Mercedes introduces new AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ as F1 safety car

Mercedes is set to introduce the AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ as Formula 1's new official safety car from the Hungarian Grand Prix, replacing the outgoing AMG GT Black Series. The model represents the German manufacturer's 14th safety car and brings several technical firsts to the role, including all-wheel drive and an integrated rear-wing signaling system.

Why it matters:

As Formula 1's sole safety car supplier this season following Aston Martin's departure, Mercedes holds singular responsibility for keeping the field safe during neutralizations. The new machine must balance outright pace to maintain tire and brake temperatures for F1 cars with unflappable stability, particularly as safety car periods increasingly influence race outcomes and strategy.

The details:

• Power and drivetrain: A 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine produces 612hp and 850Nm of torque, channeled through an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission. It is the first F1 safety car to feature all-wheel drive via the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ system, paired with AMG High Performance ceramic composite brakes.
• Aero and stability: Mercedes-AMG added a new front splitter, dive planes, and a modified rear wing with an active flap specifically for F1 duty. These elements generate additional front-axle downforce to improve stability through high-speed corners.
• Visibility upgrades: An integrated signaling system built into the rear wing and supplementary LEDs are designed to enhance visibility for drivers in all conditions.
• Anniversary livery: For its debut at the Hungaroring, the car will run a one-off livery marking 30 years since Mercedes first supplied safety cars to Formula 1.

What's next:

The GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ assumes full safety car duties immediately in Hungary, with Bernd Mayländer once again behind the wheel. With Mercedes now the exclusive supplier, the new platform will be under constant evaluation to ensure it meets the demands of the current generation of F1 machinery for the remainder of the 2026 campaign.