28.9.2012 Mercedes announces most powerful EV

Mercedes-AMG has developed its most powerful high performance sports vehicle; a pure electric vehicle with zero emissions at point of use.

The new SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive features advanced Formula 1 technology and uses four electric motors to produce a total output of 740 hp (552 kW) and a maximum torque of 100 Nm. The result is the world’s fastest electrically-powered series production vehicle.

"The SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive is setting new standards for cars with electric drives. As the most powerful gullwing model ever, it is also representative of the enduring innovational strength of Mercedes-AMG. Our vision of the most dynamic electric vehicle has become a reality. With the help of our colleagues at Mercedes AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth, we are bringing exciting advanced technology from the world of Formula 1 to the road," according to Ola Kallenius, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive is able to accelerate from zero to 62 mph in just 3.9 seconds, propelled purely by electricity stored in the cars batteries. It is also able to reach very high top end speeds, and has been electronically limited to 155 mph.

Mercedes has created the accelerator pedal with a very agile response to offer an exciting driving experience. It differs hugely from driving a combustion engine vehicle, as the build-up of torque is instantaneous with electric motors – maximum torque is effectively available from a standstill.

The high-voltage 60 kWh battery consists of 12 modules, each comprising of 72 lithium-ion cells. According to the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), the SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive has an all-electric driving range of 155 miles, which is larger than most electric vehicles on the market today. The batteries can be charged from a dedicated 22 kW quick-charge wall-box, which allows a full recharge in around 3 hours. Without the wall-box, charging takes around 20 hours.

The SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive is equipped with an artificial sound unit to eliminate safety concerns surrounding silent electric vehicles. The driver can experience a tailor-made driving sound for each driving situation: incredibly dynamic when accelerating, subdued when cruising and as equally characteristic during recuperation. The sound is not only dependent on road speed, engine speed and load conditions, but also reflects the driving situation and the vehicle's operating state with a suitable driving noise.

The body shell structure of the SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive is part of the ambitious "AMG Lightweight Performance" design strategy. The battery is located within a carbon-fibre monocoque which forms an integral part of the gullwing model. Fibre composite materials have been used as much as possible for their high strength, excellent crash performance and particularly low weight. Carbon-fibre components are up to 50% lighter than comparable steel ones, yet retain the same level of stability. Compared with aluminium, the weight saving is still around 30%, while the material is considerably thinner.

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive will be making its market launch in June 2013. The price in Germany (incl. 19% VAT) will be 416,500 Euros (around £330,000). Mercedes-Benz UK is looking into the potential of offering the car in the UK, but if it does arrive here, it certainly won’t be the most affordable electric vehicle option!

Newspress