2012 SLS AMG Soft Top Version

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2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG Roadster - Web Exclusive

While the coupe version of the SLS was first seen in 2009 and has been seen on roads since 2010, the open-top Roadster variant has been waiting in the wings.

May 05, 2011|

As we’ve learned, the Coupé and Roadster concepts were created in parallel, giving the engineers three years to pay particular attention to bodyshell rigidity, driving dynamics, the soft top and NVH. Around the Greater Stuttgart area this spring, the new SLS AMG Roadsters cover their test routes under mild disguises. Easily identified by those in the know, there are no Mercedes stars or model designations to be seen, just black adhesive foil at the front, rear and along the sides.

With several months to go before the world premiere at the International Automobile Show in Frankfurt/Main in September 2011, the team at AMG has been finishing up the new SLS AMG Roadster. The latest simulation software and extensive test drives on all continents make the 571hp Roadster fit for its global launch in autumn 2011.

Tobias Moers, head of overall development at Mercedes-AMG, explained: "Owing to the omission of a fixed roof and gullwing doors, it was necessary to design the side sills more robustly. But not primarily to meet the legal requirements in the event of a crash – in principle, the Roadster would also manage this with the side sills of the Coupé. However, studies and test drives showed that the driving dynamics could be improved further by doing this. Therefore, thicker side sills and chambers were developed for the open-top SLS AMG. In order to achieve handling dynamics identical to those of the Coupé, the Roadster has two further features designed to increase the rigidity of the bodyshell: firstly, the crossmember carrying the dashboard has additional support struts at the windscreen frame and the center tunnel. Secondly, a strut between the soft top and fuel tank makes the rear axle more rigid. These features prevent unwanted vibrations and make use of vibration dampers unnecessary.

Such measures also mean the soft top can be safely opened and closed electro-hydraulically while on the move at up to 31mph. The bodyshell of the Roadster tips the scales at only 535 lb – which is comparable to the 531 lb Coupé bodyshell. The Roadster also has a reinforcing crossmember behind the seats to support the fixed rollover protection system. The 250-watt 6.5” Bang&Olufsen BeoSound subwoofers are actually accommodated in the crossmember itself, since the Coupé’s parcel shelf is not available.

Another challenge was acoustic insulation of the crossmember. Numerous improvements became necessary, including a special bulkhead within the aluminium crossmember in order to satisfy the audiophiles.

The three-layered fabric soft top of the SLS AMG Roadster, which is deposited behind the seats in a Z-formation to save space, is also relevant to handling dynamics. Constructed from magnesium, steel and aluminum to optimize weight, the combination ensures a low centre of gravity, yet is able to withstand speeds up to a maximum of 197mph (electronically limited).

Whether open or closed, even at top speed, there must be no intrusive noises or resonance. Likewise the push-on glass draught-stop and the paneling in the interior must be vibration-free. The testing for this was carried out in extreme conditionsby test drivers on high-speed tracks in Papenburg, Nardo (Italy) and Idiada (Spain).

via http://www.eurotuner.com/news/eurp_1105_2012_mercedes_benz_sls_amg_roadster/index.html