Mercedes-Benz Might Build a Second Generation of the SLR
Mercedes-Benz recently renewed its rights to the SLR trademark ownership. This could indicate a return of the once coveted legendary sports car.
Renewal of the SLR Trademark
On the 1st of March this year, Daimler AG renewed its rights to the SLR name through a law firm based in New York. The trademark was scheduled to expire on March 4th. Rather than extending its ownership, Mercedes-Benz decided to renew it all together, potentially giving it a longer period to use the name. The registration was done with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) under "Land Vehicles and Structural Parts thereof."
Photos Courtesy of Mercedes-Benz.
Is This a Sign?
The renewal indicates that Mercedes-Benz might be open to building another version of the SLR soon. But, no one is sure yet. Sometimes, automakers renew trademarks for merchandising purposes or to make sure they do not end up with someone else. In addition, Mercedes has not said anything about reviving the SLR. It might be best not to get too excited. However, we hope that the legendary marque will indeed make a return.
>>Join the conversation about the Mercedes-Benz SLR right here in the Mercedes-Benz World Forum!
Tracing its Roots
The initials SLR stand for Sport Leicht-Rennen, which is German for Sport Light-Racing. The trademark was first used in the 1950s in the W196-based racing cars used in the 1954 and 1955 races. Its fame and legendary performance was brought to a sudden halt after a devastating crash that took place at Le Mans. The Uhlenhaut Coupe model, in particular, was the fastest road car of its time. It had a top speed of 180 mph.
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A Comeback
Mercedes teamed up with McLaren in 2003 to bring the SLR back to life. The result was a grand tourer that was available as a roadster, a coupe, and an extremely rare Stirling Moss speedster. Production continued until 2010 when Mercedes replaced the SLR with the SLS AMG. Today, the AMG GT carries on the SLR's legacy.
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Hot Performer
When the SLR debuted for the second time in 2003, it was a rare-wheel-drive, front-engine supercar that packed a 5.7-liter supercharged V8 that could churn an impressive 617 horsepower and 575 pound-feet of torque. For the 7 years it was in production, the SLR McLaren was one of the fastest cars produced. This was greatly fueled by the fact that Mercedes had partnered with McLaren's Formula One team.
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Not With McLaren This Time
The partnership between McLaren and Mercedes ended a long time ago. If a new SLR was underway, McLaren would not be in the picture.
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Busy with New Nameplates
In a span of two years, Mercedes has secured quite a number of nameplates under its belt. These include the S680, GLS 600, GLS 680, O-Class, C53 and a good number of EQs. In September 2017, the automaker registered three unique names: the S73, GLS73 and the G73. Rumors have it that these might get an electrified bi-turbo 4.0-liter V8 that can make up to 800 horsepower. Other models that might come up include a good number of "40", "50" and "53" vehicles. Some may become badges, but it's unclear whether Mercedes will make good use of any of them.
>>Join the conversation about the Mercedes-Benz SLR right here in the Mercedes-Benz World Forum!
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