Mercedes is planning to expand its customer motorsport programme with a race car based on its CLA 45 AMG. The Mercedes CLA 45 AMG Racing Series concept will make its first public appearance at next week’s Frankfurt motor show.
The production version of the car will be eligible for a number of four-cylinder race series. As such engine output and transmission systems can vary. The car could be offered with two- or four-wheel drive.
AMG says the concept demonstrates its desire to increase its customer motorsport presence. AMG boss, Ola Källenius said: "The tremendous success of the SLS AMG GT3, which is now being raced by customer teams across five different continents, makes us highly confident."
The Mercedes CLA 45 AMG Racing Series concept has a wider track than the standard road car, and feature fully adjustable suspension. A “high-performance” braking system with ABS is fitted.
The front and rear aprons, flared wings and sill extensions are constructed from carbonfibre reinforced plastic. The carbonfibre rear wings have functional brake cooling vents and the front splitter and rear diffuser are adjustable for optimum downforce.
A roll-cage, Recaro seats prepared for the Head and Neck Support system and an integrated fire extinguisher are among the interior modifications.
Click here for more Frankfurt motor show news.
Join the debate
Add your comment
Eligibility
"The production version of the car will be eligible for a number of four-cylinder race series."
Yet, they don't specify any. I think the only place a racecar like this would sell is to VLN competitors, I highly doubt it's eligible for any touring car series because 1) it doesn't seem comply to with any current rules packages and 2) you don't have customer touring car programmes without a factory programme primarily running the cars.
Merc's master class
Agree with comments above - while the standard A-Class Saloon doesn't inspire awe due to an overly contrived rear - this thing looks no less than epic!
Agreed
Boost to 400 hp and lighten it a bit and those wider arches and we could indeed have a true Black Series.
Why have we not seen a true measured road test of this or the A45?