Affalterbach will not compromise the hypercar’s spirit for compliance.
The AMG One, after years of delays due to development hurdles, finally made its debut this week in all its F1-powered glory. The 275 hypercars have been long gone, but none will be seen on the streets of America. Why? Because Affalterbach has decided not to modify the hybrid V6 powertrain in order to comply with local regulations. This would have negatively affected performance and Mercedes did not want to degrade the PHEV.
The AMG1 is powered jointly by a turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline engine and four electric motors. The combustion engine produces 574 horsepower at a staggering 9,000 rpm, while the turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline mill generates 1,063 hp. These numbers are unattainable for US one-percenters, who have been made aware of the first-world problem.
Carscoops colleagues managed to obtain a copy of the letter that Mercedes sent to potential buyers in the US. It is attached in the press release section. Here’s a sample of the letter:
“We have determined that U.S. road standards will significantly compromise the F1 engine’s performance and overall driving characteristics in order to keep its uniqueness.”
We must not forget the show or display law. This is an exemption that allows owners to drive their cars for up to 2,500 miles (4.023 km) per year. Technically, you can see one in the United States. The AMG One is limited to 275 units and will not be available in Europe. Given its fragile engine and rising price, many AMG Ones will be kept in climate-controlled garages.
The United States isn’t getting (well… kind of) AMG One. However, it was the reverse with the McLaren Sabre. This 824-hp beast was sold only in the United States of America.