By alley - Dec 5, 2016, 8:15 PM ET

GT: Mercedes-AMG developing GT4

Mercedes-AMG is developing a GT4 racecar.

A timetable has not been announced for the completion of the car, which was announced at the company's awards dinner in Stuttgart.

"The development of the Mercedes-AMG GT4 is another important step in the continuing expansion of our Mercedes-AMG motorsport program," Mercedes-AMG Chairman Tobias Moers said. "The excellent feedback of our Customer Sports teams concerning the AMG GT3 and the increasing interest for GT4 racecars strengthened us in our decision. We are delighted to address an even larger target group of amateur and professional drivers and teams in the future with it."

The Mercedes-AMG GT R that was presented this year is the basis for the development of the new car. Similar to Mercedes' AMG GT3 (

recently purchased by CRP Racing

to run in the Pirelli World Challenge), Mercedes cites "user-friendliness" and safety as their priorities during the development process. Mercedes-AMG is building up its Customer Sports group involvement in the U.S. with entries in the IMSA WeatehrTech SportsCar Championship and PWC.

Mercedes-AMG joins the ranks of

Ford

and BMW in announcing plans for GT4 programs. Panoz Racing

recently confirmed

the Avezzano road car will be built to FIA GT4 specification.