FRANKFURT, Germany — Details of an all-electric version of Mercedes-Benz's new gullwing SLS were uncovered at the 2009 Frankfurt Auto Show. The electric supercar is slated to go into production after 2011.
The electric SLS can accelerate to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds, which is nearly as quickly as the gasoline-engine version that posts a 0-60-mph time of under 3.8 seconds. It uses four electric motors controlled by one transmission per axle. Maximum speed is 150 mph, 25 mph more than Audi's e-Tron — also making a Frankfurt show debut — can manage. The driving range of the electric SLS is 154 miles.
The car's electric motors generate a combined 526 horsepower and 649 pound-feet of torque. Since the motors are located near each wheel, rather than in them, unsprung weight is significantly reduced.
The SLS uses lithium-ion batteries, developed by Evonik, that are mounted ahead of the bulkhead to optimize weight distribution. The SLS was designed at the outset for compatibility with this electric drivetrain, eliminating the need for structural modifications.
Inside Line says: Like Audi, Mercedes is injecting glamour into electric cars with a supercar. — Richard Bremner, Correspondent
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