Latest news with #MichaelSchiebe
Auto Blog
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
Mercedes-AMG CEO Responds to the Backlash Around the C63's Four-Cylinder Engine
You can tell when fans are unhappy In recent years, loyal and passionate enthusiasts who dwell on forums, comment sections, and social media platforms have been very vocal about the changes that automakers enact on their beloved vehicles. Often, fans feel unrestrained to express their emotions and opinions when it comes to decisions that they see as controversial. No other phenomenon is just as apparent as the vocal internet enthusiast backlash surrounding the revamped Mercedes-Benz C63 S E-Performance, which swapped the 4-liter biturbo V8 for a turbocharged 2-liter inline four-cylinder with a performance-oriented plug-in hybrid system. Though it makes earth-shattering 671 horsepower and 752 pound-feet of torque, numbers on paper could only go so far. 2025 Mercedes-AMG C63 AMG CEO: We could've 'better explained' the C63 powertrain In a new interview with MotorTrend, Mercedes-AMG CEO Michael Shiebe addressed the response associated with the decision to replace the C63's brashly loud twin-turbo V8 powerplant for a turbo-hybrid four-banger in the new model. 'We probably could have better explained the technology to our customers. There are pure V-8 fans, and it's hard to convince them of this four-cylinder hybrid technology,' Schiebe told the publication, adding, 'It's my job to do a constant review of our portfolio. I'm pretty confident that we will fulfill our customers' dreams in the next two to three years.' The latest statement from the Mercedes-AMG CEO reflects similar ones in past interviews. In a July 2024 Autocar interview, Shiebe noted that some customers 'take time to really be excited for the technology,' and that 'it's important to be open-minded when it comes to technology.' Additionally, in an April 2025 interview with British CAR magazine, he admitted that some of AMG's 'very loyal customers struggle[d] a bit with the concept,' and that it 'lost some customers who are just into V-8s.' However, he felt confident that the doubt would melt away behind the wheel. Mercedes-AMG E 53 HYBRID 4MATIC+ 'We jumped far ahead with this technology, but we should have explained the technology more to our salespeople and customers,' the AMG boss told Car. 'We will continue to do that and further improve. There is a German saying, 'You never have a second chance at a first impression.' Maybe we missed out on the first impression, but if you have the opportunity, I'm sure you will be convinced of the technology.' AMG's CEO says its future models will be 'different' In the same interview, Shiebe noted that AMG's future cars will be distinctively AMG. When asked about how its future EVs would distinguish themselves among the lineup, he noted that 'There won't be such a difference between them, because all these cars need to be an AMG first and then an ICE or EV second. When you buy an AMG, you buy the performance, the emotion.' He also added that making AMG's offerings visually different than mainstream Mercedes-Benz models is as important as ever, noting that its buyers 'love the distinctive AMG look and the differentiation it brings. Our future cars will be more expressive in that dimension. If you look into the future, I would say you can expect cars that will be more visually differentiated—AMG will be doubling down on design; our design language will be more expressive.' MSCHF x AMG: Not for Automotive Use Final thoughts Ultimately, buyers buy with their wallets, regardless of the badge on the hood, grille, and trunk lid. We live in complicated times, where automakers must juggle tariffs, electrification, and emissions regulations, as well as a vocal buying public that can drop the ball at any time. I don't think the decision to use a turbo-four was entirely made in a vacuum, but if the Affalterbach boffins are aware of the feedback to their product, they would probably know by now.
Motor Trend
26-05-2025
- Automotive
- Motor Trend
What's Going On With AMG? Futuristic Sporty Mercedes Models are Coming
This much is clear: AMG makes fast cars. But what kind of fast? Is it musclebound bruisers like the G63? Luxurious tourers like the SL-Class roadster and GT hardtop? Or eco-chic hybrids like the measurably rapid yet socially maligned C63? 0:00 / 0:00 According to AMG CEO Michael Schiebe, the answer is: Yes—and soon, more. As AMG-branded F1 cars raced by at the Miami Grand Prix, we sat down with Schiebe to learn what AMG is all about these days, and what to expect from Mercedes-Benz' legendary performance division. See All 5 Photos Michael Schiebe, right, with 2024 season Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 team drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell. Committed to Combustion and Electric Power Schiebe is a busy guy. Not only is he in charge of AMG, but Maybach and the G-Class programs, as well, those being the three iconic pillars outside of Mercedes' typical passenger car business that aren't vans. Having assumed the role in 2023, Schiebe told us how many results of his leadership are yet to be seen, saying, 'Before I took over, Mercedes had already initiated a tremendous change program within AMG. It had been decided that AMG would stay on the combustion engine side, but in parallel go all in on the electric side—AMG will create our first high-performance EV. I would say I just accelerated that process.' Things have changed since we last spoke with Schiebe. When asked how AMG would position and distinguish its forthcoming EVs from its revered combustion cars, Schiebe downplayed the need. 'There won't be such a difference between them, because all these cars need to be an AMG first and then an ICE or EV second. When you buy an AMG, you buy the performance, the emotion.' Still, Schiebe knows that AMG EVs' performance must not be one-dimensional. 'Some of our customers go, for example, with their car on the weekend to the famous Nordschleife. They want to have a track-proved high-performance car. That will be true of our electric cars, too.' The Platform Following the Vision AMG high-performance EV concept's debut, details of the forthcoming all-electric vehicle platform have begun to come to light. Schiebe provided more, saying, 'Most electric cars have great acceleration, so that's not a differentiator. Some EVs lose steam if you repeat that several times. Our cars need to be capable on a racetrack, where it's constant acceleration and braking. We took our time to make sure that cars will provide continuous performance.' The first vehicles to be built on the platform will be a four-door fastback akin to the aging AMG GT, and a full-size SUV. Fast charging and thermal management are key to this track potential. Schiebe implied that the direct cooling approach for high-voltage batteries in AMG E-Performance hybrids will inform strategies for the AMG-specific battery to be built into the platform. Compact and power-dense axial flux motors are confirmed, to be provided by Yasa Ltd., a British company acquired by Mercedes-Benz in 2021. Learning From C63 AMG has much to prove with given how its current EVs so far don't do much well beyond go very quickly in a straight line. Meanwhile, its hybrids have earned inconsistent acclaim; hybridization suits the V-8-based S63's hyper-limo character but takes too much priority to satisfy the I-4-equipped C63's rowdy brief. Addressing the C63's tepid reception, Schiebe concedes, 'We probably could have better explained the technology to our customers. There are pure V-8 fans, and it's hard to convince them of this four-cylinder hybrid technology.' In a seemingly coded admission that going this route for C63 isn't working and that change is coming, Schiebe said, 'It's my job to do a constant review of our portfolio. I'm pretty confident that we will fulfill our customers' dreams in the next two to three years,' although he refused to speculate on which model AMG will bring the 'right' powertrain to. Future Exclusive AMG Models Zooming out from any specific model, AMG has taken and will continue to take a focal role at Mercedes-Benz, where future AMG models may share less and less with its parent company's cars. According to Schiebe, 'Customers love the distinctive AMG look and the differentiation it brings. Our future cars will be more expressive in that dimension. If you look into the future, I would say you can expect cars that will be more visually differentiated—AMG will be doubling down on design; our design language will be more expressive.' He continued, 'In the next two to three years, you can expect the biggest portfolio rollout of AMG cars in decades. This is why my team is under high pressure, because we have so many cars in the pipeline. In the coming years, we will just launch one after another, both on the electric side, but also on the combustion side.' Schiebe stated that 'brand shapers' will highlight those endeavors, at least one of which will likely be based on the forthcoming platform. However, Schiebe says AMG 'will invest further into small-volume special series cars that meet very specific customer demands.' Noting the gulf in price and performance between the AMG One hypercar and hardcore yet mass-production-based AMG GT Black Series, Schiebe reiterated his position that 'there is more space for small production cars' within the AMG portfolio. How those will shape up remains to be seen, but under Schiebe's direction, AMG will offer more cars, coupes, and crossovers with gas, hybrid, and electric powertrains—all built for speed and performance—than it ever has before.
ArabGT
11-05-2025
- Automotive
- ArabGT
The Return of the V8 in Mercedes-AMG Cars Proves Passion Never Fades
The automotive world never stops surprising us, but when Mercedes-AMG announces the return of Mercedes V8 engines, it's more than just a headline—it's a bold statement of emotion, heritage, and defiance against modern trends. Picture yourself in a brand-new Mercedes, the unmistakable growl of a V8 filling the cabin. It's not just sound—it's adrenaline, legacy, and a thrilling connection to the road that feels timeless. The Comeback of a Legend: V8 Power Reimagined As the industry steadily marches toward smaller engines, hybrids, and electric drivetrains in the name of efficiency and regulatory compliance, Mercedes-AMG is charting its own course. The decision to revive the V8 isn't just nostalgic—it's a calculated, passionate move that marries raw power with forward-thinking engineering. This isn't about resisting progress; it's about preserving character. The new V8, infused with modern advancements, delivers performance that's not only fierce but emotionally resonant—like a mechanical orchestra performing a high-octane symphony. In an interview with Car and Driver, AMG boss Michael Schiebe confirmed that engineers in Affalterbach are actively developing a new-generation V8. While Mercedes had initially hinted at a heavily electrified version, Michael Schiebe suggested a lighter touch may be preferable. He noted that many track-focused drivers favor the pure internal combustion experience of the GT63 Pro over the bulkier plug-in hybrid GT63 S E-Performance—even if the latter boasts superior horsepower. As others downsize, Mercedes doubles down on the V8. AMG has acknowledged the enduring global demand for eight-cylinder luxury cars and believes that fulfilling this desire is more than commercially viable—it's essential. Although the new engine is still a few years from hitting the streets, Mercedes is confident the long-term investment will pay off, especially in markets like the U.S. where emissions rules are less restrictive than in the EU, which plans to halt sales of new gasoline vehicles by 2035. Why Mercedes V8 Engines Still Matter So why has the return of Mercedes V8 engines sparked so much enthusiasm? Because they represent far more than horsepower. These engines are at the heart of AMG's identity—a symbol of prestige, emotion, and exhilarating performance. Even as electric mobility advances, many driving enthusiasts still crave that unmistakable harmony between engine sound, acceleration, and mechanical precision. Mercedes understands this duality. That's why it's committing to a diverse future: keeping V8 and even V12 engines alive in certain high-end models while continuing to innovate in the EV space. In doing so, it ensures that whether you're drawn to cutting-edge technology or the timeless thrill of a roaring engine, there will always be a Mercedes-AMG to stir your soul.
Motor 1
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Motor 1
Downsizing Be Damned. AMG's New V-8 Engine Could Power More Cars
Mercedes is adamant there's still a place in an electrified automotive world for a large-displacement engine. Despite increasingly stringent emissions regulations, the AMG performance division is hard at work preparing an all-new V-8 . Not only will it power existing eight-cylinder models, but it could also be shoehorned into cars that currently don't have as many cylinders. AMG head honcho Michael Schiebe told Car and Driver that engineers in Affalterbach are developing a new V-8. Although Mercedes previously described it as a 'next-generation, high-tech electrified V-8,' Schiebe says AMG doesn't 'necessarily need to go that far on hybridization.' He notes that track enthusiasts prefer the pure ICE experience of the GT63 Pro over the heavier plug-in hybrid GT63 S E-Performance, even if the latter delivers more oomph. Why is Mercedes betting on V-8s when just about everyone else is downsizing? AMG has realized there's still solid demand for eight-cylinder luxury cars and wants to 'fill customers' dreams.' It has run the numbers and determined that investing in a large engine will likely pay off in the long term. Schiebe emphasized the V-8 still has 'some years' ahead, even though the European Union will effectively ban sales of new gas cars starting in 2035. Beyond the 27 EU countries, however, the rest of the world, where regulations are less strict, still represents a big market. AMG cited the United States as a prime example. Although the new V-8 could see broader use, it sadly won't be returning to the C63 anytime soon. In a statement to Motor1 earlier this year, an AMG spokesperson refuted rumors of restoring the C63's missing four cylinders. A wild rumor from Germany last month even suggested that Mercedes might cancel the C63 and replace it with a six-cylinder C53. We reached out at that point for clarification, but the company declined to comment on the speculation, so take it with a grain of salt. If the V-8 C63 isn't coming back, we can only hope AMG will make things right with the upcoming CLE63 and give the high-performance coupe the engine it deserves. Lest we forget that the V-8 isn't even the biggest engine Mercedes offers. The company recently pledged to keep the mighty V-12 alive, a twin-turbo 6.0-liter powerhouse reserved for the S-Class. Well, the Pagani Utopia also uses a twelve-cylinder engine from AMG. V-8 All The Things! Spied: The New Mercedes-AMG CLE63 Sounds Like It Has a V-8 Praise Be: Mercedes-AMG Still Cooking New V-8 Cars The twelve-cylinder engine is a dying breed. BMW dropped it three years ago, and Audi hasn't sold a W-12 car since 2017. Bentley's version of the W-12 was discontinued about a year ago. Ferrari, Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce, Lamborghini, and Gordon Murray Automotive still offer V-12s, while Bugatti has gone even further, developing a bonkers V-16 . Get the best news, reviews, columns, and more delivered straight to your inbox, daily. back Sign up For more information, read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use . Source: Car and Driver Share this Story Facebook X LinkedIn Flipboard Reddit WhatsApp E-Mail Got a tip for us? Email: tips@ Join the conversation ( )
Car and Driver
06-05-2025
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
Mercedes Says Its Hi-Po EVs Need to Be an 'AMG First, EV Second'
We spoke with AMG boss Michael Schiebe about the upcoming architecture that will soon underpin two high-performance EVs. Schiebe said AMG wants the EVs to deliver the same level of feedback as its gas-powered cars, pointing to sound and repeatable performance as key factors. He also reiterated that the V-8 engine will live on at AMG and will not necessarily need to be hybridized. While Mercedes already attached the AMG name to potent versions of its existing electric cars, such as the Mercedes-AMG EQS53 sedan, the German performance brand will begin a more seismic shift when the dedicated electric architecture arrives next year. The platform will underpin two high-performance EVs, with a low-slung sedan due in 2026, shortly followed by an SUV. We spoke with AMG boss Michael Schiebe at the Miami Grand Prix to learn how the performance brand will ensure its EVs maintain the same exhilarating experience as its gas-powered cars. AMG Goes Electric "We said when we come to the market with our first high-performance electric car, it needs to be a real high-performance car," Schiebe explained. "I always say it needs to be an AMG first and an EV second." Mercedes-Benz The first car on the platform will be a high-performance sedan arriving in 2026. There isn't much known just yet about the platform, other than its use of high-voltage batteries for rapid recharging and lightweight, albeit power-dense, axial-flux motors. But Schiebe claims the platform will create EVs that are "not comparable to all the electric cars that you have in the market right now" and that will be "playing with all of your senses." Schiebe declined to specify exactly how AMG will make the electric sedan engaging to drive, but he gave a few clues. "It's the sound, it's the feedback that you get from the car," he noted. "One thing that is of high importance to us is continuous performance. Most electric cars on the market, they are capable of accelerating very fast. You can do that once, maybe you can do it twice, but if you try to repeat that, most of them quickly lose steam." The platform will focus on delivering repeatable performance, and the German brand has its eye on the ultimate measuring stick—the iconic Nürburgring race track. "If you drive a high-performance [gas-powered] AMG car, you can take the car on the Nordschleife, and you're accelerating, braking, accelerating, braking, accelerating, braking," Schiebe said. "This is what the needs to deliver." Mercedes-AMG The electric AMG sedan will take inspiration from the 2022 Vision AMG concept. We also asked Schiebe if AMG is considering fake shifts for its electric performance cars in a similar manner to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N's "N e-Shift" mode. Schiebe wouldn't confirm anything, but he said the brand wouldn't write off the idea and emphasized that its EVs will retain the same degree of feedback as its gas-powered cars. He concluded with a promising statement. "We just recently had some U.S. dealers actually given the chance to drive some of those cars, and when they got out of the car, all of them were smiling," Schiebe said. "They said that this is completely changing what they thought about electric cars." The V-8 Is Not Dead Yet Despite plans for AMG-specific EVs, Schiebe also reiterated that the V-8 engine will live on. "We have just launched the GT [coupe] last year," he said. "So there is some years to come with the V-8." While Schiebe noted Europe's plan to ban combustion engines in new cars in 2035, he pointed out that the United States doesn't have the same mandate and said there isn't a specific end date for eight-cylinder engines. We previously theorized that the sedan would spell the end for the AMG GT 4-Door model, but Mercedes' commitment to the V-8 means that isn't necessarily the case. "Let's see how long we continue with a GT 4-Door," he said. "Maybe there is a successor, but I don't want to speculate about that." Regardless, it seems the current GT 4-Door will continue alongside the EV sedan for the foreseeable future. Mercedes-AMG The gas-powered AMG GT 4-Door could live for longer than previously thought. AMG will obviously need to update its V-8 in the coming years to comply with tighter regulations, particularly in Europe. But Schiebe also sees room for even more performance from its eight-cylinder engines, which could see them employed in new places in the AMG family. "We are in the midst of developing our next generation of the V-8," he said. "And I see a lot of positions within our existing portfolio, or maybe even new ones, where we could actually imagine to have a V-8." Could this mean a return for the V-8 in the C63 sports sedan? Schiebe wouldn't confirm, but we have our fingers crossed. When Mercedes confirmed a next-generation V-8 engine earlier this year, it was described as a "high-tech electrified" powertrain. "I see there is a lot of technological advancement coming in the future," Schiebe said. Interestingly, however, he also said "I don't say that we necessarily need to go that far on hybridization," noting that drivers who like to take their cars on track prefer something like the pure-gas GT63 Pro instead of the torqueier-but-heavier GT63 S E Performance hybrid. Regardless of whether it will feature electric assistance or not, the continued existence of V-8s at Mercedes comes down to one key factor: the customers. "We see there is still the demand," Schiebe explained. "And my target is to fill customers' dreams." Caleb Miller Associate News Editor Caleb Miller began blogging about cars at 13 years old, and he realized his dream of writing for a car magazine after graduating from Carnegie Mellon University and joining the Car and Driver team. He loves quirky and obscure autos, aiming to one day own something bizarre like a Nissan S-Cargo, and is an avid motorsports fan.
