New Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG with 518HP or 550HP to Premiere in LA

Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the world debut of its next-generation CLS63 AMG sports sedan at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, open to the public November 19-28. The German maker also revealed that it will make an announcement on the U.S. rollout of its fuel cell-powered F-CELL car.

The yet to be shown 2011 CLS63 AMG model (the standard CLS is pictured above), which is based on the second generation of Merc's so-called "four-door coupe", will be powered by a new 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine matched to a MCT (multi-clutch technology) transmission. In base form, the biturbo V8 churns out 518 horsepower and 516 lb.-ft. of torque, but there's also an optional Performance Package that increases output to 550 hp and 590 lb.-ft. of torque.

As for Mercedes' F-CELL model, it's essentially an electric B-Class that makes its own power on board as the hydrogen and air react without combustion in the fuel cell, producing current to run the 136-horsepower electric motor. The F-CELL is also equipped with a 35-kilowatt lithium-ion battery that stores recovered braking energy.

According to the German automaker, the hydrogen gas is stored in 10,150-psi tanks that can be refueled in only three minutes, and offers a driving range of about 230 miles.

Beginning in Southern California, Mercedes will offer the new F-CELL car through a special lease program in markets with available and growing networks of hydrogen refueling stations.

*Non-AMG 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS shown in photos

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