Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell prototype revealed

Just over a year after it first announced plans to create an all-electric version of its SLS AMG supercar, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled a vividly-coloured Gullwing prototype imaginatively dubbed "SLS AMG E-Cell".

Doing away with the conventional (425kW) 6.3-litre V8, Mercedes-Benz engineers have fitted the E-Cell with four electric motors (one for each wheel), effectively making it an all-wheel drive, each with its own 'transmission'. The design is superior to wheel-hub motors in reducing unsprung weight. Mercedes-Benz notes that the installation of electric drive components have made no changes to the SLS's aluminium spaceframe body.

While not quite as powerful as its petrol-fueled counterpart, the SLS AMG E-Cell develops 392kW of power and an impressive 880Nm of torque which is available right from the get-go -- no need to rev the engine(s). Mercedes-Benz say the zero-emissions supercar can accelerate from 0-100km/h in approximately 4.0 seconds.

Power comes from 400-volt liquid-cooled lithium-ion batteries which are located at the front of the firewall, in the centre tunnel and behind the rear seats for ideal weight distribution.

In addition to the iridescent 'AMG luminectric mango' duco, the SLS AMG E-Cell also features a number of aerodynamic and cosmetic changes including a unique front bar with extendable splitter, colour-coded grille centre bar, remoulded air vents, a revised rear diffuser (that eliminates the exhaust outlets, obviously) and dark finish wheels and wing mirrors.

The cockpit features a modified instrument cluster with electric-centric gauges while a new touchscreen infotainment system now controls HVAC, navigation and entertainment systems, and also displays information relevant to the all-electric drive system. To designate the one-off model from its standard siblings, new black-and-white leather and Alcantara seats, steering wheel, door linings and centre console are also fitted.

Although production of the SLS AMG E-Cell has not yet been confirmed, sources within Mercedes-Benz say a limited number of units could be available from as early as 2013.