Mercedes-Benz says its upcoming entry-level CLA will set the bar for EV range, charging speed, and efficiency with advanced new tech. Ahead of its arrival, Mercedes is giving us a closer look at the sporty electric car.
“With the CLA, we are ushering in a new era at Mercedes-Benz,” CEO Ola Källenius said after driving the new EV at its Immendingen site for the first time.
The new model will be the first of a new family of vehicles, kicking off “a new chapter for the entry-level segment at Mercedes-Benz.” Mercedes said the new electric CLA “is designed to set new standards in range, efficiency and charging speed.”
Based on Mercedes’ next-gen MMA platform, the CLA integrates tech from its ultra-efficient Vision EQXX concept and brings it into mass production.
Mercedes said it developed a new electric drive unit in-house to ensure high performance and efficiency.
Källenius showed off the “secret” CLA EV during the event, revealing new features and details, including the new headlight design.
Mercedes previews new entry-level CLA EV
With the headlights being the first thing you see at night, Källenius said the design had to be perfect. One of the coolest design details is the Mercedes star logo integrated into the headlights. Although it looks pretty, Källenius said the design is also about safety and not blinding others on the street.
After hopping into the new EV, you can hear Källenius talk to the vehicle, and Mercedes’ virtual assistant responds. It’s “like you have a butler in your car,” Mercedes CEO explained.
The new entry-level model will be loaded with Mercedes’ latest software and connectivity tech. It will be the first to be equipped with the new MB.OS, or “the brain” behind its next-gen vehicles, as Mercedes calls it.
During the test drive, the new model shows off its sporty design and dynamic driving as it rips around the test track. “This is not even the AMG version,” Källenius said.
With a two-speed transmission, “we can perfectly calibrate at every speed that you are driving how the electric motor works” to maximize efficiency, Källenius explained.
Mercedes leader said the CLA EV will have “incredibly fast” charging. With a new high-powered charging system, “charging almost becomes like fueling.”
Mercedes will officially unveil the new entry-level CLA EV next year, with deliveries expected in 2026. The new model will rival Tesla’s Model 3 and BMW i4, with expected prices around $50,000. It will also be available in a hybrid version.