Mercedes Unveils Next-Generation Electric CLA Sedan

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the new third-generation CLA compact sedan, which will be available with either a hybrid or fully electric powertrain. The overhauled CLA has a drastic new design both inside and out.

Two electric trims will be available at launch: the 250+ with EQ technology, which will have 268 hp and up to 792 km of range, while the 350 4Matic with EQ technology will be the performance option with 349 hp and an estimated range of up to 771 km. These range figures are measured under the generous European WLTP testing standards and likely won’t be as high when tested under stricter Canadian standards.

Hybrid models are expected to launch later in the year. They will come with a 48-volt battery and electric motor intended to fill in the gaps of the gasoline engine and are capable of all-electric driving for short distances.

The CLA will come with Mercedes’ new two-speed transmission designed for fast acceleration while maintaining long-range efficiency at higher speeds. It also has a good drag coefficient of just 0.21 Cd, helping the CLA to achieve such impressive range figures. 

The new electric CLA will come with an 800-volt architecture, allowing for the ability to add 325 km of range in as little as 10 minutes at DC fast charger. It will also be equipped for bidirectional charging.

Mercedes has also put effort into reducing the carbon footprint of its new battery, having a footprint that’s approximately 30 per cent smaller when compared to its predecessor. 

All versions of the new CLA will be the first Mercedes to offer an “air to air” heat pump, which will use about a third less energy than a conventional auxiliary heater, resulting in increased driving range and more efficiency.

The CLA will also debut Mercedes’ updated user experience software, allowing for more frequent updates and better ease of use. It will also incorporate a voice-activated AI assistant to help with the car's functions and Google-based navigation system, and it can understand natural speech patterns instead of simply a series of commands. It can suggest places to go or answer more complex questions like any other AI search engine and monitor the driver's emotions to help personalize the in-car experience.

As for infotainment, the CLA will feature an optional floating dashboard-wide display that gives front passengers their own 14-inch dedicated display with access to video and gaming streaming platforms.