Mercedes-Benz has announced the launch of what it describes as its most efficient, intuitive and intelligent model yet, by projecting images of the new CLA onto London’s County Hall.
In showrooms before the end of 2025, the new CLA is set to become the longest-range electric car on the market, its makers stating that it will complete up to 492 miles between charges.
This range is quoted for the entry-level CLA 250+ with EQ Technology, which will be the first model on sale. It will also accept recharging at rates up to 320kW which with a suitable fast charger will add between 177 and 202 miles of range in 10 minutes, and recharge the car from 10 to 80% in 22 minutes.
While the entry model, the CLA 250+ will not lack in pace, completing a 0-62mph sprint in 6.7 seconds and going on to 130mph.
The 250+ will be followed into showrooms by the CLA 350 with WQ Technology. This has an all-wheel-drive powertrain with a second motor on the front axle. This can be disconnected when not required, which helps the 350 maintain an equally impressive maximum range of 479 miles, along with similar recharging times and a 0-62mph time cut to 4.9 seconds.
Both cars employ an 85kWh nickel manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery which is considered significantly more efficient than the lithium-ion units traditionally employed in EVs.
Alongside the EV versions Mercedes will also market a hybrid variant of the CLA. This will be powered by what is described as a state-of-the-art new four cylinder petrol engine combined with a 48-volt electric motor unit in the transmission. Three power levels will be available along with rear and all-wheel-drive, and Mercedes states that the car will be able to be driven entirely electrically at urban speeds.
All of the newcomers measure up at 4,723mm long, 1,855mm wide and 1468mm high, with a 2790mm wheelbase – all these dimensions are significantly larger than the previous CLA, while the new model is also much more aerodynamically efficient.
Mercedes-Benz is yet to release UK specifications or pricing for the new CLA but industry sources suggest prices for the EV will start from around £43,000.
