Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series set for 2013 release

The SLS AMG may be two years old now, but it was just recently that Mercedes-Benz released a teaser showing what could be the covered SLS AMG Black Series. However, suspicions were proven true as the automaker removed the tight-fitting drapes.

So preparing for the official debut at the 2012 LA Auto Show is the first Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Black Series. And it is by far the most impressive machine made by them, with extensive measures taken to improve performance and reduce weight.

Underneath the SLS’ long hood is a 6.2-litre V8 AMG which has been reworked to squeeze out an extra 39 horsepower thus raising the output to 622 hp. And even though overall torque has dropped by 14 Nm, the 0-100 kph acceleration is quicker — 3.5 seconds to be precise. Top speed for the car is 316 kph.

Allegedly, the handling of the car has also been improved on all levels, thanks to upgraded ceramic brakes with two-piece rotors, adjustable coil over suspension, electronically-controlled rear differential and a track that has been widened by almost an inch. For added rigidity, many of the body braces in the aluminium space frame have been replaced with carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) also helping shed precious pounds.

At 1550 kgs, the SLS AMG Black Series has dropped a total of 70 kg compared to the SLS AMG GT. Some of these numbers are actually pretty significant because of the extra effort to cut weight in areas, such as 16 kg in the ceramic brakes, 13 kg cut after using the CFRP engine-to-transmission torque tube and similarly from from the titanium exhaust system. It is even said that the car will replace the conventional battery with a lithium-ion one to keep the weight down.

Mercedes-Benz also say that the styling of the SLS AMG Black Series was inspired by its GT3 racecar, and elements like the front chin spoiler, forged alloy wheels, rear diffuser and the vented side skirts and rear fascia help the car look the part. Many of the body panels are made of CFRP, including the flared front and rear fenders. This racecar styling is also applied to the interior of the Black Series with a sport steering wheel that features a red “12 o’clock” marking and plenty of exposed carbon fibre.

An optional AMG Aerodynamics package that gets an adjustable CFRP rear wing with aluminium uprights and front fascia flics (the little swooshy fins below the air intakes) is available, but all of the cars get a vented hood that increases front axle downforce.

The 2014 SLS AMG Gullwing Black Series is expected to go on sale by next summer, and Mercedes-Benz has yet to announce pricing or production numbers. But no doubt, GCC countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain et al will be breeding grounds for this car.