As a fixed roof and gullwing doors are out of the question for the roadster variant, the side sills had to be redesigned not only to meet the legal requirements in the event of a crash, but also to improved driving dynamics.
The bodyshell’s rigidity had to be increased so the cross-member carrying the dashboard has additional supporting struts at the windscreen frame and at the center tunnel, while a strut mounting stay between the soft top and the fuel tank. Also, the bodyshell of the Roadster tips the scales at only 243 kg (536 lbs) – which is comparable to the low, 241-kg (531 lbs) weight of the SLS AMG Coupé's bodyshell.
The three-layered fabric soft top of the SLS AMG Roadster is deposited behind the seats in a Z-formation. This combined magnesium/steel/ aluminum construction ensures a low center of gravity and is designed for speeds up to the maximum of 317 km/h (197 mph) - electronically limited. The compact fabric soft top can be opened and closed in just 11 seconds at the touch of a button, even at speeds up to 50 km/h (31 mph).
The new SLS AMG Roadster has so far went through extensive testing phases, including a harsh endurance rain test with 16 criteria and practical trials in all climatic zones. Now, the quality of the overall vehicle is in the focus, with endurance trials to start soon, simulating an entire vehicle life under the toughest conditions in accelerated test cycles.
According to the German auto brand, the latest simulation software and extensive test drives on all continents make the 571 hp Roadster fit for its market launch in autumn 2011. Initial images of the much anticipated vehicle are included below.
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