Motoring
and with performance capabilities similar to the standard SLS gullwing model, it takes electrically- powered driving to a whole new dimension. In fact, it can race from 0-62mph in just 3.9
T
seconds and tops out at 155mph, making it the fastest electric-powered series production model in the world. Mercedes called upon all its Formula One
technology and know-how during the car’s development and the end result is a supercar that would not look out of place in any tycoon’s extensive, expensive and exclusive line-up. T e car certainly drew a few gasps from
impressed onlookers in fashion-conscious Paris and once it hits the streets next year it’s guaranteed to race to the top of any driving enthusiast’s wish-list.
he beautifully sculpted, sleekly streamlined and attention-grabbing SLS AMG Coupe Electric Drive was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show
Presenting the car in France, Dr Dieter
Zetsche, head of Mercedes-Benz, said: “It is impossible to describe this car. You have to drive it. But if you like stars and rockets, you don’t have to join NASA anymore, because this star actually is a rocket. “It is in a class of its own when it comes to
zero emission performance because its four electric engines deliver 1000Nm of torque. With that our new electric SLS is a powerful symbol that Mercedes-Benz is a brand on the move.” And it’s a company that’s moving with the times too. Massive increases in fuel prices mean even the super-rich are looking for alternatives and the SLS Electric Drive is the perfect solution to the problem as it can be charged in just three hours via a quick charge wall box or up to 20 hours from a standard power socket. First impressions are vital and initially it’s almost impossible to diff erentiate between the standard SLS and the Electric Drive (ED)
model. But upon closer inspection, there are subtle, but distinctive diff erences to personalise the ED car. For starters, it features dazzling electric blue
paintwork, which sadly was only for display purposes and won’t be available when the vehicle goes on sale. In addition, there are new fi ns set into the bonnet, front wings fi nished in high-gloss black, a deep front splinter, a body- coloured grille, darkened light surrounds and dazzling AMG twin-spoke design alloys. T e fact that the car doesn’t stand out and
scream “electric” at you is a deliberate ploy by Mercedes who want electrically-powered models to fi t in with their regular range line-up. Gorden Wagener, vice-president of
Mercedes-Benz cars design, explained why the external diff erences between the electric and fuel powered models were kept to a minimum. He said: “Well, basically it’s a car where we have made little modifi cations such as the grille.
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