Even though the last Black Series model was in 2014, Mercedes-->ke187AMG is far from retiring the series, although it is currently unclear which car will be the next Black. The information comes straight from Mercedes-AMG boss Tobias Moers, who recently talked about the subject with Autocar.
"The Black Series name stays," said Moers. "It will be necessary in the future, but for now the base cars are so good. The Black Series must be at the top of the hill, but I don’t know when or on what model yet." While the quote sounds like the "Black Series" name has been momentarily parked, a hardcore version of the Mercedes-AMG GT and/or the upcoming C63 Coupe shouldn't be out of the question in, say, 2017.
Until then, Mercedes-AMG engineers are busy with the development of a track-ready version of the GT, which in theory is set to mirror the Porsche 911 GT3. AMG may be already working on hybrid options for its next generation of performance cars. "We will need hybrid applications in the future and we have done research for hybrids for AMG. We can offer performance and efficiency and willl be able to find solutions." Moers said to Autocar. Despite recent rumors, a Mercedes-AMG hypercar is not part of the agenda for now, with Moers confirming that there have been internal talks, but he thinks that the brand is "not in that league" at present.
Continue reading to learn more about Mercedes-AMG's future models.
Why it matters
Traditionally, Black Series models have always been the most hardcore Mercedes-AMG cars for the road, as they mixed motorsport-like performance and looks with civilian creature comforts and drivability. Rarity is also part of their appeal, so it's no wonder that Tobias Moers is in no hurry to introduce a new Black Series model any time soon. Plus, Mercedes-AMG is already busy increasing market share with the expansion of its new "AMG Sport" sub-brand.
Recent reports suggest that both the next E-Class and models based on the compact MFA (Modular Front Architecture) platform will get AMG Sport versions, which would almost double Mercedes-AMG's annual sales in the medium term. Even though Moers also said that he's already thinking about hybrid AMGs, I wouldn't expect a production model sooner than 2020.