Mercedes-AMG’s exclusive presentations charm supercar VIPs, and raise automotive branding expectations in Hong Kong
Marque celebrates 50th anniversary with intimate stories, the GTC Roadster and the iconic ‘Red Giant’
Mercedes-AMG product manager Joerg Letzel stoops over the front bumper of a metallic blue Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster (HK$2.79 million) in Mercedes Me. Tall and toned in corporate black, the German engineer embodies the energy of Daimler’s supercar unit, where he has worked in various production and management roles for the past 26 years.
As part of the supercar marque’s international 50th anniversary celebrations, the father of two was in Hong Kong last weekend to discuss Mercedes-AMG’s history, philosophy and direction with seven select groups of local supercar owners.
About 40 of the city’s motoring elite have braved the rain in Central and gathered around the Roadster for Letzel’s first session at Saturday brunch time. Three Hongkongers in damp smart casual lean intently as the German reveals his encyclopaedic knowledge of the four-litre V8 Roadster (557 horsepower; 680Nm of torque at 1,900 to 5,500rpm; 100km/h in 3.7 seconds; and a top speed of 316km/h).
The expert then points to the Roadster’s aerodynamics beyond its distinctive Panamerica grille. The bar stills as Letzel explains how the grille improves the car’s air flow and stability and how a light carbon-fibre thing in the underbody uses the “Venturi effect” to suck the car to the road. The convertible was also built for hills and curves, especially with rear-steering, he says, adding: “With the top down, you can hear the beautiful sound of the AMG engine.”
Letzel also reveals how the GTC Roadster can be cooled by the opening of 14 vertical fins under the grille. An AMG devotee in tortoise-shell frames nods. Such electronics are welcome in Hong Kong’s notorious heat and humidity.
The engineer closes his hour-long presentation to warm applause. Mercedes-AMG is in overdrive in its golden anniversary year and has flattered Hong Kong by reminding its rich that they are still an important, regionally trendsetting market. Mercedes-AMG sent a range of cars, including perhaps its most precious classic, the “Red Giant” of 1971, the AMG 300 SEL 6.8.
