Baby Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG to get twin-turbo V6, pair of electric-motors
We’ve previously heard reports about Mercedes-Benz offering a baby SLS AMG supercar but it seems like plans have changed. While there will still be a baby SLS AMG, it will be an electric supercar that will be influenced by the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell.
Internally known as the SLM (the ‘M’ stands for a mid-engine layout), the car will focus on lightness and efficiency.
“A mid-engine car is the best way to avoid cannibalizing sales-and to challenge rivals like the Audi R8 and the upcoming production version of the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics coupe,” our source answers.
Original plans for a front-engine baby SLS were dropped since the higher-ups thought that it would be to close the SL sports car, which is a an important and profitable car for the brand.
Power for the SLM is likely to come from a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 making 350-hp mated to two electric motors, a similar setup to the SLS AMG E-Cell, which will hit roads in 2012.
– By: Omar Rana
Source: Automobile
