Mercedes-AMG crowns the SL series with the new SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE.
17-12-2023 03:53 - CAR NEWS
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The 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine and the AMG Electric Drive Unit together generate a system output of 600 kW (816 hp) and a maximum system torque of up to 1,420 Nm. This makes the new model the most powerful SL of all time. And it is already the fifth series with the AMG-specific E PERFORMANCE hybrid technology. The immediate response of the electric drive, the rapid build-up of torque and the linear power delivery enable an impressive driving experience. The acceleration to 100 km/h in 2.9 seconds and the top speed of 317 km/h underline the confident appearance. Systems such as the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilisation and active rear-axle steering ensure a widespread between comfort and driving dynamics.
In the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE, the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine on the front axle is also combined with an electric drive unit on the rear axle. It integrates a 150 kW (204 hp), permanently excited synchronous electric motor with an electrically switched two-speed transmission and a mechanical rear axle limited-slip differential. The lightweight high-performance battery is also located in the rear above the rear axle. This compact design results in numerous advantages. The electric motor acts directly on the rear axle and can therefore convert its power more directly into propulsion. This provides an extra boost when starting off, accelerating, or overtaking. As slip on the rear axle increases, the driving force of the electric motor is also transferred to the front wheels as required. The mechanical connection of the fully variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive makes this possible via the cardan shaft and drive shafts of the front wheels. The positioning on the rear axle improves the weight and axle load distribution in the vehicle and thus forms the basis for convincing handling.
The development of the lithium-ion energy storage is inspired by technologies proven in the Formula 1™ hybrid racing cars of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team. The AMG High Performance battery offers high performance that can often be used one after the other. This increases the overall performance of the SL Roadster. Added to this is the rapid energy consumption and high power density. The high-performance battery offers a capacity of 6.1 kWh, 70 kW continuous power and 150 kW peak power. Charging takes place via the installed 3.7 kW on-board charger with alternating current at a charging station, wallbox or household socket. The battery is designed for fast power delivery and consumption and not for the longest possible range. Nevertheless, 13 km of purely electric travel (EAER) enables a practical operating radius.
The basis for the high performance of the AMG 400-volt battery is direct cooling: a high-tech coolant flows around all 560 cells and cools them individually. Every battery needs a defined temperature for optimal power delivery. If the energy storage device becomes too cold or too hot, it temporarily loses noticeable power or must be turned down so as not to be damaged if the temperature is too high. A uniform temperature control of the battery therefore has a decisive influence on its performance, service life and safety.
The basis for the high performance of the AMG 400-volt battery is direct cooling: a high-tech coolant flows around all 560 cells and cools them individually. Every battery needs a defined temperature for optimal power delivery. If the energy storage device becomes too cold or too hot, it temporarily loses noticeable power or must be turned down so as not to be damaged if the temperature is too high. A uniform temperature control of the battery therefore has a decisive influence on its performance, service life and safety.
The active aerodynamics were also fine-tuned. It is adapted to electrified drive technology. The active aerodynamic element, which is hidden in the underbody in front of the engine, contributes to balanced driving behaviour. It is standard on the SL top model. This carbon profile is an exclusive AMG development and protected by patents. It reacts to the position of the AMG driving programmes and automatically extends downwards by around 40 millimetres at a speed of 80 km/h. This creates the so-called Venturi effect, which additionally sucks the car onto the road and reduces the lift on the front axle.
Another active component is the extendable rear spoiler seamlessly integrated into the boot lid. It changes its position depending on the driving condition. The AMG aerodynamics team has adapted the control software for the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE to the higher performance and modified numerous parameters. They include the driving speed, the longitudinal and lateral acceleration, and the steering speed in the calculation. From speeds of 80 km/h, the spoiler adopts five new angular positions to either optimise driving stability or reduce air resistance.
Another active component is the extendable rear spoiler seamlessly integrated into the boot lid. It changes its position depending on the driving condition. The AMG aerodynamics team has adapted the control software for the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE to the higher performance and modified numerous parameters. They include the driving speed, the longitudinal and lateral acceleration, and the steering speed in the calculation. From speeds of 80 km/h, the spoiler adopts five new angular positions to either optimise driving stability or reduce air resistance.
Also standard is the AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with semi-active roll stabilisation. The displacement dampers, which can be adjusted in rebound and compression, also have semi-active, interconnected hydraulic elements. They replace the conventional torsion bar stabiliser. This technology makes it possible to reduce body roll movements and provide a wide range of driving programmes. The hydraulic connection of the damper chambers on all four wheels takes place via appropriate lines and the control valves within the adaptive dampers.
In keeping with the extreme performance values and the associated performance, the AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system, with bronze-coloured 6-piston fixed calipers at the front and 1-piston floating calipers at the rear, comes as standard. Compared to AMG models with a pure combustion engine, it is larger in size: the carbon ceramic brake discs measure 420 x 40 millimetres on the front axle and 380 x 32 millimetres on the rear axle. The braking system impresses with very short braking distances as well as maximum stability and fading stability under heavy use. It also scores points with its long service life. The lightweight material saves additional weight and reduces unsprung masses.