Mercedes-AMG ONE: Nordschleife record | autoillustrated

His coffee was probably still warm when Maro Engel drove back into the pits. On September 23, 2024, DTM driver and Mercedes-AMG brand ambassador Maro Engel set a new best time of 6:29.090 minutes on the Nordschleife in the third lap.

He beat his previous record time by over five seconds. At the same time, the Mercedes-AMG ONE was the first road-legal series vehicle to break the magical 6:30 minute mark and was therefore considered the fastest series vehicle on the Nordschleife.

Record with Formula 1 technology

The Mercedes-AMG ONE has less displacement than a Mini Cooper S. A 1.6-liter V6 turbo gasoline engine that, combined with four electric motors, produces an impressive 782 kW/1063 hp. This technology comes directly from the Formula 1 racing car and was developed by Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains.

energy balance.household

An interesting factor in the success of the record run was the control of the energy flows. Similar to Sunday drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell, Maro Engel also had to strategically distribute the electrical energy while driving. The 21 kilometer long Nordschleife is a particular challenge in this regard. In addition to arm and leg work, Engel also had to recuperate during the braking phases and release the available energy at appropriate points. The correct energy flow has already been trained in the simulator.

The ideal use of the Drag Reduction System (DRS) also had to be examined. This allows the wing to be flattened on the straights to reduce air resistance. When cornering, however, the wing is set up again at lightning speed – for maximum downforce generation.

Perfect conditions for a historic round

A bit of luck is always part of a record run. The weather was kind to the Mercedes-AMG guys. At temperatures of 15 degrees Celsius (air), the AMG ONE breathes fresh cool air, while the 20 degrees Celsius warm asphalt offers a dry track with perfect grip.

This meant that Maro Engel was well prepared for the route and vehicle and all he had to do was deliver. And he has. Here is the video:

Text: GAT

Images: Mercedes-AMG