Mercedes unveiled the AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ at the Hungaroring on Thursday, with the car set to replace the AMG GT Black Series from the beginning of the Budapest weekend.
It will become the 14th model to serve as Formula 1’s official safety car since the German manufacturer began supplying the vehicle in 1996.
The new machine is the first F1 safety car to feature variable all-wheel drive, with Mercedes claiming the system will provide improved traction in both dry and wet conditions.
Its four-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 450kW (612hp) alongside 850Nm of torque.
Mercedes has fitted the car with ceramic composite brakes and a nine-speed transmission, while its aerodynamic package has been revised to improve stability at high speed.
A new front splitter, modified rear wing and additional dive planes have also been added to increase downforce over the front axle and help the car maintain speed through faster corners.
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The rear wing also incorporates a new signalling system, with additional lights designed to improve visibility for drivers following behind.
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Inside, the road car was adapted to meet the FIA’s requirements with a roll cage, racing seats, six-point harnesses and the communication, GPS and camera systems needed during a grand prix.
The car will run on Pirelli P Zero tyres and carry a one-off black and red anniversary livery for its first appearance in Hungary.
Long-time safety car driver Bernd Maylander believed the move to all-wheel drive would provide one of the most noticeable improvements.
“The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+, as the Official FIA F1 Safety Car, combines the highest levels of safety with impressive sportiness and driving pleasure,” Maylander said.
“Its agile and direct response to driver inputs is spot on. It is the first safety car with all-wheel drive. This provides optimum traction, which is particularly noticeable when combined with all the other technical features.
“It really comes into its own when cornering and accelerating. It is an exceptional road car. I am now looking forward to driving the new safety car for the first time under real-world conditions in Hungary.”
Mercedes-AMG Motorsport boss Simon Wilbers said the latest model continued the company’s long-running commitment to supplying Formula 1’s official course vehicles.
“For 30 years, Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG have taken on a special responsibility in Formula 1 by providing the safety cars,” Wilbers said.
“For us, it is both an honour and a challenge to continue this long-standing tradition with a car that raises our own standards yet again.
“The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ combines outstanding performance with precision, control, and safety – making it the ideal choice both as the Official FIA F1 Safety Car and as an exceptional road car.”
Mercedes became Formula 1’s sole supplier of safety and medical cars this season after previously sharing the responsibility with Aston Martin.
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