Taking off the wraps of their latest supercar, Mercedes has introduced new 2012 SLS Roadster. We would expect Mercedes to use a hard top convertible as they do with their other roadsters. But in fact, they will be going with a rag top for the SLS Roadster.
The SLS Roadster is being put through some rigorous testing before an unveiling of a more production ready supercar during the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
When the SLS was first designed by Mercedes engineer, a hard top and a roadster version were in mind. To achieve the rigidity of the hardtop, engineers at Mercedes added stronger side skirts to the roadster. To achieve further strength, a cross-member that supports the dash was given further bracing at the transmission tunnel and window frame. Weight wasn’t compromised by adding so much bracing as the roadster only weighs in 5 pounds more than the hard top.
The roadster is still able to achieve an electronically controlled 197 mph top speed, same as the hard top. The new rag top is constructed out of aluminum, steel, magnesium, and three layers of fabric. Strong, yet light weight, the convertible top can be opened at speeds up to 31 mph.
