMG PureSpeed has now taken to the road - for development testing.

AMG PureSpeed development testing on road and track

The AMG PureSpeed is currently wearing heavy camouflage, which will never truly manage to “hide” its exotic silhouette, and it has already completed more than 3000 km of dynamic testing.

Whether on the mountain roads of northern Italy or at the high-speed test track in Nardò, AMG’s upcoming model is, at last, in its final stage of development.

HALO safety concept and open-top design

This radical SL stands out for having no roof and no conventional windscreen. However, the most striking feature of the AMG PureSpeed is undoubtedly the HALO - which does away with traditional front pillars - similar to the system used on Formula 1 single-seaters.

As with the F1 solution, its purpose is to protect occupants in the event of an accident. It is therefore no surprise that this choice is being assessed particularly thoroughly across a wide range of scenarios.

Aerodynamics and the dedicated helmets

Aerodynamics, for instance, has received particular attention, and AMG has also developed two helmets to enhance safety and to match the look of this model.

"The Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed offers a glimpse of what is probably the most direct way to experience performance and driving pleasure. Radically open, neither the roof nor the windscreen separates the two passengers from the elements. You can experience light, air and passion unfiltered, with all your senses."

Michael Schiebe, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH

There is still no indication of which engine will power the PureSpeed, but it would not surprise us if the 4.0-litre V8 biturbo - also found in the SL 63 - were selected, even if in a new variant.

AMG PureSpeed with limited production

Even before it reaches the market, the AMG PureSpeed is already a collector’s model - thanks to its exclusivity, its inspiration from competition motoring’s past, and production limited to just 250 units. That is fewer than the AMG One, for example, which totals 275 units.

There is, however, another reason for its exclusivity. As we previously noted when it was revealed, the AMG PureSpeed will be the first model in a new limited series from the German brand, which will sit under the new Mythos sub-brand.

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