Mercedes-AMG Introduces the Most Innovative and Powerful SL of All Time

STUTTGART (December 12, 2023) –Mercedes-AMG presents the new SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE. The roadster’s Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine and AMG Electric Drive Unit produce an 805 hp combined system output and up to 1,047 lb-ft combined system torque. This makes the new E PERFORMANCE model the most powerful SL to date. The immediate response of the electric drive on the rear axle, rapid torque build-up and linear power delivery enable impressive performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes just 2.8 seconds. Standard AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization and active rear-axle steering provides a wide spread of driving characteristics – from comfortable to highly dynamic. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE arrives at U.S. dealerships in 2024.

“The SL has always been an icon in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. The latest version of the legendary roadster transfers this status into the future. First and foremost is the new SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE, which, with its innovative technology, is the most powerful member of the SL family. With this unique concept, we offer our customers not only superior performance but also the option of all-electric driving. Extensive equipment options and the high-quality materials used also make the SL one of the most exclusive roadsters on the market – a real dream car.”

Michael Schiebe, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH andHead of Mercedes-Benz G-Class & Mercedes Maybach divisions

E PERFORMANCE: Combustion engine in the front, electric motor in the rear
In the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE, the Handcrafted AMG 4.0L V8 Biturbo engine is combined with an electric drive unit on the rear axle. The 201 hp permanently excited synchronous electric motor is integrated with an electrically shifted two-speed transmission and limited-slip rear differential. The lightweight high-performance battery is also located in the rear above the rear axle. This compact design has numerous advantages.

The electric motor acts directly on the rear axle and can therefore convert its power more directly into propulsion – for that extra boost when starting off from a standstill, accelerating or overtaking. If wheel slip occurs at the rear axle, the drive power of the electric motor is also transferred to the front wheels as needed for more traction. The mechanical connection of the AMG Performance 4MATIC+ fully variable all-wheel drive makes this possible via the driveshaft and drive axles of the front wheels. The positioning at the rear axle improves the weight and axle load distribution and forms the basis for dynamic handling.

Inspired by Formula 1™, developed in Affalterbach: the AMG high-performance battery
The development of the lithium-ion energy storage is inspired by technologies proven in the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team’s Formula 1™ hybrid race cars. The AMG high-performance battery combines high power that can be called upon frequently in succession with low weight to increase the overall performance of the SL Roadster. Added to this are the fast energy draw and high power density battery.

The high-performance battery offers a capacity of 6.1 kWh, enabling 94 hp of continuous output and 201 hp peak output. Charging takes place via the 3.7 kW on-board AC charger at a charging station, wallbox or household socket. The battery is designed for fast power delivery and draw rather than longest possible range.

The basis for the high performance of the AMG 400-volt battery is a direct cooling system. A high-tech coolant based on an electrically non-conductive liquid flows around all 560 cells and cools them individually. Every battery needs a defined temperature for optimal power delivery. If the energy storage unit gets too cold or too hot, it temporarily reduces power to protect high performance components. The consistent temperature of the battery therefore has a decisive influence on its performance, service life and stability.

Operating strategy: electric power always available
The basic operating strategy is derived from the hybrid powerpack of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 race car. As in the premier class of motorsport, maximum propulsion is always available when the driver accelerates aggressively – for example, when accelerating powerfully out of corners or overtaking. The electric power can always be called on and frequently reproduced via high recuperation performance and needs-based recharging. The independent battery concept enables the optimal balance between dynamic performance and efficiency. All components are intelligently coordinated. The performance gain can be experienced directly.

AMG DYNAMIC SELECT Drive Programs
The eight AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs – “Electric,” “Battery Hold,” “Comfort,” “Slippery,” “Sport,” “Sport+,” “RACE” and “Individual” – are precisely tailored to the new drive technology and offer a wide range of driving experiences – from efficient to dynamic. The drive programs adjust important parameters including the response of the drive and transmission, steering characteristics, suspension damping and sound. The programs can be selected via the central multimedia display or the AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel buttons.

The performance hybrid starts silently (“Silent Mode”) in the “Comfort” drive program when the electric motor is switched on. The “Ready” icon in the instrument cluster indicates the vehicle is ready to drive. In addition, a powerful, sonorous start-up sound typical of AMG is emitted in the interior via the vehicle’s loudspeakers as acoustic feedback, showing the vehicle is ready to drive. Slight pressure on the accelerator pedal is all it takes to set the AMG performance hybrid in motion.

Recuperation selectable in four stages
Because the high-performance battery is always in the optimum temperature window of approximately 113 Fahrenheit thanks to direct cooling, recuperation can also be optimized. Normally, a battery heats up at high recuperation, so energy recovery must be limited. Recuperation starts when the driver takes their foot off the accelerator pedal. This charges the battery and creates braking torque. On steep descents, the system works like an engine brake and feeds energy into the battery.

The driver can select four different levels of recuperation using the right-hand AMG DRIVE UNIT steering wheel button. With the exception of “Slippery,” this applies to all drive programs. The highest level of recuperation allows for “one-pedal” driving much like an all-electric vehicle. Depending on the driving situation, over 100 kW of power can be fed back into the battery.

E PERFORMANCE exclusive exterior elements
The exterior of the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE features unique visual elements. At the rear of the vehicle, this includes an integrated charging port door for the hybrid system, “SL 63 S” model badge highlighted in red, and distinctive grooved trapezoidal twin tailpipe trims. “E PERFORMANCE” badging on each front fender indicates the exclusive hybrid drive.

As with the wider AMG SL model portfolio, numerous paints and equipment details are available for personalization. The MANUFAKTUR program also offers an extensive selection of exterior and interior customization options. Curated exterior design packages can further refine the vehicle’s appearance. 20- and 21-inch wheels are available in a variety of designs and finishes.

Driver-focused interior with extensive personalization options
The interior is designed to support dynamic driving as well as maximum comfort. The cockpit design, right down to the central display in portrait format, is focused on the driver and captivates with a harmonious overall impression. The practical dimensional concept with 2+2 seating offers generous interior space.

One of many highlights in the interior is the electrically adjustable AMG sports seats. These offer exceptional comfort and a high level of lateral support. The optional AMG Performance seats with integrated headrests and ventilation openings in the seat backrests are even sportier. Three massage programs offer enhanced comfort during long journeys.

The large selection of upholstery choices also reflects the range of options – from comfortable to performance-oriented. Single and two-tone Nappa leather are available, as is particularly elegant MANUFAKTUR upholstery in Nappa leather with diamond quilting or the sporty combination of Nappa leather and microfiber with contrasting stitching in yellow or red.

MBUX infotainment system with hybrid-specific displays
The MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is intuitive to operate and capable of learning. In SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE, it features extensive AMG- and hybrid-specific content. Exclusive menu items such as “AMG Performance” underscore the vehicle’s sporty character. The hybrid technology can also be experienced visually. High-quality graphics visualize the power flow of the drive system. The speed, power, torque and temperature of the electric drive unit can also be displayed.

Specially tuned active aerodynamics
The active aerodynamics were also adapted to the electrified drive technology in the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE. The optional AMG Aerodynamics Package features an active aerodynamic element concealed in the underbody in front of the engine, which further contributes to balanced driving dynamics. This carbon profile is an exclusive, patented AMG development. It responds to the AMG drive programs and automatically lowers by approximately 1.6 inches at a speed of 50 mph. This creates a Venturi effect, which sucks the car to the road and reduces front-axle lift.

Another active component is the standard retractable rear spoiler seamlessly integrated into the trunk lid. It changes its position depending on the driving situation. The AMG aerodynamics team adapted the control software for the higher performance of the SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE and modified numerous parameters that are taken into account including, vehicle speed, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, and steering speed. Above 50 mph, the spoiler assumes five new angular positions to either optimize handling stability or reduce drag.

AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization
AMG ACTIVE RIDE CONTROL suspension with active roll stabilization is also fitted standard. This technology reduces body roll and represents a wide range of driving modes. Active hydraulic elements replace the conventional mechanical torsion anti-roll bars and compensate for rolling movements in fractions of a second. The adaptive shock absorbers also have two hydraulic connections – one is on the compression side of the damper and the other on the rebound side. The damper chambers on all four wheels and the lines are connected directly via the control valves of the adaptive dampers.

The intelligent hydraulic interconnection of the four suspension struts and the pressure regulation of the pump and control valves allow a very wide roll spring rate with reduced roll movement. Figuratively, any torsion bar from zero to stiff can be realized automatically. This increases comfort in everyday driving because even one-sided road imperfections are compensated for individually. During dynamic cornering, the hydraulics also actively reduce loss of camber. Thanks to the resulting high camber rigidity, the AMG SL turns in very precisely.

When driving straight ahead, the system is opened completely depending on the drive program and driving situation. The system compensates for individual obstacles that would otherwise lead to rolling movements. Drivers and passengers experience a significantly more comfortable driving experience. The reduced body roll when cornering contributes to both comfort and driving dynamics. There is a greater spread between comfort and sport in terms of driving characteristics in the individual driving modes.

Active rear-axle steering combines agility and stability
The SL 63 S E PERFORMANCE is equipped standard with active rear-axle steering. Depending on the speed, the rear wheels steer either in the opposite direction (up to 60 mph) or in the same direction (above 60 mph) as the front wheels. The system provides both agile and stable handling. Other benefits include easier vehicle control at the limit and less steering effort due to the more direct steering ratio at the front.

AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system
An AMG ceramic high-performance composite brake system is fitted standard and features bronze-painted 6-piston fixed calipers at the front and 1-piston floating calipers at the rear. The carbon ceramic brake discs on the front axle measure 16.5 x 1.6-in (420 x 40 mm) and on the rear axle 15 x 1.3-in (380 x 32 mm). The system impresses with short braking distances and high stability – even under extreme load. The lightweight brake material saves additional weight and reduces unsprung mass.

At A Glance

1 Overall system, depending on the gear combination