The ME Four-Twelve name is a combination of the Mid-Engine with Four turbochargers on a Twelve cylinder engine.

[2] The first was an auto show version using performance expertise from DaimlerChrysler, but with limited operational capabilities.

[4] At the time, key personnel within the Street & Racing Technology group at Chrysler directed by Dan Knott (also responsible for the Dodge Viper, SRT production adaptations such as the Dodge Neon SRT-4 and Dodge Ram SRT-10, Dodge Motorsports, and Mopar performance parts) were alerted that another project was being considered; to design and build a fully engineered and functional prototype demonstration vehicle capable of achieving the published performance claims and being available for media track evaluation by the summer of 2004.

The low profile of the vehicle contributed to its aerodynamics, while multiple air-intakes enhance cooling.

The modified 6.0 L aluminum Mercedes-Benz M120 V12 engine featured a newly developed cylinder head, special intake and exhaust manifolds, as well as forged internals such as pistons and crankshaft to accommodate the forced induction system (i.e., four turbochargers),[7] which brought the output of the engine to 850 hp (634 kW; 862 PS).