“We are developing the most extreme Black Series ever,” said Michael Schiebe, a member of the board of management for production, quality and supply chain management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, and chairman of the board of management of Mercedes-AMG. “At the same time, we want to set the next record-breaker in motorsport with the future GT3. The foundation for this is the Concept AMG GT Track Sport – a technology demonstrator that was more than just a concept from the very start. It is our unambiguous commitment to maximum performance, a promise for the racetrack and the road alike. At AMG, we develop vehicles to exceed expectations. And that is exactly what the future Black Series and the new GT3 will do.”

Uncompromising performance

The road-legal variant of the concept car serves as a homologation model for the GT3 successor.

Since October 2025, the prototype has been undergoing extensive dynamic testing on test tracks and racetracks. In addition to the in-house development track in Immendingen, this has included Bilster Berg, Portimão and Monteblanco. With the start of testing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, the next stage of development is now underway.

The next generation in customer racing

The Mercedes-AMG GT3 is the latest step in Mercedes-AMG’s customer racing program, which began in 2010 and first competed in 2011 with the SLS AMG GT3. The current GT3 model, introduced in 2016 and updated in 2020, has continued that program.

A successor is now in development, led by Affalterbach Racing, a subsidiary of Mercedes-AMG, in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport. The new GT3 is undergoing testing, with a focus on performance, safety and competitiveness.

“With the unveiling of the concept, we can now officially name the new Mercedes-AMG GT3, with which we aim to continue the success story in customer racing for Mercedes-AMG Motorsport,” said Christoph Sagemüller, head of Mercedes-AMG Motorsport. “Our goal is to once again present a vehicle that sets the benchmark. We have already gained important insights from the initial tests. We are now entering the next phase of development and will also be testing on racetracks relevant to GT Sport.”

From track to road

The Mercedes-AMG’s Black Series models – a designation introduced in 2006 – represent the highest-performance variants in the company’s range. The concept builds on AMG’s origins in motorsport. The company was founded in 1967 by Hans Werner Aufrecht and Erhard Melcher, with a focus on applying racing-derived technology to road cars.

The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG played a key role in this development. Its use as an FIA Formula 1 safety car and its adaptation for a racing series helped shape the track-focused approach that led to the first SLK 55 AMG Black Series.

This motorsport-to-road philosophy continues with newer concepts such as the AMG GT Track Sport, and underpins the development of future models, including the next AMG GT3 and AMG GT Black Series.

In related news, Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 to use Microsoft cloud and enterprise AI technologies to enhance racing performance

The super-high-performance powertrain has been built to meet the new demanding 2026 F1 regulations for smaller, lighter, more nimble cars and increased on-track competitiveness. As the exclusive metrology partner, Hexagon’s support of Oracle Red Bull Racing and Red Bull Ford Powertrains covers the whole car, chassis and engine, enabling trackside refinements and up to 30,000 car design changes per season. Using coordinate measuring machines (CMMs), 3D laser scanners and software, Hexagon helped achieve the sub-micron tolerances required for manufacturing, testing and assembling the V6 turbo hybrid powertrain.

While the new rules increase reliance on electrical energy, altered aerodynamics and changes to wings will produce less downforce, placing performance demands on the car’s power unit. The front wings are simplified, while the undersides of cars have lost Venturi tunnels that generated a huge amount of grip.

Metrology technologies

Since the start of engine production four years ago, Hexagon has provided high-precision metrology technologies – including the Leitz PMM-C Precision CMM and Leica Absolute Scanner AS1. According to Hexagon, these technologies have accelerated testing and inspection throughout R&D, from prototyping and test-rig evaluation to full production at Red Bull Ford Powertrains’ Milton Keynes facility.

The Leitz PMM-C CMMs are used right across the manufacturing and build areas and are the only equipment capable of dealing with the accuracy, repeatability and flexibility that Red Bull Ford Powertrains requires in power unit manufacture. The portable AS1 3D scanner is used with an Absolute Arm to scan the outer surfaces of the power unit’s crankcases and energy recovery system (ERS) installations for quality control.

“Hexagon’s shared passion for extreme accuracy and performance has been vital to this ambitious project,” said Ben Hodgkinson, technical director, Red Bull Ford Powertrains. “With every element built from scratch, Hexagon’s metrology expertise has enabled us to achieve the tolerances and the levels of quality we require in a cutting-edge piece of engineering to perform at the top level of motorsport. We’re very selective about who we work with and never stop pushing the boundaries – striving for that extra millisecond in performance. We know that Hexagon will support us on that ultra-competitive quest.”

Digitalization

Hexagon has helped Red Bull Ford Powertrains integrate quality inspection and digital 3D models into its engineering processes. Measurement data is captured in QUINDOS, Hexagon’s metrology software for complex geometries such as gears and blades, and, where needed, transferred to Q-DAS for statistical trend analysis. This integrated approach enables CNC machine monitoring and provides corrective feedback to ensure components are manufactured correctly the first time.

Oracle Red Bull Racing, which develops the chassis, also uses Hexagon technology. Continuing a 19-year partnership, it uses Hexagon technology, such as laser trackers, to ensure precise setup and power unit assembly for new vehicles throughout the racing season. Hexagon’s 3D laser scanning and trackside support are vital for ongoing aerodynamic refinements, providing the precision needed to maximize performance on every race weekend. The Oracle Red Bull Racing team has previously reduced faults by 50% using Hexagon technology over a 24-month period.

“Hexagon’s portable metrology technologies will ensure the correct car setup and power unit assembly for the new season vehicles, building on our 19-year partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing,” commented Emanuel Viklund, president of the portable metrology division at Hexagon.

“Working with Red Bull Ford Powertrains this season is incredibly exciting for all of us at Hexagon. Together, we have engineered and built a powertrain unit under immense pressure. Designed for peak performance, the DM-01 powertrain is now ready to prove itself on the track.

“But nothing in F1 stands still – there is always a new challenge to tackle, a fraction of a second to gain and an opportunity to refine the car to push the limits of precision and performance. We are proud to support them every step of the way.”

Related news, Porsche provides an update on the development of its Formula E Gen4 race car

The new all-electric single-seater Gen4 Porsche complies with the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship’s fourth-generation vehicle regulations and features up to 600kW (804hp), permanent all-wheel drive, new tires and significantly increased downforce, representing the largest performance step in the series to date.

The Formula E Gen4 car is scheduled to debut in the 2026/27 season.

Porsche’s in-house vehicle components have been designed to be lighter, deliver higher performance, reduce costs and offer a longer service life. Development of this hardware package – Porsche’s most extensive package for Formula E to date – will continue until October, at which point the focus will shift to continuous software optimization. In many ways, the development cycles in the series mirror those for Porsche sports cars, albeit under extreme conditions.

“In Formula E, we primarily develop the technical components that are relevant for our production sports cars,” said Thomas Laudenbach, head of Porsche Motorsport. “That is one of the reasons why we compete in Formula E.”

With the introduction of Gen4, Porsche’s in-house development scope has expanded to include two additional components: the DC/DC converter and the brake-by-wire system.

In-house developments by Porsche to date include the operating software, pulse inverter, electric motor, gearbox, differential, drive shafts and other drivetrain components on the rear axle. Cooling, carrier and suspension components at the rear also come from Porsche.

“With the current car, the efficiency of our drivetrain is over 97%. From the battery to the wheel, less than 3% of the energy used is lost – close to perfection and a key advantage of electric drive,” said Florian Modlinger, director factory motorsport Formula E. “In our development brief for Gen4, alongside further efficiency gains in the drivetrain components, we focused on potential in terms of weight, durability and costs – similar to EVs for the road.

“At the same time, 600kW represents a 71% increase in power in Attack Mode. Overall, I believe it is fair to speak of a revolution. Seeing the car on track for the first time with its acceleration was a real pleasure. My thanks go to the development team in Flacht for this milestone in the project.”

Triple pressure: Gen3, Gen3 Evo and Gen4

By mid-January, the Gen4 Porsche had completed almost 915 test miles on the circuits of Monteblanco and Almería in Spain. A large proportion of the development and testing work, however, has taken place – and continues to take place – in the simulator.

“The concept phase began in 2024. In the same year, we moved into simulator work. The project therefore started during Season 10, when we were still racing the predecessor of the current Gen3 Evo, the Gen3,” Modlinger said. “At the time, we fought for all three titles right to the end, secured the Drivers’ Championship with Pascal – and at the same time developed the Gen3 Evo. We work in an agile way, similar to series-production projects: you run the existing vehicle, bring the facelift to market and already design the next generation. The difference is that our cycles are shorter and our budgets smaller – with maximum pressure to succeed. After all, we are contesting an FIA World Championship for Porsche.”

Porsche said that in the early testing phase, development focused on ensuring reliable operation and smooth interaction of all components. Over time, attention shifts toward performance. With Formula E’s limited test days, some findings are validated in a simulator. Porsche’s Customer team is also testing the new car ahead of FIA homologation, scheduled for the autumn.

Related news, Anritsu and Valeo partner on digital twin validation for SDVs

McLaren turned to Greene Tweed for an advanced sealing solution for the hydraulic actuator that clamps the friction clutch inside the differential. This system optimizes torque distribution for maximum traction and cornering speed. Seal integrity is paramount, as leakage could cause a catastrophic loss of system function and force the car to be retired.

“This project was a true example of collaborative engineering at its best,” said Matthew James, director of engineering and product design at Greene Tweed. “Our teams worked side by side to validate seal behavior under real operating conditions, refining the design through testing and iteration. The result is a robust, leak-free sealing solution that supports McLaren’s pursuit of marginal gains while meeting the long-term demands of Formula 1 racing.”

Greene Tweed developed two MSE seal assemblies featuring a unique C-shaped profile and a corrosion-resistant metal spring to provide uniform sealing force. Designed to operate under the application’s extreme conditions – including temperatures up to 150°C, pressures from 5 to 250 bar and exposure to aggressive fluids – the seals use Greene Tweed’s proprietary Avalon 44 (PTFE). This material ensures superior wear resistance, high strength and low friction.

“Given Greene Tweed’s longstanding reputation for excellent quality, choosing them was an obvious choice for us,” said James Manning, head of transmission at McLaren Mastercard Formula 1 Team. “The MSE Seal has consistently demonstrated its durability and reliability within our system. We’re confident this is only the beginning of a long-term collaboration to drive even greater performance in future seasons.”

Following testing on a dynamic transmission test rig, Greene Tweed and McLaren engineers have successfully qualified the next-generation MSE sealing system for the 2026 season. This more robust version, reinforced with backup ring support and a 301SS finger spring, has enabled McLaren to develop a more compact version of its system for future performance gains.

In related news, Ford and Red Bull Racing accelerate 2026 F1 power unit development with advanced manufacturing and simulation

MissionH24 aims to demonstrate the performance and competitiveness of hydrogen technologies under real racing conditions, with the aim of creating a zero-CO₂ emission category at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. With the support of AVL Racetech, the plan is to develop the H24EVO prototype in a targeted manner.

Pierre Fillon, president of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest and co-president of MissionH24, said, “AVL’s involvement alongside MissionH24 demonstrates the value of our program; the search for decarbonized solutions is essential. AVL’s established reputation in the automotive sector lends tremendous credibility to MissionH24. This collaboration promises to be invaluable.”

AVL Racetech will support the project as a technical partner, bringing its extensive experience in virtual vehicle development. A key element of this contribution will be the AVL VSM Race advanced vehicle simulation software. The fully dynamic simulation platform enables the virtual representation and analysis of complex interactions between the complete vehicle, the powertrain and the energy management system. It therefore reportedly supports the seamless integration of user-defined algorithms into VCU software-in-the-loop (SIL) and hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) workflows specifically designed to optimize the powertrain performance and energy management strategies of the H24EVO race car.

Jean-Michel Bouresche, CEO of H24Project and co-president of MissionH24, added, “AVL will strengthen MissionH24’s pool of technical partners, all of whom are recognized players in the automotive sector. AVL’s skills and expertise will undoubtedly enable us to achieve MissionH24’s ambitious goals.”

Looking ahead, the technical collaboration is planned to be extended from the virtual environment into full vehicle testing. The partners say that the alliance between AVL Racetech, H24Project and ACO as part of the MissionH24 program is a long-term commitment, with a partnership agreement for the next three years.

Ellen Lohr, director motorsport at AVL List, commented, “AVL Racetech is an established engineering partner in 17 top-tier racing series worldwide. We are connected with the MissionH24 by our shared vision of enabling sustainable motorsports and demonstrating that innovative technologies are tangible, feasible and competitive on the racetrack.”

In related news, Johnson Matthey opens cutting-edge hydrogen ICE test facility in Sweden

The 2026 Formula 1 regulation changes usher in a new era of racing with increased electrification, efficiency and sustainability, representing one of the most significant technical evolutions in modern Formula 1 history. As the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team prepares for this transformation, it is partnering with Microsoft to harness the power of its cloud and enterprise artificial intelligence (AI) technologies across the business, from the factory to the racetrack.

“Our sport is driven by those who lead through innovation,” said Toto Wolff, CEO and team principal, Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team. “We are delighted to partner with Microsoft, one of the world’s foremost technology leaders, whose name is synonymous with groundbreaking innovation. This partnership also reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of performance and progress. By putting Microsoft’s technology at the center of how we operate as a team, we will create faster insights, smarter collaboration and new ways of working as we look ahead to the next generation in F1.”

In a sport defined by split-second margins and data-driven decisions, Formula 1 places extreme demands on enterprise systems, including high data volumes, real-time analysis and global operations. Through their partnership, Microsoft and the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team seek to demonstrate how enterprise technology can support performance at the highest level of competition.

“This partnership puts Microsoft’s cloud and enterprise AI technologies at the heart of racing performance, where milliseconds matter and data determines outcomes,” said Judson Althoff, CEO, Microsoft commercial business. “Together with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team, we are harnessing data and turning it into real-time intelligence that powers faster decisions, smarter strategies and sustained competitive advantage – both on and off the track.”

Data collection

Each Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team car carries more than 400 sensors, generating over 1.1 million data points per second – from tire degradation and aerodynamic behavior to energy recovery system deployment and evolving track conditions.

Microsoft Azure and its AI capabilities will expand the team’s existing high-performance computing and data capabilities, both the factory and trackside, with scalable cloud and AI resources supporting simulation workloads, performance analysis, race strategy modeling and cross-team analytics.

Microsoft 365 and GitHub integration

Microsoft 365 and GitHub already support the team with key workflows across its sites and trackside, with expanded use of Microsoft 365 planned to further improve efficiency and innovation. Microsoft’s GitHub tools support faster engineering innovation and performance optimization, with the team set to deepen GitHub integration to streamline and accelerate development workflows.

Real-time testing and scaling

“It is a privilege to welcome Microsoft into the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team partner ecosystem,” said Richard Sanders, chief commercial officer, Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team. “Microsoft’s technology already plays a central role in how we operate as a business, and this partnership opens new opportunities to innovate as we look toward the next era of technological development. I look forward to seeing how our teams collaborate to unlock new ways of working across the organization.”

Using Microsoft Azure, the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team leveraged real-time sensor data and cloud tools to pilot intelligent virtual sensors, enabling faster testing without new on-premises infrastructure. Using Azure Kubernetes Service (AKS), the team scaled computing power up or down as needed, achieving technological advances while meeting financial and regulatory requirements.

Related news, Ford and Red Bull Racing accelerate 2026 F1 power unit development with advanced manufacturing and simulation

Led by Red Bull, Ford Racing is supporting the development of a complete F1 power unit for the 2026 season. The teams are currently fabricating highly complex components for the combustion engine, charge air system and energy recovery system, refining them in real time across their facilities in Michigan in the USA and Milton Keynes in the UK.

Simulation is key

As a newcomer to the 2026 regulations, Ford is “fighting a decades-long experience gap against established manufacturers,” according to Hertrich, who also emphasized the importance of reducing development cycle times.

To bridge the gap, simulation plays a vital role. Kevin Ruybal, a simulation engineer at Ford Racing, developed a controls model in collaboration with Red Bull in Milton Keynes. Running 1,000 times faster than real time, the model has become the partnership’s primary tool for controls and calibration, allowing drivers to experience the engine’s behavior in the simulator and provide feedback before the physical hardware is built.

This digital intelligence extends into battery energy management. Engineers from Ford are collaborating with Red Bull at the Red Bull Ford Powertrains HQ in Milton Keynes to optimize the deployment of electric power alongside combustion power. “We have developed a sophisticated tool using dynamic programming that effectively acts as a real-time strategist, advising the system on exactly when to dump or save energy to find the fastest way around the track, including energy calibration and driveability,” said Hertrich.

“The heat management strategies and state-of-charge calculations we are refining for the 2026 grid are the same building blocks that will eventually allow a future electric Ford truck to tow further and charge faster,” he continued. “We are using the world’s most innovative laboratory to ensure our customers get the innovation they deserve.

“The road to March 2026 is a massive undertaking, but seeing our embedded engineers working seamlessly in Milton Keynes proves what is possible when two world-class teams unite. We are working night and day to be ready. F1 is the ultimate proving ground, and the Blue Oval and the Red Bull Powertrains teams are ready for the challenge.”

In related news, Toyota Gazoo Racing unveils GR GT and GR GT3

From the earliest concept stage, development followed a one-team approach led by Toyota Motor Company (TMC) chairman Akio Toyoda. Professional drivers Tatsuya Kataoka, Hiroaki Ishiura and Naoya Gamou, along with gentleman driver Daisuke Toyoda and in-house evaluation drivers, worked closely alongside engineers throughout the process.

The cars are positioned as modern flagships built on the legacy of the Toyota 2000GT and Lexus LFA. One of the aims of their development is to preserve and pass on Toyota’s principles of car making to the next generation of engineers. The project brought together LFA development veterans and younger engineers, introduced Toyota-first technologies to boost performance, and embraced a range of unprecedented engineering challenges.

Three key elements of the GR GT

The GR GT was conceived as a road-legal race car, designed with a driver-first philosophy to deliver exceptional performance and a strong sense of car-driver unity. It features a hybrid powertrain combining a newly developed 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine with a single electric motor, targeting over 650PS and 850Nm of torque.

Development focused on three key elements: a low center of gravity, lightweight yet rigid construction and optimized aerodynamics.

Development of the GR GT focused on achieving an exceptionally low center of gravity by lowering both the overall vehicle height and the driver’s seating position. A front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout was chosen for precise handling. Heavy components, including the 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo engine with dry-sump lubrication and rear-mounted transaxle, were optimally positioned to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity. The driver’s position was tuned so that the driver’s and car’s centers of gravity align, reportedly enhancing unity and handling.

The GR GT features Toyota’s first all-aluminum body frame. Additionally, the company says that appropriate use of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP), plastic and other materials in the body panels has resulted in a strong yet light body.

In pursuit of aerodynamic performance, exterior styling involved a process that was new to Toyota. Although the company usually turns its attention to aerodynamics only after  the exterior styling is finalized, the ideal aerodynamic performance of the GR GT was established first, followed by consideration of exterior styling. Aerodynamics engineers and exterior designers worked together to achieve styling that pursues aerodynamic and cooling performance.

Developing the GT and FIA GT3-spec race car

The GR GT3 also features a low center of gravity, low weight with high rigidity and excellent aerodynamic performance. It also meets the specifications of the Federation Internationale d’Automobile (FIA) GT3, which is the top category of production-vehicle-based customer motorsports.

In developing the GR GT and GR GT3, TGR used a range of methodologies informed by its motorsports experience, including vehicle research and development using a driving simulator. By introducing a simulator early in the process, engineers were able to efficiently refine the fundamental characteristics of the cars from the outset.

Alongside simulator-based development, extensive real-world testing was carried out not only on proving grounds such as Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama but also at circuits around the world, including Fuji Speedway and the Nürburgring. These tests allowed TGR to verify high-limit performance and long-term durability. GR GT testing was also conducted on public roads to ensure the vehicle delivers exhilaration, intuitive handling and confidence in everyday driving.

Four-liter, V8 twin-turbo engine + rear transaxle

The GR GT’s 4-liter, V8 twin-turbo engine, which is TMC’s first to be fitted in a production vehicle, is based on a thoroughly compact and light design concept. With a bore and stroke of 87.5 x 83.1, the engine’s short stroke reduces overall engine height, while its hot-V configuration positions one turbo in each engine bank. The engine also features dry-sump lubrication and an oil pan that is thinner than usual.

The engine’s power is transmitted to the rear transaxle via a CFRP torque tube. In addition to a motor-generator, the transaxle integrates a newly developed 8-speed automatic transmission, which uses a wet-start clutch in place of a torque converter, and a mechanical limited-slip differential.

The development targets call for a maximum system output of at least 650PS and a maximum system torque of at least 850Nm. In addition, using a rear transaxle and strategically positioning the drive battery, fuel tank and other heavy components has achieved a 45:55 front-to-rear weight distribution, enhancing the vehicle’s handling stability and responsiveness.

Development of the powertrain involved advancing studies through the use of race development driving simulators and system benches onto which entire powertrain systems could be mounted. Consideration was also given to thermal management, mounting position and serviceability.

In related news, next-gen Tatuus T-326 Formula Regional European Championship car debuts at Monza

The vehicle – which is subject to FIA homologation – has been built to the latest FIA specifications and delivers “a major step forward in terms of performance, aerodynamics and safety”, Formula Regional said in a statement. Its development followed extensive research and development by the FIA’s technical and safety department and incorporates significant updates by the FIA’s aerodynamicists in line with the design philosophy developed for the FIA Formula 1 World Championship.

Formula Regoinal has, since 2019, occupied an important position in the global single-seater pyramid, sitting between the national FIA-certified Formula 4 championships and international competitions such as FIA Formula 3.

While FR will continue to be a worldwide platform, with championships run across the Americas, MENA and Asia-Pacific regions, the latest developments will see the European Championship obtain full FIA Championship status from 2026 – organized and promoted by ACI with technical and sporting governance from the FIA. Combined with the introduction of the latest car, it aims to create a more direct stepping stone for those drivers who have proven themselves in junior categories to target the international FIA Formula 3 Championship.

FIA single-seater committee president Emanuele Pirro said, “The new Formula Regional car hits all the objectives we have set for this level of single-seater racing. The car will be more raceable with new aerodynamics and longer-life tires, while also being faster and safer – this is a really amazing achievement thanks to the work of the FIA. I’d also like to thank ACI and Tatuus for their commitment to this next phase for the European Championship – we are making this platform essential for any young racing drivers looking to progress to international competition.”

Technical specifications

The next-generation chassis complies with the highest FIA safety standards, featuring reinforced structures and updated components such as redesigned front and rear crash boxes, anti-intrusion panels and a revised roll-over protection system. Inside the cockpit, the ergonomic configuration has been optimized to ensure a comfortable driving position suitable for a wide range of drivers, improving visibility, comfort and overall driving experience.

The car on display in Monza has recently undergone aerodynamic testing at the Catesby Tunnel facility in the UK, where the ultra-efficient concept derived from top-level single-seater categories was verified using some of the latest industry technologies. This included a particle image velocimetry system from LaVision, which collected images at 300Hz and processed them to generate a 3D visualization of the wake and turbulent structures.

The car will feature increased overall downforce and a reduced wake effect, improving overtaking opportunities and on-track racing quality. Combined with a new three-cylinder ATM163T engine, developed by Autotecnica Motori and derived from the Toyota G16E unit, FREC in 2026 will feature the category’s most efficient car ever, meeting the FIA’s ambitious targets for sustainability through technological innovation.

General Tullio Del Sette, extraordinary commissioner of ACI, added, “The collaboration between Tatuus, Autotecnica Motori, Pirelli and other Italian partners is tangible proof of a system that works and continues to grow. Seeing a championship promoted and organized by ACI Sport, adopting a chassis entirely developed and built in Italy, is a source of great pride and confidence in the future. With the FIA Formula Regional European Championship, we are entering a new phase of consolidation of Italy’s leadership in motorsport and of ACI’s role on the international stage.”

Tatuus and ATM CEO Giovanni Delfino, said, “Tatuus and ATM have been part of the FIA Formula Regional story since day one. We are proud to continue this journey through a car that reflects our group’s technical synergy and engineering capabilities, representing a tangible step forward. Just like the T-318 was the launchpad for many world class drivers, we are confident the new Tatuus T-326 will be the training ground for tomorrow’s racing stars.”

In related news, Yangwang U9 Xtreme sets Nürburgring electric hypercar record

Yangwang ‘s engineering team has been conducting long-term testing at the 20.832km Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit since July 2024 – and the extensive on-track data gleaned from this process has been fed into the development of the U9 Xtreme.

Yangwang’s U9X lapped the Nürburgring in 6 mins 59.157 seconds – slicing more than five seconds off the previous record time in the Electric Super Sports Cars class and becoming the first such vehicle to dip under the seven-minute barrier.

BYD executive vice president Stella Li said, “We are dedicated to pushing the limits of what can be achieved through technology, and the Nürburgring is such a legendary challenge for cars and drivers that it is only natural for our engineers to pursue their dreams there.

“I congratulate the entire team on this phenomenal achievement. The limited-edition U9 Xtreme has proven that it is not only the world’s fastest car in a straight line, but also a vehicle with the performance and dynamic qualities necessary to break lap records on a circuit with a wide variety of corners.”

Driver Moritz Kranz commented, “The Nürburgring Nordschleife is the most demanding track, and our lap time is a testament to the development skills of BYD and Yangwang. Without their intense work to balance a high-powered EV platform with the difficult demands of the chassis set-up, this great lap time would not have been possible.”

The U9 Xtreme is built on a 1200V ultra-high-voltage platform and equipped with four high-performance motors, each capable of 30,000rpm. The car delivers a total output of over 3,000ps, delivering a power-to-weight ratio of 1,217ps per metric ton.

To conquer the classic Nürburgring circuit – known for its steep elevation changes and demanding corners – the U9 Xtreme had a completely redesigned cooling system, a new titanium-alloy carbon-ceramic braking system and GitiSport e·GTR² Pro semi-slick tires, co-developed with Giti.

In related news, KTM Factory Racing fires next-gen MotoGP engine for the first time