IF WE’RE BEING TOTALLY HONEST, Formula 1 technology usually takes some time to filter down to road cars. If it ever does. But the new “entry-level” Mercedes-AMG SL 43 four-cylinder model uses an electric exhaust gas turbocharger, technology, a direct derivative of the technology successfully used by the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.
Following the two variants with V8 engines, Mercedes-AMG presents the SL 43 (combined fuel consumption 9.4-8.9L/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 214-201 g/km), a technically innovative entry-level model of the newly developed roadster icon. Under the bonnet of the open-top 2+2-seater with fabric soft top is an in-line four-cylinder petrol engine with two litres displacement that provides the befitting propulsion.
The new form of turbocharging guarantees particularly spontaneous throttle response across the entire rev range, offering an even more dynamic driving experience while increasing efficiency at the same time. The turbocharger is operated via the 48-volt electrical system, which also feeds the belt-driven starter-generator (RSG). As a result, the Mercedes-AMG SL 43 has an output of 280 kW and a maximum torque of 480 Nm, plus an additional short-term boost of 10 kW from the RSG in certain driving situations. The new entry-level model in the SL family also shines with extensive standard equipment. In addition, numerous options that enhance comfort and safety offer a wide range of possibilities for individualisation.
In the 70 years of its development history, the SL experienced the transformation from a thoroughbred racing car to an open-top luxury sports car, and has long enjoyed legend status, not least for this reason. The new Mercedes-AMG SL now marks another milestone in the model’s history. It combines the distinct sportiness of the original SL with the unique luxury and technological excellence of the modern Mercedes-AMG models. With its innovative engine concept, the new entry-level model of the 2+2-seater roadster is aimed more at particularly tech-savvy buyers. With its combination of a comparatively light four-cylinder engine on the front axle and rear-wheel drive, the SL 43 also displays distinctly discrete handling characteristics.
“In its long history, the SL has repeatedly set technological milestones. For example, while the legendary 300 SL Gullwing in 1954 was the world’s first series-produced passenger car with direct petrol injection, the new Mercedes-AMG SL 43 is now the very first series-produced vehicle with an electric exhaust gas turbocharger. With this technology, the SL also has an outstanding performance range in its entry-level version. This means that our seemingly smallest SL combines the typical AMG Driving Performance with luxury and comfort at the absolute top level. What’s more, with this innovative engine we are undoubtedly also appealing to a wider clientèle”, says Philipp Schiemer, Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes‑AMG GmbH.
“The electric exhaust gas turbocharger is a fascinating example of the extensive transfer between Formula 1 technology and the development of production vehicles. In implementing this in conjunction with our powerful M139 four-cylinder, we were also able to draw on the enormous wealth of experience of our colleagues at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains. The technology increases agility and thus driving fun, while at the same time improving the efficiency of the drive system. We are pursuing ambitious goals with a view to our electrified future. Innovative components such as the electric exhaust gas turbocharger help us to achieve this”, says Jochen Hermann, Chief Technical Officer of Mercedes‑AMG GmbH.