Mercedes-Benz unveils CLA EV, its most intelligent car ever
What's the story
Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its latest electric vehicle (EV), the CLA. The new addition is a compact sedan for the electric age and the start of a new generation of Mercedes cars.
Touted as "the smartest, most efficient Mercedes-Benz," CLA boasts an improved design with more space, luxury, tech, and style than its predecessor.
It packs an 800V system that can add over 322km of range in under 10 minutes.
The EV will come in two variants: 250+ and 350 4MATIC.
Range and charging
CLA EV boasts impressive range and fast-charging capabilities
The CLA 250+ model of the new Mercedes-Benz EV promises an incredible driving range of as much as 792km on a single charge.
This is enabled by the new 85kWh NMC batteries, which have an energy density up to 20% higher than the previous battery cells.
The vehicle also supports DC fast charging speeds of up to 320kW, enabling quick recharging times.
The 250+ has an RWD powertrain with 268hp/335Nm output, while the AWD 350 4MATIC delivers 349hp/515Nm.
Design and comfort
CLA EV features innovative design and enhanced comfort
The exterior of the new CLA EV highlights a number of design elements, including a reinterpreted grille and an illuminated three-point star on a production vehicle for the first time.
The car also comes with optional MULTIBEAM LED headlights forming the new Mercedes-Benz star logo.
With a length of 4,724mm, it offers more headroom and legroom in both front and rear seats with its extended wheelbase (2,789mm).
Mercedes has refined CLA EV's aerodynamics, resulting in a drag coefficient of 0.21.
Technology
CLA EV equipped with advanced infotainment system
The CLA EV runs on the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), making it the brand's smartest car yet.
The infotainment system combines AI from both Microsoft and Google. The system calculates the quickest route, incorporating charging stops and considering variables like weather.
Plus, the Gemini-powered Assistant responds to almost any query via voice command
The car also gets a floating center console with integrated cupholders, optional smartphone charging facilities, a 10.25-inch driver display, 14.0-inch infotainment, and optional 14.0-inch passenger screen.