Mercedes-AMG GT S is new 2015 DTM safety car

The second leg of the 2015 German Touring Car Masters (DTM) will see the debut of the championship's new official safety car, the Mercedes-AMG GT S. Set to be revealed at the EuroSpeedway Lausitz from May 29 to 31, the German grand tourer will remain relatively stock apart from the addition of a lightbar and other factory add-ons.

Much like the official safety car of Formula 1 (which is also a Mercedes-AMG GT S), the two share a near-similar exterior appearance. The lightbar also functions like it as an orange light warns drivers that the safety car cannot be overtaken while a green light allows the drivers to overtake it.

The safety car also has a special rear license plate that has LED lights and synchronizes with the lightbar. This was done to provide additional illumination especially in night time races or stormy weather.

Under the hood, it is powered by the same road-going 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that cranks out 510 PS and 650 Nm of torque. The 7-speed dual clutch transmission benefits from the AMG Dynamic Plus package that enhances the car's engine, transmission and handling capability.

It also has matte black forged wheels that measure 19-inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear and come with fully integrated wheel bolt covers. Behind them are high-performance, lightweight ceramic composite disc brakes which are available as an option to standard road models. Compared to standard discs, the ceramic units have longer service life and better fade resistance according to Mercedes.

The car will be driven by 47-year old racing driver Jurgen Kastenholz who will pilot the car when there are dangerous situations, extreme weather conditions or accidents that occur during a race.

The new Mercedes-AMG GT S replaces the previous DTM safety car, the C63 AMG Coupe' Black Series which saw service from 2012 to 2014.