The trailblazing body shell structure of the SLS AMG E-CELL is part of the ambitious "AMG Lightweight Performance" design strategy.

ENGADGET: Visualized: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell bares all

The SLS AMG E-CELL incorporates a liquid-cooled high-voltage lithium-ion battery featuring a modular design with an energy content of 48 kWh.

ENGADGET: Visualized: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell bares all

Geoff Day, head of communications for Mercedes-Benz USA, says the SLS AMG E-Cell uses lithium-battery technology currently unequaled in any other automaker, especially in terms of charging times and resiliance.

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The weight advantages achieved through the carbon-fibre battery monocoque are reflected in the agility of the SLS AMG E-CELL and, in conjunction with the highly innovative wheel-selective four-wheel drive system, ensure true driving enjoyment.

ENGADGET: Visualized: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell bares all

Thanks to this sophisticated front-axle design, which has already been tried and tested in the world of motorsport, the agility and driving dynamics of the SLS AMG E-CELL attain the same high levels as the V8 variant.

ENGADGET: Visualized: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell bares all

The additional front-wheel drive called for a newly designed front axle: unlike the series production vehicle with AMG V8 engine, which has a double wishbone axle, the SLS AMG E-CELL features an independent multi-link suspension with pushrod damper struts.

ENGADGET: Visualized: Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-Cell bares all

Mercedes-Benz has the A-Class E Cell, sold only in Europe, and the B-Class F-CELL, but plans to debut the SLS-AMG E Cell in a battery electric version by 2013.

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