by Despite the overall trend towards electrification, Mercedes-AMG reminds us that the V8 is still alive. The brand sparked a wave of discussion after the transformation of the C63 and the announcement of high-performance electric vehicles. However, fans can rest assured – the beloved V8 engines are not yet heading into retirement.
Fans of AMG’s signature V8s can relax, at least for a while. As stated by the division’s head, Michael Schiebe, internal combustion engines still have a future thanks to regulatory relaxations. Since the EU ban on ICEs will only come into force in 2035, and there are no clear restrictions in the US at all, the V8 will remain in production for “several more years”.
Schiebe did not specify exactly how many years the current engine will last, but it is clear that AMG is not just maintaining the status quo. The company is actively working on a new generation V8.
During a conversation with journalists, Schiebe explained that the new V8 could appear in various future models. This gave rise to speculation – from cautious to extremely optimistic – that the engine might even return in an updated version of the C63.
“We are currently in the process of developing the next generation of the V8 and see many options in our portfolio, or even in new models, where this engine could find application,” he noted.
Information about the new V8 from AMG emerged several months ago. According to sources, it will feature a flat-plane crankshaft instead of a traditional one, as well as a 48-volt mild hybrid system. This will allow for the integration of the starter into the transmission, increasing power and efficiency.
Schiebe emphasized that AMG does not plan to bet on a full hybrid version of this engine. In his opinion, there is no need to go too far in that direction, which means a more traditional development approach.
Such a strategy could extend the life of models like the AMG GT 4-Door, which were thought to be disappearing from the lineup soon. However, according to Schiebe, this might not happen so quickly.
“We’ll see how long we continue production of the GT 4-Door. Perhaps there will be a successor, but it’s too early to speculate for now,” he said.
So, while AMG’s future is undoubtedly electric, the V8 is not yet being written off. On the contrary, it seems the manufacturer is set to reinforce its commitment to traditional engines for some time to come.
