AMG Plans to Launch 27 New Vehicles Over the Next 3 Years, Beginning with V8 SUVs: TDS

      The 2027 Mercedes-AMG GLS63.

      Mercedes-Benz

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      Welcome to The Downshift, or TDS for short, The Drive’s morning news summary providing the major automotive headlines from across the globe.

      The Downshift offers a brief recap of the news, including links to full articles for those who want additional details. This is your update for Tuesday, June 16, 2026.

      🆕 Mercedes-AMG is ramping up its product lineup, with CEO Michael Schiebe informing Bloomberg that the brand intends to introduce more than 27 new models over the next three years. Concurrently, the variety of engines used across AMG offerings will be reduced from 10 to four, with an increased likelihood of V8 engines for fans. Remember when Mercedes had only about five AMG-branded models? [Motor1]

      🎱 The momentum for AMG kicks off today with the launch of the new Mercedes-AMG GLS63 and GLE63S, both SUVs equipped with the company’s new M177 Evo 4.0-liter flat-plane V8 engine that produces 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. [Car and Driver]

      🪖 General Motors is reportedly in discussions with Lockheed Martin to provide parts for the defense contractor’s weapons systems. [Wall Street Journal]

      🛜 Ford is requesting permission from the U.S. Department of Commerce to continue sales of its Lincoln Nautilus SUV, manufactured in China, next year. This authorization is necessary due to a new law banning the sale of vehicles with software developed in China. Ford is not alone, as Volvo, Polestar, and GM will also require clearances for vehicles they currently offer in the U.S. [Reuters]

      ⏩ Nissan has announced that it is utilizing new AI and digital tools to bring future vehicles to market in half the usual time, starting with the new Skyline. The automaker claims that the upcoming sedan will take about 26 months to launch, scheduled for this winter, compared to the typical 55 months. [Nikkei]

      🛻 In other news from Nissan, the company has revealed pricing for the 2027 Frontier pickup, starting at $34,235, including destination, for a two-wheel-drive S model. [Nissan]

      🗳️ United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain has declared his intention to seek reelection for a second four-year term this fall. [Reuters]

      ⏱️ The Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut has set a new quarter-mile speed record, reaching 189.76 mph. It’s the first production vehicle to exceed 186 mph in that distance. [Motor1]

      🔌 Rivian plans to collaborate with ChargeScape, a company established by a group of automakers, allowing its electric vehicles to connect with utilities to lower charging costs and assist in stabilizing the grid. [Electrek]

      🔋 EPA documents appear to have disclosed the specifications for the Tesla Cybercab, which include a 219-hp motor at the front axle and a 50-kWh battery. [Car and Driver]

      ⚡ In an unexpected divergence from current industry trends, Stellantis has announced that its forthcoming “E-Car” minicars for Europe will not feature multiple powertrains but will be entirely electric. This lineup will comprise a revamped Citroën 2CV and a comparable Fiat-branded model. [Automotive News]

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