Mercedes-Benz made waves almost three years ago with the unveiling of the Vision EQXX, a revolutionary concept car that promised groundbreaking efficiency and range capabilities. This futuristic vehicle boasted a battery size similar to the Mercedes EQS but was 30% lighter and took up half the space. With an aerodynamic design that rivaled a fighter jet, the Vision EQXX could drive an astonishing 747 miles on a single charge, setting new records for electric efficiency.
Fast forward to today, and Mercedes-Benz is gearing up to apply the technology developed for the EQXX to its upcoming CLA-Class electric vehicle. Timo Stegmaier, head of e-drive compact/midsize and system validation at Mercedes, revealed that many of the innovations from the EQXX project will be integrated into the new CLA. The CLA-Class is set to be a crucial model for Mercedes as it looks to make a bigger impact in the EV market.
The new CLA-Class will feature a compact motor design, high-efficiency battery cells, and advanced electronics all housed in a single component for optimal space utilization. The platform, known as Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), will support a frunk for additional storage space, a feature lacking in previous models like the EQE and EQS.
One of the key highlights of the CLA-Class is its two-speed transmission system, which enables efficient operation at various speeds and contributes to the car’s impressive efficiency rating of 5.2 miles per kWh. The vehicle also boasts high regen rates for energy recapture during braking and fast charging capabilities with a 320 kW DC charger.
In addition to hardware advancements, the CLA will feature significant software updates, including the MB.OS system for enhanced user experience. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system in the CLA performed exceptionally well in low-grip conditions, showcasing the vehicle’s robust design and capabilities.
Mercedes plans to offer both electric and hybrid versions of the CLA, with the hybrid variant utilizing the same MMA platform. Despite minimal visual differences between the electric and hybrid models, the CLA is expected to deliver a more practical and attractive design compared to previous Mercedes EV offerings.
Overall, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class represents a significant step forward in the company’s electric vehicle lineup, incorporating cutting-edge technology and design elements from the groundbreaking Vision EQXX concept. With its focus on efficiency, performance, and versatility, the CLA-Class is poised to make a mark in the competitive EV market.