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Disastrous test drive ends in millions of dollars in losses: driver loses control and destroys luxury Mercedes-AMG vehicles
A driving test that was supposed to show the performance of the luxury vehicles of Mercedes-AMG resulted in a disastrous accident in the city of Kochi, India. Two high-end models of the brand, the GT 63 SE Performance and the SL 55, collided head-on in an incident that attracted attention on social media due to the value and severe damage caused to the vehicles.
Total damage is estimated to exceed $600.000, and the impact was so intense that everyone involved required medical attention.
How the accident occurred
The collision occurred during an unexpected sequence of events. Reports indicate that the driver of the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE Performance, a high-powered sports car, lost control after hitting a raised remnant of an old railway line.
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This would have caused the vehicle to collide with the rear of a Hyundai Accent, which was traveling normally. The GT 63 SE Performance then swerved into the opposite lane, colliding directly with the SL 55, another luxury vehicle that was also being tested.
Although the accident occurred approximately two months ago, it was recently discussed again, when images and videos began circulating on social media.
The photographs show the critical condition of the two vehicles after impact, sparking discussions about the dangers associated with high-speed test drives, especially on public roads where conditions can be unpredictable.
Extreme damage to Mercedes vehicles
The impact left both vehicles in irreparable condition. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 SE Performance had its front end completely destroyed, with the driver's side wheel, brakes and suspension components ripped off.
The SL 55, in turn, suffered serious damage on the passenger side. The passenger door was ripped off and the hood and one of the headlights were destroyed.
Both models are known for their high performance and advanced technology. The cost of these vehicles in India is significantly higher than in other countries due to import taxes and local fees.
The Mercedes-AMG SL 55 is priced at around INR 24,4 million (equivalent to $290.000), while the GT 63 SE Performance costs approximately INR 31 million (equivalent to $368.000).
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Safety and Responsibility in Test Drives
The incident has reignited debates about the safety of test drives, especially for high-performance cars. While many potential buyers are keen to test the limits of these vehicles, it is essential that this is done in appropriate locations, such as closed tracks, where the risk of accidents is considerably lower. Public roads, on the other hand, present challenges, such as unexpected obstacles and the presence of other vehicles, which can increase the risk of collisions.
In some countries, it is common for dealerships to require test drives of high-speed cars to be conducted in controlled environments. However, in many parts of India, such restrictions are still limited, and accidents like this continue to occur. Mercedes-Benz has not issued an official statement about the incident, but the incident serves as a reminder to dealers and buyers about the importance of conducting test drives with caution and in appropriate environments.
The End of Two Powerful Vehicles
Both cars, worth a combined $600.000 or more, are destined for the scrapyard. The severity of the damage makes the repair costs exorbitant, making salvaging the vehicles financially unfeasible. The accident is a reminder that while luxury and performance vehicles offer a unique driving experience, they also carry considerable risks when operated without proper care.
A High Cost and a Warning for the Future
This accident involving the Mercedes-AMG reinforces the need for stricter regulations and extra care when test driving high-performance vehicles. The combination of speed, power and public roads creates a situation that can be difficult to control, exposing drivers, pedestrians and other vehicles to considerable risk.
Given this scenario, dealerships and buyers may consider safer, more limited test drives to prevent future incidents and preserve both the safety of people and the integrity of these valuable vehicles.
