Mercedes Balances Power and Efficiency in Paris with SLS AMG GT and B-Class CNG

MercedesMercedes-BenzGermany, 1924 > present197 models
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is presenting quite a blend of efficiency and power in Paris. On the green car side, it is showing a new B-ClassMercedes-Benz B-Class Gen.2 [W246]Germany, 2012 > present42 versions
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fueled by natural gas and concepts for an electric B-Class and an electric SLS. In terms of power, Mercedes has brought the new SLS AMG GTMercedes-Benz SLS AMG GTGermany, 2012 > present5 photos
Coupe and Roadster and CLS Shooting Brake AMGMercedes-Benz CLS Shootin...Germany, 2012 > present8 photos
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SLS AMG GT

The SLS AMG GT adds an extra 20hp to the standard SLS AMG to bring total power up to 591hp and 650Nm of torque. It accelerates to 100km/h in 3.7 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 320km/h. It uses 13.2l/100km and emits 308g/km of CO2. It uses a seven-speed automatic transmission with faster shift times than the standard version. The extra power comes from an increase in the engine's compression. 

"The new SLS AMG GT demonstrates the sort of potential which lies in AMG's super sports cars. With its even higher levels of performance, the SLS AMG GT excites out on the race track in particular by providing an emotionally enjoyable and passionate driving experience," said Tobias Moers, head of vehicle development at AMG. 

The GT gets a unique front grill with wing-shaped cross fins and a GT badge on the rear. Inside, it has Alcantara on the seats and door panels and high gloss trim. 

It also has a new suspension with aluminum dual wishbones in the front and rear. It has stiffer spring rates than the standard version and has no comfort mode. 

It is available with options like carbon fiber mirrors, carbon fiber interior trim and ceramic brakes.

Prices start at €213,010, which is about €15,000 over a standard SLS AMG. 

B-Class Natural Gas

Mercedes is also introducing a new natural gas-fueled version of the B-Class. It makes The B200 Natural Gas Drive makes 16% less CO2 than comparable petrol and diesel models. The engine can switch between gasoline and natural gas mode. It uses 67mpg UK (56mpg or 4.2l/100km) in natural gas mode and emits 115g/km of CO2. It holds a total of 125l of natural gas. It can also be fueled using biogas. The three holding tanks are located under the load floor. The petrol tank holds just 12 liters and is meant only for emergencies. 

The natural gas fueled engine produces 156hp. It has a top speed of 124mph and accelerates to 100km/h in 9.1 seconds. It uses a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. 

On the outside, the natural gas models get a different front bumper with a strip of LED running lights. 

Sales begin in early 2013.