Yes, the AMG Performance Steering Wheel in the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly in higher-performance or specially equipped models, has the capability to record and display performance telemetry. This feature is part of a broader effort to bring a more track-focused and performance-oriented experience to the driver, especially when engaging in dynamic driving, off-road activities, or on the track.
Key Features of Performance Telemetry on the AMG Steering Wheel:
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Integrated Display for Performance Data:
The AMG Performance Steering Wheel typically includes an integrated digital display (often within the center of the wheel or near the instrument cluster) that can show a variety of performance data in real-time, such as:
- Engine Power Output
- Torque Distribution (especially relevant for AWD and off-road driving)
- G-Force Readings
- Lap Times (in track mode)
- Brake Temperatures
- Tire Pressure and Tire Temperature
- Lap Speed
- Throttle Input and Steering Angle
- Suspension Load and Damping Settings
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Live Feedback During High-Performance Driving:
The steering wheel can provide live telemetry feedback to help drivers optimize their performance. This includes:
- Instant Torque and Power Feedback: The steering wheel can display torque split between the front and rear axles or show the engine’s current power output.
- G-Force Measurement: As the driver corners or accelerates/brakes hard, the wheel can show real-time G-force data to give the driver an indication of the vehicle's handling and cornering capabilities.
- Lap Timing: For track driving, the wheel can show real-time lap times or split times, which are recorded directly by the car’s performance monitoring system.
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AMG Track Pace Integration:
On performance-oriented AMG vehicles, the AMG Track Pace feature can be fully integrated with the steering wheel. This system is specifically designed for track driving and can display key metrics such as:
- Best Lap Times
- Sector Times
- Track Positioning (often with GPS integration)
- Driving Efficiency (using throttle, brake, and cornering inputs)
- Vehicle Performance Statistics
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Off-Road Performance Metrics:
For off-road use, the steering wheel can display specific telemetry data relevant to off-road conditions:
- Wheel Slip or Traction Control Indicators: The steering wheel can show a real-time readout of each wheel’s slip to alert the driver of traction loss and when to adjust throttle or steering input.
- Diff Lock and Low Range Gear Status: Displays when the vehicle’s differentials are locked or the low-range gears are engaged, ensuring optimal off-road traction.
- Altitude and Terrain Indicators: The steering wheel might show altitude or the type of terrain mode (e.g., sand, snow, mud), making it easier to adapt driving behavior to challenging off-road environments.
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Recording Capabilities:
The telemetry recorded by the AMG Performance Steering Wheel can be saved for later review or analysis:
- Onboard Data Logging: Performance telemetry can be logged and exported to an app or stored on the vehicle’s internal system for later viewing or even comparing to past performance.
- Data Syncing: This data can often be synced with Mercedes-Benz apps or performance platforms like AMG Track Pace, enabling the driver to analyze their driving performance more comprehensively.
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Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Integration:
Some of the performance telemetry from the steering wheel is linked to the ADAS systems, allowing drivers to see:
- Braking Performance (via the brake assist system)
- Steering Assist (and how it impacts handling during cornering or off-road driving)
- Active Suspension Settings and how the vehicle adapts to driving conditions.
- Real-Time Performance Adjustments: Based on the telemetry displayed, drivers can quickly toggle between drive modes or adjust vehicle settings like suspension damping, throttle response, or power distribution using buttons located on or around the steering wheel. These adjustments help to refine vehicle dynamics in real time.
Integration with Other Vehicle Systems:
- AMG Dynamic Select: The steering wheel’s performance telemetry integrates seamlessly with the AMG Dynamic Select system, which allows for the adjustment of various vehicle parameters like engine response, transmission, and suspension based on the driver's driving mode or preferences. The telemetry displayed gives the driver feedback on how these systems are responding in real time.
- Mercedes-Benz User Interface (MBUX): The MBUX system in higher-end G-Class models integrates the vehicle’s telemetry with the steering wheel's controls, enabling voice commands and touchpad controls to manipulate telemetry data, adjust settings, or even display new performance metrics without removing hands from the wheel.
Summary:
The AMG Performance Steering Wheel in the G-Class is designed to enhance the driver’s connection to the vehicle by providing instant access to performance telemetry, including real-time engine data, lap times, off-road stats, and more. This integration allows for a more immersive driving experience, whether on the track or in challenging off-road conditions. With features like live feedback, mode-specific telemetry, and data logging capabilities, it positions itself as a highly functional tool for performance-oriented drivers who want to track and optimize their driving experience.