Still think electric cars are slow and clunky? If anyone maintained that perception after the introduction of the Honda CR-Z Hybrid, the Tesla Roadster and the Fisker Karma, Mercedes-AMG is determined to quash the myth once and for all.
Announced at the company’s Press conference at the North American International Auto Show, Mercedes-AMG will begin production of the SLS AMG E-CELL electric super sports car in 2013.
Dr Dieter Zetsche, the chairman of the board of management of Daimler AG, announced that the vehicle will include four synchronous electric motors with a combined 880Nm of torque. They can each achieve a maximum 12,000rpm and are positioned close to the wheels.
Also included is a liquid-cooled, high-voltage lithium-ion modular battery pack with energy content of 48kWh. Its maximum electric load potential is 480kW with the battery charged in part using regenerative braking. The components of the battery are located in the front of the firewall, in the centre of the tunnel and behind the seats to help lower the centre of gravity and establish a balanced weight distribution.
In addition, the SLS AMG E-CELL includes an independent multi-link suspension with pushrod damper struts that are frequently found in race cars; and a speed-sensitive, rack-and-pinion power steering with the power assistance operated by electro-hydraulics.
The braking system has also been enhanced with the ceramic brake discs 40 per cent lighter than the conventional cast iron brake discs. This reduction helps ride comfort and grip while improving dynamics and agility.
