Engines

AMG 6.2 litre front-mounted mid-engine
The advanced AMG 6.2 litre V8 motor makes the SLS AMG one of the most powerful sports cars in its class. The V8 high-speed engine with 6208 cc capacity is a completely modified version of the AMG 6.2 litre V8 basic engine. The 8-cylinder engine responds to the slightest movement of the accelerator with superb agility across the entire engine speed range and displays the typical features of a high-performance racing car.

The maximum output of 563 hp is achieved at 6800 rpm. The maximum torque rating of 479 lb-ft is reached by the 8-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine at 4750 rpm. Such enhanced performance was achieved by completely redeveloping the intake system and overhauling the valve assembly and camshafts. The use of two flow-optimised exhaust manifolds and the derestriction of the exhaust system provide a significantly improved cylinder charge, which generates breathtaking power. Despite the increased load, engine weight has been reduced to 206 kg through targeted weight optimisation. In terms of the power-to-weight ratio, the AMG 6.2 litre V8 engine occupies a leading position compared to competitor production sports cars.

The gullwing model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and achieves a top speed of 317 km/h.

The conversion to dry sump lubrication allows a significantly lower engine mounting position. The resulting lower centre of gravity enables exceptional lateral acceleration when cornering and generates scintillating vehicle dynamics.

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission
The new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with four drive modes and Race Start function is responsible for power transmission. Weighing just 136 kg, the transmission system employs an integrated mechanical differential lock to guarantee outstanding traction. The system is characterised by rapid gear changes without an interruption in tractive power. In simple terms: shift up at full load to experience even more dynamic acceleration for maximum driving pleasure.

Drivers can choose from four drive modes (ranging from comfort to extremely sporty) and a Race Start function. Real metal shift paddles are used to move up and down the seven gears. A short pull on the left (–) or right (+) shift paddle is enough to select the required driving mode.

Suspension

AMG sports suspension
The AMG sports suspension in the SLS AMG delivers uncompromising racetrack performance. It employs a double wishbone suspension concept – proven in motorsport – on all four wheels. Spring struts specially developed/adapted for the SLS AMG as well as the separation of wheel control and suspension generate a significant reduction in pitching when accelerating and braking. This means that road surface contact is maintained, even when performance is pushed to the limit. The long wheelbase (2680 mm) supports directional stability and the wide track gauge (1682 mm at the front and 1653 mm at the back) reduces wheel load displacement on winding roads.

Steering

AMG speed-sensitive sports steering
To meet the expectations associated with a supercar and maintain control in virtually every driving scenario, AMG sports parameter steering has been integrated in the SLS AMG.

This speed-sensitive power steering delivers a direct steering experience. It also enhances driver feedback as the vehicle speed increases – a crucial factor when driving quickly on a straight road.

AMG Performance steering wheel with a flat lower section and oval profile is upholstered in nappa leather and perforated on the side grips. This ensures handling comfort and a secure grip for use in challenging driving situations.

Drive Concept

Using power when required
The front-mounted mid-engine is in a low position behind the front axle. The double-clutch transmission is located at the rear axle (transaxle principle). The drive shaft is located between them. Made of high-rigidity, extremely light carbon, it rotates in the torque tube.

This is the technical secret behind optimum weight distribution of 47% at the front and 53% at the rear. The torque tube, V8 engine and transmission system are connected with high bending resistance and torque rigidity to create a single fixed unit. The drive shaft (1.71 metres long and only 4 kg in weight) rotates in line with engine revs and transfers up to 479 lb-ft of torque from the engine to the transmission. For pleasant driving and noise comfort, a specially developed torsional damper is located in the torque tube to eliminate oscillation and vibration.

AMG DRIVE UNIT, KEYLESS-GO Starting function and instrument cluster
The functional highlight in the interior is the AMG DRIVE UNIT inclined towards the driver. Finished in aluminium, it is also available in real carbon.

Enjoy the jet-inspired design of the new E-SELECT selector lever for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. The driver can choose between P, R, N and D modes by simply touching lightly on the drive-by-wire system. If the vehicle is stationary, the park position is activated by simply pressing the P button – this also happens automatically when the engine is switched off. The rotary control switch for drive modes (including the Race Start function) and buttons for engine start, ESP® functions, AMG memory function and the extendable rear spoiler are also located here.

KEYLESS-GO makes locking, unlocking and starting the SLS AMG much easier. The vehicle is locked/unlocked automatically by simply pressing a button on the transponder. The engine is started using the central start/stop button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT in the cockpit.

The AMG instrument cluster (including AMG main menu with RACETIMER) features two puristic round dials within the driver's field of vision. They provide key information, including road speed, engine speed, fuel level and engine oil temperature. Between the round dials, the driver receives additional data, including kilometre reading, range, fuel consumption, driving distance, driving time and average speed. The instrument panel also features an upshift indicator, which uses seven LEDs to indicate the best time to change gear.

When the ignition is turned on, the speedometer and rev counter indicators move across the whole range of the dials together before returning to their initial position.

Multimedia systems
The COMAND APS multimedia system^[1a] with CD/DVD drive is included as standard with the SLS. It combines navigation, audio and telephone functions and delivers information to a central 7 inch colour display. The system is operated using a controller (located within easy reach in front of the centre console) or buttons on the steering wheel. And with the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system, COMAND APS can even respond to your voice.

The pan-European navigation system features a 40 GB hard drive for storing navigation data. This leads to a significantly quicker route calculation. The radio with integrated CD/DVD player features an FM/MW/SW/LW dual tuner with automatic station search, RDS, a 4 x 25 W amplifier and six speakers. COMAND APS also includes a music server with 4 GB memory that stores up to 1000 MP3 music tracks. An integrated DVD changer for 6 DVDs is also available as an extra. Below the DVD slot, device includes an adapter for PC memory cards for music playback. External audio devices (e.g. iPod®) can be connected to the COMAND APS via the Media Interface (optional).

The optional new sound system has been specially developed for the SLS by Mercedes-Benz and AMG, together with Danish audio specialists Bang & Olufsen. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG with Dolby Digital 5.1 high-end surround sound system provides an exclusive music experience of the highest standard. The basis for this is not just the 1000 W ICE power amplifier and 11 high-powered speakers, but also the precise distribution of the music signals controlled by the sound processor. Other highlights include the two 250 W subwoofers integrated in the rear shelf and the 50 W illuminated tweeters on the instrument panel.

_{[1a] © 2012 SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. "SIRIUS," the SIRIUS dog logo and related marks are trademarks of SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. Complimentary 6 months of service included. Monthly subscription required for service thereafter.}

Climate control
The new gullwing model also meets the expectations placed on a Mercedes/AMG supercar regarding climate comfort and control. THERMOTRONIC 2-zone luxury automatic climate control is included as standard to ensure a pleasant atmosphere in the vehicle interior. It enables the temperature to be controlled separately for driver and passenger. Using sensors to account for external factors such as sunshine, air quality and humidity, THERMOTRONIC keeps temperatures at the specified levels at all times.

A powerful air-conditioning compressor is responsible for cooling the vehicle interior quickly and efficiently. Cool air flows through the four centre vents in the instrument panel (multi-adjustable cross vents), two openings in the A-pillar, three at the windscreen and one in each footwell. Sensors continuously monitor the interior temperature, the temperature of the air flowing from the vents, the air humidity, as well as the intensity and the angle of sunlight. A pollutant sensor monitors carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide concentrations outside the vehicle. Should pollutant levels rise rapidly, the air recirculation flap is closed automatically.

State-of-the-art restraint systems meet the traditionally stringent requirements of Mercedes-Benz regarding passive safety. 3-point seat belts with tensioners and belt-force limiters are included as standard on the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The safety system also boasts eight airbags: two adaptive airbags for driver and passenger, one kneebag each for driver and passenger, two sidebags integrated in the seats and two separate windowbags which are deployed from the waistline of the gullwing doors. The SLS AMG body features outstanding rigidity and deformation capacity thanks to the lightweight construction of the space frame. In the event of a crash, the collision energy can be absorbed, protecting the occupants from injury.

A range of components for the integrated ADAPTIVE BRAKE system make a key contribution to active safety. The system enhances ride comfort and safety by, on the one hand, employing dynamic control systems ASR, ESP®, ABS and BAS to support critical driving manoeuvres, and, on the other, providing convenience functions to master challenging driving scenarios. These include the HOLD function, which acts like a parking brake and can be activated by briefly depressing the brake pedal. The HOLD function keeps the vehicle from rolling unintentionally at traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic. Hill-start assist prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards or forwards unexpectedly, e.g. when pulling away on a slope and changing from the brake to the accelerator pedal. The "brake drying" function ensures that full braking power is available even under wet conditions. And with the "priming" function, the system reduces the brake response time.

Exterior
The future-oriented, puristic sports car design has drawn inspiration from the proportions of classic Mercedes-Benz sports cars. Opening the gullwing doors reveals the sweeping curved design with large opening angle. The extended bonnet, distinctive V-shaped front section and large air intakes as well as the low-position passenger compartment at the rear of the vehicle underline its sporty credentials and motorsport heritage. The innovative bi-xenon front headlamps with daytime driving lights and LED indicator lamps not only illuminate the road but also contribute to the distinctive visual impact of the supercar.

Viewed from the side, the long wheelbase and short body overhangs are eye-catching features. The distinctive waistline that runs along the entire side wall and the prominent, powerful wheel arches underline the classic design of the SLS AMG – as if cast from a single mould.

The pronounced curved design of the rear windscreen offers an aesthetic transition from the solid B-pillar to the flat sloping boot lid. Super-flat, wing-shaped LED tail lights provide a fascinating and distinctive night design. As with a race car, the LED reversing light and the LED rear fog lamps are centrally integrated. A robust rear bumper with diffuser and fully integrated tailpipes ensure an uninterrupted view of the wide rear tires.

In a retracted position, the rear spoiler is a stylish part of the rear design. The spoiler is extended automatically as soon as the SLS AMG reaches a speed higher than 120 km/h. At slower speeds, manual activation is also possible at the push of a button with the AMG DRIVE UNIT.

Interior
Embodying lightweight design, dynamic performance and pure emotion, Mercedes-Benz and AMG have developed a purist's sports car interior for the new SLS AMG. Opening the gullwing doors offers a clear view of the impressive SLS AMG interior. The interior combines authentic motorsport functionality with legendary Mercedes-Benz comfort and safety standards. Revealing a meticulous attention to detail, a range of fine materials, including Nappa leather and real metal trim (real carbon trim available as an option), emphasise the exceptional design and hand-finished character of the SLS AMG interior.

Design elements taken from aircraft construction are also reflected here – right down to the smallest detail. Situated prominently in the solid metal centre console, the AMG DRIVE UNIT with AMG E-SELECT selector lever mirrors the style of a jet control panel. The wing-shaped instrument panel featuring four distinctive air vents and the AMG instrument cluster with white-backlit round dials is commanding and distinctively puristic. High-quality sports seats with magnesium backrests are finished in stylish designo leather and are available in eight colour shades to suit even the most discerning tastes.

From the concept to the road
The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG features a distinctively puristic design, superior dynamics and legendary levels of safety and practicality. During the development phase for the new gullwing model, AMG benefited from the valuable knowhow of specialists at the Mercedes Technology Centre (MTC) in Sindelfingen. The aim of such networked development was to make the SLS AMG gullwing a synthesis of the strengths of Mercedes-Benz and AMG.

The design and development phases for the new supercar began at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach at the end of 2006. A number of virtual models were created before building the first physical prototype. Extensive testing assessed the feasibility of objectives laid out for the supercar. Cutting-edge simulation software enabled developers to create a highly realistic virtual prototype that incorporated detailed characteristics, including weight distribution, engine installation position, centre of gravity, axle design, aerodynamics, ergonomic qualities, crash response and production processes.

Building on the initial virtual phase, test vehicles operating since spring 2007 demonstrated a high level of design maturity from the outset. State-of-the-art measuring technology delivered key data, including the temperature of engine oil, coolant and brake discs. Emphasis was also placed on lap times, e.g. on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife ("Nürburgring Northern Loop"), and on measurable and precisely defined dynamic manoeuvres.

The first "real" (camouflaged) SLS AMG prototypes entered into global testing in summer 2008. Assessing everything from air conditioning to tyres, chassis, engine cooling, dynamic control systems and brakes, the comprehensive and standardised AMG Development and Testing Program is implemented on testing circuits, race tracks, Alpine passes and selected stretches of public roads. This promotes ongoing vehicle development and helps to identify problem areas – in order to meet the highest quality standards.

Perfect synthesis of lightweight design and outstanding rigidity
For the first time Mercedes-Benz and AMG have produced a vehicle with an aluminium chassis and body. This generates a significant weight saving compared with the traditional steel construction – as demonstrated by the target DIN unladen weight of 1620 kg (without driver).

The new bodyshell includes a 241 kg aluminium space frame. This exclusive construction combines intelligent lightweight design with outstanding rigidity, which allows for uncompromisingly dynamic handling. It goes without saying that the aluminium space frame meets all passive safety and body quality requirements specified for a new Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

Less weight, better performance.

Engines

AMG 6.2 litre front-mounted mid-engine
The advanced AMG 6.2 litre V8 motor makes the SLS AMG one of the most powerful sports cars in its class. The V8 high-speed engine with 6208 cc capacity is a completely modified version of the AMG 6.2 litre V8 basic engine. The 8-cylinder engine responds to the slightest movement of the accelerator with superb agility across the entire engine speed range and displays the typical features of a high-performance racing car.

The maximum output of 563 hp is achieved at 6800 rpm. The maximum torque rating of 479 lb-ft is reached by the 8-cylinder, naturally aspirated engine at 4750 rpm. Such enhanced performance was achieved by completely redeveloping the intake system and overhauling the valve assembly and camshafts. The use of two flow-optimised exhaust manifolds and the derestriction of the exhaust system provide a significantly improved cylinder charge, which generates breathtaking power. Despite the increased load, engine weight has been reduced to 206 kg through targeted weight optimisation. In terms of the power-to-weight ratio, the AMG 6.2 litre V8 engine occupies a leading position compared to competitor production sports cars.

The gullwing model accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and achieves a top speed of 317 km/h.

The conversion to dry sump lubrication allows a significantly lower engine mounting position. The resulting lower centre of gravity enables exceptional lateral acceleration when cornering and generates scintillating vehicle dynamics.

Transmission

AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission
The new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission with four drive modes and Race Start function is responsible for power transmission. Weighing just 136 kg, the transmission system employs an integrated mechanical differential lock to guarantee outstanding traction. The system is characterised by rapid gear changes without an interruption in tractive power. In simple terms: shift up at full load to experience even more dynamic acceleration for maximum driving pleasure.

Drivers can choose from four drive modes (ranging from comfort to extremely sporty) and a Race Start function. Real metal shift paddles are used to move up and down the seven gears. A short pull on the left (–) or right (+) shift paddle is enough to select the required driving mode.

Suspension

AMG sports suspension
The AMG sports suspension in the SLS AMG delivers uncompromising racetrack performance. It employs a double wishbone suspension concept – proven in motorsport – on all four wheels. Spring struts specially developed/adapted for the SLS AMG as well as the separation of wheel control and suspension generate a significant reduction in pitching when accelerating and braking. This means that road surface contact is maintained, even when performance is pushed to the limit. The long wheelbase (2680 mm) supports directional stability and the wide track gauge (1682 mm at the front and 1653 mm at the back) reduces wheel load displacement on winding roads.

Steering

AMG speed-sensitive sports steering
To meet the expectations associated with a supercar and maintain control in virtually every driving scenario, AMG sports parameter steering has been integrated in the SLS AMG.

This speed-sensitive power steering delivers a direct steering experience. It also enhances driver feedback as the vehicle speed increases – a crucial factor when driving quickly on a straight road.

AMG Performance steering wheel with a flat lower section and oval profile is upholstered in nappa leather and perforated on the side grips. This ensures handling comfort and a secure grip for use in challenging driving situations.

Drive Concept

Using power when required
The front-mounted mid-engine is in a low position behind the front axle. The double-clutch transmission is located at the rear axle (transaxle principle). The drive shaft is located between them. Made of high-rigidity, extremely light carbon, it rotates in the torque tube.

This is the technical secret behind optimum weight distribution of 47% at the front and 53% at the rear. The torque tube, V8 engine and transmission system are connected with high bending resistance and torque rigidity to create a single fixed unit. The drive shaft (1.71 metres long and only 4 kg in weight) rotates in line with engine revs and transfers up to 479 lb-ft of torque from the engine to the transmission. For pleasant driving and noise comfort, a specially developed torsional damper is located in the torque tube to eliminate oscillation and vibration.

AMG DRIVE UNIT, KEYLESS-GO Starting function and instrument cluster
The functional highlight in the interior is the AMG DRIVE UNIT inclined towards the driver. Finished in aluminium, it is also available in real carbon.

Enjoy the jet-inspired design of the new E-SELECT selector lever for the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission. The driver can choose between P, R, N and D modes by simply touching lightly on the drive-by-wire system. If the vehicle is stationary, the park position is activated by simply pressing the P button – this also happens automatically when the engine is switched off. The rotary control switch for drive modes (including the Race Start function) and buttons for engine start, ESP® functions, AMG memory function and the extendable rear spoiler are also located here.

KEYLESS-GO makes locking, unlocking and starting the SLS AMG much easier. The vehicle is locked/unlocked automatically by simply pressing a button on the transponder. The engine is started using the central start/stop button on the AMG DRIVE UNIT in the cockpit.

The AMG instrument cluster (including AMG main menu with RACETIMER) features two puristic round dials within the driver's field of vision. They provide key information, including road speed, engine speed, fuel level and engine oil temperature. Between the round dials, the driver receives additional data, including kilometre reading, range, fuel consumption, driving distance, driving time and average speed. The instrument panel also features an upshift indicator, which uses seven LEDs to indicate the best time to change gear.

When the ignition is turned on, the speedometer and rev counter indicators move across the whole range of the dials together before returning to their initial position.

Multimedia systems
The COMAND APS multimedia system^[1a] with CD/DVD drive is included as standard with the SLS. It combines navigation, audio and telephone functions and delivers information to a central 7 inch colour display. The system is operated using a controller (located within easy reach in front of the centre console) or buttons on the steering wheel. And with the LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control system, COMAND APS can even respond to your voice.

The pan-European navigation system features a 40 GB hard drive for storing navigation data. This leads to a significantly quicker route calculation. The radio with integrated CD/DVD player features an FM/MW/SW/LW dual tuner with automatic station search, RDS, a 4 x 25 W amplifier and six speakers. COMAND APS also includes a music server with 4 GB memory that stores up to 1000 MP3 music tracks. An integrated DVD changer for 6 DVDs is also available as an extra. Below the DVD slot, device includes an adapter for PC memory cards for music playback. External audio devices (e.g. iPod®) can be connected to the COMAND APS via the Media Interface (optional).

The optional new sound system has been specially developed for the SLS by Mercedes-Benz and AMG, together with Danish audio specialists Bang & Olufsen. The Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG with Dolby Digital 5.1 high-end surround sound system provides an exclusive music experience of the highest standard. The basis for this is not just the 1000 W ICE power amplifier and 11 high-powered speakers, but also the precise distribution of the music signals controlled by the sound processor. Other highlights include the two 250 W subwoofers integrated in the rear shelf and the 50 W illuminated tweeters on the instrument panel.

_{[1a] © 2012 SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. "SIRIUS," the SIRIUS dog logo and related marks are trademarks of SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. Complimentary 6 months of service included. Monthly subscription required for service thereafter.}

Climate control
The new gullwing model also meets the expectations placed on a Mercedes/AMG supercar regarding climate comfort and control. THERMOTRONIC 2-zone luxury automatic climate control is included as standard to ensure a pleasant atmosphere in the vehicle interior. It enables the temperature to be controlled separately for driver and passenger. Using sensors to account for external factors such as sunshine, air quality and humidity, THERMOTRONIC keeps temperatures at the specified levels at all times.

A powerful air-conditioning compressor is responsible for cooling the vehicle interior quickly and efficiently. Cool air flows through the four centre vents in the instrument panel (multi-adjustable cross vents), two openings in the A-pillar, three at the windscreen and one in each footwell. Sensors continuously monitor the interior temperature, the temperature of the air flowing from the vents, the air humidity, as well as the intensity and the angle of sunlight. A pollutant sensor monitors carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxide concentrations outside the vehicle. Should pollutant levels rise rapidly, the air recirculation flap is closed automatically.

State-of-the-art restraint systems meet the traditionally stringent requirements of Mercedes-Benz regarding passive safety. 3-point seat belts with tensioners and belt-force limiters are included as standard on the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. The safety system also boasts eight airbags: two adaptive airbags for driver and passenger, one kneebag each for driver and passenger, two sidebags integrated in the seats and two separate windowbags which are deployed from the waistline of the gullwing doors. The SLS AMG body features outstanding rigidity and deformation capacity thanks to the lightweight construction of the space frame. In the event of a crash, the collision energy can be absorbed, protecting the occupants from injury.

A range of components for the integrated ADAPTIVE BRAKE system make a key contribution to active safety. The system enhances ride comfort and safety by, on the one hand, employing dynamic control systems ASR, ESP®, ABS and BAS to support critical driving manoeuvres, and, on the other, providing convenience functions to master challenging driving scenarios. These include the HOLD function, which acts like a parking brake and can be activated by briefly depressing the brake pedal. The HOLD function keeps the vehicle from rolling unintentionally at traffic lights or in stop-and-go traffic. Hill-start assist prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards or forwards unexpectedly, e.g. when pulling away on a slope and changing from the brake to the accelerator pedal. The "brake drying" function ensures that full braking power is available even under wet conditions. And with the "priming" function, the system reduces the brake response time.

Exterior
The future-oriented, puristic sports car design has drawn inspiration from the proportions of classic Mercedes-Benz sports cars. Opening the gullwing doors reveals the sweeping curved design with large opening angle. The extended bonnet, distinctive V-shaped front section and large air intakes as well as the low-position passenger compartment at the rear of the vehicle underline its sporty credentials and motorsport heritage. The innovative bi-xenon front headlamps with daytime driving lights and LED indicator lamps not only illuminate the road but also contribute to the distinctive visual impact of the supercar.

Viewed from the side, the long wheelbase and short body overhangs are eye-catching features. The distinctive waistline that runs along the entire side wall and the prominent, powerful wheel arches underline the classic design of the SLS AMG – as if cast from a single mould.

The pronounced curved design of the rear windscreen offers an aesthetic transition from the solid B-pillar to the flat sloping boot lid. Super-flat, wing-shaped LED tail lights provide a fascinating and distinctive night design. As with a race car, the LED reversing light and the LED rear fog lamps are centrally integrated. A robust rear bumper with diffuser and fully integrated tailpipes ensure an uninterrupted view of the wide rear tires.

In a retracted position, the rear spoiler is a stylish part of the rear design. The spoiler is extended automatically as soon as the SLS AMG reaches a speed higher than 120 km/h. At slower speeds, manual activation is also possible at the push of a button with the AMG DRIVE UNIT.

Interior
Embodying lightweight design, dynamic performance and pure emotion, Mercedes-Benz and AMG have developed a purist's sports car interior for the new SLS AMG. Opening the gullwing doors offers a clear view of the impressive SLS AMG interior. The interior combines authentic motorsport functionality with legendary Mercedes-Benz comfort and safety standards. Revealing a meticulous attention to detail, a range of fine materials, including Nappa leather and real metal trim (real carbon trim available as an option), emphasise the exceptional design and hand-finished character of the SLS AMG interior.

Design elements taken from aircraft construction are also reflected here – right down to the smallest detail. Situated prominently in the solid metal centre console, the AMG DRIVE UNIT with AMG E-SELECT selector lever mirrors the style of a jet control panel. The wing-shaped instrument panel featuring four distinctive air vents and the AMG instrument cluster with white-backlit round dials is commanding and distinctively puristic. High-quality sports seats with magnesium backrests are finished in stylish designo leather and are available in eight colour shades to suit even the most discerning tastes.

From the concept to the road
The new Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG features a distinctively puristic design, superior dynamics and legendary levels of safety and practicality. During the development phase for the new gullwing model, AMG benefited from the valuable knowhow of specialists at the Mercedes Technology Centre (MTC) in Sindelfingen. The aim of such networked development was to make the SLS AMG gullwing a synthesis of the strengths of Mercedes-Benz and AMG.

The design and development phases for the new supercar began at Mercedes-AMG in Affalterbach at the end of 2006. A number of virtual models were created before building the first physical prototype. Extensive testing assessed the feasibility of objectives laid out for the supercar. Cutting-edge simulation software enabled developers to create a highly realistic virtual prototype that incorporated detailed characteristics, including weight distribution, engine installation position, centre of gravity, axle design, aerodynamics, ergonomic qualities, crash response and production processes.

Building on the initial virtual phase, test vehicles operating since spring 2007 demonstrated a high level of design maturity from the outset. State-of-the-art measuring technology delivered key data, including the temperature of engine oil, coolant and brake discs. Emphasis was also placed on lap times, e.g. on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife ("Nürburgring Northern Loop"), and on measurable and precisely defined dynamic manoeuvres.

The first "real" (camouflaged) SLS AMG prototypes entered into global testing in summer 2008. Assessing everything from air conditioning to tyres, chassis, engine cooling, dynamic control systems and brakes, the comprehensive and standardised AMG Development and Testing Program is implemented on testing circuits, race tracks, Alpine passes and selected stretches of public roads. This promotes ongoing vehicle development and helps to identify problem areas – in order to meet the highest quality standards.

Perfect synthesis of lightweight design and outstanding rigidity
For the first time Mercedes-Benz and AMG have produced a vehicle with an aluminium chassis and body. This generates a significant weight saving compared with the traditional steel construction – as demonstrated by the target DIN unladen weight of 1620 kg (without driver).

The new bodyshell includes a 241 kg aluminium space frame. This exclusive construction combines intelligent lightweight design with outstanding rigidity, which allows for uncompromisingly dynamic handling. It goes without saying that the aluminium space frame meets all passive safety and body quality requirements specified for a new Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

Less weight, better performance.