Mercedes-Benz is at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution, and the Concept CLA Class unveiled at the IAA Mobility 2023 in Munich is a testament to their commitment to electrified luxury. This stunning battery-electric four-door car serves as a precursor to a production model that will cater to the “entry luxury” segment of Mercedes’ lineup. It sits proudly on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), a platform tailored for electric vehicles and incorporates technology inspired by the hyper-efficient battery-electric Vision EQXX while maintaining the sleek design cues of the current CLA.
In its sedan form, the Concept CLA Class promises European customers an impressive range of over 750 kilometers (466 miles) on a single charge based on the WLTP cycle. Achieving this remarkable efficiency required a holistic approach to vehicle design, with Mercedes emphasizing that “efficiency is the new currency” in the electric vehicle market. Engineers worked diligently to enhance the efficiency of every component, resulting in two battery chemistry options. The high-range pack, developed in partnership with battery supplier CATL, boasts energy consumption figures of 12 kWh per 100 kilometers or 5.2 miles per kWh. These numbers suggest a battery with a capacity of around 90 kWh, providing the impressive 750 km range. To put this in perspective, the Euro-market 2024 XC40 Recharge by Volvo is less efficient, with an energy consumption figure of 18.2 kWh per 100 kilometers.
One of the standout features of the Concept CLA Class is its modular battery pack, which occupies less space compared to conventional packs of similar capacity. The cell modules are secured with adhesive rather than screws, reducing pack weight and improving structural integrity. The long-range battery chemistry includes silicon-oxide anodes, likely in a lithium-ion battery configuration. Power is distributed through an 800-volt electrical architecture, enabling rapid charging. Mercedes claims that the battery can gain 248 miles of range in just 15 minutes with a 250-kW DC fast charge. Furthermore, the production version will support bi-directional charging, offering added versatility.
Underpinning this electric marvel is an in-house electric drive unit that features a 175-kW electric motor with minimal reliance on heavy rare earth metals. Paired with a two-speed transmission and power electronics utilizing silicon carbide semiconductors, this unit achieves high energy density and efficiency. Mercedes reports a system-wide energy efficiency of up to 93% during long-distance driving, partially attributed to a heat pump that can extract warmth from the surrounding air, even in sub-freezing conditions, to maintain the battery’s optimal operating temperature.
The exterior design of the Concept CLA Class brings together elements of the past and the future. Its larger footprint compared to the current CLA model translates to increased headroom and legroom for passengers. The “shark nose” front fascia pays homage to vintage design, while the innovative LED lighting system illuminates the vehicle with animations, integrating Mercedes’ iconic three-pointed star into various elements, including the headlights, A-frame grille, roof, and taillights. These lights can be personalized to create unique welcome and goodbye scenarios, and when not in use, they take on a mirrored chrome appearance.
Inside the cabin, the Concept CLA Class showcases a futuristic and immersive environment centered around the “MBUX Superscreen.” This full-width display consists of three screens housed within a single-piece aluminum frame, controlled by the Unity game engine. Notably, the HVAC system is operated through a pair of turbine-like digital vents that appear on the screen’s corners, with the digital vent centers displaying current settings. Physical control is provided by a machined ring that emerges from the screen when adjustments are needed, offering a tactile interface for climate control.
The Concept CLA Class also introduces a striking color palette with options such as “crystal white,” “gleaming silver,” “cool blue,” and “sensual violet.” However, the concept’s emphasis is on a vibrant and futuristic “cool blue” theme. The interior materials emphasize sustainability, featuring real leather tanned using vegetable-based agents, bamboo floor mats, and vegan silk-like fabric lining in door pockets.
The vehicle’s software, known as MB.OS, promises a wealth of features and functionalities, with the potential for future upgrades. Mercedes envisions the production model as not just a car but an entertainment hub, gaming center, productivity zone, private oasis, and even part of a server farm and energy grid. It will come equipped with Level 2 assisted driving capabilities, with the option to upgrade to Level 3 as LIDAR-integrated sensors become more widespread. Additionally, the vehicle includes a sophisticated child detection system throughout the cockpit, ensuring the safety and well-being of young passengers.
While the Concept CLA Class represents the cutting edge of electric luxury, whether all of its innovative features and design elements will make it to production remains to be seen. Nonetheless, it serves as a promising glimpse into the future of Mercedes-Benz’s electrified lineup and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of efficiency and luxury in the electric vehicle market.
