SLS AMG Electric Drive

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is both AMG’s most powerful car ever and the world’s fastest production electric vehicle.

Featuring four electric motors that combined produce 740 bhp (552 kW / 750 PS) and 1,000 Nm (737 lb/ft) of instantly-available torque, drive is sent to all four wheels via a special torque distribution system.

The result is a zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) time of 3.9 seconds - just 0.1 seconds slower than the V8-powered SLS AMG Coupé - and a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive (2013) Front Side 1Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive (2013) Rear Side

Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive (2013) Side DetailMercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive (2013) Front Side 2

As with any electric car, range is going to be a critical factor. Based on the New European Driving Cycle combined measure, Mercedes-Benz is saying that the SLS AMG Electric Drive will travel 155 miles (250 kilometres) before its 60 kWh lithium-ion battery pack runs flat.

Not too bad, but during the NEDC test speeds never exceed 75 mph (120 km/h). That makes the result a largely irrelevant number for those wanting to explore the car’s performance potential, so some real-world trials are needed. Seeing how many laps of a racetrack the SLS AMG Electric Drive can manage, or taking it on an unrestricted section of autobahn, for example, could help establish its true usability.

Another potential issue is the recharging time, which is an unfeasibly long twenty hours. Most buyers will therefore feel compelled to order the optional ‘wall box’ that has been designed for home garage installation, as it replenishes the batteries in a much more reasonable three hours.

Visually, the electric SLS AMG is identifiable by its front carbon fibre splitter, redesigned grille and air intake openings, rear diffuser, lack of exhausts and darkened light units. The main difference on the inside is a unique instrument cluster that displays parameters such as battery charge status and transmission mode.

A UK price has yet to be disclosed, but in Germany the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive will cost €416,500 (including VAT at 19%).

Related posts:
SLS AMG GT unveiled
2012 SLS AMG Roadster
SLS AMG E-CELL is go

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