Mercedes-AMG PureSpeed ​​begins final testing, retains concept car

Mercedes-AMG has given spy photographers a break by releasing final testing photos of the PureSpeed ​​Roadster. Previewed in May by a concept car, the production model is based on the SL and is the first in a dedicated Mythos series.

Mercedes hasn’t said much about the car, but the prototypes look almost identical to the concept cars, so they’re bound to draw attention due to the lack of a roof and windshield.

MORE: Mercedes-AMG Mythos PureSpeed ​​is an SL Speedster with an F1 Halo Bar

The unique design is a nod to motorsport, and that’s not the only motorsport-inspired feature of the car, as the car also features the F1-inspired Halo system. The system is designed to protect passengers in the event of an accident, although the images show the driver’s head above the handlebars. This is far from ideal, but Mercedes notes that the model comes with two aerodynamically optimized helmets for extra protection.

The images only offer a glimpse of the cabin, but it appears to largely carry over the design of the standard model. That means we can expect a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster as well as an 11.9-inch infotainment system. There will be some special touches, though, including an IWC Schaffhausen dashboard clock.

We may learn more in the coming months, but Mercedes says the model is being tested in northern Italy, culminating in high-speed testing at the Nardò circuit. As part of the program, prototypes are scheduled to travel more than 1,864 miles (3,000 kilometers) as the development team focuses on fine-tuning handling and ensuring “the functionality and interaction of all systems and components.”

Only 250 examples will be produced, and the company says they will only be available to the “most dedicated Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts and collectors.”