Mercedes AMG driving academy is coming to the United States

Mercedes-Benz is offering a chance for speed enthusiasts to learn to drive like the pros. The AMG Driving Academy will be held at three sites in September.

The academy, founded in Germany in 2007, gives drivers a chance to get behind the wheels of several AMG models, including the E63 AMG, the SL63 AMG, the C63 AMG, the SLK55 AMG and the CLK63 AMG Black Series.

The academy is an advanced driver-training program that allows enthusiasts to learn with professional instructors.

The session schedule is:

-- Lime Rock Park in Lime Rock, Conn., Sept. 9-15.

-- Palm Beach International Raceway in West Palm Beach, Fla., Sept. 22-27.

-- Laguna Seca Raceway in Monterey, Calif., Nov. 7-8 and 17-20.

There are two program levels, Stage I and II. Stage I is a one-day program that teaches the fundamentals of performance driving and car-control maneuvers. It also tests drivers' skills on the track at high speeds during a performance course competition. The fee is $1,895 per participant.

A subcategory of this stage is Stage I SLS at Laguna Seca Raceway on Nov. 17-20. This event gives drivers the opportunity to be the first to drive the 2011 SLS AMG. The fee is $2,295 per participant and includes a one-night stay at the InterContinental Hotel in Monterey, Calif.

The two-day Stage II program provides computer driver training and evaluation via onboard diagnostics and in-car camera recordings of laps. Stage II is offered to drivers who have completed Stage I or an equivalent course.

This program offers more track driving compared with Stage I to extract a driver's maximum potential in a performance-driving setting. This program also includes a competitive performance-course competition. The AMG Driving Academy Stage II program fee is $3,495 per participant.

A dinner reception and briefing, track hospitality, AMG Driving Academy certificate and gift bag are all included.

Interested? For more information, go to www.amgacademy.com or call (800) 217-6916.

By Angie Favot