Anyone who still thinks electric vehicles are wonky should look again. Since 2010 Mercedes has been displaying its prototype SLS AMG gullwing electric vehicle at car shows, but until now it has just been something to look at and consider for the future. And finally the future is now. The production model SLS AMG Electric Drive has just made its debut at the Paris Auto Show and somehow it just feels different this time. For one thing, the shockingly blue paint has been softened to an easy on the eyes chrome blue tone, perhaps to say that this is finally the real thing.
 Sleek lines on the new SLC AMG Electric Drive |
 The first Mercedes with no tail pipes |
Powered by four electric motors, one mounted on each wheel, it delivers a raging 740 horsepower, out producing its gasoline powered AMG sister by nearly 200 horses. With 737 pound-feet of torque, it reaches 62mph in a rocket fast 3.9 seconds, with a maximum speed of 155 mph, making it the fastest and most powerful electric car on the market today.
It has a respectable range of about 150 miles on a full charge, but it will take approximately 20 hours to charge on a household outlet. A custom charger will get the job done in about three hours, and will likely be popular option for buyers.
 The new SLC AMG with its distinctive gullwings |
 The interior features forward thinking ergonomic design |
Its stats are amazingly positive and heads are turning, but – and there is a but — the cost will be a staggering $416,500 Euros (about $536,000), twice that of the gas powered version. Currently there is no U.S. production scheduled, but it is expected to be on the market ahead of its planned June 2013 European release. We’re looking forward to seeing this one on the road.
