Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive debuts at Paris Motor Show
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the all-electric SLS AMG Electric Drive at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, claiming 740hp, 999Nm and a 3.9-second 0-100km/h time.
Mercedes-Benz has revealed the SLS AMG Electric Drive at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, presenting what it calls the world’s fastest electric car. The all-electric supercar delivers 740hp (551kW) and 999Nm of torque from four synchronous electric motors, with one motor powering each wheel. This model marks a significant step for Mercedes-Benz into the electric performance car segment.
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Electric Drive Unveiled at Paris Motor Show
Performance and Powertrain
According to Mercedes-Benz, the SLS AMG Electric Drive accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 249km/h. The powertrain consists of four electric motors, one for each wheel, delivering a combined output of 740hp and 999Nm of torque. Two independent transmissions provide direct drive to each axle. This setup allows for precise power distribution and impressive traction, characteristics that are vital for a high-performance electric vehicle.
The AMG Torque Dynamics system manages selective power delivery to the individual wheels, adapting to different driving conditions. Drivers can select from three modes: comfort, sport, and sport plus. This flexibility gives the SLS AMG Electric Drive the ability to offer a range of driving experiences, from relaxed cruising to dynamic, performance-focused handling.
Technical Changes for Electric Power
To accommodate the electric powertrain, Mercedes-Benz engineers replaced the standard SLS AMG’s double wishbone suspension with a pushrod configuration. This new setup uses horizontally mounted dampers and springs, designed to manage the unique weight distribution and dynamics introduced by the battery pack and electric motors. The change was necessary to maintain the car’s balance and agility, given the additional mass and different centre of gravity compared to the petrol-powered SLS AMG.
Price and Market Position
At launch, the SLS AMG Electric Drive was priced at €416,500 in Germany, making it the most expensive Mercedes-Benz road car at the time. The high price reflects the cost of its bespoke electric drivetrain, advanced chassis technology, and the exclusivity of being one of the first electric supercars from a major manufacturer. Deliveries were expected to begin in Germany in 2013, with no official details on availability in other markets such as the UK.
Positioning and Rivals at the Paris Motor Show
The SLS AMG Electric Drive arrived as a pioneering electric supercar, setting itself apart from most rivals at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, many of which were still at the concept stage. Other electric sports cars, such as the Exagon Furtive-eGT, were also presented at the event, but none matched the SLS AMG Electric Drive’s combination of performance figures and production readiness.
Mercedes-Benz’s entry into this segment demonstrated the brand’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology and performance at a time when few manufacturers had brought such models to market. The SLS AMG Electric Drive’s technical specification, including its four-motor layout, two independent transmissions, AMG Torque Dynamics, and pushrod suspension, positioned Mercedes-Benz as a leader in electric performance development in 2012. The car targeted buyers seeking both zero-emissions driving and supercar-level performance, a combination that was rare at the time.
Specifications Overview
| Powertrain | Four synchronous electric motors (one per wheel) |
|---|---|
| Total Output | 740hp (551kW) |
| Maximum Torque | 999Nm |
| 0-100km/h | 3.9 seconds |
| Top Speed | 249km/h (electronically limited) |
| Transmission | Two independent transmissions (one per axle) |
| Suspension | Pushrod with horizontal dampers and springs |
| Drive Modes | Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus |
| On Sale | Germany, from 2013 |
| Price at Launch | €416,500 |
Context: The Paris Motor Show and Electric Supercars
The 2012 Paris Motor Show featured several electric and hybrid vehicles, reflecting the industry’s growing interest in alternative powertrains. Alongside the SLS AMG Electric Drive, other notable debuts included the Exagon Furtive-eGT and concepts from mainstream manufacturers. However, the SLS AMG Electric Drive distinguished itself by being production-ready and offering performance figures that rivalled or surpassed most other electric vehicles present at the show.
For those interested in the broader context of the show, the Volkswagen Golf Mk7 also made its world premiere at the 2012 Paris Motor Show, highlighting the diversity of new models and technological innovations on display.
Summary
With the unveiling of the SLS AMG Electric Drive, Mercedes-Benz signalled its ambition to lead in both electric mobility and high-performance engineering. The car’s combination of advanced electric technology, supercar performance, and exclusivity made it a highlight of the 2012 Paris Motor Show and a significant milestone in the evolution of electric vehicles.
