Mercedes Benz SLS

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A direct descendant of the 1954 300 SL Gullwing, Benz’s SL series gets a fresh look for 2009—and a heavy dose of technology on the inside. It’s less a complete redesign than a refreshing of the current platform across the Mercedes SL550, Mercedes SL 600, SL 63 AMG models and Mercedes SL AMG 65. The most recognizable difference between old and new is the much more aggressive, V-shape nose section with multi-element bi-xenon headlamps. But travel around the outside of the SL and you’ll notice a multitude of other changes like the longer hood (with dual power domes), new rear diffuser, trapezoidal exhaust outlets and new tail lamps. Even with the aggressive nose, the 2009 Mercedes Benz SL hangs on to the same aerodynamic performance and the weight distribution.

Mercedes is, however, showing off its direct steering system for the first time. Based on the current speed-sensitive power steering system, it adds more assistance for quick maneuvers but loses some as the SL climbs in speed. The new rig includes a variable-ratio steering rack that adjusts with steering angle for sharper handling.
The Mercedes convertible SL’s four-link front and multi-link rear suspension remain basically unchanged, and Active Body Control has been made standard on the Mercedes SL550, Mercedes SL 600 and SL 63 AMG—and on the special-order Mercedes SL 65 AMG. The powerplants stay the same, too, with the exception of the new SL 63 AMG, which makes 518 hp and 465 lb.-ft. of torque to replace last year’s SL 55 AMG. All versions of the new Mercedes SL Class come with a revised version of the Benz’s 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic transmission (the AMG versions previously used the old 5-speed automatic). The new transmission has a new wet clutch system and four internal clutches for fast-shifting manumatic operation, plus a revised shift program that includes a sporty throttle blip between downshifts.
Inside, the 2009 Mercedes Benz SL features a three-spoke, leather-and-wood steering wheel and new graphics on the main instruments, with electric stepper motors that send needles around the dials and back to rest when you start the ignition.

Airscarf, a technology pioneered on the SLK roadster in 2004, has been improved and added to the SL as an option. It uses an air intake, a heating element and an electric fan in each head restraint to keep the driver and passenger’s noggins warm when cruising in the cold with the top down. It has three temperature ranges to suit weather conditions.
The Command infotainment system in the SL’s center stack has a new look and additional functions, with AM, FM, CD, DVD, iPod and SD memory card capabilities, a Bluetooth function for mobile devices, and a 6.5-in. color display that imparts all relevant entertainment and navigation information. It can even play DVDs, but only when you’re parked. Command now moves beyond just iPod usability to includes a universal media interface that accepts USB sticks and most other popular portable music players. And it can display the music info on the screen and speedometer face. The optional Command APS system adds a 4GB hard drive that holds up to 1000 songs, an HDD navigation system and Linguatronic voice-activation system. The new surround-sound audio system uses ten speakers and 510 watts of power.
All cars bound for our shores will be shipped with the AMG Sport body package, in both Mercedes SL55 AMG V8 models and V12-powered Mercedes SL 600 models—and, of course, the top dog SL 63 AMG and uber dog Mercedes SL 65 AMG. All North American models will employ 18-in. wheels and tires standard, with 19-in. tires and wheels optional. The new Mercedes SL Class goes on sale in May.

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Mercedes-Benz SLR Mc Laren is an impressive testament to the competence and experience of Mercedes-Benz and their Formula 1 partner McLaren in the development and production of high-performance sports cars. The two-seater, with its striking swing-wing doors and styling elements borrowed from the Formula 1 Silver Arrows, builds on the legacy of the famous SLR race cars of the 1950s. Equipped with cutting-edge race car technology and groundbreaking new Mercedes developments, designed to ensure a high standard of safety and suitability for day-to-day use, the new SLR car creates a distinctive image for itself as a 21st-century Gran Turismo – a thrilling synthesis of tradition and innovation.

The newly developed V8 supercharged engine delivers an output of 460 kW/626 hp and accelerates the sports car from 0 to 60 km/h in 3.7 seconds. The top speed is approximately 208 mph. The body of the new SLR McClaren, like those of the Mercedes-McLaren Formula 1 race cars, is made from carbon fibre composites – lightweight materials which demonstrate exemplary energy absorption, hence ensuring the highest standard of occupant protection. The SLR Mc Laren is the world’s first series-produced car to have a front crash structure manufactured entirely from carbon fibres. Adaptive airbags, newly developed kneebags and sidebags, belt tensioners, high-performance ceramic brake discs and an automatically adaptive airbrake in the boot lid round off the range of safety equipment on board the Mercedes-Benz SLR McClaren, setting new standards in this vehicle class.

Technology way ahead of its time and an abundance of power – these were the hallmarks of the legendary SLR race cars in which Fangio, Moss, Kling and other Mercedes drivers achieved spectacular victories in all of the major road races in 1955. The new SLR demonstrates the same characteristics, its groundbreaking technical innovations distinguishing it as the Mercedes-Benz among high-performance sports cars.

Two longitudinal members made from carbon fibre composite absorb energy in a head-on collision

The 21st-century Gran Turismo is made almost entirely from carbon fibre composite. This lightweight yet extremely rigid material originated in the aeronautical and space industries and has also proven its benefits in today’s Formula 1 race cars. The weight advantage of the high-tech material over steel is around 50 percent, and the carbon fibres, on impact, are characterised by four to five times higher energy absorption than steel or aluminum. Mercedes-Benz exploits these qualities by incorporating two 620-millimeter longitudinal members made from carbon fibre in the front structure of the new SLR. These absorb the entire energy of the crash in a defined head-on collision, leaving the passenger cell largely undamaged. It is also made entirely from carbon fibre composite and therefore offers a very safe survival zone in side-on or rear-end collisions too.

Mercedes-Benz has introduced new material technology to the manufacture of the brake discs too. They are made from fiber-reinforced ceramic and are characterized by high fade-resistance and a very long life. In collaboration with the electrohydraulic braking system, Sensotronic Brake Control (SMC™), they allow outstanding deceleration figures too, impressively underlining the motor racing heritage of the Mercedes-Benz SLR Mc Laren.
460-kW/626-hp V8 powerplant with cutting-edge compressor technology

In the interests of optimum dynamic handling and high stability on braking, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR Mc Laren has a front mid-engined design. The high-performance V8 engine, mounted on a robust aluminum frame, is installed at a low level which allows a low centre of gravity for agile handling.

With its 5.5-liter displacement, the supercharged engine develops a peak output of 460 kW/626 hp and delivers its maximum torque of 780 Newtonmeters from 3250 rpm – a figure which remains constant across a broad engine speed range of up to 5000 rpm. This means that the SLR 8-cylinder is among the most powerful engines currently available in a series-produced road-going sports car. This high-performance car takes just 3.7 seconds to sprint from 0 to 60 mph; it passes the 100 mph mark after 8.53 seconds, and from a standing start it takes just 30.9 seconds to reach 200 mph. The top speed is 208 mph.
Water-type charge-air cooling, dry sump lubrication and four metal catalytic converters are further special features of this powerful engine – an engine which already meets stringent EU 4 exhaust gas regulations which are not due to come into force until 2005.

The 5-speed automatic transmission, fitted as standard, is also designed for high performance. It allows the driver to choose between three programs with different shift characteristics. When “Manual” is selected, the five gears can either be shifted using buttons on the steering wheel or using the selector lever’s Touchshift function. In this mode the driver can also select between three shift stages – “Sport”, “SuperSport” and “Race” – significantly shortening the shift times still further for an even sportier drive.

Aerodynamic concept uses expertise from the world of Formula 1
The body design of the Gran Turismo with the Mercedes star takes classical styling elements from the legendary SLR race cars of the 1950s and blends them masterfully with the sophisticated, avant-garde design language of both the latest Mercedes passenger car models and of the modern-day Silver Arrow race cars which took the McClaren Mercedes team to Formula 1 World Championship glory. The design’s concept, in other words, thrillingly spans the divide between past and present, whilst at the same time showing the way forward for the sports car designs of tomorrow.

In order to meet the highest of standards in terms of handling at top speed, directional stability and the cooling air requirements necessary for high-performance cars of this kind, Mercedes-Benz worked with McLaren on developing this model’s superlative aerodynamics, ensuring exemplary road-holding plus the on-road safety standards typical of Mercedes. Following extensive wind-tunnel tests, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McClaren was given a virtually smooth underbody with a special six-channel diffusor under the rear. Both features are familiar design principles from Formula 1. They ensure that the airflow beneath the vehicle is virtually unimpeded and that negative lift, or downforce, is produced at higher speeds. The distinctive sidepipes on each side of the vehicle are also the result of this high-performance sports car’s aerodynamic underbody concept: a conventional exhaust gas system would have disrupted the smooth line of the underbody.

At the rear of the SLR car, an adaptive spoiler provides additional downforce. From a speed of 59 mph, it automatically adopts a 10-degree position, increasing the contact pressure at the rear axle. The spoiler also doubles as an airbrake: when the driver brakes heavily, it rises to an angle of 65 degrees, not only ensuring increased aerodynamic drag but also shifting the aerodynamic centre further towards the rear. This lends the SLR excellent stability when braking from high speeds.

Functionality and luxury stylishly combined
It is the very high levels of practicality and luxury that truly make the interior of the SLR car stand out. Individually padded carbon-frame seats, a multifunction steering wheel with race-car-type buttons for manual gear selection, clearly arranged chronometer-style instruments and high-grade materials define the atmosphere inside the high-performance sports car.

Alongside carbon and aluminum, the Mercedes designers have used “Silver Arrow” leather, specially developed for the SLR, which is available in the distinctive red of the legendary 1950s SLR race car.

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Affalterbach — Following its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, the new Mercedes SLK55 AMG will be showing what it is capable of in its new role as the official Formula 1 safety car. Specifically, the compact eight-cylinder roadster will be celebrating its circuit debut at this year’s Grand Prix season opener on March 7, 2004 in Melbourne, Australia. Thanks to modifications to its braking system, chassis, cooling system and exhaust system, as well as weight-reduction measures, the Mercedes SLK55 AMG safety car will be showing off its optimized driving dynamics and maximized stability. And the improvements will prove very useful: After all, the newcomer will have to lead the world’s fastest drivers around the track at high speed in the event of a circuit emergency, while ensuring maximum safety.

And the new C 55 AMG estate is also making its first appearance at the most prestigious level of motor sports. Prof. Sid Watkins, the Grand Prix chief medical officer, will be able to use the high-performance official medical car with the AMG V8 engine to ensure the fastest possible response in the event of a emergency. The powerful AMG cars will be ready for action at all 18 Formula 1 races, where they will be able to demonstrate their sporty prowess in front of billions of race fans worldwide.

With Bernd Mayländer, 34 — a professional racing driver — behind the wheel, the safety car is taking on the challenge of keeping the Formula 1 cars out of harm’s way in the event of crashes and bad weather conditions. In other words, Mayländer will have to position himself at the head of the field and drive at top speed in front of the Formula 1 cars. And if the speed becomes too low, the high-tech engines that power the sensitive Formula 1 race cars could start to experience problems. For example, they could overheat due to an inadequate supply of cooling air, while the tires could cool down too much and lose their grip. Fast laps at top speeds of up to 240 km/h at the world’s Grand Prix tracks are therefore everyday occurrences for the safety car, which masters these situations with no problems.

Few — but focused — technical changes to the new Mercedes SLK55 AMG

For its demanding assignment as the Formula 1 safety car, the SLK 55 AMG required modifications that were few in number but very sharply focused. The distinctive sporty strengths of the new two-seater developed by Mercedes-AMG were only supplemented in areas that would generate maximum high-performance and reliability for circuit operation. In place of the standard 18-inch tires, for example, new multi-part 19-inch AMG light-alloy, double-spoke rims with special 235/35 R 19 and. 265/30 R 19 tires have been used. And together with the firmer chassis tuning, the car can handle higher curve speeds and has even more agile handling.

The enhanced performance of the new, enlarged braking system ensures that the car remains perfectly stable and exhibits optimal deceleration. Composite brake discs with six-piston brake calipers are installed on the front axle, and internally ventilated and perforated steel brake discs with four-piston calipers provide the stopping power in the rear. Channels that direct cooling air to the front brakes — which have to bear particularly high stresses — were specially engineered for the safety car’s use in a racing environment.
Weight reduction: nearly 100 kilograms lighter than the series-production car

In order to deliver world-class racing performance, the weight of the safety car was trimmed by nearly 100 kilograms in contrast to the series-production vehicle. And this was achieved despite the fact that the car became heavier right from the outset because of its added components — including communication equipment, lights, cooling systems for the rear axle and brakes, and larger wheels and brakes. Aluminum was used in place of steel for the bonnet and other components, representing a weight saving of about 12 kilograms. The DaimlerChrysler specialists at the Bremen plant played a key role in slashing the car’s weight. Keeping the vario-roof closed at all times made it possible to dispense with its mechanical and hydraulic systems, saving another 17 kilograms. The front and rear valences are made of an extremely lightweight, high-strength carbon-fiber laminate material. Carbon-fiber laminate is a high-tech solution known for its applications in Formula 1 and the DTM. The valences weigh ten kilograms less than those used in the series-production Mercedez SLK . Additional weight reductions were realized with the headlamps ( 4 kg), seats (25 kg), the car’s entire wiring (4 kg), its interior (40 kg) and numerous other measures, giving the safety car a curb weight of 1,370 kg. In comparison, the curb weight of the Mercedes SLK55 AMG series-production vehicle is 1,465 kg (not including the fuel and driver).
All these modifications also result in optimized weight distribution, which means superior handling on the circuit. The car’s battery and windscreen fluid reservoir were moved from the engine compartment to the boot, enhancing this advantage even more.

Engine and drive: characteristic V8 sound with optimized cooling

The engine and drive of the unique Mercedes SLK AMG greatly resemble their series production versions. The 5.5-litre V8 engine from AMG delivers 265 kW/360 hp and accelerates the silver two-seater from 0 to 100 km/h in under five seconds. What’s more, its convincing eight-cylinder sound is sure to appeal to racing fans watching at the track or on TV. The sports car was given a newly developed exhaust system with reduced back pressure and a special sound for Formula 1 use.

And to ensure that even the toughest of weather conditions are no problem, the Mercedes SLK55 AMG safety car is also fitted with a high-performance water cooler, two engine oil coolers - in the sides of the front apron and a larger transmission oil cooler. The rear differential has cooling fins and a separate cooler installed into the rear valence. The air stream is distributed through it by a diffuser, thus helping to prevent the rear-axle oil from overheating. When the car is stationary, an electric fan is employed to increase safety even further.
Roof lights send out clear signals to the Formula 1 drivers
Two visual features make the safety car stand out from the series-produced Mercedes SLK55 AMG: the FIA Formula 1 logos and the light system on the roof. The green lights are turned on by Mayländer’s co-driver, Peter Tibbets (UK) from the FIA, when the safety car pulls out and first has to overtake all of the racing cars. As soon as the safety car has taken the lead, the orange light signals to the Formula 1 drivers that overtaking is strictly forbidden. The white strobe lights in the headlights and tail lights remain active whenever the car is in use and have a neutral signal function.

To enable communication with the race organizers, the safety car is equipped with a radio system, a TV monitor and cameras installed inside and out. This extra equipment requires a separate electrical circuit with a second generator. The very special character of the new Mercedes-AMG FIA safety car is typified by the two bucket seats with four-point seatbelts, the exclusive black-and-silver leather fittings, Formula 1 tread panels, a particularly eye-catching AMG sports steering wheel and high-quality carbon trim.
C 55 AMG estate: Medical car for Formula 1 chief medical officer Sid Watkins

Professor Sid Watkins, the official FIA Grand Prix chief medical officer, now has a new Mercedes-Benz C 55 AMG estate as a medical car to ensure that he can reach and treat racing drivers who have been involved in an accident as quickly as possible. The communication system, chassis and brakes of the high-performance car, which is powered by a 5.5-litre V8 engine that delivers 270 kW/367 hp, were remodeled especially for the Formula 1 world championships. On the monitor of the medical car’s COMAND system, the occupants can follow the race live. The car also boasts a radio system for communicating with the race organizers, roof lights and strobe lights front and rear.

A high level of safety for Professor Sid Watkins and the three medical assistants is guaranteed by four-point belts at each seat. The roomy boot of the C55 AMG estate houses a complete emergency aid kit to treat severely injured patients.
Cooperation between production and overall vehicle development at AMG

AMG production, which specializes in small-batch series and customized individual components, and the test team from AMG overall vehicle development were responsible for the development, track tests and bodywork of the two safety cars and two medical cars (one main vehicle and one replacement in each case). The engineers and technicians responsible were greatly helped by the company’s 37 years of experience in motor sports and the development of high-performance sports cars. Numerous test drives were conducted at different Formula 1 tracks in order to determine the chassis tuning and ensure that of all the components satisfy strict safety requirements. Racing driver Bernd Mayländer was involved in every stage of the development. Two highly qualified AMG engineers are overseeing the operation of the AMG vehicles at all 18 Formula 1 race meetings.
Six generations of Mercedes-AMG safety cars since 1996
Following in the footsteps of the C 36 AMG (1996), the first CLK 55 AMG (since 1997), the CL 55 AMG (since 2000), the SL 55 AMG (since 2001) and the CLK 55 AMG (2003), the new SLK 55 AMG is the sixth official safety car from Mercedes-AMG. An AMG E-Class coupe with a V8 engine was employed as a medical car as far back as 1984. The activities of Mercedes-AMG testify to the long-standing involvement of DaimlerChrysler in the Formula 1.