Mercedes-AMG teams face a significant learning curve with IMSA's newly mandated torque sensors during the Roar Before the 24 at Daytona. The sensors, which measure acceleration, horsepower, and torque curve data in real-time, are now required for all GTD Pro and GTD class cars to assist with Balance of Performance (BoP) adjustments.

While most manufacturers have experience with these sensors from the FIA WEC's LMGT3 category, Mercedes-AMG enters 2025 without prior exposure to the technology. The estimated annual cost per car is around $250,000.

Stefan Wendl, head of Mercedes-AMG customer racing, acknowledges their disadvantage: "We are the manufacturer with the least experience with the sensors as we missed out on participating in WEC last year. We know we start on a different level to the others."

The Roar Before the 24 marks the first official running of Mercedes-AMG cars with the sensors under scrutineering conditions. Early sessions revealed technical challenges, causing concern among teams.

Russell Ward, Winward Racing's team principal and driver, expresses cautious optimism despite the uncertainties: "It's the biggest question mark going into the Rolex 24. We've got a lot of really smart people who will help optimize the system. As reigning Champions, we don't give up easily."

Mercedes-AMG expects it will take several races to fully adapt to the new system and achieve optimal performance parity with competitors.

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