Mercedes-AMG is developing a next-generation GT Black Series targeted for a 2027 debut and 2028 customer delivery. According to Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius, the project is tied closely to AMG’s next-generation GT3 racing programme to maximize weight reduction, aerodynamic performance, and track capability.
Engineering the Next Track Weapon
The upcoming Black Series represents the sharpest edge of the current AMG platform. Rather than relying solely on power output increases from the standard GT 63 formula, engineers are developing the vehicle in parallel with next-generation GT3 motorsport hardware. The Track Sport concept has already established the development direction, emphasizing reduced mass and aggressive aerodynamic downforce.
This motorsport-first development mirrors the engineering approach used for the AMG One. By designing the road car alongside the racing variant, Affalterbach’s development teams can optimize component sharing and structural rigidity without making compromises for casual luxury touring. Toyota’s GR GT emerges as a primary competitor in this rare segment of road-legal supercars derived directly from GT3 racing platforms.
The Case for the Flat-Plane-Crank V8
At the center of the project is a highly developed variant of the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine. While traditional AMG engines utilize a cross-plane crankshaft with a 90-degree angle offset for low-end torque and smoothness, the previous Black Series shifted to a flat-plane crankshaft. This 180-degree offset layout alters the firing order to 1-8-2-7-4-5-3-6, optimizing gas flow dynamics and throttle response.
The previous-generation AMG GT Black Series extracted 730 hp (537 kW) and 800 Nm of torque from this architecture, hitting 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds. While official specifications for the upcoming model remain unreleased, Källenius indicates that it will comfortably eclipse the 603 hp (450 kW) and 850 Nm produced by the current AMG GT 63 Pro.
- Target Debut: 2027 (Customer deliveries in 2028)
- Current Benchmark: AMG GT 63 Pro (603 hp / 850 Nm)
- Previous Black Series Output: 730 hp / 800 Nm
- Engine Architecture: Flat-plane-crank twin-turbo V8
Combustion Strategy and Battery Mass
While the broader automotive industry accelerates toward electrification, Mercedes is maintaining a distinct combustion strategy for its core performance line. Källenius confirmed that internal combustion engines remain critical for high-performance sports cars. Avoiding plug-in hybrid hardware in certain models prevents the addition of heavy battery mass, protecting the agile handling and lightweight dynamics required for dedicated track cars.
This commitment ensures that purists seeking traditional V8 acoustics, lower vehicle curb weight, and mechanical simplicity will find an uncompromised option at the top of the AMG hierarchy. As development continues toward the 2027 unveiling, Affalterbach aims to deliver an uncompromising machine that satisfies both engineering benchmarks and enthusiast expectations.
