In the prestigious setting of the Monaco Formula 1 Grand Prix, Mercedes unveiled the PureSpeed. This radical-looking show car kicks off the Mythos range, models that the manufacturer will offer in very limited series to its top customers starting in 2025. What better occasion than a Formula 1 Grand Prix to present a single-seater... two-seater? That's what the marketing minds at Mercedes-AMG must have thought, even choosing the most glamorous one, Monaco, to unveil the PureSpeed. A modern tribute to the legendary racing cars of the brand, this concept heralds the arrival of the Mythos series, an exclusive range that Mercedes intends to launch as early as 2025.

A Mercedes speedster in a very limited series

Inspired by Ferrari and its Icona models (Monza SP1/SP2 and Daytona SP3), the brand announced that it would produce the PureSpeed in a very limited series (only 250 units) for "passionate and dedicated Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and collectors." Undoubtedly, this includes the wealthiest, although the manufacturer did not mention the price. Mercedes also did not mention the engine that will power this radical roadster. One can imagine that, considering the chosen location for the presentation, it will feature a derivative of the Mercedes-AMG One's powertrain: a hybrid V6 with over 1,000 hp, directly inspired by the engines of current F1 cars.

A modern design inspired by the past

With its long, plunging hood, aggressive and intimidating "sharknose," rearward-shifted cockpit, and two mini-roll hoops behind the seats, the PureSpeed concept embraces the stylistic codes of the most mythical racing Mercedes. One immediately thinks of the 300 SLR with which Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson won the Mille Miglia in 1995. The predominantly red paint is a direct nod to the victorious Mercedes at the 1924 Targa Florio. That year, contrary to tradition, which dictated that German cars be white, the manufacturer opted for red, usually reserved for Italian race cars. This was to deceive the public and not hinder the progress of the Mercedes on Italian soil. But the PureSpeed is not just an evocation of the past; on the contrary, the roadster adopts technology befitting its time with the Halo. Mandatory on all F1 cars since 2018, this protective hoop for the driver and passenger even allowed Mercedes to forego the windshield and side windows while generating real aerodynamic gains. The occupants, thus experiencing maximum sensations, still have helmets specifically designed for the PureSpeed and optimized aerodynamically. Finally, to better channel the airflow, the rear carbon wheels feature a closed crown, while the front ones have a more open element to ensure brake cooling and generate downforce.

A concept to be produced in series from 2025

Regarding the interior, Mercedes is as discreet as it is about the mechanics. We only know that the dashboard houses a customized clock signed by IWC. And from the few photos of the interior, we can make out two enveloping bucket seats and a classic steering wheel, different from that of the Mercedes-AMG One, which features an F1 steering wheel. In any case, this concept is just a teaser, and the manufacturer has already announced that the production version will be presented in early 2025. But with only 250 units, there won't be enough for everyone. Especially if Lewis Hamilton decides to ask for one as a farewell gift (after all, this Mercedes is red).