Mercedes-AMG SLS Electric Drive, an electric car way ahead of its time

Many car manufacturers are aiming their future towards full electrification, but the star brand, Mercedes-Benz, was one of the first manufacturers to present a supercar powered by batteries. It is called Mercedes-AMG SLS Electric Drive and it became a true pioneer, ahead of its time in many ways. Only 9 units were built and they carry an exorbitant price.

The Mercedes-AMG SLS Electric Drive was replaced by the Mercedes-AMG GT, and it is now that the brand is taking electrification seriously in high-performance models. All of this means the Mercedes-AMG SLS Electric Drive is becoming a true classic. The Mercedes-AMG SLS Electric Drive features an electric motor on each wheel, produces a power output of 740 CV and 1,000 Nm of maximum torque, enough to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 249 km/h.

Mercedes-AMG SLS Electric Drive, a true pioneer ahead of its time

These acceleration and top speed figures are nothing extraordinary these days, but for a car presented almost ten years ago, they are not bad at all. This supercar gave the brand an easier path to developing electric batteries and motors in Affalterchach. It is worth noting that the gullwing model became the fastest series-production electric-powered car in the world.

This sports car already featured a technology called ‘SLS eSound’ that made the driving experience more exciting, offering the purest engine sound there is. The dynamics of the sports car were developed by AMG Torque Dynamics and are controlled thanks to selective all-wheel drive. The battery was born from the collaboration between Mercedes-AMG and Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth. Formula 1 experts were able to draw on their experience with hybrid concepts such as KERS.

Ola Källenius, chairman of Mercedes-AMG, already stated at the time that “the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is redefining the standards for cars with electric propulsion systems. As the most powerful gullwing-door model of all time, it also embodies AMG’s enduring innovative style. Our vision of the most dynamic electric car has become a reality and allows AMG customers to enjoy a new dimension of exclusive driving experience. With the help of Mercedes-AMG’s high-performance powertrains in Brixworth, we are bringing Formula 1 technology to the road.”