We remain a bit skeptical about electric cars, but we recognize that the latest prototypes are much more interesting. Last December, the Audi R8 E – Tron lead us based in California, and impressed us with its 313 hp and a level of sophistication we’ve seen in an electric car. Recently, Mercedes invited us to Kristiansund, on the west coast of Norway, all – electric drive version of its SLS Gullwing.

As the E – Tron, the power SLS AMG, the E – Cell is controlled by four electric motors, one for each wheel. With 526 hp and 649 Nm of torque, the latter available in SLS, 0 rpm – e – Cell is a union of some venerable super – cars, even if the scales considerably 4400 kilos.

Same but different

AMG has developed a front axle of a completely new configuration of buttons activated by replacing the regular SLS design arm of unequal length control, and management is now electro. Like many similar systems, management may offer more feel and feedback. Although we liked the silence, the artificial nature of electric motors, we would not mind a little more information from the chassis. Of course, this is a prototype, and development proceeds will benefit the torque vector, obtained by running the electric motors at different speeds.

As regular SLS, the E – Cell a big car with a hood that seems to extend beyond the curvature of the planet. Instrumentation and center console are exclusive to the E – Cell, as the center console designed as a large touch screen, indicating that hopefully a change in philosophy for Mercedes in general. It works almost perfectly and seems ready for serial production.

E – Cell heel of Achilles, not surprisingly, is its scope. This prototype has a 48 kWh lithium – ion battery, but hope to adapt to AMG car with a 60 kWh battery, plus when it becomes available to customers. The current size is about 90 miles, which is likely to grow at more than 130 miles. The current requirements are even conservatives: After a strong run 60 miles, the battery capacity is still about 30 percent. With a quick charge station, it took one hour to recharge the batteries to almost 100 percent. Extended trips still require planning, but progress in battery technology is palpable.

If all goes according to plan, you can buy the SLS – E cell in late 2012 or early 2013 – six months or more after Audi launched the E – Tron. No word yet on pricing, but is at a premium of $ 50,000 to $ 100,000 during the regular SLS. Just having money will not be enough for an E – Cell, though, as customers will be collected.

The jury is still out on exactly when electric cars become mainstream mobility, or if indeed they are the future at all. But if that happens, we can assure you it is always the joy on the road. For beating SLS E – Cell unattended about 60 miles on roads with low traffic, we started to appreciate the car. If this is the future supply, it begins to warm up to it.

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