The Aerodynamics of the New Mercedes-AMG GT R from Affalterbach
Aerodynamics engineers and designers worked together more intensively than ever during development of the new AMG GT R. The AMG design idiom of "Dynamic Presence" forms the basis for the far more expressive overall appearance and the very distinct look. Form follows function, and function supports form: All elements have an inherent technical benefit and contribute to the enhanced driving dynamics, while the aerodynamics experts have made the designers' wishes a reality.
The low-slung front section and the forwards-inclined radiator grille create a distinctive "shark nose" impression and make the car appear to sit lower on the road. At the same time, this shape lowers the vehicle's back-pressure point, enhancing the flow of cooling air and the car's aerodynamic performance.
The more V-shaped arrow-like appearance of the front end also enhances the dynamic looks, thus embodying the uninhibited forward thrust of the AMG GT R even before it moves. A front fascia featuring a completely new-look jet-wing design (based on the A-wing) emphasises the feeling of width and lends the car a more road-hugging appearance. In terms of their shape, the large outer air intakes in the front fascia are reminiscent of jet engines. They ensure that the increased cooling-air requirements of the AMG GT R drive system are met. For this reason, they sport two aerodynamically shaped horizontal fins in place of meshes and as a result route the airflow to the radiators without loss.
The wide front splitter reduces lift at the front axle. Additional Air Curtains on the outside of the front fascia calm the airflow, improving the Cd value of the AMG GT R. Thanks to their narrow, vertical openings, the Air Curtains also guide the air specifically towards the wheel arches, optimising the flow properties in this area. To ensure ideal airflow through the double wheel arch radiators, the AMG GT R additionally features new and unique wheel arch liners with special cooling-air slits.
All-new active aerodynamics profile in the underbody
A special engineering feat is the completely new active aerodynamics profile, which is concealed almost invisibly in the underbody in front of the engine. At a speed of 80 km/h in RACE mode, this carbon component, weighing only about two kilograms, automatically moves downward by about 40 millimetres and changes the airflow considerably. This process results in what is known as the Venturi effect, which additionally "sucks" the car onto the road and reduces the front-axle lift by around 40 kilograms at 250 km/h.
The driver can feel this in the steering: the AMG GT R is even more precise to steer when cornering at high speed and exhibits even better directional stability. Especially during fast cornering and under high lateral acceleration, the AMG GT R delivers far more agile response with clear steering-wheel feedback while remaining easily controllable at all times.
In addition, the drag coefficient is improved. As a result, the downforce on the rear axle remains at an unchanged high level.
This innovation was developed using computer simulation at first and then optimised during many hours in the wind tunnel. The results were confirmed in extensive test drives, including on the North Circuit of the Nurburgring. The new-look aerodynamics profile is barely visible on the underbody and thus blends in harmoniously with the overall silhouette.
When the electrically operated profile is extended, the radiator air outlet opens at the front end and precisely guides the air flow towards the double rear diffuser, which therefore also benefits from an optimal flow of air. This improves the handling stability of the rear axle while reducing the temperature level of the hotspots at the rear. At the same time, the aerodynamics package ensures optimised stopping power by routing more cold air to the wheel discs specifically. To protect against damage, the component is spring-mounted and can therefore flex upwards easily.
Louvres control the airflow: the active air management system
Another technical highlight improving the aerodynamics of the AMG GT R is the active air management system. This system has vertical louvres positioned in the lower area directly behind the front fascia. These louvres are electronically controlled and can be opened and closed in around a second by an electric motor to improve the airflow and consequently the aerodynamic performance.
The louvres are normally closed ‑ including at top speed, during braking and when cornering at high speed. This position lowers drag and makes it possible to route the air to the underbody to reduce front lift even further. Only once predefined components have reached certain temperatures and the demand for cooling air is particularly high do the louvres open and allow the maximum amount of cooling air to flow to the heat exchangers. This calls for highly intelligent and fast control.
The overall aerodynamics concept of the AMG GT R ensures an optimal balance of lift and downforce in all operating states and furthermore reduces drag compared with the AMG GT.
The rear end also features numerous, conspicuous innovations: The new aluminium side walls widen the rear of the AMG GT R by a total of 57 millimetres, creating space for the larger 20-inch wheels and the wider track. Both measures make for improved traction while allowing higher cornering speeds.
The wider design of the rear fascia with large outer vent openings and vertical swaging improves the airflow at the rear end, as does the double diffuser. The overall heat dissipation of the silencers is optimised as the warm air is exhausted by the double diffuser while driving.
A small air outlet is incorporated between the tail lamps for additional dissipation of the heat generated by the rear silencer. A further distinguishing feature of the AMG GT R is the large exhaust tip with centre spar, which is centrally positioned in the rear fascia. It is flanked by two more black exhaust tips on left and right in the diffuser.
The large rear wing is rigidly mounted on the hatch and increases the downforce on the rear axle. The aerofoil mounts are painted in vehicle colour whereas the blade is finished in high-gloss black. Depending on the type of use or racetrack conditions, the precise angle of the blade can be adjusted manually ‑ yet another technique also used in motorsport.
The result: all of the aerodynamic measures combined increase the surface contact at top speed by 155 kilograms compared with the AMG GT. The new AMG GT R therefore offers maximum grip, perfect drivability and a powerfully proportioned design that integrates the aerodynamic functions harmoniously. And there's more: despite its higher engine output, extra width, chunkier tyres, larger rear aerofoil, raised cooling-air demand and increased downforce, the AMG GT R has a lower drag coefficient (Cd) than the AMG GT.
Incidentally the AMG GT R becomes available to order on 21 November 2016, and the model then arrives at the dealerships in March 2017.
Die Aerodynamik-Maßnahmen des AMG GT R auf einen Blick #AMGGTR