Rendered Speculation: Mercedes-Benz SLM, possibly plug-in hybrid
 

Filed under: Spy Photos, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Mercedes-Benz

http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog....rters-view.jpgApparently the product planners at Mercedes-Benz and AMG have decided that both cheaper and more expensive derivatives of the gull-wing SLS coupe would be too problematic and have instead opted for something completely different. AMG is now reportedly developing a mid-engined SLM to take on the likes of the Audi R8 and a possible BMW supercar.

While reusing components from the SLS would have been preferable from a purely financial perspective, it could cannibalize the SL, while something even more upmarket from the SLS might prove too hard to sell in the current economic environment.

The SLM is expected to focus on light weight and a smaller boosted engine, possibly paired with electric motors. The front wheels could be driven by the same motors used in the battery-powered SLS E-Cell while the engine would drive the rears. If this hybrid configuration is utilized, the SLM would also theoretically be a direct competitor to a production version of the Porsche 918 Spyder.

[Source: Automobile]Rendered Speculation: Mercedes-Benz SLM, possibly plug-in hybrid originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 02 Jul 2010 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.



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