Ever since Mercedes launched the new generation AMG SL we knew that a hybrid version is just around the corner. And today our spy photographers caught a very interesting SL prototype testing in the snow. At a first look it looks just like the standard SL, but look closer and you will see the difference!

Of course, you will say it is very difficult to spot anything different and we agree. But, the rear bumper is hiding the charging port. This is how we know this is no regular SL, but the future Mercedes AMG SL E Performance plug-in.

During the SL launch, Jochen Hermann, chief technical officer for Mercedes-AMG, confirmed that the SL will be offered with the AMG’s E Performance plug-in hybrid system. This system combines a 4.0-liter V-8 engine with an electric motor on the rear axle. In the AMG GT 63 E Performance model this system delivers a total of 831 horsepower and 1,023 pound-feet of torque. However, rumors suggest that for the next SL E Performance power figure will stay in the 700 horsepower range.

Even so, performance figures should be very impressive. In its most powerful version, the AMG SL63, the current model goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, so for sure the E Performance version should do it in less than 3 seconds.

Expect to see the future SL E Performance before the end of 2022.