Mercedes-Benz’s next-generation CLA will arguably be one in every of its most vital fashions in its trendy historical past, providing refined electrical automobile (EV) expertise in an entry-level mannequin.
As beforehand reported, the brand new third-generation CLA will debut the Mercedes-Benz Modular Structure (MMA), which might assist each full-electric and petrol-hybrid powertrains and also will be used on two SUVs and a wagon. It’ll be utilized by the model’s smallest autos.
Within the electrical CLA, the primary Mercedes-Benz EV to make use of an 800-volt structure, there’ll be a alternative of two batteries: a 58kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack, and a flagship 85kWh lithium nickel manganese cobalt battery (NMC).
Mercedes-Benz claims 58kWh variations can drive for as much as 600km on a cost, whereas 85kWh variations can go for 750km.
The longest-range EV from the three-pointed star at current is the EQS 450+ liftback, which has a claimed 774km of vary on the WLTP cycle.
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These figures are because of a claimed effectivity of 12kWh/100km on Europe’s WLTP lab check cycle. For context, the bottom Tesla Mannequin 3 RWD has a claimed energy consumption of 13.2kWh/100km in the identical lab check.
The upper-capacity battery will also be charged at as much as 350kW on DC energy.
EV variations of the CLA will probably be provided with a alternative of rear- or all-wheel drive.
Rear-wheel drive examples utilise a 200kW motor (marketed because the Electrical Drive Unit 2.0) which encompasses a two-speed gearbox, a primary for an ‘entry-level’ EV, that’s claimed to enhance effectivity at various speeds.
All-wheel drive CLAs add a 80kW electrical motor on the entrance axle, which is decoupled when not wanted with a view to additional improve the sedan’s effectivity.
Whereas a lot of the main target is on the brand new CLA’s claimed vary figures, Mercedes-Benz is hedging its bets by additionally growing the mannequin as a mild-hybrid, as demand for full-electric fashions cools in sure markets.
Powering the CLA will probably be a brand new turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automated transmission which options an built-in 20kW electrical motor.
A 1.3kWh, 48-volt lithium-ion battery provides energy to the electrical motor, which dietary supplements the petrol engine’s outputs.
Mercedes-Benz says it’ll provide three output ranges initially, with 100kW/200Nm, 120kW/250Nm and 140kW/300Nm choices.
For context, the front-wheel drive CLA200 at the moment on sale in Australia produces 120kW/270Nm from its turbocharged 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine, which additionally encompasses a 48-volt mild-hybrid system within the type of a belt-driven starter-generator.
Relying in the marketplace, patrons will probably be given the selection of front- or all-wheel drive.
Mercedes-Benz hasn’t but offered claimed gas consumption figures for the upcoming hybrid CLA, however it’s anticipated to be extra environment friendly than the present mannequin.
Whereas Mercedes-Benz’s newest launch detailing the CLA solely included these photographs with clear bodywork additions to disguise the mannequin, a extra pared-back model was unveiled on the Pageant d’Hyères style present final month.
The manufacturing mannequin is predicted to be a toned-down model of what was previewed by the Idea CLA Class from the 2023 Munich motor present.
It’ll characteristic frameless home windows, a barely drooping rear deck, and arched roof line which have turn out to be mainstays of the CLA vary, whereas flush-fitting door handles and round lighting signatures will make their debut on the ‘coupe’ styled sedan.
Manufacturing of the brand new CLA is predicted to begin in Germany and China within the latter half of 2025, that means it’s probably the third-generation sedan received’t arrive in Australia till 2026.
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