Mercedes-Benz does not compromise on the internal combustion version with the electric CLA
In general, when a vehicle is offered with both internal combustion and all-electric variants, the electric version is generally more expensive, less range and less powerful than the internal combustion version. However, Mercedes-Benz is reversing this rule with the concept CLA model introduced at the IAA 2023 in Munich and presenting the company's new, electric-focused compact car platform.
Streamlined design, sustainable materials and 750km range
Developed on the basis of Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), the new CLA draws attention with its fluid design, sustainable interior materials and an estimated range of 750 km according to WLTP. The German automaker says the CLA is inspired by the Vision EQXX concept for both its electric motors and its coated Superscreen infotainment system.
Not sure as it's a concept yet, but it shows great promise
As it is still a concept and not a working prototype, the specs of the new CLA are less precise and more likely to be an approximation of what we can expect from the mass production model that will be offered in the market. But the theoretical features still hold great promise. While its liquid-cooled battery is different from the EQXX's air-cooled unit, the Concept CLA has a number of improvements in efficiency and sustainability.
Two different battery types and adhesive fixing
Two different battery types will be offered: entry-level, cost-driven lithium-ion phosphate and flagship silicon-oxide anodes for higher energy density. The battery cells will be fixed using adhesive instead of screws, which will save weight, materials and money and offer better structural integrity.
800 volt electrical architecture and 250 kW DC fast charging
The 800-volt electrical architecture will give the Concept CLA model 250 kilowatts DC fast charging capability, allowing it to add an estimated 15 km range in 402 minutes. On the go, the CLA's battery transmits power to a compact Mercedes-Benz Electric Drive Unit (MB.EDU), which integrates the electric motor, two-speed transmission and associated inverters and electronics. Each engine unit produces 235 horsepower and the use of rare earth metals in MB.EDU proves to be more sustainable than previous Mercedes engines.
