Formula 1 unveiled the Mercedes‑AMG GT 63 PRO 4MATIC+ as the new safety car at the 2026 Hungarian Grand Prix, replacing the previous AMG GT Black Series.
Launch at the Hungarian Grand Prix
During the event, the series’ official vehicle took its debut on the Hungaroring, carrying a special livery to celebrate Mercedes’ 30th anniversary of providing course vehicles to the FIA.
Now the first safety car to sport fully variable all‑wheel drive, the GT 63 PRO promises superior traction and stability, especially in wet‑weather conditions, a significant advancement over the 639‑horsepower Black Series.
Technical Upgrades and Features
Under the hood, a 4.0‑litre twin‑turbocharged V8 powers the car, delivering 612 hp. The shift to all‑wheel drive emphasises cornering grip and acceleration performance, changing the dynamics of safety‑car deployments across the grid.
Inside the cockpit, Beside a conventional start button, the new machine incorporates two high‑definition screens for real‑time TV coverage, and a dedicated GPS map on the right side to provide lap times and critical metrics to teams.
Additional systems include a dual‑radio setup—main and backup—ensuring reliable communication with race control. The adjustable door handles now allow operators to activate the vehicle without manual input, streamlining urgency during cautions.
Driver Perspective and Future Outlook
Veteran driver Bernd Mayländer guided Sky Sports F1 commentator David Croft through the upgraded machinery, emphasizing the responsiveness to driver inputs. “It is spot on,” Mayländer said, noting how the all‑wheel drive system enhances stability throughout high‑speed segments.
Mayländer added that the vehicle’s features “combine the highest levels of safety with impressive sportiness and driving pleasure,” highlighting the external and internal changes that aid in precision driving during safety‑car deployments.
Looking ahead, the driver expressed enthusiasm for the first real‑world testing of the new safety car at Hungary, expecting the all‑wheel drive to unfold its benefits once wet conditions demand maximum traction.
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