Mercedes-Benz has showcased its Concept CLA-Class at the IAA 2023 event in Munich, offering an enticing glimpse into the company’s electric-first compact car platform. Based on the innovative Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), this concept vehicle combines striking design with sustainable interior materials and an impressive estimated range of 466 miles on the optimistic WLTP scale.
Details about the powertrain and battery remain somewhat elusive, but Mercedes asserts that the Concept CLA draws inspiration from the Vision EQXX concept for both its electric motors and the expansive Superscreen infotainment system that spans the dashboard.
The Concept CLA maintains the signature “four-door coupe” shape that has characterized the nameplate since its debut in 2014. However, designers have refined its appearance with a longer hood and shorter rear deck, emphasizing sportier proportions. A bold grille element, reminiscent of the Mercedes-AMG SL roadster and GT sports car, distinguishes the Concept CLA, adorned with three-dimensional illuminated stars that impart a jewelry-like quality up close.
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The Sensual Purity design language, a hallmark of Mercedes, is evident in the sleek bodysides and curved rear end, enhanced by flared fenders and a crisp chrome strip blending into the front and rear lights. The head- and taillamps feature full-width LED lighting and distinctive three-pointed daytime running lights, adding to the vehicle’s unique aesthetic.
Inside, the Concept CLA draws inspiration from the Vision EQXX, employing sustainable materials throughout the cabin. Notably, the Nappa leather seat upholstery is tanned using coffee husks, while recycled PET plastic forms the shimmering purple accent fabric. Lab-grown silk, bamboo floor mats, and recyclable paper for door pulls and armrest trim underscore the commitment to sustainability. The vehicle also boasts a massive Superscreen infotainment system that spans the dashboard, powered by the MB.OS operating system for enhanced performance and functionality.
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As a concept vehicle, the specific details of the Concept CLA are speculative, but they offer promising prospects for the series-production model set to launch by the end of 2024. With a water-cooled battery featuring two battery types – lithium-ion phosphate and silicon-oxide anodes – and advanced adhesive-based cell mounting, the vehicle aims to maximize efficiency and sustainability. Mercedes estimates an impressive 466 miles of range and energy consumption of 5.2 miles per kilowatt-hour, equating to an 89.6 kWh usable capacity.
Furthermore, the Concept CLA-Class boasts 250-kilowatt DC fast charging capability on an 800-volt electrical architecture, allowing for an estimated 248 miles of range added in just 15 minutes. The compact Mercedes-Benz Electric Drive Unit (MB.EDU) integrates the electric motor, two-speed transmission, inverters, and electronics, with each unit delivering 235 horsepower and weighing 243 pounds. Notably, the use of rare-earth metals in the MB.EDU has been significantly reduced for improved sustainability.
While the Concept CLA features a rear-mounted drive unit, the MMA platform is also capable of dual-motor power, suggesting the production CLA may offer electrified all-wheel drive. Mercedes has not confirmed whether the gasoline-powered version will be front- or rear-wheel drive in its base form.
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The MMA platform is expected to yield at least three more variants, including two crossovers and a station wagon. While internal combustion powertrains are likely to be offered, the electric variant is expected to lead the lineup.
Although pricing details remain uncertain, Mercedes acknowledges that achieving cost parity between electric and internal combustion vehicles may take some time. As the production CLA is set to hit European roads by the end of the next year, more information is expected to surface. Until then, the Mercedes-Benz Munich concept provides plenty of intriguing possibilities for the future of electric mobility.
