Mercedes Plans Electric Version of SLS AMG Supercar; Production Set for 2015

Mercedes-Benz's AMG performance-car unit are developing a 532-horsepower plug-in electric version of the upcoming SLS supercar, an early photo of which appears above.

With a 2015 release date, the zero-emissions, gullwing-sporting supercar draws heavily on the production version of the yet-to-be-fully-revealed SLS, which is scheduled to debut at the Frankfurt auto show this September.

The SLS eDrive is planned to be offered with the same lightweight aluminum body as the production version of the SLS, complete with its signature gullwing style doors.

According to official Mercedes-Benz AMG information, the SLS eDrive will use a heavily modified version of the standard SLS's rear-wheel-drive platform.

Four 98-kilowatt motors producing 133 horsepower each and powered by a lithium-ion battery will provide power to SLS eDrive's four wheels. Together, the motors will generate 532 horsepower and a whopping 649 pound-feet of torque.

Although Mercedes is cooperating with EV-startup Tesla Motors on battery technology for its upcoming Smart ED, AMG is working with German energy specialist Evonik on the SLS eDrive.

Range is put at between 90 and 110 miles. No price has been given.

Posted by

Scott Doggett July 14, 2009, 9:52 AM

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Emissions, Fuel Economy, Mercedes-Benz, Plug-ins and Electric

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