The SLS AMG Electric Drive launched in 2013 was a shy attempt from Mercedes-AMG as far as electrified performance machines. The quad-motor supercar was produced in extremely limited numbers, much like the Audi R8 E-Tron that followed a few years later. Both were sold in fewer than 100 examples and carried exorbitant price tags while offering a limited range since battery technology wasn’t as evolved as it is now.
Fast forward to 2021, Mercedes-AMG is inaugurating the E Performance label for go-faster hybrids and EVs. The first production cars part of the newly formed strategy will be the AMG One hypercar and this – the AMG GT73e. A prototype of the swoopy liftback has now been caught at the Nürburgring where it’s undergoing final testing.
The reason why it carries camouflage only on the bumpers is that the prototype doesn’t have all of the final bits in place as we’re expecting the GT73e to look more aggressive than the current range topper. That would have to be the GT63 S, offered with a monstrous 630 horsepower courtesy of a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8.
The plug-in hybrid version is expected to use the same combustion engine and add an electric motor for a combined output estimated at a little over 800 hp. While the power bump is undoubtedly healthy, some will be concerned about the PHEV’s weight considering the GT63 S is already quite heavy, tipping the scales at over 2,000 kilograms (4,409 pounds).
The prototype was being tested at the Green Hell at full tilt and we can see more than one GT73e being pushed to its limits. These procedures are necessary to iron out any last-minute issues before the start of production expected to occur in the coming months. Considering the current flagship version already hits 60 mph in 3.1 seconds, there’s a pretty good chance the plug-in hybrid will drop below the three-second mark.
When it debuts, don’t be too surprised if the GT73e is going to cost over $200,000 taking into account the GT63S carries a starting price of $161,900. It will be Mercedes-AMG’s belated answer to the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid and future performance-oriented PHEV machines Audi and BMW could launch in the coming years.
Source: CarSpyMedia / YouTube
