It is being reported by a company insider that Mercedes-AMG is readying a potential bid to buy Italian motorcycle maker MV Augusta.
Having lost Ducati to Audi in 2012, despite having a deep relationship with the Bologna-based bike brand, Mercedes-AMG is now looking at a deal to snap up Italy’s other member of red-painted motorcycling royalty.
MV Augusta has been sold a number of times over the past two decades: to Cagiva in 1999; to Lotus parent Proton in 2004; to a finance company in 2005; to Harley Davidson in 2008; and then finally to Claudio Castiglione, the architect of Ducati’s great renaissance, in 2010.
Castiglione died a year later, but not before he had sketched out a plan to revive the once-great Italian marque. His holding company now owns and runs the MV Augusta.
No details of the deal have yet been given, but AMG executives tell us they are already deep into exploring the possibilities of a tie-up.
The AMG tie-up with Ducati was scheduled to deliver co-branded motorcycles in a bid to extend the brand into a younger audience – and boost AMG’s green credentials.
The degree of certainty of the AMG MV Augusta deal has been increased by the presence of Investindustrial, a private equity fund, in other Mercedes-AMG business.
The fund, which is owned by the Bonomi family, was the owner of Ducati prior to the sale to Audi. It also owns a 37.5 per cent in Aston Martin, who AMG is working closely with supplying engines and electrical systems for the next-generation AM models.
So the two groups know each other well and have mutual interests. Maybe including MV Augusta in the not-too-distant future…
Via: Top Gear
The F 300 Life Jet was introduced in 1997 at theFrankfurt International Motor Show as a concept that combined the safety and comfort of a car with the feel and cornering dynamics of a motorcycle.
Mercedes’ F 300 Life Jet had a four-stroke spark-ignition engine, four cylinders with 1.6 litres displacement and 75 kW (102 hp). It had rear-wheel drive and an electrohydraulically controlled five-speed manual transmission that featured sequential gear changing.
Technical highlights of the F 300 Life Jet included:
The development of the F 300 Life Jet was initiated by a specific question: how can one combine the feel and cornering dynamics of a motorcycle with the safety and comfort of a car?
Motorcyclists enjoy the freedoms of their vehicles, they lean into bends, sense the power of the engine and the agility, feel at one with the elements and enjoy pure motoring pleasure – all features which the F 300 Life Jet also affords. Over and above this, it offers the advantages of a car, with three wheels, stability is better than on two. The top can be closed, and seat belts are incorporated. The motoring experience can be shared with a second person inside the vehicle, unimpeded by protective clothing, helmet and wind noise. Air conditioning makes for pleasant temperatures.
Bodywork leaning into bends
Until the development of Active Tilt Control (ATC), nobody had successfully designed a three-wheeler vehicle that featured cornering tilt technology. ATC comprises a complex electronic system that calculates the tilt angle in relation to the vehicle’s speed, acceleration, steering angle and yaw behaviour, so that at all times the body angle corresponds with the actual driving situation.
The commands of the electronics are transmitted to a hydraulic cylinder on the front axle. Depending on steering angle, it presses one of the two spring struts outwards so that wheel and body go into the tilt angle figured out by the computer. The maximum angle of inclination is 30 degrees. Special tyres which permit large camber and slip angles were specially developed in cooperation with a tire manufacturer. The rims of the F 300 Life Jet are made of magnesium and tip the scales at only about 75 percent of what a conventional aluminium motorcycle rim would weigh.
Lightweight chassis made of aluminium
The chassis of the two-seater is an aluminium construction weighing just 89 kilograms. The bodywork styling is oriented to jet design. It is as long as your standard car, but not as wide – a prerequisite for leaning into bends. The F 300 Life Jet has room for two persons seated one behind the other. The special features of the body include an upward-opening space-saving hinged door for the driver, a hinged door which swings to the rear for the passenger, and a fixed two-part roof made of aluminium and transparent plastic. In good weather the two halves of the roof can be removed in a jiffy and deposited in a stowage compartment aft of the rear wheel, converting the F 300 Life Jet into an open roadster.
The illumination engineering is in keeping with the unusual vehicle concept. The headlight has three reflector sections and two bulbs. The electronics of the headlight ensure the best possible roadway illumination also in bends: they are linked to the computer of the Active Tilt Control and turn the headlight to conform to the body tilt; when required they also cut in a special cornering light. This increases the range of the low-beam headlight by more than 80 percent. A light sensor controls the beam: the light comes on automatically at dusk or when the vehicle enters a tunnel. Neon lamps are used for the turn signals, stoplights and marker lights. The slender tubes are accommodated in the fenders.
Transmission with sequential gearshift
The engine – a 1.6 litre unit from the Mercedes-Benz A-Class – and the electro-hydraulically shifted transmission (shift-by-wire) are installed in a space-saving position between the interior and the rear wheel. Power is transmitted via toothed belt to the rear wheel. 75 kW (102 hp) are good for accelerating from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.7 seconds and attaining a top speed of 211 km/h (131 mph). Consumption is around 5.3 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres (44.3 mpg). The gears are changed by a light forward and backward motion of the shift lever on the right side of the cockpit after stepping on the clutch pedal. This technique is known as “sequential gearshift”. It enables particularly rapid shifting and underscores the dynamic character of the F 300 Life Jet.
The cockpit of the F 300 Life Jet is reminiscent of that of an aeroplane. Steering wheel, gauges, shift lever and seats have jet plane character and give the driver the impression that he or she has just taken a seat in the cockpit of an airplane. The segmented steering wheel is also an active element of the “control centre”. Buttons for operating the car radio and phone are integrated in the side sections of its impact surface so that drivers do not have to take their hands off the steering wheel.
From the computer into the world of research
The F 300 Life Jet was the first research vehicle to have been designed entirely on the computer and then brought to life. It served not only to test new vehicle equipment but also a design tool called CASCaDE (Computer-Aided Simulation of Car, Driver and Environment), developed by Daimler-Benz. Very early on, the computer was able to supply information on the drivability of the F 300 Life Jet by means of simulation.
The company opts for out-of-the-ordinary approaches where these serve to advance the automobile and mobility – as demonstrated by the F 300 Life Jet. It may possibly establish a new type of vehicle combining everything that modern people want for perfect enjoyment on wheels: the fresh-air feeling of a convertible, the individuality of a roadster, the performance of a sports car, the comfort of a compact car, and the safety of a Mercedes-Benz.
Mercedes-AMG and Ducati will be putting in a joint appearance at the Bologna Motor Show (December 3-11, 2011): the new SLK 55 AMG and the new Ducati Streetfighter 848 – both finished in “Streetfighter yellow” – are to go on show to the public at the north Italian motor show in a move set to underscore the importance of the cooperation entered into by Mercedes-AMG and Ducati one year ago.
Inspired by the Ducati Streetfighter 848, the “streetfighter yellow” color of the SLK 55 AMG ensures an exciting appearance from all angles: the exceptional paint finish is guaranteed to provide a high level of appeal. If there is sufficient demand, the special colour variant could also be made available as an individual optional extra from the AMG Performance Studio. The overall look is also perfectly complemented by the interior of the SLK 55 AMG: the contrasting yellow stitching creates a striking effect against the black nappa leather appointments, and is to be found on the door centre panels, beltlines, armrests, leather-covered roll-over bars, dashboard, the shift lever gaiter and also the AMG Performance steering wheel. Yellow illuminated AMG door sill panels featuring LED technology round off the striking effect of the interior.
The portfolio of the AMG Performance Studio ranges from special paintwork and leather appointments, through to technical solutions and extensive body modifications. The stylish vehicle upgrades are undertaken to a high level of hand-crafted perfection in accordance with individual customer requirements, while at the same time also meeting the highest safety and quality standards typical of Mercedes-Benz.
SLK 55 AMG: the most powerful SLK of all time
The Mercedes-Benz SLK 55 AMG and the Ducati Streetfighter 848 complement each other not only visually but also technically. Both models are the perfect embodiment of distinctive driving dynamics, expressive design and intense driving pleasure.
The SLK 55 AMG is the most powerful SLK of all time. Its newly developed AMG 5.5-litre naturally aspirated V8 engine with cylinder shut-off system combines ultimate performance with the lowest possible consumption levels. With a maximum output of 310 kW (422 hp) and maximum toque of 540 Nm, the SLK 55 AMG outperforms all of its direct competitors. Its fuel consumption of 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined) and CO2 emissions of 195 grams per kilometre are some 30 percent lower than those of its predecessor. The SLK 55 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds, and reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). High levels of driving dynamics are ensured thanks to the AMG sports suspension with Direct-Steer system, Torque Vectoring Brakes and 3-stage ESP®, as well as the AMG high-performance braking system.
Forming part of the third-generation of the SLK, the new top-of-the range AMG model already demonstrates its individuality even at first glance: distinctive AMG light-alloy wheels, specific AMG bodystyling with AMG spoiler lip and two chrome-plated twin tailpipes at the rear complement the classic roadster proportions, while adding a markedly athletic touch. The expressive design of the SLK 55 AMG is both eye-catching and unmistakable.
Ducati Streetfighter 848: superior competitor – ultimate fighter
The new Ducati Streetfighter 848 provides unbridled biking pleasure in its purest form, while combining innovative technology with an outstanding appearance: a revised 848 Testastretta 11° engine with 97 kW (132 hp) and an exciting 93.5 Nm of torque as well as a modified frame geometry help to guarantee safe, agile handling. This is supported by the smooth, easy-to-manage power delivery of the engine, revised ergonomics and a specially tuned traction control (DTC) system. The features of the new Streetfighter are rounded off in visual terms by the unique Ducati styling. The Streetfighter 848 is guaranteed to cause a sensation, whether on the road or on the race track.
It was no surprise therefore when, true to its name, the Ducati Streetfighter scored an immediate knock-out on entering the ring for the first time at the EICMA show in 2008 in Milan. The impression which it left among the international press and public on its first appearance meant it was not only able to win the show’s “Most Beautiful Bike” award, but it also raised the bar for powerful naked bikes even higher by becoming the new benchmark on the market.
In addition to the colour variant in traditional red with red frame, the new Streetfighter 848 is also available in yellow with frame in Racing Black. The Dark Stealth colour variant, meanwhile, with frame in Racing Black underscores the fierce attitude of the Streetfighter. With the exciting new Streetfighter 848, Ducati has succeeded in combining state-of-the-art technology and skeletal styling in a contemporary design.
The cooperation agreement between AMG and Ducati was signed in November 2010
Visible signs of the cooperation agreement between Mercedes-AMG and Ducati, which was signed at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2010, include various marketing activities as well as joint appearances at shows and customer events. In the AMG core markets of the US, China, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Australia, Great Britain and Switzerland, the announcement of the cooperation was very soon followed by the establishment of close links at market level.
The first result of the intensive exchange of ideas between the designers and engineers from Affalterbach and Bologna was the joint presentation of the CLS 63 AMG and the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt am Main.
AMG has been the “Official Car Partner” of the Ducati MotoGP team since the start of the 2011 MotoGP season. The AMG logo appears not only on the motorcycles and racing overalls of Ducati works drivers Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi, but also on the official teamwear and in the Ducati Lounge. Furthermore, as an additional outcome of the cooperation agreement, the Ducati fleet of vehicles is being gradually switched over to Mercedes-Benz vehicles.
The base price (incl. 19% VAT): SLK 55 AMG: 72,590 euros
The 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt is host to numerous world premieres this week, and one of those premieres that can’t be overlooked is the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition. Inspired by the unmistakable design of the AMG performance brand, the Diavel AMG Special Edition is characterised by an exciting mix of exclusivity and maximum performance. The special model embodies the high standards of both brands and reflects the passion for exceptional performance as well as distinctive styling and precision. In addition to the Diavel AMG Special Edition, a CLS 63 AMG with a host of attractive components from the AMG Performance Studio is on display to highlight the visual similarities with the very special Ducati motorbike.
The Diavel AMG Special Edition is the first Ducati motorbike incorporating another company’s design elements, and as such forms part of the strategy being consistently pursued by AMG and Ducati since both brands entered into a cooperation agreement in November 2010 – namely an intensive exchange of ideas between the designers and engineers in Affalterbach and Bologna/Italy.
Based on the Ducati Diavel Carbon and its innovative design, the look of the Diavel AMG Special Edition has been further refined with attributes reminiscent of unique Mercedes-AMG high-performance cars: extraordinary forged wheels featuring a striking AMG look, aluminium air deflectors in the carbon-fibre panels on the side-mounted radiators, a newly developed sports exhaust system as well as bench seat finished in perforated Alcantara® with horizontal cross stitching are just some of the highlights of the Diavel AMG Special Edition. The frame, tank and rear bench seat cover are finished in diamond white metallic BRIGHT, the colour of the CLS 63 AMG, creating a stylish contrast to the matt, iridescent carbon fibre.
Like every Ducati, the Diavel AMG Special Edition is lavishly hand finished. A badge on the left engine block, bearing the signature of the technician who calibrated the desmodromic valve timing, pays tribute to the exclusivity afforded to each individual Diavel AMG Special Edition. Another feature of this special model is a numbered plaque on the fuel tank. The wheels, bench seat and rear silencers of the sports exhaust system also bear the AMG logo. Furthermore, each of the side air inlet ducts feature laser-engraved AMG lettering. The Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition will be available from the start of 2012.
CLS 63 AMG with components from the Performance Studio
The visual similarities between the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition and the CLS 63 AMG being presented on the Mercedes-Benz stand at the IAA International Motor Show are immediately apparent: the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package in matt finish comprises a cross strut in the front apron, exterior mirror housings, diffuser insert in the rear apron and AMG spoiler lip, forming the perfect contrast to the diamond white metallic BRIGHT paint finish. Further visual highlights include the bichromatic AMG light-alloy forged wheels featuring a 5-twin-spoke design, painted in high-gloss black with a high-sheen finish. The front axle is fitted with 255/35 R 19 tyres, while the rear comes with 285/30 R 19 tyres. Both the AMG Exterior Carbon-Fibre package in matt and the AMG light-alloy wheels are exclusive components available from the AMG Performance Studio, which also provides a host of options for enhancing the look of any CLS 63 AMG.
The cooperation agreement between AMG and Ducati was signed in November 2010
Visible signs of the cooperation agreement between Mercedes-AMG and Ducati, which was signed at the Los Angeles Motor Show in November 2010, include various marketing activities as well as joint appearances at shows and customer events. In the AMG core markets of the US, China, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Australia, Great Britain and Switzerland, the announcement of the cooperation was very soon followed by the establishment of close links at market level.
AMG has been the Official Car Partner of the Ducati MotoGP team since the start of the 2011 MotoGP season. The AMG logo appears not only on the motorcycles and racing overalls of Ducati works drivers Nicky Hayden and Valentino Rossi, but also on the official teamwear and in the Ducati Lounge. Furthermore, as an additional outcome of the cooperation agreement, all team trucks and vehicles have come from Mercedes-Benz.
Since the spring of 2011, both Nicky Hayden and Gabriele del Torchio, President and CEO of Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A., have been driving a CLS 63 AMG.
Back in November 2010, we told you that AMG and Ducati would be working closely together in future and after 9 months the fruits of their partnership will be made public. Ducati and Mercedes AMG will be introducing their Special Edition Ducati Diavel AMG at the Frankfurt Motor beginning September 15. The Diavel comes in matte black and has a number of AMG-inspired touches including carbon fiber grilles, a sport exhaust system, five-spoke wheels as well as an Alcantara seat, aluminum trim and an individually-numbered plaque.
The Ducati Diavel AMG will not be launched until early next year though orders can be made as soon as the motorcycle makes its Frankfurt debut.
Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition Official Release
Ducati and Mercedes AMG have proudly announced that the first public showing of the Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition will be at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany from 15-25 September. The 2012 flagship model of the Diavel family is a tribute to the AMG luxury-sport brand and is intended for passionate connoisseurs of technology, engineering detail and exclusive style.
Based upon the Diavel Carbon, the Diavel AMG Special Edition features AMG’s signature 5-spoke wheel styling, carbon fiber lateral radiator grilles with aluminium trim, AMG-style sport exhaust system with engraved end-caps and AMG-style horizontally ribbed seat upholstery. The model’s incredible attention to performance detail also ensures that every engine has its Desmodromic cam-timing set by hand and authenticated with the name of the engine technician engraved on the left-side engine casing. Further underlining the model’s exclusivity, each motorcycle will have a numbered plaque on the fuel tank.
The award-winning Ducati Diavel has had massive first-year success for the Italian motorcycle manufacturer, its bold design merging the worlds of power and style with absolute precision to set a new industry standard for the segment.
Hand-built – as with all Ducati motorcycles – the exclusive new Diavel AMG Special Edition is dressed in matte black carbon fibre bodywork with AMG’s very own “Diamond White Bright” stripe and frame colour contrasted with black wheels. The special edition wheels, seat and exhaust end-caps are all AMG branded while “AMG” is also laser-engraved into the air-duct panels either side of the fuel tank. The Ducati Diavel AMG Special Edition and dedicated leather jacket and helmet apparel will be available in early 2012 with orders opening to coincide with the first public showing at the Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany.
While the Mercedes AMG and Cigarette Racing Team alliance began based on the dedication to performance and perfection of these two luxury brands share, that synergy has now extended to another stellar performance brand, Ducati. “The Ménage of Motorsports,” a dynamic display of performance boats and two and four-wheeled vehicles, will be seen at the 2011 Miami International Boat Show, in Cigarette’s Booth B-23. The Ménage of Motorsports-the three luxury brands of Cigarette, Mercedes AMG and Ducati, are also partners on the AMG for members only “Private Lounge” website.
In the motorcycle industry, the name Ducati means performance and is one of the most sought-after name brands. As Germany is respected for its fine automobiles, Italy has earned admiration for creating the ultimate motorcycle for leisure and racing. Several Ducati bikes will be on display, including a Diavel, the 1198 SP, Multistrada and the Monster 1100 EVO. The Ducati brand completes the motorsports trifecta, adding two-wheeled power to the winning performance mix.
The new Cigarette 42X Ducati Edition, customized with Ducati’s signature white with a bold red stripe, is on display at the Cigarette booth and will feature another new addition to the Penchant for Performance. Mercury Racing has again added an engine to its line to accommodate every performance boater’s need-and selected Cigarette to make the debut. “Mercury Racing knows that Cigarette will put our time, effort and expertise behind its newest ventures,” says Skip Braver, president and CEO, who has taken Cigarette to new heights under his 9-years of ownership. “As we have with each new engine, our teams have worked together to validate the performance, ensuring that not only Cigarette customers, but all of Mercury Racing’s customers, benefit from the joint effort,” he adds. The new engine boasts 1,100 HP and #6 drives, representing a bridge between the SCi engines and the 1350 HP QVC4V engines that made their debut at the 2010 Miami Boat Show in the Inspired by AMG 46′ Cigarette.
The Ducati boat will also feature a new venture in sound as Cigarette teams with JL Audio. This purpose-built, updated sound system was designed specifically for Cigarette and includes digital amplifiers, time-aligned tweeters and a specially designed “bass array” subwoofer system. The new sound stage will enhance the listening experience, providing immersion rather than blaring onboard music. JL has tested and engineered the new efficient and attractive set up for Cigarette and its American-made design complements the American-made boat.
“As the three brands of Cigarette, Mercedes AMG and Ducati have joined forces, we find a synergy uniting us,” Braver states “It’s not just about going fast, it’s about how we design, build and create value and loyalty in our brands,” he adds.
In addition to the Cigarette array of powerboats and Ducati bikes, a special feature, a Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT-3 Race Car was flown in from Germany to supplement Cigarette’s salute to motorsports. This racing version of the SLS AMG gull-wing was created specifically for motorsports–for customers who compete in sprint or long-distance races. Its aerodynamic design lines and a 6-speed racing transmission with shift paddles provide the performance and success on the track that verifies AMG’s commitment to motorsports since its introduction in 1967.
“The Evolution of Cigarette” adds to the show display as Miami dealer, Phil Lipschutz of Lip-ship Performance, a National and World Title holder in the American Power Boat Association (APBA) displays two boats depicting his particular Penchant for Performance–a matching nostalgic 20′ and a new 50′ Marauder model. The Marauder is the largest Cigarette in the model line and though the 20′ is no longer built, it represents the smallest of the line to date. “It just shows that when it’s a Cigarette, size doesn’t matter!” says Skip Braver, President and CEO.
The 50′ Marauder is Lipschutz’ “Poker Run Edition” and was built with a new deck to enhance the aesthetic style of the boat. Though a minor change, the modification of the deck demonstrates Cigarette’s on-going effort to tweak and perfect each of its models. The Marauder is also the first 50′ Cigarette with 1350 HP SVC4V engines. The set up and balance of the new engines was highly optimized in this debut edition.
The 39 Top Fish center console adds another dimension to Cigarette’s powerboat lineup. This high-performance Cigarette was designed as a lifestyle offering, combining top-power with the convenience and ease of a center console. The 2011 model will sport a new fiberglass T-top that provides more sun coverage, aerodynamics and integrated LED lights. Triple Mercury Verado 300 engines power the boat which with 418 gallon fuel tanks, offers range, ensuring you get to your destination quickly-whether it’s your favorite fishing spot or a day of fun with friends and family. Added features of this performance recreational boat are a large stand-up head and shower, an additional transom shower, 40 gallons of fresh water, finished hatches-inside and out, and fully customized Cigarette options like painted hull, billet trim, storage, live wells, coolers, upholstery and embroidery. The Top Fish, available in both cuddy cabin and open-bow configurations, enjoys popularity not only domestically, but in the Middle Eastern and European markets.
Other Cigarette models on display will include a 46′ Rider with Mercury Racing 1350 engines and the M8 drive and the ever-popular 39 Top Gun Unlimited with Mercury Racing 700 SCi engines and #6 drives.
Cigarette’s dedication to personalization will also be demonstrated in the Cigarette Exclusive Design Studio set up in the booth for customers planning to build their new Cigarette. The “If you’ve seen one, you’ve seen one” slogan applies since each Cigarette is built to order with no two boats exactly alike. “All of our customers have their own preferences for color, style, logos and personalization,” says Braver, “We cater to that desire to customize by providing a wide range of options from paint, upholstery and embroidery to custom accessories and instrumentation. Your Cigarette is truly your creation and now we have a vibrant new palette of custom colors from Spies Hecker from which to choose as well,” he adds.
Cigarette will continue its focus on technology and product updates. “We listen to what our customers want and deliver a model range that fits every boating lifestyle,” says Braver, “If you are a boater, you will enjoy boating even more in a Cigarette. If you’re not a boater, Cigarette will make you want to be!”
AMG and Ducati will work together closely in future. The initial aim of the cooperation between the performance brand from Affalterbach and the Italian manufacturer of high-performance motorcycles is to develop common marketing activities. The cooperation agreement was signed Wednesday, November 17, during a press conference at the Los Angeles Auto Show, by Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH and Gabriele del Torchio, President and CEO of Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A.
“I am very pleased that we are able to announce our strategic cooperation with Ducati today. AMG and Ducati ideally complement each other, as both companies share the same values: racing as the driving passion, and high performance plus exclusivity as the central brand messages of both AMG and Ducati. This long-term cooperation will help us to jointly access new customer groups,” said Ola Källenius, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
“I am especially proud to have AMG as one of our sponsors for the MotoGP Team. I am also very pleased that our joint marketing activities are well under way. In AMG we have found a partner who perfectly reflects our brand values of high performance, motorsport, excitement and our sense of unmistakable style and design,” said Gabriele del Torchio, President and CEO of Ducati Motor Holding S.p.A.
The first visible results of the cooperation between AMG and Ducati will be joint marketing and sponsoring activities. AMG will support the Ducati MotoGP Team as an Official Car Partner from 2011, for example. During selected AMG events, participants will be able to take test drives with Ducati motorcycles, and Ducati customers will similarly have the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the latest AMG high-performance cars at events.
Joint events are planned for the members of the AMG Private Lounge, in which more than 13,000 AMG customers worldwide are registered.
The partners are currently examining the further activities and strategic steps they might undertake together in the near future.
Ducati and AMG: racing, high performance, exclusivity
Founded in 1926, Ducati initially produced components for radios. From 1946 Ducati focused on the manufacture of motorcycles, and gained a first-class reputation in the two-wheeler sector over the subsequent decades. Today this motorcycle manufacturer based in Bologna, Italy stands for performance with cutting-edge technology, numerous motorcycle racing victories and characteristic design. The brand image ideally complements that of AMG.
AMG was founded in 1967, and is seen as a pioneer in motorsports and performance enhancement. In the following years AMG developed from a two-man operation to a company of worldwide renown. Numerous racing victories, technological tours de force born of the racetrack, unique high-performance cars and an unmistakable brand experience such as e.g. the AMG Driving Academy have come together to form a decidedly exclusive brand image.
Founded in 1999, Mercedes-AMG GmbH is an autonomous vehicle manufacturer. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Daimler AG, AMG is responsible for all development processes relating to the chassis, engine, suspension, brakes, electronics, aerodynamics, interior and design, right up to final approval of the complete AMG car. Mercedes-AMG GmbH also manages all marketing and sales related aspects in its own right.
The SLS AMG as a masterpiece in AMG’s history
The SLS AMG presented in 2009 is an automotive masterpiece from Mercedes-AMG GmbH. As the first automobile independently developed by the company, the super-sports car is the highlight in AMG’s more than 40-year history. It not only takes AMG into a new era, but also demonstrates development expertise of the very highest order.
AMG’s special focus is on the heart of any automobile, namely the engine. The company’s core expertise in developing and producing powerful engines has been assiduously perfected right from the start. In the ultra-modern AMG engine shop, highly qualified specialists follow the traditional “One man – one engine” philosophy to produce high-performance AMG V8 and V12 engines to the highest quality standards.