Mercedes SLK Gullwing rendering

Mercedes may be going smaller with the gullwing. We’ve already seen plenty of spy shots and renderings of the upcoming SLC, but now we’re hearing rumors about a smaller SLK-sized gullwing sports car. But this little flyer has a twist, it will be a gas/electric hybrid.

So what would prompt Mercedes to make a smaller gullwing car? Could it be the initial buzz about the SLC that would make it want to have a more affordable vertical-door car? Actually no. The gullwing design allows the car to have a higher door line (like on the original 300 SL) so that it can hide some of the batteries for the green technology. This will help keep some weighty items in the middle of the car and less likely to effect handling.

An ideal set up for this car would include the 3.5-liter V6, which currently makes 305 hp in the SLK, combined with an F1 racing style KERS regenerative braking system. This car could have the ability to yield around 40 mpg and also provide real competition to the Porsche Cayman S and Audi TT RS.