Mercedes-Benz CLA Enters the Electric Age
Mercedes-Benz is looking to redefine its electric vehicle strategy, and the new CLA is at the forefront of this effort. With a focus on design, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology, the German carmaker hopes to make a strong impression in the increasingly competitive EV market.
A New Name, A New Approach
Perhaps signaling a fresh start, the electric sedan will be known simply as the CLA, foregoing the ‘EQ’ prefix, similar to how the G-Class is now marketed. The ‘EQ technology’ label will be used to denote the electric variants. This straightforward approach is reflected in the naming conventions, with models like the CLA 250+ and CLA 350 4MATIC directly integrated into the existing model structure.
The MMA Platform: A Foundation for Innovation
The new CLA generation is built on the Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), a platform designed from the ground up. Drawing from lessons learned during the development of larger models based on the EVA2, Mercedes-Benz has left no stone unturned in optimizing the MMA and the CLA.
At a technology workshop last autumn, Mercedes provided an early look at the MMA platform. The company has now revealed final technical data at the world premiere.
800-Volt System for Enhanced Performance
One of the core features of the MMA is the 800-volt system, which enables faster charging times and increased overall system efficiency.
Battery and Motor Options
The CLA will offer two battery options: a 58-kWh battery with LFP cells for the base model, and an 85-kWh battery featuring NMC cathode with silicon oxide admixture in the anode graphite for the top-tier versions. Mercedes developed the electric motor for the rear axle—referred to as the electric powertrain 2.0 or eATS 2.0—in-house, incorporating a two-speed transmission to optimize efficiency, consumption and range.
For all-wheel-drive models, an electric drive from an external supplier will be used on the front axle. The car will also use a completely updated software system.
Initial Model Data
The CLA 250+ is the rear-wheel-drive variant with the larger NMC battery. It boasts a WLTP range of up to 792 kilometers in the combined cycle and uses the eATS 2.0 motor, which has a 200 kW output. The CLA 250+ is expected to use between 12.2 and 14.1 kWh/100 km. The PMSM (permanent magnet synchronous motor) uses high energy density and incorporates a significantly lower proportion of heavy rare earths. The power electronics features silicon carbide (SiC) inverters and a two-speed transmission for optimized dynamics and efficiency.
Two Gear Transmission
Mercedes-Benz explains that the two-speed transmission combines dynamics with high efficiency, allowing for great acceleration. The first gear allows for excellent acceleration from a standing start, great towing capacity, and efficiency in city traffic. The second gear is designed for power delivery at high speeds and for efficiency on the motorway, which allows for a high range and comfort on long journeys.
CLA 350 4MATIC: All-Wheel Drive Performance
The CLA 350 4MATIC integrates an additional 80 kW PSM on the front axle. This combines with the 200-kW unit on the rear axle, resulting in a system output of 260 kW. The electric motor on the front axle is able to switch on or off in fractions of a second, allowing for a balance between efficiency and dynamics. The CLA 350 4MATIC is also designed for range with consumption figures between 12.5 and 14.7 kWh/100 km and can go up to 771 kilometers.
Recuperation and Efficiency
The CLA features a new recuperation control system, with four adjustable recuperation levels: ‘D Auto,’ ‘D+,’ ‘D,’ and ‘D-.’ The system is designed to perform almost all braking entirely through recuperation, even in ABS control or on icy roads. The focus on efficiency extends to the car’s aerodynamics, contributing to a quiet cabin. Another key feature is the standard multi-source heat pump, which efficiently utilizes waste heat and ambient air.
Fast Charging Capabilities
Thanks to the 800-volt technology and new battery design, the CLA supports fast charging. With a peak charging capacity of 320 kW, the standard charging process from 10 to 80 percent is estimated to be completed in 22 minutes. During this period, the battery takes in 59.5 kWh, resulting in an average charging power of 162 kW. Depending on the model, the CLA can recharge up to 325 WLTP kilometers in ten minutes.
MBUX Navigation and Bidirectional Charging
The CLA utilizes the fourth-generation MBUX navigation system based on Google Maps. This system is designed to plan routes, including charging stops, optimizing travel time. The CLA is also prepared for bidirectional charging, with V2H or V2G scenarios.
Design and Dimensions
The new electric CLA is about four centimeters longer than its predecessor, measuring 4.72 meters in length. The car is also slightly wider and higher, with a wheelbase increase adding to the interior space. The CLA maintains the familiar proportions of the combustion model and features a range of design elements, including the illuminated Mercedes star-shaped light elements. The interior sees a reduction to the essentials with the optional floating ‘MBUX Superscreen.’
Mercedes-Benz is expected to reveal the CLA’s pricing at the world premiere.
