A Glimpse into the Future of Performance: Mercedes-AMG Concept GT XX
Mercedes-AMG has unveiled a bold vision for its electric future with the Concept GT XX, a high-performance four-door vehicle that showcases advanced technology, radical design, and motorsport-inspired features. This fully operational machine is equipped with a powerful 1,341bhp tri-motor electric drivetrain and an oil-cooled 114kWh battery capable of charging at up to 850kW. The GT XX serves as a technological demonstration for what will become the successor to the GT 4-Door Coupé, representing the most powerful AMG model yet.
Technological Innovation and Performance Goals
The GT XX is built on the new AMG.EA electric platform, which integrates the battery pack into the chassis to enhance torsional rigidity and crash protection. The body combines aluminum, steel, and carbon fiber composites for a lightweight yet robust structure. The design introduces a new aesthetic for AMG, blending elements from previous concepts like the Vision AMG of 2022, including a long bonnet, cab-back profile, and tapering rear end.
Mercedes’ chief technical officer, Markus Schäfer, emphasized the importance of this prototype in pushing performance boundaries. He stated that the upcoming production model aims to achieve a 0-100kph time of less than 2.5 seconds and a potential top speed of 358kph. “With the EQXX, we pushed limits on efficiency, range, and charging,” he said. “With the GT XX, the aim is to do the same on the performance side: test the edge, then bring that innovation into production.”
Design Highlights
The GT XX’s most striking feature is its redesigned Panamericana grille, which takes on a more concave, oval shape with 10 vertical strakes. This is complemented by recessed headlights and a deep splitter. Functional vents on the bonnet help extract heat, while the steeply raked windscreen improves aerodynamics. The roof includes a defined central channel, and frameless doors with flush handles reduce drag.
The concept also features compact aero mirrors and sculpted side sills for airflow management. At the rear, the absence of a traditional window is offset by six small round tail-lights and a 730-LED light panel that can display various messages. An airbrake spoiler deploys under heavy braking or at high speeds, working in tandem with a large carbon fibre diffuser.
Aerodynamic efficiency extends to the 21-inch alloys, which feature active blade sections that open to aid brake cooling and close at speed to reduce drag. These elements contribute to a drag coefficient of 0.19, making the production model one of the slipperiest cars on sale. While not as low as the EQXX’s 0.17, the GT XX prioritizes downforce and cooling over outright drag reduction.
Dimensions and Comparison
The GT XX measures 5,204mm in length, 2,130mm in width, and 1,317mm in height, making it significantly larger than the current V8-engined GT 4-Door Coupé. These dimensions are expected to carry over to the production model, which will be manufactured at Mercedes-Benz’s Sindelfingen facility. For comparison, the Porsche Taycan measures 4,963mm in length, 2,144mm in width, and 1,379mm in height.
The vivid Sunset Beam orange paint pays homage to past Mercedes research prototypes, such as the 1970s C111 and the recent One-Eleven.
Powertrain and Charging Capabilities
At the heart of the GT XX is its tri-motor drivetrain, featuring two axial-flux motors at the rear and a third up front that can decouple under light loads to reduce mechanical drag. Combined output is 1,341bhp, sent to all four wheels via a fully variable 4Matic+ system. These motors, developed by Mercedes-owned Yasa, will power all electric AMGs and the most powerful Mercedes-Benz models.
The 114kWh oil-cooled cylindrical-cell battery, developed in partnership with AMG’s Formula 1 powertrain division, operates at “more than” 800V and theoretically supports DC charging at up to 850kW. While no public chargers currently offer such capacity, Schäfer noted that 480kW stations are already available in China, with 1000kW parks expected in the future.
Sound and Interior Experience
AMG has taken great care to retain the emotional appeal of its V8-powered models. An eight-speaker exterior sound system mimics acceleration sounds, ensuring that even an electric AMG delivers an immersive experience. Inside, the cabin blends luxury saloon cues with GT3 race car elements, featuring dual digital displays, an AMG One-inspired steering wheel, and illuminated orange piping that echoes the car’s high-voltage cabling.
Experimental materials adorn the interior, including biotech leather alternatives made from recycled GT3 tyres, protein-derived bio-silk door pulls, and a visible-from-the-inside carbon fibre roof. Even the floor uses recycled material, printed in a chequered-flag pattern.
Future Plans and Market Position
The GT XX’s production model will be joined by a closely related SUV, scheduled for a UK launch in 2027. This SUV is designed to compete with the upcoming electric Porsche Cayenne. However, the unveiling comes amid several performance car manufacturers scaling back their electric plans. Ferrari has reportedly delayed its second electric model until at least 2028, while Lamborghini, Porsche, and Maserati have also postponed or cancelled forthcoming electric models.
