Mercedes-Benz unveils alluring new concept for upcoming racing simulator

For the upcoming and highly anticipated PlayStation 3 racing game, Gran Turismo 6, Mercedes-Benz designers have developed the alluring Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo. Extreme proportions, sensual contours and intelligently implemented high technology blend to form a body that visually brings to life the breathtaking performance of the V8.

The supercar with its hallmark Mercedes gullwing doors will be taking to the virtual racetrack when the new racing game goes on sale in December 2013 - as the first of the 'Vision Gran Turismo' series of vehicles.

The concept features hallmark Mercedes proportions starting with a long hood that has a flowing transition into a compact greenhouse offset to the rear, which takes the form of an aerodynamically efficient water drop to descend slightly at the rear, where it rests on the rear end with broad shoulder contours.

The radiator grille is a reinterpretation of the wide Mercedes-Benz sports car grille with central star. Its shape is reminiscent of the legendary 300SL racing car of 1952. However, instead of classic louvres the grille of the show car features exclusively LEDs - a further development of the diamond grille introduced with the new CLA-Class.

The interior is inspired by the Formula One cockpit, as the red integral sports seats blend into the black flooring of the footwell to form a protective shell.

The dashboard also creates an equally dynamic effect. It has been designed in the form of two gullwing doors which are positioned on each side of the steering column. As a result the actual doors themselves appear to be an extension of the instrument panel.

Operation is by rocker switches in the center of the dashboard and in an overhead console, like in a jet. The steering column visibly penetrates the firewall to the engine compartment, creating a visual connection between the driver and the heart of this super sports car, the AMG V8 biturbo front-mid engine.

The lump develops 577bhp and a maximum torque of 799Nm. With an aluminium spaceframe body and components in carbon fibre, the Mercedes-Benz AMG Vision Gran Turismo tips the scales at almost 1.4 tonnes. The AMG sports exhaust system with eight tailpipes integrated into the rear end provides a powerful accompaniment whenever the car accelerates, and ensures an unrivalled motorsports sound experience.