Mercedes-AMG has long held the S-Class in high regard. With an innovative Swabian attitude, the founders demonstrated more than 50 years ago that a luxury sedan could be converted into a highly sporty automobile. 1971’s first significant triumph for the Affalterbach performance and sports vehicle brand was the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.8 AMG. Today, the Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE with AMG performance hybrid technology is once again the category standard. The E PERFORMANCE blends a handcrafted AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine with an AMG-specific hybrid powertrain and a new expansion phase of the AMG high-performance battery (HPB). The new HPB 150 is based on the known high-performance, directly cooled battery cells of the HPB 80. The HPB 80 has 6.1 kWh of energy, whereas the HPB 150 contains 13.1 kWh.

However, the powertrain focuses less on electric range and more on class-leading performance. With a total system output of 791 horsepower and 1,055 lb-ft, the AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE breaks industry records. The vehicle’s dynamic driving qualities are shown by its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in around 3.2 seconds and its peak speed of 180 km/h. Standard systems such as the AMG RIDE CONTROL PLUS suspension, the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL roll stabilization, and the rear-axle steering provide a broad range of driving dynamics and comfort.

Expressive exterior design

Additionally, the expressive appearance of the Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE hints at its exceptional performance. A Mercedes-Benz S-Class Sedan includes, for the first first time, the AMG-specific radiator grille with vertical slats and a huge center star. On the hood, the Mercedes star has been replaced with a silver and chrome-black AMG emblem. In addition, the front fascia is characterized by an AMG jet-wing design with broad side air intakes and functional air curtains. In profile, the up to 21-inch AMG forged wheels and AMG-specific side sill panels stand out in particular. The “63” models are marked by trapezoidal, fluted twin tailpipes and a wide diffuser with longitudinal ribs and a diffuser plate at the rear.

Elegant interior including a superior baggage compartment

The interior blends opulent S-Class fittings with AMG-specific components. The vehicle’s upmarket appearance is enhanced by the seats’ AMG-specific fabric and exquisite ornamental stitching. The sporty and luxurious qualities of the S 63 E PERFORMANCE are highlighted in the S 63 E PERFORMANCE by the use of distinctive colors and varied nappa leather upholstery with AMG sign engraving in the front headrests. The first-class rear compartment and four-passenger multicontour seats highlight its market-leading reputation. This is emphasized by the AMG-specific trim and standard AMG performance steering wheel with AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel controls.

Multimedia system MBUX with hybrid-specific displays

The MBUX infotainment system has an extensive array of AMG- and hybrid-specific displays and features. It includes the instrument cluster displays, the primary multimedia display in the center console, and the head-up display.

The view of the instrument cluster may be changed using a variety of display styles and primary view configurations. The AMG-specific “Supersport” design includes a vertical navigation menu for showing different information. This contains a menu with temperatures particular to hybrid vehicles and a setup menu that shows the current suspension or gearbox settings. The driver may modify the presentation of the navigation map, consumption statistics, and telemetry data using the AMG TRACK PACE MBUX app.

In addition to “Race” and “Supersport”, the head-up display also has AMG’s unique display modes. These may be accessed through the instrument cluster’s main menu. On the multimedia display, the power flow of the complete drive system, the engine speed, the power, torque, and temperature of the electric motor, as well as the temperature of the battery, are shown in a high-quality manner.

The Dolby Atmos® sound format improves the quality of the indoor sound experience. Individual instruments or vocals in the studio mix might be positioned at various locations within the listening space. This makes possible a new kind of sound animation. Dolby Atmos® can employ the whole frequency spectrum to produce a 360-degree experience, while traditional stereo systems only deliver two channels to the speakers.

AMG Performance double-spoke steering wheel

The AMG Performance steering wheel with its distinguishing double-spoke shape and flawlessly fitted shift paddles also adds to the vehicle’s distinctive AMG look. The AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons have brilliant graphics and straightforward operation logic. Important driving features and all driving modes are accessible without the driver having to remove his or her hands from the steering wheel. The recovery levels of the hybrid drive are also selectable through the buttons on the steering wheel.

The front combustion engine and rear electric motor comprise the AMG-specific hybrid drivetrain of the E PERFORMANCE.

The new Mercedes-AMG S 63 E PERFORMANCE is equipped with a hand-built AMG 4.0-liter V8 biturbo engine, a permanently excited synchronous electric motor, an Affalterbach-developed high-performance battery, and AMG Performance 4MATIC+ variable all-wheel drive. The combination of 791 horsepower and 1,055 kilos of torque provides exceptional performance on the road. Zero to sixty miles per hour is reached in under 3.2 seconds (estimated). At an electronically determined maximum speed of 180 mph, power is terminated.

The 188-horsepower electric motor is mounted on the rear axle, where it is coupled to an electrically-operated two-speed gearbox and an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential to produce a compact electric drive unit (EDU). This combination is referred to by experts as a P3 hybrid. In addition to being located in the back, above the rear axle, is the high-performance battery.

Permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM)

With its hollow permanent magnet rotor, the PSM may be installed around the output shaft of the left rear wheel. The electric motor is managed by power electronics, likewise located in the EDU, which immediately converts accelerator pedal signals into PSM activation. In addition, the electric motor’s delicate management regulates the vehicle’s speed during gear changes with the two-speed gearbox. This indicates that the transmission of the EDU does not need mechanical synchronization and that the greater torque of the electric motor may be used at higher speeds. Maximum torque is available from the first revolution of an electric motor, but it declines at higher speeds; consequently, the second gear engaged at higher speeds takes the electric motor into a range of lower speeds so that it can assist the combustion engine over the whole speed range.

The direct cooling of battery cells is an illustration of the ongoing pursuit of innovation.

The outstanding performance of the AMG 400-volt battery is based on its direct cooling. Each of the 1,200 cells is independently cooled by a liquid that is not electrically conductive. Each battery needs a certain temperature for optimal energy delivery. If the energy storage unit gets too cold or hot, it will temporarily lose power or must be turned off to avoid harm. The battery’s consistent temperature has a substantial effect on its performance, service life, and safety. If the temperature management system fails to fulfill its duty properly, the battery is at danger of premature aging.

The AMG team had to create new cooling modules with a thickness of one millimeter for direct cooling. Using a specifically built, high-performance electric pump, about 3.7 liters of coolant flow from top to bottom, through each cell, through the whole battery. Moreover, the coolant travels via an oil/water heat exchanger that is directly linked to the battery. This transmits heat to one of the two low-temperature circuits in the car (LT). The heat is subsequently dispersed to the outside air through the front-mounted LT radiator. The system is intended to transfer heat evenly throughout the battery.

No matter how often a battery is charged or drained, its optimal working temperature stays constant at 113 degrees Fahrenheit on average. If this average temperature is surpassed, protection procedures are designed to enable the greatest amount of power to be pulled from the battery in order to directly reduce the temperature. Even when under severe load and repeated acceleration (battery discharge) and deceleration (battery charging), the AMG high-performance battery maintains its high capacity.

Utilizing cells with a very high power density requires suitable direct cooling. Due to its innovative design, the battery system is very light and compact. The material-efficient design of the busbar helps to the decrease in weight. The aluminum housing’s lightweight and sturdy crash construction ensures maximum safety.

Electricity is always available as a business strategy.

The fundamental operating principles are developed from the hybrid power pack of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 racing car. As in professional racing, maximum propulsion is always accessible when the driver asks it by depressing the accelerator pedal, such as when entering a bend or passing other cars. High recovery performance and on-demand recharging enable the power to be readily accessible and often repeated. The automobile’s unique battery design strikes the optimal mix between maximal driving dynamics and current efficiency. All components are meticulously matched, resulting in an instantly obvious performance boost.

The handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine offers exceptional propulsion.

The 603-hp Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo engine is an integral part of the P3’s hybrid drivetrain. It produces a maximum torque of 664 lb-ft, which is accessible across a broad rpm range. Two twin-scroll turbochargers are positioned in the inner-V of the engine, which is the hottest portion of the engine. The configuration between the two banks of cylinders reduces the distance traveled by exhaust gases to the turbocharger and compressed air to the combustion chamber. Immediate reaction is the consequence. The belt-driven starter-generator is an integral element of the 400-volt electrical system (RSG). It combines the starting motor and alternator into a single device and has the ability to promptly start the V8 engine every time.

First time that the S-Class engine mounts are currently operational.

The S 63 E PERFORMANCE is the only vehicle in its class to include active engine mounting. Mounts that can continually adapt their stiffness to the present driving circumstances eliminate the conflict between a soft connection of the engine for excellent comfort and a hard connection for optimum driving dynamics. This information is sent by the vehicle’s sensors to a control unit that monitors the driving condition and the engine’s vibration response. This modulates the coupling force between the engine and the body. The greatest benefit is the ever rising power-to-comfort ratio.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9G gearbox is distinguished by its quick shift times and superior efficiency.

In the AMG SPEEDSHIFT® MCT 9G gearbox (MCT = Multi-Clutch Transmission), a wet clutch replaces the torque converter. It reduces weight and, as a result of its reduced moment of inertia, enhances sensitivity to the accelerator pedal, particularly during fast acceleration and load changes. The well calibrated software ensures short shift times and rapid, repeated downshifts as necessary. In the “Sport” and “Sport+” driving modes, the dual-clutch function makes changing gears an especially enjoyable experience. Definable ignition interventions enable for significantly quicker gear changes than in earlier modes. In all driving modes, the first gear is employed for early acceleration to provide a dynamic driving experience. In addition, the RACE START feature ensures optimal acceleration from a stop. In manual mode “M”, the gearbox reacts quickly and accurately to the driver’s manual shifting commands.

Image credit: Mercedes-Benz USA