Mercedes-Benz->ke187 set the stage at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show with an announcement that the SLS AMG E-Cell will be put into production as part of the company's "AMG Performance 2015." This company strategy aims to continually reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

"We take social responsibility very seriously and with the SLS AMG E-CELL we are demonstrating a further milestone in our "AMG Performance 2015" strategy. It is our goal to continually reduce the fuel consumption and emissions of new models in the coming years, while at the same time enhancing the core brand value of performance", explains Ola Källenius, chairman of the board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

With a total output of 525 HP and a sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds, the SLS AMG E-Cell will be one of the faster electric sports car on the market.

Updated 09/11/2012: The first prototypes of the next SLS AMG E-Cell have been caught testing for the first time.

Hit the jump to read more about the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell.

2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell
  • Engine/Motor: lithium-ion battery
  • Horsepower: 525
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior

The future E-Cell will be distinguished as an AMG model, but with its own distinctive look. It will feature dynamically shaped full-LED headlamps with integrated daytime driving lights, wider radiator grille with transverse slats, modified air outlet openings, and all the detachable parts will be finished in matte black.

For the E-Cell model, the front apron will be brought further forward in order to optimize airflow in the underbody. The exhaust system has been replaced with a rear diffuser that features a steeper angle. The whole look is completed by AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels featuring a new, smooth-surfaced design and are fitted with 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) tires.

Interior

For the interior, both the instrument cluster and the center console will feature a new design. Thanks to the new AMG instrument cluster, the driver can get any and all information on the car's speed, battery charge status, and estimated range. The newly designed center 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.

High-voltage lithium-ion battery

While the SLS AMG features a 571 HP 6.3-liter V8 engine, the E-Cell version will be powered by a 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. The battery will be charged by means of targeted recuperation during braking whilst the car is being driven. Also, Mercedes has promised a total output of 525 HP and a sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4 seconds.

The SLS AMG E-Cell will be offered with an independent multilink suspension with pushrod damper struts and AMG ceramic composite brakes. A very important feature will be the speed-sensitive power steering with rack-and-pinion steering gear. The power assistance is implemented electro-hydraulically rather than just hydraulically.

Competition

By the time the SLS AMG E-Cell goes on sale, the market will already offer models like the Audi R8 E-Tron and the Porsche 918 Spyder. The Audi R8 Etron concept is powered by four different motors, but those motors combined can only deliver 313hp. Porsche has yet to reveal the final specifications for the 918 Spyder, but the concept version is powered by a 500-horsepower V8, along with a pair of electric motors with 109 horsepower each. There is also a lithium-ion battery back that could give drivers 16 miles of emissions-free driving.

When Can I Buy One?

Do not expect to see this model on the market before 2013. As for the prices, it will be higher than most of us will be able to pay.