Extremely light yet enormously strong carbon fiber identical to the one used in Formula 1 racing was chosen as the material for the BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement components. The components were developed in the wind tunnel. They give the gullwing car an even more striking appearance while optimizing its aerodynamic properties. All components are available either made from clear-coated carbon fiber for a true racing flair or can be painted to match or contrast with the car's exterior color.

The front fascia of the coupe receives a visual upgrade with the BRABUS front spoiler. But that's not all: The spoiler further reduces lift on the front axle at high speeds which results in even better directional stability. The two BRABUS covers for the upper air inlets in the bumper lend the SLS an even more striking face while optimizing the cooling air supply.

BRABUS also lends the sides of the SLS a sharper profile. The new air outlets for the front fenders feature a modern design with integrated blue-illuminated BRABUS lettering. The illumination is activated via the keyless-entry remote or by pulling on a door handle.

BRABUS also adds some more visual pizzazz to the rear appearance of the SLS with the BRABUS rear spoiler and the BRABUS rear fascia element that features custom-tailored cutouts for the four exhaust tips of the BRABUS sport exhaust system.

Forged wheels that were custom-developed for the SLS are also elementary for the electrifying BRABUS look. By choosing a staggered tire/wheel combination with diameters of 20 inches in front and 21 inches on the rear axle BRABUS further emphasizes the sporty character of the two-door car. The ultra-light BRABUS Monoblock F PLATINUM EDITION cross-spoke wheels are up to twelve percent lighter than the stock wheels of the SLS and are mounted in size 9.5Jx20 in front and in size 11Jx21 on the rear axle. The extremely wide high-performance tires in sizes 275/30 ZR 20 and 295/25 ZR 21 are supplied by BRABUS technology partners Pirelli and YOKOHAMA.

Another custom development is the height-adjustable BRABUS smooth-ride suspension (Ride Control). It can lower the ride height of the sports car by up to 40 millimeters (1.6 inches). At the push of a button the driver can choose between damper settings that offer a more comfortable or sportier ride compared to the production suspension. To complement this suspension BRABUS will soon offer the BRABUS Front Lift system. It raises the front of the car by some 50 millimeters (2 inches) at the push of a button to safely navigate steep parking ramps or other obstacles.

While engine tuning for the 6.3-liter V8 is still in the final development phase there already is an extremely lightweight BRABUS titanium sport exhaust system with four slanted exhaust tips. The tips have a diameter of 84 millimeters (3.3 inches). This exhaust system weighs 12 kilograms (26 lbs.) or 40 percent less than the production exhaust and adds an extra ten horsepower to the engine's output. A special feature of this exhaust system is a pneumatically controlled bypass gate that is activated from the cockpit. The normal mode represents a "coming home" sound level that is quieter than the production exhaust. It appeals especially to the neighbors when the SLS returns home late at night. With open bypass gate the eight-cylinder engine sounds even sportier than with the stock exhaust system.

For the cockpit of the two-seater the BRABUS interior designers have developed exclusive accessories and masterfully crafted custom interiors. The speedometer with 400-km/h scale (250 mph) already hints at the car's future performance with BRABUS engine tuning. An ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel is also part of the BRABUS customization program as are stainless-steel scuff plates with illuminated BRABUS logo and matte-anodized pedals.

The BRABUS upholstery shop creates fully custom interiors for the SLS from top-quality materials. Customers can choose from different types of leather and Alcantara in any desired color and design to suit their individual tastes.

BRABUS can also fulfill individual requests for the trim on dashboard, center console and door panels. BRABUS manufactures carbon-fiber and wood trim sets in any color and with any desired surface finish. Find more pictures in the Gallery.

For the recently presented Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG, HAMANN offers forged alloy wheels named DESIGN EDITION RACE "ANODIZED". These wheels, which are produced using the most modern manufacturing processes, bring out the sporty design of the Coupé and ensure the highest load bearing capacity with low weight owing to special aluminium alloys. The look of the DESIGN EDITION RACE "ANODIZED" with its black matt anodized finish and the sophisticated cross-spokes fully meet the sporty expectations that customers have from the SLS AMG. The titanium wheel bolts seem to come directly from the racetrack. These are not only ultra light but are also very stable and corrosion resistant.

The HAMANN-wheel assembly DESIGN EDITION RACE "ANODIZED" are available in the dimensions of 9.0Jx21 (front) and 11.0Jx21 (rear) and are delivered with tyres sizes 245/30 ZR 21 (front axle) and 295/25 ZR21 (rear axle) at a price of 10,500 Euro.

Other sporty highlights are the progressively wound suspensions which lower the centre of gravity of the SLS at the front and rear axle by 30mm, thus improving the handling while going around curves at high speeds.

In addition, HAMANN offers a stainless steel exhaust system with a very sporty sound for the SLS. Two 90mm exhaust pipes on each side exude an impressive rumble from the V-8 engine.

For more information about the extensive HAMANN tuning programme, please visit the web site www.HAMANN-MOTORSPORT.com

In terms of performance, the SLS is outfitted with revised ECU and a stainless steel sport exhaust system. Thanks to these modifications, the 6.3-liter (6208cc) V8 produces 620 hp (629 PS / 462 kW) instead of 563 hp (571 PS / 420 kW).

The clean design and breathtaking form of the SLS AMG have been effectively accentuated by targeted modifications to the bodyshell. The new components, made largely from lightweight carbon fiber offer a clear indication of extraordinary race track performance and extensive aerodynamic development work.

From the front, the GT3 race car boasts a new front skirt with enlarged air intakes. The wide opening beneath the characteristic radiator grille bearing the large Mercedes star and the wing-shaped horizontal fins supplies air to the engine oil cooler and brake discs. The same function is served by the two intakes below the vertical bi-xenon headlamps. Downforce on the front axle is provided courtesy of four externally mounted side flics, as well as a carbon front splitter; it runs directly into the smooth underbody panel, which connects to the rear diffuser.

The hood features a central opening for the extraction of heat from the engine, while side openings in the front fenders facilitate air flow through the wheel arches. Weight optimization measures include the application of extremely lightweight polycarbonate for the side and rear windows and, if desired, for the front windshield as well.

The fenders have been widened front and rear to accommodate the large racing tires. With a breadth of 78.3 inches, the GT3 bodyshell is a good 2 inches wider than the series production SLS AMG. The new sills feature openings for cooling the rear brakes, with the smooth underbody visible along the underside of the sills. The B-pillar houses the standardized fuel tank adapter for the rapid refueling system. The 31.7 gallon fuel tank is located centrally behind the driver.

Wide rear carbon spoiler

The rear view of the SLS AMG GT3 is dominated by its imposing width. Above the rear hatch sits a wide carbon fiber spoiler; it is extensively adjustable and facilitates perfect setup to suit individual race track characteristics. The new rear skirt accommodates two openings for extracting air from the rear wheel arches. A further visual highlight is the rear carbon fiber diffuser; it rises smoothly from the rear axle area as a continuation of the smooth underbody, its form adding to the downforce. The overall aerodynamic concept of the SLS AMG GT3 was analyzed and defined through extensive wind tunnel and race track testing.

The black exhaust end pipes deliver a fascinating and, at the same time, characteristic AMG eight-cylinder sound. The regulation rain lamp is integrated into the rear hatch - it must be switched on by the driver in poor weather conditions.

Close to series production AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine

As defined in the FIA GT3 regulations, the AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine is virtually identical to that of the series production vehicle. Thanks to its low weight, the acceleration figures for the GT3 - 3.7 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 60 mph - are considerably below the already excellent figures for the series production vehicle. Depending on gear ratio, the top speed is more than 186 mph.

The AMG 6.3 liter V8 engine uses dry sump lubrication in the racing vehicle, too. The application of a suction and pressure pump, as well as an external oil tank means that the conventional oil sump can be omitted. This technology ensures reliable lubrication of the engine under high lateral acceleration, of the kind usually experienced on the race track.

Dry sump lubrication also facilitates a low mounting position for the V8 power unit - one of the key technological highlights of the SLS AMG. The solution - installing the eight-cylinder as low as possible and as a front mid engine behind the front axle, combined with a transaxle transmission layout - results in excellent weight distribution.

Six-speed racing transmission with sequential shift

In contrast to the series production vehicle, the SLS AMG GT3 is equipped with a six-speed racing transmission with sequential shift. Thanks to its compact construction, the race-tested transmission offers considerable packaging benefits - ultimately, the GT3 version has less ground clearance than the series production vehicle. The driver shifts gear using two shift paddles on the steering wheel. The transmission is mounted directly on the rear axle and connected to the V8 engine via a torque tube, which has a very high degree of flexural and torsional stiffness. This delivers considerable benefits when it comes to dynamics, as this sophisticated solution enables the entire driveline to be laid out with significantly less play. Alongside the traction control, a multi-plate locking differential integrated into the transmission delivers outstanding acceleration characteristics. Inside the torque tube, a drive shaft rotates at engine speed. As in the series production model, and in the Mercedes-Benz C-Class DTM touring car, the shaft is made from carbon fiber.

With its long wheelbase, low center of gravity and wide track, the SLS AMG vehicle concept was predestined for the race track - its strengths include precise turn-in characteristics, first-class agility, low inertia under sudden changes of direction and a high cornering limit.

It required only minimal modification for perfect race track performance. The lightweight aluminum chassis with double wishbone suspension at all four corners has modified kinematics to take into account the lower vehicle height. The array of adjustability options facilitates optimal modification to suit individual race track characteristics and varying weather conditions. As well as the ability to vary the spring and damper setup, there is also the freedom to adjust track and camber, vehicle height and the stabilizers on the front and rear axles.

Like the series production SLS AMG, the GT3 version is also equipped with rack and pinion steering with speed-dependent power assistance. The more direct input ratio facilitates even greater handling agility on the race track.

AMG race braking system using composite technology

Shortest stopping distances, highest stability and optimal control are guaranteed by the AMG race braking system. All four corners feature brake discs in motorsport-tested composite technology. Gray cast iron axial and radial floating discs are fixed to an aluminum hat via stainless steel composite elements. This sophisticated technology enables perfect heat dissipation and thus reliable stability. The SLS AMG GT3 is also equipped with precisely calculated cooling channels - openings in the front skirt and ahead of the rear wheels direct cool airflow over the brake discs. All four brake discs are ventilated, slotted and drilled. Six-pot fixed calipers on the front axle and four-pot fixed calipers at the rear, finished in anthracite with the AMG logo in white, provide plenty of brake pad surface. An anti-lock brake system with special race track settings is fitted as standard. Due to space restrictions, the AMG high-performance ceramic composite brake system, available as an option on the series production vehicle, is not compatible with the 18-inch wheels prescribed by FIA regulations.

The AMG center-locking alloy wheels - 12x18 inches front and 13x18 inches rear - are fitted with racing tires in formats 11.3 x 26.9 inches (front) and 12.4 x 27.9 inches (rear). Depending on the application, the tires are available as profile-free slicks, intermediates or wet weather tires. The classic multi-spoke design aids ventilation of the braking system. Fast pit stops and wheels changes are ensured by the pneumatic lift system integrated into the underbody. Four pneumatic rams raise the GT3 race car by around 7.5 inches, enabling the pit crew to change the racing tires in double quick time.

Interior with racing bucket seat and race steering wheel

On opening the gullwing doors, the SLS AMG GT3 displays a functional interior with a distinctly race car feel. The driver sits in a racing bucket seat fitted with a six-point harness and the HANS system (Head and Neck Support) that fixes the helmet in place in the event of an accident, thus minimizing the risk of injury. Additional safety comes courtesy of the steel roll cage, which also serves to further stiffen the aluminum spaceframe.

A steering wheel with a diameter of 13 inches facilitates perfect vehicle control. Because it is open at the top, the driver always has a perfect view of the central display, which provides all relevant information such as road speed, engine speed, operating temperatures, lap times and gear selection. The steering wheel is fitted with a quick-release mechanism that makes entering and exiting the vehicle considerably easier. The switches on the steering wheel hub enable the driver to activate additional functions such as the pit radio, headlamp flasher and the drink supply. Further operating elements are mounted on the center console and include the start/stop function for the AMG V8 engine, the traction control, reverse gear and - just in case - the integrated fire extinguisher. The control for adjusting brake balance is located on the torque tube tunnel.

The close relationship between the GT3 and its series production sibling is demonstrated by the instrument cluster, with its powerfully taut wing profile providing visual breadth. Integrated into the dash are the highly distinctive air vents galvanized in "Silver Shadow" and with adjustable cross-shaped nozzles - their form evocative of a jet engine.

Deliveries of customer vehicles to start early 2011

The new SLS AMG GT3 has been developed in accordance with FIA GT3 regulations and is entitled to participate in all GT3 race series - including the popular 24-hour races in Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium, and on the Nürburgring in Germany. Interested customers can order the vehicle starting in autumn 2010, with delivery scheduled prior to the start of the 2011 racing season. Homologation will be completed in March 2011.

The story is so well known to the KICHERER engineers that they built - and even named - the new AMG Mercedes SLS in honour of this sporty example. That's why as hommage the abbreviation CP can be again found in the type description.

True to the firm's philosophy to only make conclusive additions to the basic AMG form and to keep the lines of a vehicle an in essence even more sporty version of the wingdoored car was developed. Especially the aerodynamics were able to enjoy a final high class polish. In addition the developers conceived and mounted a front spoiler lip, a roof ..., a rear diffusor and larger air intakes to better cool the 6.3 litre V8 engine. All new elements developed by KICHERER are, of course, made of high class Carbon.

An immediate eye-catcher on the front of the SLS is the large handcrafted frontgrill made of stainless steel, which is optionally also available in a discreet gold tone. The optics of the vertical struts are meant to remind one of the window grill on the original Pan-American vehicle. A further highlight on the sportscar are the 3 part 20 inch RS-1 lightweight wheels. The classic double spoke design harmonises perfectly with the equally classic sportscar silhouette of the KICHERER SLS 63 CP.

At the rear of the vehicle KICHERER lets the stainless steel exhaust with four oval endpipes melodiously release the exhaust gases into the air. An integrated valve control gives the driver - fitting to the occasion - the choice between a sonorous and a discreet tone.

Various performance enhancers for the 575 PS strong aggregate are optionally available but initially only on demand.

None more so than European tuning company MEC Design who have just released a couple of studies showing just how the SLS might look once they’ve got their hands on one. MEC Design are known for their extreme tuning and these studies show that they have certainly not lost their touch when it comes to taking things further than most tuners.

The first study shows the SLS AMG from the front. The Mercedes Benz star has moved from the front to make space and now sits above the grill and is very reminiscent of the SLR McLaren which it is replacing. It features a new front bumper which has an extremely deep mesh grill as well as curved side air inlets. The side skirts have been deepened and now feature the MEC Design lighting system which is linked to the interior lighting and lights up when the ignition is turned on or the doors are opened. The SLS look is finished off with the three piece bi-colour 22 inch mecxtremeIII wheels.

The second study shows the rear of the SLS AMG and the extreme look rear diffusor for which MEC Design are already well known. Its part of their 2Face system which allows you to choose between having a more extreme look as shown here or having a more refined elegant finish. A carefully placed rear spoiler finishes off the optics whilst the oval chrome tips of the MEC Design exhaust system enhance the whole experience with its amazing sounds.

The third image shows the front view again but this time in a golden yellow finish along with the three piece 22 inch mecxtremeI wheels.

The interior is left almost original except for the addition of the MEC Design sports steering wheel which has a Carbon Fibre and Alcantara finish to match the rest of the high quality interior.

“We’re very excited about the SLS, it’s already becoming a classic just like the 300 SL Gullwing. These first studies have received a lot of good feedback and now we just can’t wait to get our hands on one”, says CEO Cem Altun.

It has not been decided whether these studies from MEC Design will be the final design or whether there will be a small-batch production.

About MEC Design:
MEC Design are an exclusive tuning company based in Berlin, Germany. They specialize in Mercedes-Benz and have an extensive range of extraordinary tuning and styling products as well as a range of high quality one piece and three piece alloy wheels. They have been making a big noise all over Germany and Europe for over 10 years and are now expanding into North America and the rest of the World.

The first Lorinser design of the exhibition star pays homage to the racing soul of the car, as the Gullwing was originally designed for motorsport with its numerous aluminium components. “If carbon fibres had been available then, the lightweight concept of the 300 SL would definitely have contained this material”, says CEO Marcus Lorinser.

As a result one of the designs shows the aggressive coolness of carbon fibre, which in selected areas contrasts with the red paint of the aluminium bodywork and the components: for example a carbon fibre element intersects the middle of the grill, in which there isn’t a Mercedes star, but the Lorinser family crest from the 15th century instead. A further stylistic element is provided by a spoiler bumper with a carbon insert, arch-shaped air inlet and double fog lights. The muscular sides, on the other hand, are partially shaped by the massive Lorinser side sills, which also adorn black inserts made of the fibre composite material. The air inlets which are drawn inwards and have black sports grills, gape over the sides onto the front fenders. The two chromed cross beams are thereby a homage to the 300 SL. The large wire spoke wheels cite a typical construction form from the 50s, although their design seems extremely modern. At the same time they are also the link to the second design.

The second design pays tribute to the facets of the 300 SL, which reveal it as a sophisticated road sports car with an elegant front spoiler and a more sober grill design. In this study Lorinser also used one-piece side sills with air inlets. With their stronger segmentation the gills on the fenders are orientated more directly to the prototype, than the first design which was dedicated to the motorsport heritage oft the Gullwing.

Whether there will be a small-batch production of either of the two studies – and where applicable the final design – has not yet been decided.