750 km of range, ultra-high efficiency
Long range with a sub 100 kW battery
Mercedes-Benz has just revealed a new concept CLA that could make range anxiety a thing of the past. The Concept CLA Class was revealed in Munich and uses technology from the Vision EQXX to deliver an estimated 750 km of range.
The Mercedes-Benz CLA EV concept starts with an all-new electric platform that Benz will use on multiple vehicle families going forward. Tech taken directly from the EQXX concept and applied here includes bionic optimisation of metal cast components, increased digital engineering, and new-generation power electronics and a new heat pump, all of which help contribute to the car’s efficiency.
An 800V electrical architecture allows for 250 kW fast charging, and Mercedes-Benz says the CLA will be able to add 400 km of range in 15 minutes. The total range is expected to be 750 km with consumption of 12 kWh/100 km. Even though that’s WLTP, those are figures that put it ahead of anything currently on sale short of the six-figure Lucid Air Grand Touring. The CLA is an entry-level model for Benz, so should be priced more in line with the Tesla Model 3.
The electric motor is a new 235 hp permanent magnet synchronous unit that uses almost no heavy rare earth metals. The new modular drive unit has a two-speed transmission and Mercedes-Benz claims up to 93 percent energy efficiency from battery to wheel.
With the CLA concept, Mercedes-Benz is bringing its design into a new era. The model is much smoother than previous Benz cars, though it does have quite an angry face. And the giant light-up star will probably take some getting used to. The interior combines digital and analogue touches, and uses new materials including trim made from paper. The cabin gets the next-gen MBUX Superscreen with zone-dimmable screen regions and new LED lighting.
Production of vehicles on this new MMA platform will start in Germany, Hungary, and China. Benz didn’t confirm when, or when we could see the production CLA, but we’d anticipate both within the next 12 months.
