Currently reading: Mercedes shows SLS Roadster
Official pics give clearest indication yet of new SLS; set for Frankfurt debut; on in the autumn

Mercedes has released the clearest pictures yet of its new SLS AMG Roadster as the new soft-top supercar nears its world debut at September’s Frankfurt motor show.

A light disguise on the 563bhp 6.2-litre V8 SLS Roadster covers just the badges and sections of the front and rear lights.

Of course, the biggest change for the Roadster is the removal of its coupe sibling’s gullwing doors in favour of a folding fabric roof that can be opened and closed in just 11 seconds at speeds of up to 31mph.

Mercedes says the SLS’s lightweight aluminium spaceframe took into consideration a Roadster version right from the very start of its development. Therefore the side sills were reinforced to improve dynamics and increase rigidity.

Read Autocar's full road test of the Mercedes SLS AMG

The bodyshell of the Roadster weighs just 2kg more than the coupe’s 241kg, the extra weight coming from two structural reinforcements. The cross-member carrying the dashboard has additional supporting struts at the centre tunnel and windscreen frame, and a strut mounting stay has been added between the soft-top and fuel tank.

The SLS Roadster has a top speed electronically limited to 197mph.

After its debut at the Frankfurt show on 13 September, the SLS Roadster will reach showrooms later in the autumn.

See all the latest Mercedes SLS reviews, news and video

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