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Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class EV Specifications & Features
Upon the debut of the Vision EQXX concept, Mercedes-Benz’s remarkable EV efficiency raised questions about its practical application in production vehicles. However, the recent unveiling of the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class EV, positioned as a “close-to-production” iteration of Mercedes’ next-gen entry-level models, provides reassuring insights. It indicates a substantial transfer of efficiency from the hypermiling concept to the forthcoming product line. Representatives have confirmed that production of this new electric luxury car will commence in late 2024, hinting at its availability as the 2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA in the U.S. market. Additionally, the lineup will expand to include three more variants, including a wagon and two SUVs that could potentially serve as replacements for the GLA and GLB models.
What’s New?
Introducing an innovative “electric-first” approach, this design leverages the cutting-edge Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture, purpose-built for entry-level EVs. It seamlessly embodies the essence of a next-generation CLA class, incorporating numerous concept-car elements. Measuring approximately 185 inches in length, it closely aligns with the current 184.6-inch CLA. Elegantly showcasing a wide stance, this concept boasts striking six-spoke 21-inch wheels, equipped with 255/35R-21 front and 285/30R-21 rear tires. Notable design features include a gracefully sculpted shark nose with a distinctive undercut and sleek flanks that gracefully mimic a Coke bottle silhouette. Furthermore, it’s worth noting the unusually elongated hood for an EV, a nod to their intention to offer ICE engines as well.
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class EV Motor, Battery & Range
The upcoming EV model will be available in both single-motor rear-drive and dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions. However, Mercedes hasn’t disclosed whether the ICE cars will adopt a front-wheel-drive configuration like the current CLA or utilize rear-wheel-drive like the EV concept. Speaking of the Concept CLA Class, it’s equipped with a single rear-mounted permanent magnet synchronous motor, generating 235 hp. This technology, derived from the MB.EDU system found in the Vision EQXX concept, minimizes the use of rare-earth materials, nearly reaching zero percent. In an innovative departure from the standard direct-drive setup, power is transmitted through a two-speed transmission, enhancing efficiency across a broader speed spectrum. Notably, both the motor and battery employ an 800-volt architecture, a significant step towards optimizing efficiency.
Additionally, the concept introduces a cutting-edge heat pump that not only channels powertrain heat into the cabin but also efficiently extracts heat from the external environment, much like a standard household heat pump, even in cold weather conditions. The limited performance details disclosed further emphasize the advantages: an approximate range of 750 kilometers and impressively low consumption at just 12 kWh per 100 kilometers based on Europe’s WLTP test cycle. To put this in more familiar terms under the EPA’s guidelines, we’re looking at around 400 miles of range and an efficiency rating approaching 150 MPGe. What sets this apart is the 800-volt architecture, enabling rapid DC fast-charging at 250 kW, potentially adding around 200 miles of range in just 15 minutes. Although Mercedes hasn’t shared the exact battery size, our estimations suggest it’s likely around 90.0 kWh of usable capacity.
Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class EV Interior
The interior of the vehicle is notably dominated by an MBUX Superscreen, drawing inspiration from the EQXX model. Serving as the de facto dashboard, this screen stretches seamlessly across the entire cabin. While the instruments and infotainment sub-screens maintain their usual positions, the panel extends without interruption to the passenger side. This design concept allows your companion to potentially engage in various activities, such as watching movies, managing the audio system, sharing navigation routes with the driver, and more. What powers this innovative setup is the MB.OS chip-to-cloud architecture seamlessly integrates all of the car’s electronic functionalities. Mercedes envisions this integration resulting in a truly unique user interface and overall user experience.
Furthermore, it’s improbable that various other interior features of this concept will make it into production. Take, for instance, the starry night roof adorned with hundreds of three-pointed stars, lacking any apparent tint, and the absence of a structural cross member behind the windshield header. Similarly, the unconventional one-piece four-place bucket seats and the abundance of silver-hued leather on the floor seem unlikely to make the cut. However, envisioning a more production-ready configuration is straightforward. Picture a tinted glass roof, reinforced by an additional cross member, coupled with conventional-looking seats and trim. Additionally, the inclusion of more physical switchgear would be a welcomed improvement.
Automation & Price
Moreover, another distinctive design element with a strong likelihood of reaching production is the subtle transverse blister situated just above the windshield on the roof. This rounded hump accommodates sensors that, according to Mercedes, will eventually enable Level 3 automated driving during the car’s production lifecycle. Although this capability won’t be available at the initial launch, the presence of these sensors and the MB. OS-powered control software’s over-the-air update capability make it highly probable that the forthcoming CLA will be what one representative described as “Level 3-ready.” Now, in terms of pricing, that information remains several months away. However, it’s worth noting that the CLA class typically occupies the more affordable segment of Mercedes-Benz’s price range, which aligns with Mercedes’ strategic move towards expanding their EV offerings into more accessible territory.