Mercedes is preparing to reveal what is expected to be its most important EV in just a few months. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA EV will “set standards” in terms of range, efficiency, and charging. According to the engineers, the new EV can travel nearly 1,270 kilometers and has two 10-minute charging stations. Here's what you can expect from a “one liter” electric car.
The new CLA EV will begin “a new chapter for the entry-level segment at Mercedes-Benz,” according to CEO Ola Källenius.
Källenius said the electric CLA is “designed to set new standards in range, efficiency and charging speed” in its segment. Based on its new MMA platform, the entry-level EV will be very different from its current electric vehicles like the EQE and EQS.
The MMA platform has a powerful 800V high-voltage system, which Mercedes says in 2023 can reach 400 km (248 miles WLTP) in just 15 minutes.
According to Mercedes-Benz engineers behind the new model, the new CLA EV can drive 789 miles (1,270 km) with two 10-minute charging stops. Timo Stegmaier, general manager of the CLA's electric drive system, said Auto Express the electric car traveled 2,309 kilometers in 24 hours during the test. An electric car is charged 40 times, 10 minutes each.
Mercedes promises that the new CLA EV will raise the bar
The top model is expected to reach 466 miles (WLTP) on a full charge. Although charging details are yet to be confirmed, engineers “saw a constant 320 kW” during their +2,300 mi recording.
Stegmaier did not provide further details but added, “Obviously, the maximum number of 320 will not be maintained.” Meanwhile, the CLA EV can match Porsche's new Taycan but at a much lower price.
Ahead of its official debut in early 2025, Mercedes has previewed the electric CLA several times, revealing key specs and new design elements.
Last month, Källenius unveiled one of its most distinctive features, the integrated three-star logo design. A new electric car is not just a pretty face. It will also feature Mercedes' most advanced software and connectivity technology.
The CLA EV will be the first to feature the new MB.OS, or what Mercedes calls the “brain” of their next-generation vehicles. All MMA-based models will also feature a supercomputer with AI and machine learning.
According to Mercedes, MB.OS is “generally ready” for SAE Level 3 autonomous system development, but it will first be introduced with Level 2 capabilities.
Mercedes will officially launch the new CLA EV in the Spring of 2025, with deliveries expected to begin later in the year. Pricing will be revealed closer to launch, but is expected to start around $50,000 as a rival to the Tesla Model 3 and potential BMW i4.
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