Mercedes SLS AMG E-CELL Full Specs Released

Mercedes has released the full details for the prototype electric version of the SLS AMG.

The SLS AMG E-CELL, which is part of the AMG Performance 2015, a strategy that will see the automaker’s performance arm cut fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, uses four synchronous electric motors that offer an overall output of 392 kW (533 hp) and a torque of 880 Nm. The 12,000 rpm motors are positioned close to the wheels and not in the wheel hubs to reduce unsprung masses and use one transmission per axle.

The electric power allows the supercar to deal with the 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) sprint in 4 seconds flat, a figure that can be translated into a 0.2s increase over the time posted by the 571 hp combustion engine version of the vehicle.

Mercedes promises that the driver will be thrilled by the vehicles’ instant torque coming from the electric units, as well as by the “intelligent and permanent” four wheel drive system.

The vehicle uses a liquid cooled high voltage lithium-ion battery that uses a modular design (for optimal weight distribution), offering 48 kWh of power an a capacity of 40 Ah. The 324 lithium-ion polymer cells of the battery can offer a maximum electric load potential of 480 kW. The 400-volt system uses a parallel circuit and is charged by energy recuperation while the car is in the braking phase.

The car features two separate cooling circuits. The first one is for the battery, which also includes an electric heating element that brings the temperature up when this is required and can also use the car’s AC for additional cooling power. The second one handles the four electric motors and the additional hardware.

AMG’s engineers have worked to offer the vehicle an optimum weight distribution, with the battery being split into separate modules located in front of the firewall, in the centre tunnel and behind the seats. The solution also offers the car a low centre of gravity.

The electric drivetrain required that the front axle double wishbone suspension was replaced with an independent multilink with pushrod damper strut one. The vehicle also features an electro-hydraulically assisted steering system.

The motors’ performance is matched by the braking system, which comes with generously-sized (402x39 mm -front & 360x32mm rear) carbon-ceramic brakes.

The E-CELL comes with a number of exterior changes that include LED headlights, a wider radiator grille, new bonnet and side air openings, as well as a matte finish for the parts that come in chrome/silver on the standard SLS AMG. The supercar also offers improved aerodynamics, using a redesigned front apron, an extendable front air splitter, an automatic rear spoiler and a rear diffuser that uses a steeper angle. It rides on 19 inch 10 spoke alloy rims fitted with 265/35 (front) and 295/30 (rear) tires.

The vehicle’s electrification has also brought interior changes, with the instrument cluster and the center console being modified. The first offers info on speed, battery charge status and estimated range while the latter has received a 25 cm touchscreen that operates that car’s functions. Other changes include a Nappa black/white leather finish and a custom steering wheel.