Mercedes-Benz has postponed the production of its all-electric, long-wheelbase CLA sedan in China, originally scheduled for April 2024, to August 2024 due to software development challenges, according to a report by Chinese media outlet 36kr. The luxury carmaker confirmed that the model will enter production in 2025, following rigorous testing.
“We are advancing our preparations for the production ramp-up as planned to ensure that this new product meets the needs of our Chinese customers,” Mercedes-Benz stated in response to the report.
The CLA model, built on the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, reflects the automaker’s strategy to cater to China’s growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). The MMA platform is designed to support both EVs and internal combustion engine vehicles, underscoring the company’s hybrid approach to its portfolio.
Software development for the CLA’s electronic and electrical architecture has posed challenges, a difficulty not unique to Mercedes-Benz. Similar hurdles have been reported by other German automakers, including BMW and Audi. To address these issues, Mercedes-Benz has established a digital research and development center in Shanghai, focusing on smart cockpit and driving technologies.
The report also highlighted the broader struggles of traditional automakers transitioning to EVs. Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Porsche are all developing platforms compatible with both electric and combustion-powered vehicles, adding to the complexity of the transition. Meanwhile, Volkswagen has opted to partner with Chinese EV manufacturer Xpeng, investing $700 million to co-develop EV architecture, a collaboration announced in 2023.
