Mercedes-AMG, a subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz, has unveiled its SLS AMG E-Cell, a state-of-the-art development of its gullwing super sports car that features a zero-emission high-tech drive.

The development project vehicle offers a power output of 392 kW and 880 Nm of torque, and is part of the company’s ‘AMG Performance 2015’ strategy which aims to continually reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

“With the SLS AMG E-Cell, Mercedes-AMG is providing a powerful and locally emission-free super sports car that may go into limited production,” said Frank Bernthaler, director, sales and marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Middle East and Levant.

Finished in fluorescent 'AMG lumilectric magno' paint, the gullwing’s drive system features a powerful traction provided by four synchronous electric motors with a combined peak output of 392 kW and a maximum torque of 880 Nm.

The four compact electric motors each achieve a maxi-mum rpm of 12,000/rpm and are positioned near to the wheels. As a result, compared with wheel-hub motors the unsprung masses are substantially reduced. One transmission per axle transmits the power.

The electrically-powered SLS AMG makes a statement with the E-Cell model capable of accelerating from zero to 100 km/hr in four seconds.

The SLS AMG E-Cell drive incorporates a liquid-cooled high-voltage lithium-ion battery featuring a modular design with an energy content of 48 kWh and a capacity of 40 Ah.

The maximum electric load potential of the battery, which consists of 324 lithium-ion polymer cells, is 480 kW, which is an absolute best value in the automotive sector, said a statement.

Another technical feature of this considerable performance is the intelligent parallel circuit of the individual battery modules which helps to maximise the safety, reliability and service life of the battery.

The 400-volt battery is charged by means of targeted recuperation during braking whilst the car is being driven.

The transformation from petrol to electric super sports car also called for some specific changes to the interior. As a result, the AMG instrument cluster and centre console in particular both feature a new design.

The new AMG instrument cluster provides information on speed, charge status of the battery and the estimated range.

The newly designed centre console now houses a 25 cm touchscreen, which driver and passenger can use to conveniently operate all of the audio, climate and navigation functions, and also obtain information on the flow of power from the four electric motors.

The AMG drive unit, which is angled towards the driver, houses buttons for starting the motor, ESP functions, the AMG memory function and the extendable front splitter and rear spoiler.

Using three new buttons, the driver can switch between P, R and D. The park setting is enabled automatically by switching the electric motors off. – TradeArabia News Service