The new Mercedes-Benz CLA is making waves as Europe’s longest-range electric car, boasting an impressive starting price of £45,615. With deliveries set to begin this summer, the CLA 250+ with EQ Technology promises a staggering range of up to 484 miles on a single charge. Even at motorway speeds, it can still manage around 420 miles, outpacing all other electric vehicles currently available in the UK, including the pricier Mercedes EQS 450+, which offers 481 miles but starts at a hefty £112,610.
What’s behind this remarkable efficiency? The CLA EV features an 85kWh nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) battery that achieves an efficiency figure exceeding 5.0 miles per kWh. This efficiency is crucial for making electric vehicles more practical for everyday use, especially for those who may have been hesitant to switch from traditional combustion engines.
### What Makes the CLA EV Stand Out?
One of the standout features of the CLA EV is its aerodynamic design. Despite being larger than its predecessor—29mm taller, 35mm longer, and 25mm wider—Mercedes has worked diligently to reduce its drag coefficient to an impressive 0.21. This is achieved through design tweaks like moving the wheels further inboard and optimizing airflow around the vehicle. For context, the Tesla Model 3 has a drag coefficient of 0.22, making the CLA EV a serious contender in the efficiency race.
The CLA EV is powered by a new rear-mounted permanent magnet motor, which utilizes a silicon-carbide inverter for greater output in a compact design. This motor not only enhances performance but also contributes to the car’s overall efficiency. It features a two-speed gearbox, which allows for better acceleration and reduced energy consumption at cruising speeds. With a power output of 268bhp, the CLA 250+ can sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 6.7 seconds.
### What About Charging?
While the CLA EV boasts impressive range and efficiency, it does come with a caveat: it cannot utilize 400V DC chargers, which are common across the UK and Europe. This limitation means owners will have to rely on newer charging stations, which may not be as widely available. However, the CLA EV can be rapid-charged at rates of up to 320kW, allowing for a 186-mile top-up in just 10 minutes, thanks to its 800V electrical architecture.
### Hybrid Option: A Step Towards Diesel Efficiency
In addition to the electric variant, the new CLA will also be available in a hybrid form. This model combines a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a small 1.3kWh battery and a 27bhp electric motor, delivering either 134bhp or 161bhp, depending on the configuration. Mercedes claims this hybrid will achieve fuel efficiency comparable to diesel engines, suggesting an MPG figure comfortably above 50.
Interestingly, Mercedes is pricing the hybrid version similarly to the CLA EV, thanks to significant cost savings in battery production. This could make the hybrid a more appealing option for those who are still on the fence about fully committing to electric driving.
### A Unified Design Language
For the first time, the CLA hybrid and CLA EV will share nearly identical designs, both inside and out. This marks a shift from Mercedes’ previous strategy of creating entirely separate designs for electric and combustion-engine models. The new CLA features a bold aesthetic, highlighted by its three-pointed star logo, which is prominently displayed in the headlights and rear brake lights.
Inside, the CLA adopts a sportier vibe, with chunky side bolsters on the front seats and a striking dashboard that incorporates Mercedes’ latest Superscreen technology. This setup includes three digital displays, allowing for a seamless blend of information and entertainment. With the latest MB.OS operating system, passengers can even play video games or stream shows while on the move.
### Practicality Meets Innovation
Despite a slight reduction in boot space compared to its predecessor, the CLA still offers a respectable 405 liters. Plus, for the first time in a modern Mercedes, the EV version comes with a frunk, adding an additional 101 liters of storage space. This thoughtful design enhances practicality, making it easier to transport everyday items.
The CLA is set to make a significant impact in the electric vehicle market, not just for its range and efficiency but also for its innovative features and design. Whether you opt for the electric or hybrid version, you can expect a blend of performance, efficiency, and cutting-edge technology that aligns with modern driving needs.
The big takeaway? The new CLA isn’t just about being an electric car; it’s about redefining what we expect from vehicles in terms of range, efficiency, and technology. If you’re considering making the switch to electric or hybrid, keep an eye on this model—it might just be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for.