1.6-litre that revs to 11,000rpm (stunted from the F1 car’s 15k redline for servicing and usability reasons). But in terms of power, the hybrid set-up exceeds 1,000bhp, while the top speed is ‘beyond 350kph (217mph)’, though no firm numbers were given.
The Project One will launch from 0-124mph in under six seconds. A Bugatti Chiron claims 6.5 seconds, for comparison.
The turbocharged V6 engine itself has an electric motor built into its turbocharger for eliminating turbo lag, while another 160bhp e-motor works on the crankshaft. Then another two 50,000rpm, 160bhp electric motors independently drive each of the front wheels, allowing torque-vectoring, lightning-quick launches. Those front motors also allow a zero-emission EV mode, during which your AMG hypercar becomes front-wheel drive (like the EV mode in a BMW i8).
Engage the engine and drive is shuffled through an eight-speed automated manual gearbox with paddles on the F1-style steering wheel. Inside, AMG promises we’ll find find two seats, much carbon, a couple of ten-inch screens for data and mode readouts, and not a great deal else. There’s no back window, for instance.
AMG says the turbo V6 engine has superior throttle response to a naturally aspirated V8, because the turbo’s exhaust gas and compressor turbines work on the F1-type energy system called Motor Generator Unit - Heat (MGU-H). That’s the fourth electric machine on the car. When the engine isn’t at full power, the turbo drives a generator mounted on the turbo’s shaft. Floor the throttle and the generator reverses into a motor, spinning up the turbo for instant response.
Stamp on the carbon brakes and AMG reckons 80 per cent of the force can be entrusted to power recuperation, juicing the battery for the next straight.
The batteries themselves and their cooling system are identical to Lewis and Valtteri’s weekend mount. They live behind the front axle for optimal weight balance, and run a heady 800V system, which allows half the current for the same power as the usual 400V, meaning they can use thinner cables, and a virtuous circle of weight-saving.
The suspension is a bespoke, pushrod design. The wheels remain ten-spoke forged aluminium items with carbon aero covers, to create as little drag as possible.
As per the Ford GT, the seats are fashioned into the carbon tub, and the pedalbox and steering wheel are adjustable instead, and there is more space than the cabin of the Aston-Red Bull Valkyire.
There is an air-con system, and small lockers behind the seats for luggage stowage. Electric windows come as standard in the butterfly doors, and though there's no back window, there is a roof-mounted camera and screen instead.
