Lego unveils life-size Mercedes-AMG F1 car at Zwartkops

Very few people get to see a Formula 1 car in person, and we would guess that even fewer get to see a life-size Lego Technic F1 car in plastic. But South African's now have the opportunity to do so.

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The unveiling

After a series of teasers on Lego South Africa's social media pages, journalists, influencers, and a multitude of motoring enthusiasts were invited to the exclusive unveiling at the Mercedes-Benz Experience centre, situated at Zwartkops Raceway. 

The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and LEGO was evident in the displays of Speed Champions and Technic Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG cars, ranging from the G 63 to the SL 63 models, as well as a host of Lego F1 cars.

“The reveal forms part of LEGO South Africa’s ongoing commitment to celebrating creativity and innovation through play,” said Valery Kasimov, the newly appointed country manager for Lego South Africa.

At the event, guests could participate in a variety of activities, such as building their own Lego race car and racing it on a high-speed ramp with precision timing systems, or completing a reflex challenge to test their reaction time, similar to the exercises performed by F1 drivers.

But nothing could beat the adrenaline of hearing the helicopter overhead with the big crate suspended below it, heading towards its designated drop point. After circling Zwartkops Raceway, the helicopter lowered the crate, and with a quick announcement, the up-scaled Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance car was unveiled. 

Life-size LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 car

If you thought the 1 642-piece LEGO Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance set was a challenge, imagine having to assemble 192 937 pieces perfectly. Yes, you read that right. A team of 15 expert LEGO builders based in Singapore spent around 2 428 hours constructing this life-size model.

While the real Mercedes-AMG F1 car piloted by George Russell and Andrea "Kimi" Antonelli measures in at over 5 000 mm in length and 2 000 mm in width, this LEGO replica measures 5,100 mm in length and 2 200 mm in width. Where the real car tips the scales at 789 kg, this LEGO example weighs in at around 913 kg.

“This collaboration between Lego South Africa and Mercedes-Benz is built on shared values of precision, performance and excellence. The LEGO Mercedes-AMG Formula 1 car celebrates our achievements at the pinnacle of motorsport and reflects the innovation, craftsmanship and passion that unite both brands,” says Claudius Steinhoff, Executive Director MBC & Co-CEO of Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

Indeed, it may not be as aerodynamic, being made from Lego bricks, but it certainly reflects the size and awe-inspiring design of the Mercedes-AMG team. However, for both LEGO and F1 fans, the model will be travelling around the country, with public showcases taking place in key retail areas. 

Here are the locations and dates where you can expect to see the life-size model:

*Dates and locations were correct at the time of writing this article; however, they can change at any moment and without notice.