Details of most powerful electric car released by Mercedes-Benz

Date: 5/10/2012

The details of the most powerful electric car ever to be made have been released by Mercedes-Benz, as the company investigates the potential of offering it for sale in the UK.

Using technology which was designed for the Formula 1 industry, the SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive has some impressive credentials.

With four independent electric motors, it can go from zero to 62 miles per hour in 3.9 seconds, making it the fastest electrically-powered series production vehicle in the world.

Testing carried out by Mercedes-Benz has found that it has a 155 mile range by virtue of its 60kWh 400V lithium-ion battery.

Each of the four compact electric motors drives one of the vehicle's four wheels, capable of an individual speed of 13,000rpm.

These motors weigh 45 kilograms and replace the need for wheel hub motors.

The SLS AMG Coupé Electric Drive is charged using a wall box, which consists of a 22kW quick-charge point fitted into the owner's garage.

It is then connected to the vehicle using a high-voltage power cable, allowing for rapid charging when required.

The wall box charges the car to capacity in three hours, though it can also be powered up using a mains socket, but this takes considerably longer – 20 hours on average.

Motorists can drive the model in a number of different modes, ranging from 'comfort' to 'sport' and 'sport plus' for the most agility in driving.

It has not been decided when the car will be available to purchase here or how much it would cost, but Mercedes-Benz is looking at the potential to put it on the market in the UK.

In producing this car the company has dispelled any doubts about how powerful an electric car can be.

It is a super-sporter for those looking towards low carbon options at the top end of the market.

Posted by Sarah Bailey

Transport Research News and Vehicle Safety News