REPORT: Mercedes-Benz Pondering Formula 1 Exit

As Formula 1 prepares to be listed at the Singapore stock exchange beginning with July, Mercedes-Benz is considering a possible withdrawal at the end of the season. Apart from the discretionary Concorde Agreement, the Germans will be intentionately skipped from the big table when the major teams will get to appoint directors the moment F1 shares are traded at Singapore. The Star brand is currently conducting an impact study to measure the eventual losses this remission from motorsporting activities would bring to the company. A possible exit would immediately affect the rating of Formula 1, with the value of the stock market floatation dropping by 20%, specialists predict. No matter the decision, F1 without Mercedes-Benz would certainly look incomplete. However, in the event of an official renunciation in 2012, we feel the Stuttgart-firm will likely adopt the Renault example and retain its position as powerplant supplier for several Formula 1 teams.

The S63 AMG Coupe is available with optional AMG forged light-alloy wheels. This design reduces weight while at the same time increasing strength. The lower unsprung masses result in advantages in terms of handling and spring/damper element response. Optional wheels include 10-spoke forged wheels painted in titanium grey with a polished finish - 8.5 x 20 at the front and 9.5 x 20 at the rear, with 255/40 R 20 and 285/35 R 20 tires respectively. The forged wheels feature a high-quality, screwable and fully integrated wheel bolt cover made of forged aluminium. Its shape is reminiscent of a center lock as seen in motorsport. The AMG logo is integrated into one of the ten spokes. These forged wheels are also available painted in matte black with a high-sheen rim flange. Short stopping distances and rapid deceleration are a given for the S63 AMG Coupe, which is equipped with a weight-optimized, fade-resistant AMG high- performance composite brake system.

An AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is available as an option. This design, which is more than 20 percent lighter, ensures lower unsprung masses and enhanced braking performance. The S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe also boasts exciting looks to emphasize its sporty performance: it exudes power and hallmark Mercedes-Benz sensual purity. The design is a stage for the exciting technology at the heart of the new dream car. Numerous aerodynamic elements underline the outstanding driving dynamics: the front end is dominated by the three-dimensional AMG "twin-blade" radiator grille in silver shadow (a matte silver finish). Whether in motion or stationary, distinctive AMG lettering between the twin-blade lamellas leaves no doubt: this is a high-performance model from Affalterbach. The A-wing is located below the radiator grille. This three-dimensional air-ducting element is painted in the body color, spans the entire width of the front apron and displays the stylized "A" that is a hallmark of AMG vehicles.

Large, black flics surround the outer cooling air intakes. Down below, the front splitter in silver shadow optimizes the flow of air to the cooling modules. This design feature, which is a familiar sight in motorsport, also reduces front-axle lift and enhances the vehicle's aerodynamic balance. All of the cooling air grilles exude high quality with their high-gloss-black paint finish. Keeping the A-wing and front splitter separate makes the car appear closer to the road. A similar effect is created by the AMG side sill panels with their high-quality, three-dimensional inserts in silver shadow. Together with the lower feature line, these inserts make the S63 AMG 4MATIC Coupe exude energy even when it is at a standstill. Further eye-catching features of the side design include the large AMG designed wheels. At the rear, the diffuser insert in high-gloss black also catches the eye right away. The lower trim element in silver shadow is reminiscent of the A-wing at the front and provides an effective contrast. The two chromed twin tailpipes of the AMG sport exhaust system with sport flaps are perfectly integrated into the diffuser insert.