In the 2023 season, a GT2 model will be added to the fleet of Mercedes-AMG GT3 and GT4 vehicles from Affalterbach. With 520 kW (707 hp), the Mercedes-AMG GT2 will then be the most powerful homologated racing car in the twelve-year history of the customer racing program. With the new model, the company wants to underpin its claim to a leading role in international GT2 racing. The market launch will take place during the 2023 season.
The Mercedes-AMG GT2 closes the gap between the Mercedes-AMG GT3 and the Mercedes-AMG GT4. While the GT3 is increasingly being driven by professionals and the GT4 is primarily the gateway to the world of GT racing, the GT2 is primarily aimed at the gentleman driver target group. With the GT2 regulations presented in 2020, the Stéphane Ratel Organization (SRO) has created an attractive platform for them with more and more international racing events.
The outstanding feature of the new Mercedes-AMG GT2 is its maximum level of performance: With the AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with a flat crankshaft, displacement of 3982 ccm, up to 520 kW (707 hp) and a maximum torque of 800 Newton meters the new member of the Customer Racing family is above GT3 level, both in terms of performance and top speed. Power is transmitted via a sequential six-speed racing gearbox with modified gear steps. As with all GT models, the transmission is transaxle mounted on the rear axle and connected to the engine via a torsionally and torque-rigid carbon fiber torque tube. The chassis features configurable motorsport shock absorbers and adjustable anti-roll bars.
On the exterior, Mercedes-AMG designed every detail of the GT2 for performance, from the wide front with the large cooling air intakes to the muscular rear. The carbon bonnet has a large exhaust air opening and so-called louvers are integrated into the carbon fenders on the front axle, which also have an influence on the aero performance. Another aerodynamic element is the newly developed, multi-adjustable rear wing.
Functional racing ergonomics prevail in the cockpit of the Mercedes-AMG GT2. One innovation is the latest generation DDU (Digital Display Unit) in the driver’s central field of vision. The fully programmable display system has a high-resolution graphic display. Another innovation is the new multifunction steering wheel, which Mercedes AMG developed together with the sim racing experts from Cube Controls. It offers a new level of ergonomics, functionality and control.
For occupant protection, AMG uses the safety concept that is also used in the GT3 and GT4. These include racing-specific assistance systems such as the multi-adjustable traction control or the latest generation of motorsport ABS. The vehicle interior is protected by a steel roll cage bolted to the aluminum space frame. The carbon driving safety cell has a six-point safety belt and customizable ergonomic seat foam. Safety nets, a salvage hatch in the roof, a carbon safety tank and a powerful motorsport fire extinguishing system complete the extensive range of safety equipment.
Teams using the Mercedes-AMG GT2 receive the support of Mercedes-AMG’s worldwide Customer Racing program. As with the GT3 and GT4 models, the motorsport team of experts at HWA AG ensures technical support. The HWA also carries out all maintenance and revisions. (awm)
