Mercedes-Benz’s new CLA electric vehicle
Unveils impressive specs
It boasts a remarkable range on a full charge
Mercedes and consumers have high expectations for the Redesigned CLA model, which will be launched next year. This is because it will feature Mercedes-Benz’s latest technologies. Recently, it has been attracting attention by providing some media with test-drive opportunities and revealing some of its specifications.
Expanding options with battery dualization
Supports fast charging up to 320kW
Mercedes-Benz held a prototype test drive event for foreign media a few months before unveiling its entry-level sedan, the CLA. This new vehicle is based on Mercedes-Benz’s latest platform, MMA, and will offer electric and hybrid options. The EV specifications include two types: a 58 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery and an 85 kWh lithium-ion (NCM) battery.
The lithium-ion battery specification supports fast charging of up to 320 kW, which can secure a driving range of 140 miles (about 225 km) in 10 minutes. According to the WLTP standard, 22 minutes is enough to charge 10 to 80% of the battery remaining. The single-motor specification that drives the rear wheels can drive a maximum of 440 miles (about 708 km) on a single charge.
Most deceleration is done with regenerative braking. A hybrid version is also available
The power performance is also satisfactory. The single motor specification generates a maximum output of 268 horsepower. With the addition of a 107-horsepower front motor, the four-wheel drive specification is expected to have a total output of 375 horsepower. Because cutting-edge technology is concentrated, the regenerative braking performance far surpasses that of existing EVs. Most reviews say that mechanical brakes do not intervene in most braking situations.
In addition, up to 200kW of power can be recovered from the battery, and the four-wheel drive specification provides higher regenerative braking power as the front wheels also have motors. The suspension system is a standard traditional coil spring type, but adaptive dampers are also provided depending on the specification. On the other hand, the response to the hybrid specification is somewhat mixed. This is because it was decided to install a Chinese powertrain.
Chinese engine sparks debate
EV model set for March launch
China Geely and HORSE will supply the new CLA’s hybrid powertrain. It will combine a 1.5L 4-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor, generating 188 horsepower. Fuel efficiency is expected to be at the level of a diesel engine with the same displacement, which adds to expectations. Mercedes-Benz plans to launch the new CLA electric model in March next year and introduce hybrid specifications by the end of the year.
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