Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG: fascination and high tech
The new 'Gullwing' from Mercedes-Benz
The new super sports car from Mercedes-Benz and AMG makes for an alluring proposition with its unrivalled technology package: aluminium spaceframe body with gullwing doors, AMG 6.2-litre V8 engine developing 563 hp peak output, 479 lb-ft of torque and dry sump lubrication, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration, sports suspension with aluminium double wishbones and a curb weight of 1,620 kgs (3,573 lbs) - this superlative combination guarantees driving dynamics of the highest order. The ideal front/rear weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent and the vehicle's low centre of gravity are testimony to the uncompromising sports car concept. The 'Gullwing' accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, before going on to a top speed of 317 km/h (electronically limited).
Design: purist, distinctive and passionate
The distinctive styling of the new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG enthrals with its passionate sportiness and reinterprets the breathtaking lines of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL - one of the outstanding design icons of the Mercedes-Benz brand. With its purist design the new SLS AMG reflects the philosophy of contemporary sports car engineering: the hood which measures just under two metres, the low greenhouse positioned well to the rear, and the short rear-end with an extendable rear spoiler are just as powerful a reminder of the superlative dynamism as the long wheelbase, the wide track and the large wheels. The proportions are determined by the short overhangs and the design of the super sports car, with a low-slung, front-mid engine mounted well back and a dual-clutch transmission in a transaxle configuration. The stylistic highlight is without a doubt the gullwing doors, which impart the SLS AMG with incomparable charisma and make a unique statement in this vehicle segment.
The gullwing doors are not alone in rekindling memories of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL; the hallmark wide radiator grille with the large Mercedes star and the wing-shaped cross fins are a throwback to the front-end of the sports car legend. The three-dimensional, sculptured front with the low, v-shaped front skirt with lateral indentations gives the Gullwing model a powerful stance on the road. The car's dominance is underscored by six large air intakes and the wide-set, vertical headlamps with intriguing components: The central bixenon low-beam headlamps with metallic wing element are framed by two LED blinkers above and two LED daytime running lights below.
Influences from aircraft construction
Echos of aircraft construction come courtesy of the prominent Mercedes star, whose tubular section is reminiscent of the air intake on a jet engine when viewed from the side, as well as the long hood: as the eye is drawn forward, so the observer becomes more aware of the curve. The design of the four fins with their Silver Shadow finish that adorn the two air outlet grilles on the end of the hood create the same visual impression. These aircraft-style lines also visually accelerate the air that flows past - and make the SLS AMG appear extremely dynamic even while stationary.
The fins on the hood are taken up on the vehicle flanks: the connoisseur also discovers here a hallmark styling feature of the 300 SL. The "6.3" lettering placed between the fins provides a clear reference to the high-displacement naturally aspirated V8 engine. The side air outlet feeds through into a stylistically prominent feature line, which together with the convex flanks and the exhilarating surface treatment, combine aesthetics with power. The compact passenger compartment proves as alluring as it is unmistakable. With its high beltline, low side windows and steeply angled windshield that resembles a visor. The B-pillar, which is inclined to the front and transitions to the rear window with an elegant curve, gives the impression of pure dynamics.
Shoulder view dominates the side view
Seen from the side, the eye is drawn to the prominent vehicle shoulder of the SLS, with taut lines stretching from the front to the rear. Distinctive 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) light-alloy wheels fill the wheel arches, which stand out prominently from the sidewall. Three different wheel variants all provide a glimpse of the large high-performance composite brakes. Seen from above, a prominent, uninterrupted line runs from the headlights to the rear. This styling feature is also picked up on the hood where the eye follows a distinctive contour which flows over the roof between the gullwing doors, right through to the third brake light.
Rear view that emphasises width
The rear view of the SLS also exudes dynamism and power: the gently sloping trunk lid emphasizes a sense of width, an impression reinforced by the prominent vehicle shoulder and the sleek tail lights - fitted with LED technology, the horizontally structured lighting units provide a scintillating view. Wing-shaped LED lighting elements ensure a distinctive, enthralling night design. The Formula 1-style LED fog lamp/reversing light is set down low in the centre. Similarly inspired by motor racing are the black diffuser insert and the two chromed tailpipes of the sports exhaust system. The strikingly tapered rear apron provides an unimpeded view of the wide rear wheels, lending the 'Gullwing' its self-assured stance on the road. The spoiler integrated in the trunk lid is automatically deployed from a speed of 120 km/h to ensure optimum stability at high speeds.
New colours: "AMG ALU-BEAM silver" and two matt finishes
The colour charts for the SLS include nine exclusive paint finishes. The highlight is the unique "AMG ALU-BEAM silver" paintwork: the, unique process makes the paint shine like liquid metal. The paint covers the body panels like a metallic skin, emphasizing the scintillating design lines of the 'Gullwing' more strongly than any previous paint job and makes them even livelier by means of targeted light reflections. This effect is made possible thanks to tiny pigments measuring between 30 and 50 nanometres.
The two matt finishes "designo magno allanite grey" and "AMG magno sylvanite grey" are just as eye-catching: with their matt silk surface they reinforce the sporty character of the two-seater through specific contouring of the crease lines.
Interior with echos to aircraft construction and motor sports practicality
You only need to open the gullwing doors on the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and ease into the sports seats to experience a whole new level of interior comfort. The Mercedes-Benz designers took their inspiration from aircraft construction when styling the interior - immediately bringing an aircraft cockpit to mind. The characteristic styling feature is the dashboard, whose powerful and dramatic wing shape makes for an impression of width. Strikingly integrated into the dashboard are the galvanized air vents with their adjustable, cruciform nozzles and Silver Shadow finish - their shape reminiscent of a jet's engines. The instrument cluster with its LED upshift indicator and two white backlit dial instruments add another decidedly sporty touch with their metallic Silver Shadow finish. The silver dials have red needles and a 360 km/h speedometer scale. As a central feature of the cockpit, the COMAND APS multimedia system with its 17.8 cm (7-inch) screen is integrated between the two centre air vents.
The elongated centre console in matte metal similarly picks up on the design theme of the aircraft cockpit. It is home to the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which is inclined towards the SLS driver and allows them to choose their very own vehicle setup. The E-SELECT shift lever, whose styling recalls the thrust control of a jet, controls the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. All the controls are made out of solid metal, with a high-sheen Silver Shadow surface.
The concave inner panels of the gullwing doors, the high beltline and the powerful side sill panels round off the cockpit-like impression, while imparting a feeling of sports car-like ergonomics. Fine materials such as nappa leather, solid metal and (optional) genuine carbon-fibre facings underline the pronounced "custom-built" nature of the SLS interior, and show enormous attention to detail.
Five different designo leather colours are available to meet individual preferences: black, classic red, sand, porcelain and light brown.
Wide-opening gullwing doors for easy entry
Despite the low sitting position of just 369 millimetres in typical sports car fashion, the wide-opening gullwing doors make it easy to get in and out of the vehicle. At the design stage great attention was paid to the widest possible opening angle - it is a full 70 degrees. Equally important, the distance between the open doors and the road surface is a generous 1.50 metres, while the entry aperture between the open doors and the upper edge of the door sills measures no less than 1.08 metres. The entrance height, i.e. the distance between the road surface and the upper edge of the door sills is a very low 45 centimetres. As another important criterion for dignified access and egress, two gas-pressure struts positioned next to the door hinges require only very little pressure when opening and closing the doors - even at very low ambient temperatures.
The gullwing doors require less opening space than conventional coupé doors, and can be fully opened in a typical garage. The door is opened from inside by a handle finished in Silver Shadow. The grip section of the armrest moulded into the interior door panel ensures problem-free door closing. The operating buttons for the power windows, central locking system and exterior mirror adjustment are also located in the interior door panels for easy access. The feeling of comfortable spaciousness is in large measure due to the generous shoulder-room of 1483 millimetres and elbow room of no less than 1606 millimetres. In conjunction with the generous maximum headroom of 990 millimetres and effective legroom for the driver of 1058 millimetres, the result is a low but extremely relaxed seating position. At the same time, the intentionally steep angle of the windshield ensures excellent all-round visibility for the passengers.
Sports seats with magnesium backrests
The sports seat backrests are made from magnesium, a high-tech material that combines light weight with high strength. This leads to significant advantages where weight distribution and a low centre of gravity are concerned. The sports seats feature so-called two-zone seat cushions. Prominent side bolsters with a harder foam filling provide optimal lateral support, while the inner areas of the seat cushion and backrest are softer for a high level of comfort on long journeys. In conjunction with the memory package, the fore-and-aft position, seat height, backrest angle, squab angle and steering column are electrically adjustable; three individual settings can also be stored.
Four-way lumbar supports reliably protect the lower spine, while adjustable side bolsters in the backrests effectively improve lateral support on fast bends. Three-stage seat heating is also standard equipment.
The sports seats with integrated head restraints and sporty transverse piping are upholstered in designo leather - and two-tone seats are also available in classic red, sand and porcelain. If light brown is chosen as an interior colour, the sports seats are upholstered in natural leather with particularly high-quality woven leather on the centre seat panels. Depending on the colour combination, fluorescent or black piping provides another sporty touch.
The Performance leather steering wheel in a three-spoke design has a 365-millimetre rim with a flattened lower section, shift paddles and a metal insert, underlining the authentic custom-built look and ensuring the best possible vehicle control.
A host of storage space for hallmark Mercedes day-to-day suitability
The interior of the SLS AMG also impresses with the practical storage space that makes for the day-to-day suitability typical of a Mercedes. The 3.7-litre glove compartment with an eye/sun glasses section is integrated into the dashboard on the passenger side. To the right of the E-SELECT shift lever there is a small storage tray with a 12 V socket, or an ashtray with cigar lighter. The armrest behind the centre console not only serves to operate the COMAND controller: at the touch of a button, the armrest can be moved in two stages to reveal a storage compartment underneath. This has two cupholders, and a holder for the ignition key in the rear section. Additional items can be stored on the rear wall between the seats and in the parcel net in the passenger footwell. Two fixed clothes hooks are attached to the seat backrests, while those in the roof liner fold down and are silicon-insulated.
The button to unlock the trunk lid is located underneath the light switch. Alternatively the trunk can be opened using the ignition key. The luggage compartment can hold up to 176 litres.
Aluminium spaceframe for lightweight design and outstanding strength
The SLS is also breaking the mould when it comes to the body concept: for the first time, Mercedes-Benz and AMG are presenting a car with an aluminium chassis and body. Compared with a traditional steel design there is a significant weight saving, which is clearly illustrated with a curb weight of 1620 kgs (3,573 lbs).
The newly developed bodyshell comprises an aluminium spaceframe. This exclusive design combines intelligent lightweight design with outstanding strength - thus delivering superlative driving dynamics. Lightweight aluminium sections connect the force nodes to a sturdy structure. The large, low-set cross-sections of these aluminium sections ensure high resistance torque, thus providing the required direct transfer of drive, braking and suspension forces. The structure prevents unwanted flexibility; the vehicle responds rigidly, directly and almost without twisting.
45 percent of the intelligent, weight-optimized aluminium spaceframe is made out of aluminium sections, 31 per cent out of aluminium sheet, 20 percent out of aluminium cast and 4 percent out of steel. Maximum occupant safety requires the use of ultra-high-strength, heat-formed steel in the A-pillars. The bodyshell weighs 241 kgs (531 lbs) - an absolute benchmark in the super sports car segment when compared with the peak output of 563 hp.
Low centre of gravity and transverse reinforcing struts for superb dynamism
The overall vehicle concept has been designed with the lowest possible centre of gravity. That means a low connection between the drivetrain and the axles, as well as the lowest possible arrangement of the bodyshell components that contribute to rigidity. Examples include the connections between the front and rear sections and the occupant safety cell, which are resistant to bending and torque. These connections have been consistently designed to run along the lowest possible force paths. The result is not only a low centre of gravity but also a harmonious, and thus efficient, transfer of force within the vehicle's structure.
Another prominent feature of the lightweight construction design is the transverse reinforcing struts at the front and rear axle that are integrated into the bodyshell structure. The sections connect the side members precisely where the highest forces act upon the bodyshell under dynamic cornering. The advantages of this sophisticated solution include unrivalled transverse rigidity and the absence of heavy secondary stiffening or supports.
Passive safety of the very highest calibre
Naturally, the aluminium spaceframe meets all the requirements in terms of passive safety and the hallmark Mercedes-Benz body quality that applies to any car sporting the Mercedes star. The best possible passive safety for the occupants is ensured by the standard-fit three-point seat belts, belt tensioners, belt force limiters and eight air bags: two adaptive air bags and a knee bag each for the driver and passenger. Two side bags integrated into the seats and two separate window bags that deploy from the door waistline are also standard.
Fine-tuned AMG 6.2-litre V8 engine developing 563 hp
A powerful eight-cylinder engine manufactured by Mercedes-AMG forms the heart of the new SLS. The fine-tuned 6.2-litre V8 engine develops 563 hp at 6800 rpm, turning the SLS AMG into one of the most powerful sports cars in its segment. A power-to-weight ratio of 2.84 kg /hp comes courtesy of the low vehicle weight. The naturally aspirated engine delivers maximum torque of 479 lb-ft at 4,750 rpm. The 'Gullwing' accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds, before going on to a top speed electronically limited to 317 km/h (all figures are provisional). Bearing the internal designation M159, the V8 high-revving engine with its displacement of 6,208 cubic centimetres has been thoroughly reengineered compared with the M156 entry-level engine and boasts all the hallmarks of powerful racing engines.
The principal measures in increasing output include the all-new intake system, the reworked valve train and camshafts, the use of flow-optimized tubular steel headers and the de-throttling of the exhaust system. This results in much better cylinder charging, which feeds through into an increase in output of almost nine percent. The eight-cylinder engine responds swiftly to movements of the accelerator pedal, demonstrating much more pronounced high-revving flexibility across the entire rev range. The switch to dry sump lubrication also translates into a much lower position of the engine in the vehicle. And lowering the vehicle's centre of gravity has also paved the way for high lateral acceleration and exhilarating driving dynamics.
Perfect synthesis of lightweight design and strength
The use of high-strength components compensates for the increased engine load associated with the higher output. Forged pistons, a reinforced crankshaft bearing, optimized crankcase structure, along with improved lubrication thanks to an on-demand high-performance oil pump, ensure optimum durability. Despite these higher loads, the engine weight for the M 159 has been further reduced. The forged pistons as oscillating masses play a particularly valuable role in this respect, resulting in a curb weight of 205 kilograms and, in turn, a power-to-weight ratio of 0.36 kg/hp - an unrivalled figure compared with the competition.
Sophisticated catalytic converter technology enables current and future exhaust emission standards to be met.
A match for demanding fuel consumption targets
Despite its uncompromisingly sporty character, the demanding fuel consumption targets have been met. Efficiency-enhancing measures include the familiar AMG-exclusive, friction-optimised twin-wire-arc-sprayed coating on the cylinder walls as well as the on-demand, map-optimised oil supply and intelligent generator management: during the engine's overrun phases and braking, kinetic energy is used to charge the battery, rather than being wasted by simply generating heat. This recuperation assists the driver not only during braking action but also helps convert the braking energy into electrical energy. Conversely, the generator is switched to no-load operation during acceleration, thus reducing the load on the engine.
Dual-clutch transmission with transaxle configuration and torque tube
The AMG 6.2-litre V8 engine delivers its abundant power via an ultra-light carbon-fibre driveshaft at the rear axle - similar to the set-up used on the DTM C-Class racing touring car. The dual-clutch transmission is mounted at the rear (transaxle principle) and is connected to the engine housing via a torque tube. A carbon-fibre shaft rotates at engine speed in the torque tube. The advantages of this sophisticated solution are associated with the rigid link between the engine and transmission and, in turn, the optimum support for the forces and torque generated.
A new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission is responsible for power transfer. The dual-clutch transmission boasts fast gear changes with no loss of tractive force - in as little as 100 milliseconds are possible. The driver has a choice of four different driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) or "M" (Manual) along with a RACE START function. In the Sport, Sport plus and Manual modes the automatic double-declutching function is active; all the modes can be conveniently selected via the rotary control in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Optimum traction comes courtesy of the mechanical differential lock, which is integrated in the compact transmission casing.
Sophisticated suspension layout with double-wishbone axles
The chosen solution with a front-mid engine plus transaxle configuration ensures an ideal front/rear weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent. Mounting the engine behind the front axle has created the ideal conditions for consummate driving dynamics with precise steering, first-class agility, low inertia with spontaneous directional changes and outstanding traction. The aim of Mercedes-Benz and AMG - to build a desirable super sports car and combine flawless race circuit performance with the long distance comfort typical of Mercedes - led to a sophisticated chassis layout. With a Formula 1 inspired double-wishbone axle, the wheel location and suspension function remain separate; the spring/damper struts are supported on the lower wishbone. The double-wishbone concept with its high camber and track rigidity positively locates the wheel with minimal elastic movements, providing the driver with an optimum sense of road contact when driving at the limits.
Wishbones, steering knuckles and hub carriers at the front and rear are made entirely from forged aluminium - substantially reducing unsprung mass; this configuration also notably improves the suspension response. The long wheelbase of 2680 millimetres not only results in outstanding straight-line stability but also low wheel load shifts, significantly reducing the vehicle's tendency to dive and squat. The broad track width - front 1682, rear 1653 millimetres - ensures lower shifts in the wheel loads from the inner to the outer wheel when cornering, enabling the tires to retain more grip. The large caster angle of 11.5 degrees significantly increases negative wheel camber when cornering and also improves tire grip - this also ensures outstanding stability when braking heavily while cornering.
Direct steering, differential lock and 3-stage ESP(R)
The rack-and-pinion steering gear provides a consistently direct steering feel with a constant mechanical ratio of 13.6:1, in tune with the high expectations placed on a super sports car. The power steering provides speed-sensitive assistance and improves the feedback for the driver as the road speed increases: an indispensable factor for high-speed straight-line driving. Mounting the steering gear in front of the engine on the integral subframe enables the engine to be set down very low. The 'Gullwing' comes with 3-stage ESP(R) as standard, providing the driver with access to the three "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" modes at the push of a button. The result is even more driving pleasure without compromising active safety at all. In "ESP OFF" mode too, operating the brake pedal restores all the normal ESP(R) functions.
The system's traction logic of the acceleration skid control system (ASR) is active in all three ESP(R) modes. If one of the drive wheels starts to spin, specific brake pressure is applied to improve traction notably - especially in conjunction with the standard-fit mechanical multi-disc limited-slip differential. This means that the engine power is transferred to the road even more effectively when driving in a particularly dynamic style.
Ceramic composite brakes, innovative flow-forming wheels
The AMG high-performance braking system with composite brake discs at the front ensures extremely short stopping distances even under enormous loads. The newly developed, optional ceramic composite brakes with larger brake discs guarantee even better brake performance. The ceramic brake discs will perform reliably at even higher operating temperatures thanks to their greater hardness, all combined with an impressive weight reduction of around 40 percent. Reducing the unsprung masses has further optimised the handling of the 'Gullwing' - which pays dividends particularly when tackling fast bends on highways.
Lightweight construction was also key when it came to the wheels: weight-optimized AMG light-alloy wheels - 9.5 x 19 inch (front) and 11.0 x 20 inch (rear) - based on the innovative flow-forming principle reduce the unsprung masses while increasing driving dynamics and suspension comfort. In addition to the standard-fit AMG 5-twin-spoke wheels, 7-spoke light-alloy wheels and 10-spoke forged wheels are available as an option. 265/35 R 19 (front) and 295/30 R 20 (rear) tires developed exclusively for the SLS AMG ensure optimum performance. A tire pressure monitoring system is fitted as standard to permanently monitor tire pressure in all four wheels; individual tires are shown on the display.
The reinterpretation of the legendary 'Gullwing' is scheduled to be launched in spring 2010. The sales price is
About Mercedes-Benz
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For further information: JoAnne Caza, (416) 847-7550, [email protected]; Michael Minielly, (416) 847-7509, [email protected]; Further information from Mercedes-Benz is available on the internet at: www.media.mercedes-benz.ca
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