The launch of Charlotte’s Ten Tenths Circuit was highlighted by the presence of the Mercedes-AMG One, the first of its kind to arrive on U.S. soil. This remarkable vehicle not only captured attention for its cutting-edge design but also for its owner—Rick Hendrick, a prominent figure in the automotive industry and a key partner in the Ten Tenths project. His identity was cleverly hinted at by the “H One” license plate, adding a personal touch to the event and seamlessly blending motorsport and luxury.
At the event, Hendrick and Marcus Smith, CEO of Speedway Motorsports, discussed their motivations for creating the Ten Tenths Circuit. While they acknowledged the business potential of a new road course, they also emphasized their passion for driving high-performance vehicles. Smith humorously referred to his impressive collection as “the Rick Hendrick starter pack,” highlighting how personal enjoyment played a crucial role in the development of the track.
Among the cars showcased was a selection from Hendrick’s collection, estimated to be worth around $35 million. This extraordinary lineup included a McLaren Senna GTR, a Ferrari Daytona SP3, and a Porsche 918 Spyder, each representing the pinnacle of automotive design and engineering. Despite the presence of these legendary machines, the Mercedes-AMG One stole the spotlight due to its unique status and advanced technological features that distinguished it from the others.
The Mercedes-AMG One is engineered to bring the spirit of Formula 1 to public roads, and its specifications vividly illustrate this ambition. The hybrid vehicle boasts a 1.6-liter V-6 engine paired with an electric turbocharger, generating an astonishing 1,049 horsepower when combined with its three electric motors. Its advanced engineering includes pneumatically actuated valves, enabling it to reach an exhilarating 11,000 rpm, making it a formidable contender in high-performance automotive circles.
In a display of its capabilities, the Mercedes-AMG One recently set a new Nürburgring lap record, completing the course in an impressive 6 minutes and 29 seconds. This achievement cements the One’s reputation for extreme performance and showcases its appeal to car enthusiasts everywhere. The debut at the Ten Tenths Circuit marked a significant moment, establishing the track as a premier destination for automotive excellence and exhilarating high-speed experiences.
