The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive 60 kWh (751 Hp) AMG Torque Dynamics: A Pioneering Electric Supercar
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive 60 kWh (751 Hp) AMG Torque Dynamics stands as a monumental achievement in automotive engineering, representing a bold step by Mercedes-Benz into the realm of high-performance electric vehicles. Launched for a brief production run from June 2013 to June 2014, this groundbreaking model was not merely an electric variant of the iconic SLS AMG; it was a completely re-engineered supercar designed to showcase the pinnacle of electric propulsion technology at the time. As a fully battery-electric vehicle (BEV) and one of the most powerful production EVs of its era, it carved out a unique niche in the luxury performance segment, offering a glimpse into the future of AMG’s electrifying capabilities.
While the standard SLS AMG was celebrated for its naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine and dramatic gullwing doors, the Electric Drive version retained the striking aesthetics but replaced the internal combustion heart with an advanced quad-motor electric powertrain. This transformation elevated the SLS AMG from a conventional supercar to a technological tour de force, setting new benchmarks for electric performance and dynamic handling. It was a clear statement from Mercedes-Benz, demonstrating that electrification could enhance, rather than diminish, the thrilling experience expected from an AMG-badged machine.
Engine and Performance: Unleashing the Power of the SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive
At the core of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive 60 kWh (751 Hp) AMG Torque Dynamics‘s extraordinary performance lies its revolutionary powertrain architecture. Unlike most electric vehicles that utilize one or two motors, this SLS AMG featured an intricate system of four individual synchronous electric motors. Each motor was strategically placed, with two on the front axle and two on the rear, allowing for independent control of torque to each wheel – a system AMG dubbed “Torque Dynamics.”
Each of these EM0005 electric motors was capable of producing 188 horsepower and 184.39 lb-ft of torque, reaching a maximum of 13,000 RPM. The combined output from these four motors was a staggering 751 horsepower and an immense 737.56 lb-ft of system torque. This colossal power output, delivered instantaneously, propelled the SLS AMG Electric Drive from 0 to 60 mph in a breathtaking 3.7 seconds, with a 0-100 km/h sprint completed in just 3.9 seconds. Its top speed was electronically limited to 155.34 mph (250 km/h), a common practice for high-performance electric vehicles to manage battery consumption and motor longevity.
The innovative “AMG Torque Dynamics” system was more than just a power delivery mechanism; it was a sophisticated all-wheel-drive (4×4) system that allowed for precise torque vectoring. By individually controlling the power output of each motor, the car could optimize traction, enhance cornering stability, and improve agility in ways traditional mechanical differentials could not. This precise control over power distribution gave the Electric Drive a unique handling characteristic, making it incredibly responsive and engaging despite its substantial weight. Power was managed through a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of most electric powertrains, providing seamless and uninterrupted acceleration.
Battery Technology and Efficiency
The energy source for this electric powerhouse was a substantial 60 kWh gross capacity lithium-ion (Li-Ion) battery pack, operating at 400 volts. Weighing 1208.13 lbs (548 kg), the battery pack was cleverly integrated into the vehicle’s structure, primarily located in the central tunnel and the trunk area. This strategic placement helped maintain the SLS AMG’s low center of gravity and optimized weight distribution, crucial for its dynamic performance.
Despite its immense power, the SLS AMG Electric Drive offered an all-electric range of approximately 155.34 miles (250 km) on the NEDC cycle, which was respectable for an early electric supercar. Its average energy consumption was rated at 24 kWh/100 km, or 38.62 kWh/100 miles, translating to an impressive 87 MPGe (Miles Per Gallon equivalent), highlighting its relative efficiency compared to gasoline-powered supercars of its class.
Design and Features: Iconic Form Meets Electric Function
The design of the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive 60 kWh (751 Hp) AMG Torque Dynamics largely retained the breathtaking aesthetics of its gasoline-powered sibling, most notably the dramatic gullwing doors that harked back to the legendary Mercedes-Benz 300 SL. With a length of 182.6 inches (4638 mm), a width of 76.34 inches (1939 mm), and a height of 49.69 inches (1262 mm), the electric variant maintained the classic long hood, short deck proportions of a grand tourer, even without a large V8 engine underneath. The wheelbase measured 105.51 inches (2680 mm), contributing to its stable high-speed performance.
Subtle visual cues distinguished the Electric Drive, such as unique “Electric Drive” badging, a revised front grille that could be closed for improved aerodynamics, and specific alloy wheel designs. The interior maintained the luxurious, driver-focused cockpit of the SLS AMG, featuring high-quality materials and a bespoke instrument cluster adapted to display electric powertrain information, such as battery state of charge and power delivery.
Underneath its striking bodywork, the Electric Drive featured a sophisticated suspension setup with independent multi-link suspension at the front and a double wishbone arrangement at the rear, both complemented by transverse stabilizers to manage body roll. Large ventilated disc brakes – 402×39 mm at the front and 360×32 mm at the rear – provided immense stopping power, critical for handling the car’s performance and weight. Assisting systems like ABS (Anti-lock braking system) were standard, enhancing safety and control. The vehicle rode on staggered tire sizes: 265/35 R19 at the front and larger 295/30 R20 at the rear, mounted on 9.5J x 19 and 11J x 20 wheel rims, respectively, emphasizing its rear-wheel-drive bias despite the all-wheel-drive electric system. Electric power steering offered precise and responsive feedback to the driver.
Technical Specifications: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| General Information | |
| Brand | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SLS AMG |
| Generation | SLS AMG Coupe (C197) |
| Type (Engine) | Electric Drive 60 kWh (751 Hp) AMG Torque Dynamics |
| Start of Production | June, 2013 |
| End of Production | June, 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body Type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Performance Specs | |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.9 sec |
| Maximum Speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Electric Cars and Hybrids Specs | |
| Gross Battery Capacity | 60 kWh |
| Battery Voltage | 400 V |
| Battery Technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery Weight | 548 kg (1208.13 lbs) |
| Battery Location | Inside the trunk, In the central tunnel |
| All-electric Range (NEDC) | 250 km (155.34 mi) |
| Average Energy Consumption (NEDC) | 24 kWh/100 km (38.62 kWh/100 mi, 87 MPGe, 4.2 km/kWh, 2.6 mi/kWh) |
| Electric Motor 1 (Front Axle) | |
| Power | 188 Hp |
| Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Model/Code | EM0005 |
| Max RPM | 13000 rpm |
| Location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Type | Synchronous |
| Electric Motor 2 (Front Axle) | |
| Power | 188 Hp |
| Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Model/Code | EM0005 |
| Max RPM | 13000 rpm |
| Location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Type | Synchronous |
| Electric Motor 3 (Rear Axle) | |
| Power | 188 Hp |
| Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Model/Code | EM0005 |
| Max RPM | 13000 rpm |
| Location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Type | Synchronous |
| Electric Motor 4 (Rear Axle) | |
| Power | 188 Hp |
| Torque | 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) |
| Model/Code | EM0005 |
| Max RPM | 13000 rpm |
| Location | Rear axle, Transverse |
| Type | Synchronous |
| System Output | |
| System Power | 751 Hp |
| System Torque | 1000 Nm (737.56 lb.-ft.) |
| Dimensions | |
| Length | 4638 mm (182.6 in.) |
| Width | 1939 mm (76.34 in.) |
| Height | 1262 mm (49.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm (105.51 in.) |
| Minimum Turning Circle | 11.9 m (39.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Four electric motors drive each wheel individually. |
| Drive Wheel | All-wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of Gears / Gearbox Type | 1 gear, automatic transmission |
| Front Suspension | Independent multi-link suspension, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear Suspension | Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front Brakes | Ventilated discs, 402×39 mm |
| Rear Brakes | Ventilated discs, 360×32 mm |
| Assisting Systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering Type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power Steering | Electric Steering |
| Front Wheel Tires | 265/35 R19 |
| Rear Wheel Tires | 295/30 R20 |
| Front Wheel Rims | 9.5J x 19 |
| Rear Wheel Rims | 11J x 20 |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive 60 kWh (751 Hp) AMG Torque Dynamics holds a significant place in automotive history, not just for Mercedes-Benz but for the broader electric vehicle landscape. As one of the world’s first true electric supercars, it served as a high-profile testbed for advanced electric powertrain technology and performance. Its limited production run, spanning only a year, emphasized its role as a halo car and a statement of intent rather than a mass-market offering.
At a time when electric vehicles were often perceived as utilitarian or lacking in excitement, the SLS AMG Electric Drive shattered stereotypes. It demonstrated conclusively that electric propulsion could deliver breathtaking performance, instant torque, and a uniquely engaging driving experience. Its quad-motor, all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring was years ahead of its time, foreshadowing the advanced electric powertrains seen in today’s leading performance EVs.
Competitors in its segment were primarily traditional gasoline-powered supercars, such as the Ferrari F12berlinetta, Lamborghini Aventador, and McLaren 650S. While these cars offered visceral engine notes and a long heritage, the SLS AMG Electric Drive countered with its silent, brutal acceleration and sophisticated electronic control. Its direct electric competitor was virtually non-existent at its launch, making it a pioneer in a nascent market segment. Tesla’s Model S Performance, while a high-performance EV sedan, operated in a different class, further highlighting the SLS AMG Electric Drive’s unique position as a bespoke electric supercar.
The SLS AMG Electric Drive’s impact extended beyond its immediate sales figures. It showcased Mercedes-Benz’s engineering prowess and commitment to innovation, paving the way for future electrified AMG models and the broader EQ line of electric vehicles. It provided invaluable data and experience in high-voltage battery management, thermal control, and electric motor integration in a performance application.
Today, the SLS AMG Coupe (C197) Electric Drive is recognized as a collector’s item and a significant milestone in the transition towards electric performance. Its rarity, coupled with its groundbreaking technology and iconic design, ensures its legacy as a visionary machine that dared to electrify the supercar world long before it became a mainstream trend. It remains a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s foresight and AMG’s relentless pursuit of performance, regardless of the power source.
