The Art of Design Issue 27 2017 | Page 119

119 With almost 100,000 units delivered in 2016, i.e. over 40 percent growth, and the biggest strategic model initiative in the company's history, AMG heads into this anniversary year with record figures under its belt. Mercedes-AMG expanded significantly in 2016 as a whole and, with growth of 44.1%, again significantly exceeded the best previous-year figures. With 99,235 vehicles delivered, the success story of Mercedes-Benz’s sports car and performance brand reached a new level. Unit sales have thus more than tripled since 2013. This dynamic growth was made possible by continuous further development of the performance models, which are in greater demand than ever. Yet the strategic broadening of the portfolio in recent years has also led to the successful development of new groups of customers. Hence, the company’s global success is not solely based on the popular eight-cylinder models of the 63 series. The compact 45 series models, along with the wide range of 43 series models, are finding favour with very many customers while placing AMG’s modern product portfolio on a broad, solid basis. The markets with the highest unit sales in the most successful year in the company’s history were once again the USA, Germany and China.