The last time Mercedes-Benz was able to claim a win in the endurance racing prototype class was back in 1989 with the menacing C9 (partly developed by Sauber). After this victory, the German manufacturer decided to take on the GT1 category with the now-iconic CLK-GTR and CLR racecars.
But the absence of Mercedes in Le Mans and the WEC has been noticed by many, including Frenchman Martin Chatelier.
Chatelier is a design student from Sevres and this is his Mercedes-Benz DTW concept design, which would ideally be suited for competition by 2030. He says that inspiration for this design is drawn from famous Le Mans photographer and automobile sculpture Emmanuel Zurini because of how he uses pure materials.
The external styling of the DTW is quite simple and makes use of a very aerodynamic design. The driver also has a clear view of the track thanks to a very generous windscreen. Unlike other fan-made concept cars, the design doesn’t really hark back to previous models designed by the manufacturer, although it does use a traditional paint scheme.
The DTW is powered by a two electric motors that draw power from a Tesla turbine. Compressed air for this turbine is kept in the side compartments of the vehicle. Chatelier says that he decided to use the turbine because of how much more beneficial it is over gas- and electric-powered drivetrains.
For stopping power, the DTW makes use of a four airbrakes that contribute to the vehicle’s Aerodynamics Energy Recovery System by rejuvenating the tubines with air. Lastly, the large tyres make use of 3D printing technology that sprays liquid rubber onto the tread surface, providing revolutionary tyre regeneration.
Hopefully this appeals to the Mercedes-AMG team and inspires them to take on the likes of Porsche and Audi in the WEC. But only time will tell.