Mercedes-AMG GT Concept packs 600kW hybrid drivetrain

Mercedes-AMG has fully revealed its GT Concept at the Geneva motor show this week, featuring a 600kW twin-turbocharged V8-hybrid drivetrain that previews the future of the German manufacturer's performance powerplants.

A 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine from the brand's AMG GT range is paired with an electric motor, which launches the GT Concept from standstill to triple figures in less than three seconds. 

Petrol power is put to the ground via a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, while instant boost can be provided from the electric motor and is exclusively sent to the rear axle.

While its peak torque figure still remains unknown, its 600kW power output means it is 100kW more powerful than Porsche's recently unveiled Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, which features a similar powertrain but can only muster 500kW/850Nm by comparison.

Crucially, the battery system employed by the four-door is scalable, meaning that it is adjustable from a performance and capacity perspective to cater for various markets and future models.

Regenerative braking also allows the batteries to be recharged whilst driving – and so can the engine when under a lighter load.

Affalterbach has confirmed that three driving modes – full electric, full combustion or hybrid – will be offered, but no further specifics have been shared as yet.

The GT Concept retains the overall looks of its coupe and roadster siblings, but does feature more aggressive styling in its show car form.

LED headlights with daytime running lights carry over, but are slimmer with three-dimensional autonomous lighting technology and pulsating turn signals at the top.

Additionally, tail-lights are almost identical to the GT's in their design, but benefit from the same 3D tech as the concept's headlights.

However, attention is quickly drawn to the hybrid's large front spoiler, pronounced side gills and carbon-fibre splitter which dial up its purposeful undertones. 

Fans of Mercedes-AMG's now-signature Panamericana grille will be pleased to see its return, as it is aesthetically enhanced with radiator shutters that are also functional and optimise aerodynamic and thermal efficiency by opening and closing when required.

Applications of carbon-fibre can be seen throughout, particularly with the side sills, B-pillars and side mirror cameras that typify the four-door hybrid's conceptual looks.

Meanwhile, copper-and-silver alloy wheels house carbon-ceramic discs and their bronze brake callipers for extra street presence.

At the back-end, the GT Concept is dominated by its carbon-fibre rear diffuser with single-tip central exhaust, while four-door's side profile retains the swoopy looks of its coupe stablemate.

Images of the hybrid's interior are yet to be released by the car-maker at this stage, but the cabin is expected to closely follow that of the two-door versions – albeit with more space and a second row of seating.

Described by the brand as the next member of the GT line-up, it is speculated that the four-door will be known as the GT4 when it goes into production.

Is it time to accept that hybrid setups will be responsible for powering all future supercars? Tell us what you think in the comments below.