There are still more than four months to go till the convertible SLS AMG Roadster is unveiled at September’s Frankfurt motor show, but pictures have been released of a minimally disguised 2012 Roadster testing in Stuttgart.

The pictures clearly show the new two-seater with its fabric soft top, long hood, large wheels and short rear, but with no Mercedes stars or model designations to be seen – just black adhesive foil at the front, rear and along the sides – the ‘minimal disguise’.

The convertible is the second car to be developed independently by AMG, with the Coupé and Roadster concepts created in parallel. During the 3-year development, the engineers focused particular attention on the Roadster’s rigidity, driving dynamics, soft top and NVH.

To increase the rigidity of the body shell, there are additional supporting struts for the cross-member carrying the dashboard, and a further structure between the soft top and fuel tank – yet the Roadster’s body is still just 5lb heavier than the Coupé. Because of the shell’s rigidity, Mercedes tells us that the soft top can be reliably opened and closed electrohydraulically at speeds of up to 31mph.

The 563HP Roadster is scheduled for a U.S. market launch in late 2011.

Text: Charis Whitcombe
Photo: Mercedes-Benz