The Mercedes AMG GT R will be the most powerful 'safety car' in history

The circuits of Formula 1 are full of great cars, powerful, characterful single-seaters that define the essence of this sport and this competition. But the cars that take part in the race are not the only ones on the track. There are other vehicles that embody the spirit of the competition and, although they are not the stars of the race, they always stand by to make sure everything runs smoothly. Among these vehicles are the “safety car“, the safety cars whose job is to make sure nothing goes wrong during the race. And if something does go wrong, they are responsible for signalling and preventing accidents.

These cars are not ordinary cars: they are equipped to join the powerful single-seaters on track without being left behind. They are powerful and characterful, capable of successfully carrying out the task assigned to them. But none of them has ever been as powerful and efficient as the Mercedes AMG GT R, the German model that joins this special category of Formula 1 support cars for 20 races.

Mercedes has been providing its models for this demanding task since 1996, but none has been as powerful as the Mercedes AMG GT R, which will debut at the Melbourne Grand Prix, from 25 to 27 March 2018. The model delivers 585 CV, allowing it to enter the track and take on the challenge of controlling the competing cars. In addition, a top speed of 318 km/h and a 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.6 seconds guarantee its effectiveness on the circuit.

The 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine is paired with a chassis engineered for excellent handling, while active aerodynamics and the use of lightweight materials in its construction further enhance its performance. It also features nine traction settings and adaptive suspension with additional electronic adjustment. A roll cage and a high-efficiency braking system with ceramic brakes have been added to the car.

The on-board technology allows the co-driver to monitor the progress of the race at all times, so they can carry out their work quickly and effectively.