Sonny Hayes back in the spotlight as Mercedes unveils GT4 electric beast

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On the glowing expanse of Los Angeles’ 6th Street Bridge, the future of performance quietly roared to life this week as Sonny Hayes – well, actually Brad Pitt – joined George Russell and Kimi Antonelli for the unveiling of Mercedes-AMG’s new all-electric GT 4-Door, a machine that promises supercar drama with EV precision.

The bridge was transformed into a makeshift Autobahn as smoke, lights and sound turned the night into a full sensory spectacle, with the GT 4-Door Coupés launching hard into the Los Angeles skyline and hitting 60 mph in just two seconds flat.

For Russell and Antonelli, it was a glimpse into AMG’s electric future – one still rooted in emotion, theatre and pure performance intent. Pitt, set to front the campaign, stood alongside the drivers as the cars screamed past in simulated V8 fury, a nod to heritage in a silent-electric world.

Between fireworks, music and roaring accelerations, the message was clear: this isn’t just an electric car – it’s Mercedes and AMG rewriting what excitement feels like.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.