Mercedes-Benz is building excitement for its all-electric SLS AMG sports car by showcasing a prototype at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The gas-powered SLS AMG hit the market earlier this year but Mercedes-Benz has been eyeing an electric version of this model since fall 2006. The two-door sports car will provide the best blend of power, green performance and style to attract eco-conscious buyers once it hits the market in 2015.
The signature element of the all-electric SLS AMG is the distinctive SLS eDrive system with four 98kW electric motors. Each motor is mounted away from the wheel well to stand apart from competing EVs, allowing for easier maintenance and handling. The four electric motors combined create a peak power output of 526 horsepower. Mercedes-Benz is testing out the SLS eDrive with 48kWh lithium-ion batteries during initial road tests.
The initial design of the electric SLS AMG retains the sleek styling of a traditional Mercedes-Benz. The gull-wing doors fit into a low-profile design intended to reduce drag at high speeds. Mercedes-Benz proudly announced that the SLS AMG’s aluminum body was left unscathed while designing the all-electric vehicle. The SLS AMG’s standard features would likely be transferred to the all-electric model, allowing drivers to enjoy six-disc CD changers, rearview cameras and climate control without using a single drop of gas.
Mercedes-Benz fans should not be leery of the all-electric SLS AMG’s performance levels if initial tests stand up to real road conditions. The automaker claims that the all-electric SLS AMG can reach 60 MPH from a dead stop in less than four seconds. The electric version of the SLS AMG is designed to reach 120 MPH, which is more modest than the traditional model’s 196 MPH but still sufficient for car junkies. Mercedes-Benz projects the vehicle’s range per charge between 93 and 112 miles though this range could increase greatly as the project progresses.
While Mercedes-Benz fans may be excited about an electrified SLS AMG, the looming question in this project deals with the lithium-ion battery. The test batteries were produced by Daimler’s Deutsche Accumotive GmbH & Co. KG venture but production batteries are likely to come from another source. Daimler’s 10% stake in Tesla Motors and current battery venture with Aabar Investments may clear up the battery question in the next six years. Once the battery question is resolved, Mercedes-Benz can leverage its reputation and considerable assets to push the SLS AMG electric car worldwide.
