Nico Rosberg, the 2016 Formula 1 World Champion, recently shared an exhilarating experience on his YouTube channel, detailing the long-awaited pickup of his AMG One hypercar. This event marks a significant moment for Rosberg, as he first configured and purchased the car back in 2018. The six-year wait culminated in an exciting reveal at the AMG headquarters.
The Journey Begins: Configuring the AMG One
Rosberg’s journey with the AMG One started in 2018, a time when he was still unsure about the final colour of his car. Initially contemplating options like light silver, black, and even red, Rosberg eventually settled on a unique shade that guarantees exclusivity. He hinted that this particular colour choice would make his AMG One stand out as the only one of its kind.
The AMG One hypercar is inspired by Rosberg’s Formula 1 car, featuring a 1.6-litre V6 fully hybrid powertrain based on the Formula 1 engine. The engineering team at AMG had to modify the engine to meet emissions standards, reduce vibrations, and ensure durability and mileage suitable for road use. This modification process was extensive, reflecting AMG’s reputation for producing hypercars once in a generation.
The Big Reveal: Seeing the AMG One for the First Time
Rosberg was visibly excited as he approached the AMG headquarters to see his car for the first time. He was greeted by familiar faces, including his father’s helmet on display, highlighting the family’s legacy with AMG. The moment was marked by a ceremonial key presentation, adding to the sense of occasion.
Upon seeing the car, Rosberg was awe-struck. The AMG One’s design, inspired by the Formula 1 aesthetic, includes a low-slung front end with a pronounced “shark nose,” sleek horizontal taillights, and an aggressive diffuser with quad exhausts. The car even features a Formula 1-like halo over the cockpit, emphasising its racing pedigree.
A Unique Colour Choice
One of the most unique aspects of Rosberg’s AMG One is its colour. Painted in a Ferrari paint colour, the car is the first of its kind with a black star on the hood, a detail suggested by Rosberg’s wife, Vivian. As an interior designer, she insisted that a white star would not complement the car’s overall aesthetic. This attention to detail underscores the personalised nature of the AMG One.
The Challenges Behind the Scenes
Michael Schiebe, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG and Head of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and Mercedes-Maybach divisions, explained the challenges involved in bringing the AMG One to life. One of the most significant hurdles was adapting the car’s software to ensure it could function seamlessly in various driving modes. This process involved extensive development of both software and hardware, creating a sophisticated system that replicates the support typically provided by a team of engineers during a Formula 1 race.
The AMG One’s powertrain, delivering 1,063 horsepower, is a marvel of engineering. The car’s design incorporates advanced aerodynamics, with airflow optimised to provide downforce and cooling. This includes features like the front winglets and a rear wing that adjusts to enhance performance. The result is a car that is as close to a Formula 1 experience as possible for a road vehicle.
Inside the AMG One: A Racing Experience
Rosberg’s excitement was palpable as he sat inside the AMG One. The car’s interior is a testament to its racing roots, with a seating position and steering wheel reminiscent of a Formula 1 cockpit. The steering wheel features shift lights, DRS, neutral, and push-to-pass buttons, adding to the immersive experience. The minimalist design is complemented by high-quality stitching and aggressive styling cues.
The rearview mirror is a camera, reflecting the car’s high-tech nature. Despite the advanced features, the car maintains a mechanical feel, with no software-assisted sound dampening. This pure mechanical setup ensures that drivers experience the full roar of the engine, adding to the thrill of driving the AMG One.
Technical Marvel: The Heart of the AMG One
The AMG One’s engine is a direct descendant of Mercedes’ Formula 1 technology. The 1.6-litre V6 engine, small enough to fit in a glove compartment, is paired with advanced air treatment systems, turbochargers, and a unique battery setup. The battery uses cylindrical cells cooled by oil to manage the intense energy cycles required for high-performance driving.
This focus on power over range differentiates the AMG One from typical hybrids. The car’s energy management system is designed to maximise performance, with sophisticated controls to balance energy input and output during acceleration and braking. This technology, developed from Formula 1 experience, has also found its way into other AMG models, showcasing the trickle-down effect of racing innovations.
The Road Ahead: Preparing for Track Time
As Rosberg prepared to take his AMG One for a spin, he appreciated the car’s track-ready features. The process of starting the car involves warming up the catalytic converter to 500 degrees Celsius, a procedure that takes several minutes. This ensures the engine operates efficiently and meets emissions standards.
The AMG One’s track mode transforms its appearance, with winglets and the rear wing deploying to enhance downforce. Rosberg’s anticipation was evident as he prepared to experience the car’s performance firsthand.
A Dream Realised
For Rosberg, the delivery of the AMG One is the culmination of a long journey filled with anticipation and excitement. The car represents a unique blend of Formula 1 technology and road-going practicality, offering an unparalleled driving experience. As he took his seat in the AMG One, ready to hit the track, it was clear that this hypercar is not just a vehicle but a dream realised.
