New Electric CLA: Mercedes’ Electric Savior?
It’s been a long time coming. After more than three years of Mercedes’ electric vehicle rollout, we finally have our first drive in the new CLA. Although it’s still sporting some camouflage, it has already revealed much of its secrets – and offered some initial driving impressions. Expectations are high. After Mercedes’ initial struggles with electric vehicles, this second attempt has to be a success!
After a period filled with press statements, it’s finally time to get down to business. In a couple of weeks, the new CLA will celebrate its world premiere as the first model built on the MMA modular system. We were invited for a test drive of the prototype shortly before its official debut.
The recessed handles automatically pop out from the prototype’s door, the frameless windows are set two millimeters lower, and the wide door swings open, allowing you to comfortably slide into a bucket seat that is pleasantly low for an electric car. The first impression is that it’s easy to imagine the digital interface the German company created with its ‘pillar to pillar’ screen across the entire width of the cockpit – the wide hyperscreen, familiar from other Mercedes models, is present. But today, it’s all about driving. We’ve examined the CLA design templates extensively since the 2022 EQXX premiere.
Mercedes’ electric future is progressing at a remarkably fast and manageable pace. Even the smallest Mercedes models are abandoning front-wheel drive, a move that’s fostering a bit of the driving pleasure that is usually found further south, with the competition. The CLA is comparatively light for an electric car, at just over two tonnes, and even the base model of the electric family has 200 kW. The all-wheel-drive model theoretically achieves more than 280 kW with an 80 kW drive in the front, although the system output will ultimately be somewhat lower. And the speedometer – digital and colorful, of course – reaches up to 240 kph for a reason. Furthermore, for the first time, a two-speed gearbox has been integrated into the housing of the in-house-developed electric motor. Without the driver noticing, they can accelerate more quickly and maintain that performance, even on the highway.
This is impressive and feels much better than in the EQA and EQB, not just because the center of gravity is lower. Mercedes prioritizes efficiency – the company is repeating their mantra of the “one-litre car for Generation E,” and promises consumption close to 12 kWh/100 kilometers and a range of “at least 750 kilometers” with an 85 kWh battery capacity. They have improved the overall efficiency, honed the body design in the wind tunnel, optimized the electronics, and improved thermal management to achieve this.
There was neither a charging stop nor a serious consumption measurement during our short maiden voyage. Although the onboard computer indicated a consumption of 14 kWh/100 kilometers and a remaining range of over 500 kilometers with a charge level of around 70 percent, the test’s arbitrary route is not a reliable indicator.
However, two things immediately stood out. First, there is the almost complete silence when driving because the wind flows so smoothly around the sleek bodywork. Second, the car seems to run forever. Even though the CLA is the first electric Mercedes to offer sensible one-pedal driving, very little energy is lost during the process. There’s much to suggest that the CLA will become the range champion, at least among German-made cars, when it goes on sale this summer. The company needs a good range for credibility. In everyday use, range has never been as important for a Mercedes as it is for this particular model. That’s because the CLA is the first electric car from Stuttgart to feature 800-volt technology, allowing charging at over 300 kW. This means that in 15 minutes, it can gain enough power for 400 kilometers, or enough for a quick espresso break.
While the driver can enjoy either performance or efficiency, or ideally both, the CLA isn’t quite as impressive for the passengers. Yes, the front passenger has their own screen and can pass the time in the digital universe. However, even in the stretched CLA, the rear passengers still don’t have as much room as in other models of around 4.80 meters. And even if the panoramic roof provides the illusion of ample space, the coupé saloon isn’t a space miracle. At least not for the kids. But for luggage: in addition to a boot comparable to its conventional predecessor, Mercedes finally offers a frunk – a first in almost 100 years.
A New Entry Point, at a Price
Following the decision to discontinue the A- and B-Class, the CLA will become the manufacturer’s entry-level model, even if it will likely start at well over €50,000. A smaller LFP battery (58 kWh) will bring the price down later, as will the inclusion of mildly hybridized combustion engines from China, which Mercedes felt was necessary within the MMA platform. Nevertheless, this vehicle carries a significant responsibility. In a time of declining sales and eroding profits, the new competition from the US or China has overtaken Mercedes in terms of electric mobility. This EV is intended to revitalize the brand.
Mercedes has equipped the car well to regain its share of the EV market. In addition to the efficient drive, the MMA also includes the next step in digitalization and the first in-house operating system; this MB OS ensures that the cars no longer have an expiry date.
Expanding the Electric Lineup
After a difficult start to the electric age, the German car manufacturer seems to be gaining momentum. It will launch the electric CLA this summer, which could become the new star in the Mercedes firmament. This is only the beginning, as within 24 months, Mercedes plans to present a CLA Shooting Brake as the first electric estate car with a star, as well as the successors to the GLA and GLB. The electric GLC, which is already on the next larger modular system, is due to arrive within a year. The future looks bright.
